Parent Outreach Committee Support Groups
Parent Support Group
F-SEPAC's Coffee, Comfort, Conversation and Chocolate Support Group also known as the 4C’s Support Group - This parent support group will hold meetings at 9:30am on a regular basis at the Panache Coffee on Route 9 East. All parents and guardians of special needs children are welcome. Please by email supportgroup@F-SEPAC.org or call 508.558.7220 if you are interested in joining the group.
F-SEPAC Online Group
F-SEPAC - the news service of F-SEPAC - http://groups. yahoo.com/ group/F-SEPAC (only works if you are a member)
The F-SEPAC yahoo group is open to anyone who wants to:
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•receive announcements of PAC workshops, seminars, meetings, conferences, expos, etc.
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•send announcements from other PACs & organizations in the area that are helpful to parents & guardians of special needs.
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•share information you've come across on upcoming events (workshops, seminars, meetings, conferences, expos, etc) - that you think would benefit anyone who cares for or teaches children with special needs in Framingham - you may send those for posting on F-SEPAC to: marjoriemhansen@gmail.com
On F-SEPAC, you can't see who else is a member, so your name & e-mail address is kept private that way. The Framingham School District personnel, mostly those who work with our special kids, are invited to subscribe to this news service. It is one way communication.
Join Our Facebook Group
other local support groups
Asperger's Association of New England (AANE)/ Parent Support Group This group is for parents/guardians/caregivers who have a child with Asperger's Syndrome (AS), High Functioning Autism (HFA), PDD-NOS, Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD/NvLD), etc. Also for those who think their child might have one of these or something similar. Contact: Gina Beaney 508-259-5060 or GLSB1@aol.com
Autism Alliance of Metrowest – www.autismalliance.org – 508-652-9900
The Autism Resource Center of Massachusetts - www.autismresourcecentral.org
The Autism Support Center (ASC) 800-7-AUTISM (MA only)
Child Development Partners - www.childdevelopmentpartners.com - Strategies and support for families living with ADHD, Autism and Learning Disabilities, articles, tele-seminars, book, etc.
Downs Syndrome Online Support Group - MDSConnections-subscribe@yahoogroups. com
Family TIES –www.massfamilyties.org - Parent support groups to help access to useful information to assist with the issues parents of children with a disability face. Family Ties collects support group information and maintain a database of these groups throughout the state.
The Help Group - www.thehelpgroup.org Autism, AHD and Learning Disabilities
Landmark School - www.landmarkschool.org - (978) 927-4440- Outreach programs offering courses to parents and teachers about language based learning disabilities.
METRO-WEST ALLERGY & ASTHMA SUPPORT GROUP - Meets at Allergy & Asthma Treatment Specialists, 475 Franklin St., Suite 206, Framingham (near intersection of Mt. Wayte Ave.) Leaders: Linda Drews, Lori Brockway Medical Advisor: Stuart Rhein, MD Call 781 444-7778 Toll Free: 1- 877-2ASTHMA
Metrowest CHADD Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD). Meetings are held every second Tuesday of the month from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at the Morse Institute Library in Natick 508-655-2590 - Wendy Peverill-Conti, Coordinator metrowestchadd@verizon.net
National Autism Association - www.nationalautismassociation.org
Parents Helping Parents - www.parentshelpingparents.org/ - organization in Massachusetts to support parents, they have a parent stress line and parent to parent support. They have support groups all around Massachusetts. For a list of the groups closest to you please see their web site (800) 882-1250, (617) 267-8077
Parent Support Group for Children with Challenges Meetings are held monthly in Acton, at Acton-Boxborough Regional High School or in the school library at the Parker Damon Building off Rte. 111. Contact Lynn Armstrong at 978-266-0458 or lynn.armstrong2@verizon.net or Francesca Ricciardi at 978-266-9708 or fricciardi08@aol.com
Patient Advice and Liaison Services (PALS) - A free group for parents of youth affected by mental health challenges. Cintact Anne Sullivan,Wayside Youth & Family Support Network, annesullivan@waysideyouth.org - 781-643-2580
Special Needs Parent Coach - www.specialneedsparentcoach.com - Book, teleclasses, articles, etc.
