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

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---------- Forwarded message ----------Date: Mon, Apr 12, 2010 at 11:15 AMSubject: Protect the services you receive from FND of Broward CountyTo: Shhoaglund@...Hello All,We, here at FND, are asking our parents to now advocate for US. It isimperative that we take a proactive approach to ensuring that fundingis continued from Broward County through the Children's ServicesBoard. Budget cuts are looming and we must not allow them to impactus in such a way that there is no longer free advocacy services inBroward County.Protect the services you receive from FND of Broward CountyThe

Advocacy program that many of you feel is crucial to getting goodeducational services for your student may be eliminated. The programis currently funded by the Broward County Commission through theChildren’s Services Division. Projected budget cuts may drasticallydecrease or potentially eliminate the funding for this project.· FND offers advocacy through training and technical assistanceto families who have children with special needs. Parents must learnhow to advocate effectively in order to ensure their fullparticipation in the process of identifying their child’s needs and inwriting an appropriate education plan.· Research has proven that the families who are informed aboutthe special education process have a positive impact on their child’ssuccess in school and overall growth and

development.· FND supports families and caregivers by assisting them inbecoming the best advocates they can be.Commissioners Need to Hear Your CommentsThere is no greater voice than the one that speaks for a child inneed. We are encouraging you to contact your local Broward CountyCommissioner and ask them to adequately fund the Children’s ServicesDivision and the Advocacy programs so that this program can continue.Your passion and dedication to your children should be conveyed tothem in such a way that the importance of continued advocacy servicesis very apparent. Be positive, thankful for the benefit you havereceived through FND and strong in your resolve that this service isone 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 yourstory. http://www.broward.org/Commission/Pages/default.aspxYou may also want to contact the Children’s Services Division:http://www.broward.org/CommunityPartnerships/Pages/BoardsandCommittees.aspx#childrenWith much appreciation,The Dedicated Staff of FND of Broward County, Inc., Stacey, Ysela and Robin-- ACE Chairwww.freewebs.com/acechair