Family Stories

A New School, A New Start

March 31, 2026

A New School, A New Start

Kim and her family live in the East Valley, where their neighborhood school recently underwent changes that affected where students would attend. The school her…

December 29, 2025

Support That Transforms

Accessing behavioral health services for a child is a journey that looks different for every family. Connecting with others can provide valuable support during this…

Peggy and her son Sean

September 26, 2025

Founding Voice Leaves Lasting Legacy

Peggy’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the community she helped create.

June 24, 2025

Why Dads Need Each Other, Too

Dave Taylor knows firsthand the value of a parent-to-parent connection. His son was diagnosed with a chromosomal microdeletion at about six months old. Taylor and…

April 29, 2025

How Medicaid Helped Us Find Hope for Millie

When my daughter Millie was just 9 years old, her behavioral challenges escalated to the point where she needed a week-long inpatient stay. It was…

March 24, 2025

Advocacy Skills Are a Family Affair

With guidance from Encircle Families, Susie Turrey and her son Levi learned to speak up for the supports he needed—transforming his education and building confidence…

December 22, 2024

A Legacy of Care and Advocacy

Leah Gibbs' remarkable 25-year journey with DDD showcases her unwavering determination to empower families and transform lives.

young boy holding a yello fish he just caught in an Arizona lake with a beautiful butte in the background.

September 23, 2024

Balancing School, Health and Sports

Chronic illness forms can protect students from penalties for missing substantial school days due to illness. Students can also receive accommodations through Individualized Education Programs…

June 26, 2024

Finding the Right Fit for Child Care

Open communication between a family and a child care center can provide a positive setting, especially for children with special healthcare needs.

March 25, 2024

Empowering Independence

Like many parents of soon-to-be adults, Elisa and Mark Cain wanted to protect their son Max, but they also wanted him to maintain some rights.

December 19, 2023

Becoming Parents Was Unexpected

“Encircle Families is hope,” Tony said. “I had no hope before and did not know a pathway through this. I do now."

September 20, 2023

Navigating Behavior Challenges at School

Conor had evaluations, strategies and a team in place, but real progress took persistence, learning and the right support at the right time.