Suicide Survivor Support Group Contact Barbara 978-486-4928 or Nancy 978-425-6654
Wayside Youth & Family Support Network/ Metrowest PAL Parent Support Group Open to any Parent/guardian/caregiver of a child or adolescent with behavioral, emotional, or mental health issues. Call (508) 620-0010
Family TIES of Massachusetts has a complete list of support groups throughout MA. Click on you region to find ones in your area. http://massfamilyties.org/info/groups.php or see list below.
ADD/ADHD - ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER
Metrowest CHADD: Meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month, from 7-9PM at the Goodnow
Library Meeting Roo, 21 Concord Road, in Sudbury MA
CONTACT: (508) 302-2425
E-MAIL: metrowest@chadd.net
ADOPTION SUPPORT
Adoptive Families Together Braintree: Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, from
7-8:45PM at the Thayer Public Library, 798 Washington St., Braintree.
CONTACT: Lori Baeumler, 617-587-1522
E-MAIL: lbaeumler@mspcc.org
WEBSITE: www.adoptivefamilies.org
Adoptive Families Together-Acton: Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month from
7:30-9PM at Faith Evangelical Free Church, 54 Hosmer St., Acton.
CONTACT: Lori Baeumler, 617-587-1522
E-MAIL: lbaeumler@mspcc.org
WEBSITE: www.adoptivefamilies.org
ALL SPECIAL NEEDS
Todas as Necessidades Especiais (Support Group for Portuguese-Speaking
Individuals / Grupode Apoio às Pessoas que Falam Português): Reunioes
mensais. Telfonar para saber os dias. Federacão para Crianças com Necessidades Especiais,
1135 Tremont Street. Suite 420, Boston. (Monthly meetings. Call for schedule. Federation for
Children with Special Needs, 1135 Tremont Street, Suite 420, Boston.)
CONTACT: Rhea Tavares, Federação para Crianças com Necessidades Especiais,
617-236-7210, Ext.329
Parents Supporting Parents (PSP): Support group is open to all parents of children with
special needs. It meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month at the Fiske Public Library on Randall
Road in Wrentham. Call for specific times and events.
CONTACT: Amy Redfearn, 508-384-1569
E-MAIL: pspgroup247@yahoo.com
ANGELMAN SYNDROME
Angelman Syndrome Foundation: This group meets periodically, including fall, spring and
summer family events. Call for dates and times. National website includes Spanish section.
CONTACT: Linda Daly, 781-837-1698
E-MAIL: Daly38@hotmail.com
WEBSITE: www.angelman.org and www.upneangels.com
APRAXIA (oral and/or verbal)
Apraxia Parent Support Group: Check website for exact schedule; usually meets 4-5 times
a year on weekends, Burlington Public Library, Burlington.
CONTACT: Caroline
E-MAIL: C2cats@rcn.com
LISTSERV: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NE_Apraxia
ARTHRITIS
Arthritis Foundation-Newton: Parent Support Group meets periodically; call for dates and
times.
CONTACT: 617-244-1800, ext 119
WEBSITE: www.arthritis.org
ASPERGER’S SYNDROME
AANE Parents of School-Age Children: Meets 7-9PM on March 21st to discuss Siblings
and June 7th to discuss Raising Capable Kids. Parent-to-parent networking will follow the Topic
Discussion at 8:30PM. At the AANE Main Office located at 85 Main Street, Suite 101, Watertown.
CONTACT: Brenda Dater, 61-393-3824, Ext 22.
E-MAIL: Brenda.Dater@aane.org
AANE On-Line Parent Support Group: AANE Members are invited to join an Online
Support Groups for parents of children or teens with Asperger Syndrome.
CONTACT: Lisa Graffeo, 866-597-2263, Ext. 10
E-MAIL: Lisa.Graffeo@aane.org
ASD/NVLD/Tourette's Parent Support Group: Meets the 2nd Monday 7-10PM,
September through June at the Cole Court Function Room, 429 Washington Street in Holliston.
CONTACT: Lisa Bobrin, 508-893-0893
E-MAIL: bobrinlg@comcast.net
Parents of Children with Asperger’s and Related Disorders: Meets 2nd Tuesday of
the month from 7-8:30PM at Westborough Unitarian Church, Rte. 30. Call for details.
CONTACT: Gina Beaney, 508-366-7045
E-MAIL: glsb1@aol.com
ASTHMA AND ALLERGY
Asthma and Allergy Foundation/ New England Metro-Boston: Meets on the
2nd Tuesday of the month from 7PM at Newton Wellesley Hospital, call to confirm.
