Broward: Protect the services you receive from FND of Broward County

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----- Forwarded Message ----To: deniseslist@...Sent: Thu, April 8, 2010 11:40:33 PMSubject: Protect the services you receive from FND of Broward County

Hello All,

We, here at FND, are asking our parents to now advocate for US. It is imperative that we take a proactive approach to ensuring that funding is continued from Broward County through the Children's Services Board. Budget cuts are looming and we must not allow them to impact us in such a way that there is no longer free advocacy services in Broward County.

Protect the services you receive from FND of Broward County

The Advocacy program that many of you feel is crucial to getting good educational services for your student may be eliminated. The program is currently funded by the Broward County Commission through the Children’s Services Division. Projected budget cuts may drastically decrease or potentially eliminate the funding for this project.

· FND offers advocacy through training and technical assistance to families who have children with special needs. Parents must learn how to advocate effectively in order to ensure their full participation in the process of identifying their child’s needs and in writing an appropriate education plan.

· Research has proven that the families who are informed about the special education process have a positive impact on their child’s success in school and overall growth and development.

· FND supports families and caregivers by assisting them in becoming the best advocates they can be.

Commissioners Need to Hear Your Comments

There is no greater voice than the one that speaks for a child in need. We are encouraging you to contact your local Broward County Commissioner and ask them to adequately fund the Children’s Services Division and the Advocacy programs so that this program can continue. Your passion and dedication to your children should be conveyed to them in such a way that the importance of continued advocacy services is very apparent. Be positive, thankful for the benefit you have received through FND and strong in your resolve that this service is one that is vital to your children and our community.

The link below will take you to the Broward County Commissioners. Find your commissioner and email or call them today to share your story.

http://www.broward.org/Commission/Pages/default.aspx

You may also want to contact the Children’s Services Division:

http://www.broward.org/CommunityPartnerships/Pages/BoardsandCommittees.aspx#children

With much appreciation,

The Dedicated Staff of FND of Broward County, Inc.

, Stacey, Ysela and Robin