Summary: Today Karen with Autism Empowerment Radio sits down with Darla Helt & Sandy Silveria from the Parent Coalition of Clark County to talk about the Clark County Parent Coalition, who it serves and how it works. There are many Parent Coalitions throughout the country. They are designed to help people with autism, developmental disabilities and their families with an array of services that: Link families with their natural support system, the community, and other families who have similar experiences. Help families to better understand and access the system. Respond to crisis. Involve families in decision-making at both state and local levels. Provide current, accurate information and networking opportunities. Form a power base to advocate for the needs of people with disabilities / differing abilities in our community and state. Help new parent groups get established and serves as a resource for leadership in new and existing groups. The coordinators gather pertinent information from all areas, including state and county government, service providers and advocacy / planning organizations. They also help organize community meetings and forums for the purpose of educating, sharing and discussing issues of mutual concern. The information gathered is distributed to members of the Parent Coalition through meetings, forums, the internet and dissemination from partnering organizations such as Autism Empowerment and Autism Empowerment Radio. To get on the email list for the Parent Coalition of Clark County, please email Darla Helt, Parent Coalition Coordinator at darlah@ccparentcoalition.org. They are located at The Arc of SW WA. You can also call: 360-823-2247 or fax 360-759-4921 http://www.arcswwa.org/