CONTACT: Cindy Aswad, Kathy Streeter, AAFA, 781-444-7778
WEBSITE: www.aafa.org
E-MAIL: www.asthmaandallergies.org
Metro-West Allergy & Asthma Support Group/Framingham: Meets from 7-9PM at
Allergy & Asthma Treatment Specialists, 475 Franklin St, Suite 206, Framingham. Call for dates.
CONTACT: Linda Drews or Lori Brockway, AAFA, 617-965-7771
WEBSITE: www.asthmaandallergies.org
E-MAIL: aafane@aafne.org
Northwest Suburban Boston Area/Lexington: Meets from 7-9PM at Beth Israel and
Children’s Hospital Medical Care Center, 482 Bedford Street, Lexington. Call for dates.
CONTACT: Laurel Francoeur, AAFA 781-444-7778
Southeastern Food Allergy Support Group: Meets on the 3rd Thursday of the month.
Call for dates and times. Pediatric Specialists 132 Central Street, Foxboro.
CONTACT: Pat Mulligan LICSW , Patricia Bates RD, 781-444-7778
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS
BANDS Together (Braintree Autism Network for our Daughters and Sons):
Meets the following dates in 2011: April 11, June 13, and Oct. 10 at 7:30PM at Emmanuel Parish,
519 Washington Street, Braintree (corner of West Street).
CONTACT: Natasha Chomas, 781-356-4740
Common Bonds: This is a networking and informational group for parents of children with
Autism Spectrum Disorders, that meets periodically.
CONTACT: Kris Kroc, 781-444-9762
E-MAIL: kriskroc@comcast.net
Dads of Children with Autism: Meets on the 4th Tuesday of the month from 7:15–8:45PM
at the Family Autism Center, Westwood. Facilitator: Jerry Jacobs, LICSW.
CONTACT: John Kelly, 617-868-4858, Ext. 206
E-MAIL: dwood@sncarc.org
First Wednesday Group for Parents of Children with Autism/PDD: Meets the
1st Wednesday of the month, 7-9PM, Family Autism Center, at 789 Clapboard Street, Westwood.
CONTACT: Joanne McLaughlin, 508-543-3936
E-MAIL: JoMcL@powersrvcs.com
WEBSITE: www.sncarc.org/support group
Grandparents of Children with Autism: Meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month from
9:30–11:30AM at the Family Autism Center, at 789 Clapboard Street, Westwood.
CONTACT: Lucy, 781-762-4001, EXT 304
WEBSITE: www.sncarc.org/support group
E-MAIL: dwood@sncarc.org
Parents of Children with Asperger’s Syndrome – Parents of children with Asperger’s
Syndrome meet to discuss issues and share experiences. This group meets on the second
Wednesday of each month 7:30-9:30PM at 789 Clapboard Street, Westwood.
CONTACT: Joanne at 508-543-3936
WEBSITE: www.sncarc.org/support group
E-MAIL: dwood@sncarc.org
“Piecing the Puzzle” Parent to Parent Autism Support Group: Meets every
Thursday from 10AM to Noon in the Jefferson Park Community Room #1, Jackson Place,
Cambridge. Sponsored by Cambridge Family & Children’s Service in collaboration with DDS.
CONTACT: Yevett Fraticelli, 617-876-4210, Ext. 105
EMAIL: piecing_the_puzzle@yahoogroups.com
Residential Support Group: Parents of children in residential placement come together to
discuss issues and provide support to each other. Meetings are the 1st Tuesday each month from
7:30-9:30PM, SNARC Conference Room, 789 Clapboard Street, Westwood.
CONTACT: Nancy Borr, 781-762-4011
E-MAIL: dwood@sncarc.org
South Coastal Support Group for Families of Children with Autism: This group
meets on the 2nd Monday of the month from 10AM-Noon at the Autism Center of the South Shore,
190 Lincoln Street (Rte. 3A) at the Anderson Dental Building, 2nd Floor.
CONTACT: Karen Schusterman, 781-749-8568
BEREAVEMENT GROUPS
Bereavement Group of Foxboro: Within this group is “The Circle” whose mission is to
provide bereavement support to families who have lost a parent or sibling. Meets September to
May, every other Monday evening at the Foxboro Regional Charter School, 131 Central Street.
