What Is Parent Leadership?
At Encircle Families, we believe that experienced parents are one of the most valuable sources of knowledge and support for families raising children with disabilities or special health care needs. Through our Parent Leadership Program, parents who have walked this journey can share their insights, encouragement, and advocacy skills with others. Becoming a Parent Leader is a deeply rewarding experience, helping families recognize their strengths, become self-reliant, and dream new dreams.
How It Works
Parent Leaders can dedicate as little or as much time as they are able. Opportunities include:
- Parent-to-Parent Mentors – Offer guidance by sharing your experience raising a child with special needs.
- Family Faculty – Help shape more compassionate future doctors by sharing your family’s experience with physician residents during a1-2 hour online meeting.
- Outreach – Represent Encircle Families at public events by staffing an information table.
- Parent Panel – Share your story and insights with educators, medical professionals, and service providers.
- Parent Advocacy – Use your voice to influence public policy and legislative issues affecting families.
- Special Events – Support the activities on the day of special events.
Why It Matters
By becoming a Parent Leader, you’ll be part of a long tradition of families helping families. Your experience and support can be a lifeline for parents navigating a new diagnosis, complex systems, or the everyday challenges of raising a child with a disability. The impact of your guidance can be life-changing for another family.
Get Involved
If you are interested in becoming a Parent Leader and making a difference in the lives of families, please complete our volunteer form or call us at 602-242-4366. Sharing your time and lived experience to support other families is deeply valued and appreciated.
