Celebrating over 65 inspirational years of serving individuals with disabilities and their families.
Q. What is the best way to contact officials and policy makers about advocacy issues?
A. You can go to our national organization's website (www.thearc.org) for a quick link to lawmakers.
Q. How do I locate a program or apply services for my child or adult with disabilities?
A. You may call us for information (318 221-8392) or call personnel at DHH Northwest Louisiana Human Services District (NLHSD), at 318 741-7455 or 800 862-1409.
Q. How do I prepare for my school age child's Individual Education Plan (IEP)?
A. Parents need to be aware of their rights when it comes to their child's IEP. The school system will give you a pamphlet explaining you rights. We refer parents to Families Helping Families (FHF), an information and resource center whose employees are all parents of a child with disabilities.
Q. Can anyone attend the IEP meeting with me?
A. Parents can take whomever they want to the IEP meeting. We recommend family members who really know the child, professionals who have worked with or still work with the child. Staff from Families Helping Families (FHF) will also attend the IEP meeting and, upon request, a family advocate from The Arc Caddo-Bossier can attend as well.
Q. How can I make a difference in the life of my child and know that I am doing everything I can as a parent?
A. Parents can and should get involved in advocating for the rights and needs for their children. The Arc Caddo-Bossier recruits parents and self-advocates for Partners in Policymaking, a national advocacy organization. We encourage parents to become members of Louisiana Citizens for Action Now (LaCANN), a statewide, grassroots advocacy organization. Also, The Arc Caddo-Bossier provides advocacy training for parents in a program called "How to Advocate for Your Child."