CONTACT: Noreen Sherys, 508-543-1252
Listening, Reflecting & Healing: This is a genetic counseling and bereavement practice.
Parents come together in mornings or evenings in Needham.
CONTACT: Mary-Frances Garber, MS, CGC, 781-366-5300
EMAIL: mfgcgc@yahoo.com
WEBSITE: www.listeningreflectinghealing.com
BRAIN INJURY
Boston Acquired Brain Injury Support Group (BABIS): Meets on the 1st Saturday of
the month from 10AM to Noon at Spaulding Rehab Hospital, Conference Rooms 8A&AB, 125
Nashua Street, Boston. Group provides positive forum for peer socialization, hope, and education
for people with acquired brain injury and their family and friends.
CONTACT: Sally Johnson, 617-573-2539
EMAIL: babisgroup@hotmail.com
WEBSITE: www.babis.info/
Pediatric Support Group for Parents and Caregivers of Children with Brain
Injuries: Meets periodically at the Norfolk Public Library, 139 Main Street, Norfolk. Call for
meeting dates, times.
CONTACT: Gayle Fedele, 617-365-3980
CARDIAC CONDITIONS
Friends With Heart: A support group for parents of children with congenital heart conditions,
meets monthly from 7-9PM at Worcester Library. There are also quarterly informational meetings
with guest speakers. Call for details and directions.
CONTACT: Dawn King, 508-842-1636
E- MAIL: dawnking@townisp.com
Little Hearts Parent Network: Call or check website for information on meeting date, time,
and place. If you are interested in forming a Greater Boston chapter, please the national
headquarters.
CONTACT: Lenore Cameron, 866-436-HOPE (4673)
WEBSITE: www.littlehearts.net
CROHN’S DISEASE AND COLITIS
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation Parent Support Group: This group meets periodically
at Harvard-Vanguard Medical Associates, Conference Room 2, 230 Worcester Street (Rte. 9),
Wellesley, from 12:30-2PM. Childcare is available.
CONTACT: Marcia Shuman, 781-449-0324, ext 20
E-MAIL: ne@ccfa.org
Parent & Family IBD Support Group: Call for information about meetings held at
Children's Hospital Boston, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston.
CONTACT: Kate Donovan, 617-355-6416
EMAIL: kate.donovan@childrens.harvard.edu
DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY
Latino Health Institute Educational Support Group for Families with Individuals
with Developmental Disabilities (all ages, Spanish-speaking families): Meets on
the last Thursday of every month from 10AM-Noon at Latino Health Institute, 95 Berkeley Street,
Boston. Call to register.
CONTACT: Delia Malqui, 617-350-6900, Ext. 193
Yesodot: Call for meeting schedule and more information.
CONTACT: Sue Holmes, Jewish Vocational Service, 617-542-1993;
Toll-free: 866-JVS-WORK, TTY 617-451-1496
E-MAIL: sholmes@jvs-boston.org
DIABETES
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Networking Coffees: Groups meet monthly
to discuss a variety of topics. Please call for dates, times and locations.
CONTACT: Lauren Shields, 781-431-0700
E-MAIL: lshields@jdrf.org
WEBSITE: www.jdrf.org/baystate
Parent Coffees: Monthly or bi-monthly meetings offered from September to June in different
locations. Call to be on the mailing list for the schedule.
Contact: Lauren Shields, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International, New England/
Bay State Branch, Wellesley, 781-431-0700
WEBSITE: www.jdrf.org/networkingcoffees
DOWN SYNDROME / SINDROME DE DOWN
21 Shades: Inclusive support group for all families of African heritage who love someone with
Down syndrome. Monthly meetings are held from 6:00-8:00PM at the Federation for Children with
Special Needs, 1135 Tremont Street, Boston. Call for meeting dates, including summer social plans.
Location accessible by MBTA (Ruggles Station).
CONTACT: Roxanne, 617-399-8343
E-MAIL: chandler@fcsn.org
D.A.D.S. (Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome): Meets monthly (generally the 4th or
last Wednesday evening) in the South Shore or Metrowest region. The group’s purposes are to
create a network that meets the needs of its members while sharing information, camaraderie, and
fun. Call for more information about the group’s activities or meeting details.
