Family Network / Community Development Program

It is estimated that there are 300-600 families in the Greater Saint John area with a family member with an Intellectual Disability.

These families have identified the needs and expectations that they have for SJACL. Several needs were identified, such as:

• Information on services available for families,
• A means of sharing information between families,
• A More inclusive community that includes all members in social and recreational activities.

It was decided by the SJACL Board that a family network should he established that would provide information and assist with implementation of resources available to assist families. Such a family network has already been established by NBACL the provincial association and their guidelines used to assist in the creation of a local family network.

It was identified that families have a need for assistance in identifying resources and implementing solutions to many family issues that confront them in dealing with their student with an intellectual disability. Some of these resources are:

• Organize family seminar weekends for parents to discuss resources and share experiences concerning issues with their child,
• Identify community resources and organizations that can assist their child in feeling like they belong and are welcome to participate in sports, cultural, educational, and recreation activities,
• Identify resources that can help students obtain a more independent lifestyle,
• Identify local resources and programs that presently exist such as Best Buddies, Special Olympics, and Disability Support Program (DSP) services.