Our Programs

Resource Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (RCASD)

A comprehensive source of information for anyone living with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. The RCASD offers 1:1 peer support to parents, self-advocates, family members and caregivers. Staff provide families with referrals to the medical, therapeutic, educational and legal resources they need. The program also offers a variety of recreational activities for families to engage in. This program is made possible by proceeds from the annual Active for Autism event. This fundraising event serves to sustain the RCASD program, while giving families a chance to come together to raise awareness for ASD and to learn more about the diagnosis and services available.

Bureau of Family Health (BFH) 

The goal of the BFH program is to ensure that all children and youth with special healthcare needs (CYSHCN) in Louisiana, as well as their families and healthcare providers, are aware of and are able to access supportive resources in their communities and the state.

The community resource specialist will participate in peer to peer support and activities to inform families about advocacy for quality healthcare services. Families, professionals and community partners will have opportunities to build relationships and share information.

Family-to-Family Health Information Center (F2FHIC)

• Training programs and technical assistance
• Public benefits information
• Guidance in navigating various health care systems and supports
• Develop an active voice in the decision making process about services

EarlySteps

EarlySteps services families with infants and toddlers aged birth to 36 months who have a medical condition likely to result in a developmental delay or who have developmental delays. In the past, this program has collaborated with other community providers to engage the public in free car seat safety checks, for caregivers of children.

Establishing (or improving) an inclusive environment with AAT. This program teaches effective communication skills, People First language, and modifications and environmental accommodations for people with disabilities, making life and work an enriching experience for all. 

Information & Referral

Capitol Area Human Services Developmental Disability Division works with FHFGBR to serve the families of East and West Baton Rouge, East and West Feliciana, Iberville, Ascension and Point Coupee by providing disability specific information and resources. Referrals are also made to make sure the families of Region 2 to receive all of the help that is available such as Waivers, Flexible family fund and many other programs. 

Peer-to-Peer Support

All peer support services are delivered by staff members who are either individuals with a developmental disability or a parent/guardian of a child with a developmental disability. Having walked down the same path as the families we serve gives us a unique perspective. As our logo says, “It’s who we are. It’s what we do.” 

Inclusive Education

Our inclusive education department is funded through the Louisiana Department of Education to provide support to families of children with disabilities ages 3 through 21. Our education support specialist helps parents of students with disabilities understand special education services, their rights relating to special education, parental involvement, effective communication and transition.

Support provided includes: 

• Advocacy Support – We teach parents advocacy skills and strategies to empower them to become effective advocates so they will eventually be able to advocate on their own. We will always be available to answer questions and provide ongoing support. 
• Information – We provide information on various topics through in person trainings and webinars related to special education laws, special education services, a child’s rights to a free appropriate public education under IDEA and other topics that may be of interest to our families. 
• Peer Support and Technical Assistance – We offer families support that include individual consultations, in-person meetings, teleconferencing and email communication. 

Louisiana’s Council’s Advocacy Network (LaCAN)

LaCAN provides information and support to individuals wishing to effectively advocate for systems change in the areas of home and community-based services, education, and employment. Regional LaCAN teams include individuals with disabilities, their family members, and professionals. These members are notified by email or phone when communication with state agency officials, legislators or the Governor is necessary. 

Empowerment Program (Louisiana Office of Behavioral Health) 

Trainings, networking and support opportunities for families and youth affected by mental health, and additive disorders as well as overall awareness, acceptance, and inclusion of this population. The program also provides families and youth with the education, skills and resources to increase and strengthen their ability to function successfully in their homes and communities.

Statewide webinars, along with statewide conferences and workshops for families and youth. Topics of workshops will cover current children’s mental health issues and other concerns. There will be networking meetings for parents/caregivers to increase their support network and share any successful experiences. The Empowerment Program will assist with opportunities to increase advocacy skills, and empower families to inform children’s behavioral health policies, practices and services in Louisiana.