CONTACT: Jeff Roback, 339-788-1460
E-MAIL: paulsdadda@yahoo.com
Down Syndrome Group: A support group for families who have a loved one with
Down Syndrome. Meets the 2nd Saturday of the month from 10-11:30AM at ARC Office,
564 Main Street, Fitchburg. Babysitting is provided.
CONTACT: ARC Community Services, 978-343-6662
E- MAIL : kblack@arccommunityservices.com
WEBSITE: www.arccommunityservices.org
Familias Latinas Unidas por el Sindrome de Down: Un Sabado por mes, 10AM-Noon,
Federación para Niños con Necesidades Especiales, 1135 Tremont Street, Suite 420, Boston.
Llame para las fechas. Se Provee quidado de niños.
CONTACT: Marilyn Gutierrez, Federación para Niños con Necesidades Especiales,
617-236-7210, Ext.351
Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress: MDSC helps parents and professionals to
understand and cope with issues relating to Down Syndrome. FIRST CALL program connects
parents with veteran families.
CONTACT: 1-800-664-MDSC
E-MAIL: mdsc@mdsc.org
WEBSITE: www.mdsc.org
Metro West Parents of Children with Down Syndrome: Meets on a monthly basis in
Hopkinton and hosts periodic family social groups. Call for more information.
CONTACT: Cheryl Caira, 508-877-6475 or Elain Chaisson, 508-875-8091
South Shore Parents: Meets periodically in Cohasset; call for date, time and location.
CONTACT: Wilma, 781-659-7233, or Taffy, 781-383-0895
E-MAIL: wgoodhue@earthlink.net
EATING DISORDERS
MEDA Support Group: Hope and Inspiration is a free drop-in group that takes place on the
1st Saturday each month from 10:00-11:00AM at the MEDA (an eating disorder treatment and
prevention organization) office located at 92 Pearl Street, Newton. During the hour, a recovered
individual shares his or her story of recovery, leaving time for discussion and questions.
CONTACT: MEDA, 617-558-1881, Ext. 12
WEBSITE: www.medainc.org
EPILEPSY AND SEIZURE DISORDERS
Parent and Family Network Get-Togethers: Meets 4th Monday of each month from
7-9PM in the Meeting Room, Melrose Public Library, West Emerson Street, Melrose. (Changes
when Monday is a holiday; call for schedule.)
CONTACT: Susan Welby, Epilepsy Fnd. of Mass. and R.I., 617-506-6041, Ext.19
E-MAIL: SueWelby@comcast.net
Southwest of Boston Parent &Family Support Network Group: Meets 1st Tuesday
monthly (not July through Sept. and Dec.) from 7:30-9PM at the Medfield Town Library,
468 Main Street (Rte. 109). For parents of children and teens with epilepsy.
CONTACT: Michelle Gaudet or Christi Barney, c/o EFMRI, 617-506-6041, Ext.19
FRAGILE X SYNDROME
Frax’em: Meets on the 1st Wednesday of the month from 10AM-Noon in Tewksbury. Please call
for location.
CONTACT: Sandra Morse, 978-927-5269
GRANDPARENTS AND OTHER RELATIVES RAISING CHILDREN
Kinship Support Group: Meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays from 10AM-Noon at MSPCC,
157 Green Street, Jamaica Plain.
CONTACT: Charity Bell, 617-983-5850
Kinship Support Group: Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 10AM-Noon at the Julia
Martin House, Bromley-Heath Housing Project, 90 Bickford Street, Jamaica Plain.
CONTACT: Charity Bell, 617-983-5850
HAITIAN AMERICAN PUBLIC HEALTH INITIATIVES (HAPHI)
Family Support Group: Meets the last Sunday of the month at 10 Fairway Street, Mattapan.
Please note: Department of Mental Referral needed.
CONTACT: Dr. Raphael, 617-298-8076
LEUKEMIA/LYMPHOMA
Leukemia/Lymphoma Society: Family Support groups meet on the 2nd Tuesday of every
month. Call for location and time.
CONTACT: Leah Sherman, 800-688-6572, Ext. 20
LIMB DEFICIENCY
Helping Hands Foundation: A support group made up of parents who have children with upper
limb differences and who are concerned with the challenges facing the child and the entire family.
Massachusetts Chapter is located in Medfield.
