Many Ways to Help. One Mission.
Whatever you’re facing, Families Together has a program designed to support you.
From one-on-one advocacy coaching to peer support, employment training to health information—our programs meet families where they are. Explore everything we offer below, and reach out anytime if you’re not sure where to start.
Our Programs
Parent-to-Parent Support
Talk to Someone Who’s Been There
Sometimes the most powerful support comes from another parent who truly understands. Our Parent-to-Parent program matches you with a trained “Support Parent”—a veteran parent who has faced similar challenges raising a child with a disability or special health care need.
What to expect:
- A one-to-one match with a Support Parent who shares a similar experience
- Emotional support, practical guidance, and a listening ear
- Connection to a statewide network of families
- Free, confidential, and available across Kansas
Support Parents are volunteers trained and matched by Families Together staff.
Family Advocacy, Support & Training (FAST)
Building Stronger Families Together
The FAST program brings parents, children, and school communities together through a structured series of family nights designed to strengthen relationships, build trust, and connect families with the support networks they need to thrive.
FAST focuses on:
- Strengthening the parent-child relationship
- Building connections between families and their school community
- Reducing social isolation for parents and children
- Creating lasting peer support networks in your community
FAST is an evidence-based program offered in partnership with local schools and communities.
Kansas Network for Employment and Career Transition for Youth (knectY)
Your Path to Independence Starts Here
knectY is a statewide initiative helping youth and young adults with disabilities explore career paths, develop job skills, and achieve meaningful employment. Powered by Families Together in partnership with Kansas WorkforceONE, this free program empowers youth to define their own future.
How knectY helps youth:
- Empowerment (CHASE Program)
- Employment (Kansas WorkforceONE)
- Engagement (Families Together Family Support)
100% federally funded. Free to Kansas youth with disabilities ages 14-24.
Parent Training and Information Center (PTI)
Your Guide to Special Education in Kansas
Since 1986, Families Together has served as Kansas’s federally designated Parent Training and Information Center. Our PTI program helps families understand special education systems, know their rights, and become true partners in their child’s education.
We can help you with:
- IEP and 504 Plan development
- Understanding FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education)
- Navigating early intervention services
- Workshops, trainings, and one-on-one assistance statewide
Free to all Kansas families of children with disabilities.
Family-to-Family Health Information Center (F2F)
Navigate Health Care with Confidence
Raising a child with complex medical needs is overwhelming. Our Family-to-Family Health Information Center helps families find, access, and coordinate the health care and services their child needs—without going it alone.
We can help you with:
- Understanding your child’s diagnosis and treatment options
- Navigating insurance and Medicaid
- Connecting with medical professionals and community resources
- Peer support from other families with similar health care experiences
Federally funded and free to Kansas families.
Education Advocate Program (EA)
A Trained Advocate in Your Corner
Our Education Advocate Program pairs families with a trained education advocate who will attend IEP meetings, help you understand your rights, and make sure your child’s voice is heard at the table.
Education Advocates can help you:
- Prepare for and participate in IEP and 504 meetings
- Understand special education law and your child’s rights
- Communicate effectively with your child’s school team
- Resolve disputes and navigate difficult situations
Education Advocates are trained volunteers matched to families in need.
