Parents Group Participant Quotes

"The parent group gives us a sense of not being alone in dealing with our child's problems. The professional guest speakers at the parent group meetings help us make direct improvements to our child's life. The social element including dinners helps us develop long-term friendships."

"The parent group is great because it provided support when my son was going through major surgeries and I was depressed. I was able to talk about it in a safe environment among friends."

"I joined the parent group when my daughter, at age 14, joined YIPI. Immediately it felt good to be with other parents. There were other parents who shared my anguish about my daughter's social isolation and medical complications. And MORE IMPORTANTLY, there were other parents who shared the hope that life had a lot to offer our children. I learned about many resources, and about transitional planning into adulthood. As a group we kept informed about political and public policy issues. We also had some good meals together and some good laughs!!"