E-MAIL: info@helpinghandsgroup.org
WEBSITE: www.helpinghandsgroup.org
MEDICAL SUPPORT
Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders Support Group: Provides support to parents
and opportunities to meet and share for young adults and adults affected by EGID. Meets second
Saturday of the month at Children’s Hospital Waltham, 9 Hope Avenue, Waltham; speakers with
the group offer educational talks on a variety of topics. Call for meeting details and RSVP.
CONTACT: Dianna Queheillalt
E-MAIL: dianna@EGIDBoston.org
WEBSITE: www.EGIDBoston.org
Kids with Tubes: Online support group and information for parents and caregivers of tube-fed
children.
WEBSITE: www.kidswithtubes.org
New Hope Coalition: Meets at Winchester Town Hall; for parents of children 18 years or
younger who experience multiple, severe and complex medical needs.
CONTACT: Eileen Lee, 978-738-0070
Sanfilippo Mothers Group: Meetings will occur monthly, beginning Friday, March 5th at 7:00
p.m. in Needham. Call for details about meeting format and location. All families are welcome.
CONTACT: Mary-Frances, mfgcgc@yahoo.com
TrachCare Inc.: Statewide support for parents of children of all ages who have
a tracheostomy. Telephone support and occasional group meetings are available.
CONTACT: Julie Leahy, 617- 527-1990
E-MAIL: info@trachcare.org
MENTAL HEALTH
Caregivers for the Mentally Ill: Sponsored by the Norfolk Alliance for the Mentally Ill, meets
on the 1st Thursday of the month at 7PM in the cafeteria of the Norwood Caritas Hospital,
800 Washington St., Norwood.
CONTACT: Ray Breton, 508-668-2941
Metro Suburban Support Group: Meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday from 7-9:30PM at
Wayside Youth & Family, 406 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington. Reimbursement for childcare.
CONTACT: Anne Sullivan, 781-643-2580, Ext. 123
E-MAIL: annesullivan@waysideyouth.org
Metrowest Parent Support Group: Meets monthly on the 2nd and 4th Monday from
6:30-8:30PM at Wayside Youth & Family Support Network, 75 Fountain Street, Framingham.
CONTACT: Lois DeRusha, Parent Support Coordinator, Wayside Youth, 508-620-0010 x308
E-MAIL: lois_derusha@waysideyouth.org
NAMI Newton-Wellesley Support Group: Meets each 2nd Tuesday of the month from
7-9PM at Newton-Wellesley Hospital. Call for exact location.
CONTACT: Eileen O’Toole, 781-444-0750
NAMI Parent Support Group, Norwood: Meets the 1st Thursday of every month from
7-9PM at Caritas Norwood Hospital. Call for room information.
CONTACT: Ray Breton, 508-668-2941
NAMI Parent Support Group, Quincy: Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the
cafeteria at the Quincy Mental Health Center, 460 Quincy Avenue, Quincy. Call for more
information.
CONTACT: Fanny Zambuto, 781-878-4400 or Barbara Sullivan, 617-773-7440
NAMI Support Group, Somerville: Meets the 3rd Monday of every month at 7:30PM at
Somerville Hospital, 230 Highland Avenue, Somerville.
CONTACT: Karyn, 781-861-8819
PAL Parent Support Group, Acton: Meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month from
10AM-Noon at the Acton Memorial Library, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 486 Main Street.
Reimbursement for childcare.
CONTACT: Anne Sullivan, Parent Support Coordinator, 781-643-2580, Ext. 123
E-MAIL: annesullivan@waysideyouth.org
MITOCHONDRIAL DISEASE
Mitochondrial Disorders Support Group: Meets monthly at the Lahey Clinic in
Burlington, MA.
CONTACT: Bill Shea, 508-946-7194
NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS
Rett Syndrome Support Group: Meets on the 1st Thursday of the month at ARC of
Massachusetts, Waltham. Call for more information.
CONTACT: 781-891-6270
OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER
Obsessive Compulsive Foundation (OCF) / Greater Boston Support Group for
Friends and Family: Meets 1st Tuesday of every month at the DeMarneffe Bldg., McLean
Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont. Call for meeting time.
CONTACT: Greater Boston Helpline, 617-376-3784
WEBSITE: www.ocfboston.org
Obsessive Compulsive Foundation(OCF) / Greater Boston Support Program:
Meets 1st Tuesday of every month, beginning at 5:30PM at the DeMarneffe Bldg., McLean
Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont. ($25 fee)
CONTACT: Dr. Trainor, 617-855-2587
WEBSITE: www.ocfboston.org
Parent Support Group: Meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 10-11:30AM at the
Boyden Library, Foxboro.
CONTACT: Email to: LMB558@aol.com
PARENTING SUPPORT
Boston Family Support Group for Cantonese/Mandarin-speaking families:
Meets every other month on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 4-6PM at the Josiah Quincy
School Elementary School. Group coordinator: Agnes Wong
CONTACT: Lusa Lo
E-MAIL: Lusa.Lo@umb.edu
Connecting Parents/MSPCC: Meets weekly Mondays 6:30-8:30PM at the Canton Public
Library, 786 Washington Street, Canton and Fridays 10-Noon at Tufts Library, 46 Broad Street,
Weymouth. Also hosts a weekly Writing Group on Tuesdays 10-11:30 AM at the Donovan Building,
5 Randolph Street, Canton.
CONTACT: Betty Wagner, 617-983-5803
Mothers and Infants who are Creole-Speaking: Meets at Thom Boston Metro Early
Intervention, 555 Amory Street, Jamaica Plain. Please call for dates and time.
CONTACT: Sonnia Borgard, 617-383-6522
New Fathers Support Group: Meets every other Tuesday from 7-8:30PM at Heritage
House at Vernon Court, 430 Centre Street, Newton Centre. Call to register. (Sponsored by The
Center for Early Relationship Support, Jewish Family and Children’s Service.)
CONTACT: Victor Nussbaum, 617-558-1278
Parent Association who Cantonese/Mandarin-speaking families: Meets every 3rd
Wednesday of the month at the Great Wall Center, 110 Pleasant Street, 3rd Floor, Malden.
CONTACT: Lily Chin, 781-388-6931
Parents Helping Parents: Call for schedule of all groups and for exact locations in the
region.
CONTACT: The Roundtable of Support, 1-800-882-1250
Concord Family and Youth Services: Parenting support for ages birth to age 3 years.
Located at 380 Massachusetts Avenue, in Acton. Call for meeting details and times.
CONTACT: 978-263-3006
WEBSITE: www.cfys.org
Support Group for Mothers and Babies Under 1 Year: Meets on Tuesdays from
10-11:30AM at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 97 South Street, Jamaica Plain. Call for details.
(Sponsored by The Center for Early Relationship Support, JFCS.)
CONTACT: Andrea W. Insoft, 617-558-1278
Support Group for Mothers and Babies Under 1 Year: Meets on Wednesdays from
10:30-Noon at Temple Obahei Shalom, 1187 Beacon Street, Brookline. (Sponsored by The Center
for Early Relationship Support, JFCS.)
CONTACT: Andrea W. Insoft, 617-558-1278
Support Group for Mothers and Babies Under 1 Year: Meets on Mondays from
10:30-Noon at Temple Eitz Chayem, 134-136 Magazine Street, Cambridge. (Sponsored by The
Center for Early Relationship Support, JFCS.)
CONTACT: Andrea W. Insoft, 617-558-1278
Support Group for Mothers and Babies Under 1 Year: Meets on Thursdays from
10-11:30AM at Havurat Shalom, 113 College Avenue, Somerville. (Sponsored by The Center for
Early Relationship Support, JFCS.)
CONTACT: Andrea W. Insoft, 617-558-1278
This Isn’t What I Expected: A Postpartum Adjustment Group: Meets Tuesdays,
10-11:30AM at Second Church of Newton, 61 Chestnut Street, West Newton.
CONTACT: Kaylee Murphy, 781-647-5327, Ext. 2208
PEER SUPPORT
Support Group for Young Adults: Meets Wednesdays from 5-6PM at STEPS 12 Prescott
St. Arlington, MA (Sponsored by Metro Suburban RLC and Wayside Youth and Family Support
Network’s STEPS)
CONTACT: Gina Bozzi at 781-646-2826
E-MAIL: gina_bozzi@waysideyouth.org
RETT SYNDROME
Rett Syndrome Support Group: Meets on the 1st Thursday of the month at ARC of
Massachusetts, Waltham. Call for more information.
CONTACT: 781-891-6270
SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER
SPD-Parents Connect: Meets the 2nd Thursday of the month from 7-8:30PM at OTA
Watertown, 124 Watertown Street, Watertown.
CONTACT: Carrie Pekor-Jasper, 617-964-0138
E-MAIL: radioflyer-cpj@earthlink.net
Sensory Integration Issues Parent Support Group: Meets once a month at the
Congregational Church, 24 South Main Street, Sharon. Call for details.
CONTACT: Smadar Gekow, 781-784-9086
E-MAIL: gekowfamily@verizon.net
SIBLING SUPPORT
Sibling Support Group (ages 5-12): Wayside Family Works offers this group on the 1st and
3rd Mondays of the month from 6-8PM at Wayside Academy, 31 Main Street, Marlborough.
CONTACT: Lois DeRusha, Parent Support Coordinator, Wayside Youth, 508-620-0010 x308
E-MAIL: lois_derusha@waysideyouth.org
SPINA BIFIDA
Spina Bifida Association of Massachusetts: The Spina Bifida Association hosts a
listserv for families who have loved ones with Spina Bifida.
CONTACT: 888-479-1900
LISTSERV: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/MSBAParents/
TRANSITION EDUCATION GROUP
Transition Education Group for Parents of Young Adults (ages 15-25):
An educational/informational group for parents of adolescents/young adults with behavioral,
emotional, or learning challenges. Meets the 1st Wednesday of each month from 7-9PM at
TEMPO Young Adult Resource Center, 68 Henry Street, Framingham.
CONTACT: Lois DeRusha, Parent Support Coordinator, Wayside Youth, 508-620-0010 x308
E-MAIL: lois_derusha@waysideyouth.org
TRISOMY-X SUPPORT GROUP
"Taking it to the MaxXX" Massachusetts Area Trisomy X support group next meeting 6/4 hosted by Baystate Genetics.
Contact the Massachusetts Area Trisomy X Support group for details and directions
CONTACT: Joanne Burke, at (508) 651-9927
E-MAIL: jomamaburke@comcast.net
TWINS, TRIPLETS, AND MORE
Twins, Triplets, and More: Meets on Wednesdays from 2:30-4 PM at Cabot Park Village,
280 Newtonville Avenue, Newton. (Sponsored by The Center for Early Relationship Support,
Jewish Family and Children’s Service.)
CONTACT: Terri Chebot or Andrea Insoft, 617-558-1278
VISION IMPAIRMENT
Low Vision Support Group: Come and learn more about vision loss, listen to guest
speakers, share coping strategies, and the company of others. Meets on the 3rd Thursday of every
month at 1PM at the Foxboro Senior Center. This is an open group with an informal hour of
sharing. Newcomers are welcome.
CONTACT: Noreen Sherys, 508-543-1252 or 508-543-7336
If you know of any other groups that should be listed here, please email the information to info@f-sepac.org or contact the one of the F-SEPAC Co-Secretaries.
fundraising
$13.00
with all profits going
to support F-SEPAC events
Retail Price is $14.95 + tax
Order the perfect gift for family, friends, teachers, therapists and caregivers of your very special child and support the Framingham Special Education Parent Advisory Council at the same time!
Please order books by contacting Susan at 508-558-7220 or emailing info@f-sepac.org
COMMENTS AND DESCRIPTION OF THE BOOK
'These powerful heart-rending stories are filled with honesty, humor, hope and offer inspiration to parents, teachers, and anyone else who cares for children with special needs. By embracing the magnificence, inner peace, and beauty each child possess, our own attitudes are shifted from despair to promise.'
—Gerold G Jampolsky, M.D., Founder of International Center of Attitudinal Healing, Sausalito , California
Raising a child with special needs is a lifelong commitment that is as unique as each person who embarks on it. Written by a variety of authors who share in this distinctive relationship, Chicken Soup for the Soul Children with Special Needs offers a glimpse into the lives of others who are on a similar path.
These stories provide insight, comfort, and connection with others who have walked this powerful and transformational journey. The authors of these candid stories relate their own experiences of adjusting, reaching out, and flourishing and share their universal worries, their tears, and the laughter that come with this extraordinary relationship. Most important, through these stories, you will be guided with the wisdom of fellow parents, caregivers, and those with special needs to help you be the very best parent or caregiver you can be.
