Advocacy and Family Support

Record last updated 2024/08/07 Comment on this info .Update this info

Contact Information

Berkshire County Arc
Contact: Sonja Stewart, Director of Family Support & Advocacy
Email Address: bcarc@bcarc.org
Phone: 413-499-4241

395 South Street Pittsfield, MA 01201
Area Served: West

Map Location Advocacy and Family Support

Narrative

Berkshire County Arc’s Advocacy and Family Support services are designed to support children and adults with disabilities living in the community with their families.

BCArc’s Family Support Center offers a wide variety of services throughout central and southern Berkshire County, including:

  1. Information and referrals to a broad range of resources and service providers in Berkshire county
  2. Service navigation or case management for families through the closed referral service accessible through the Department of Developmental Services
  3. A library where families can browse or borrow resources on a wide range of topics, including (but not limited to) Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down Syndrome, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia, nutrition, and assistive technology
  4. Educational advocacy is provided by trained advocates, who will consult with family members to review Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and discuss implementation meetings. Educational Advocates can attend up to two IEP meetings per year, and provide guidance to help family members advocate for their children.
  5. Social and recreational opportunities include annual events such as the Buddy Walk, Sprout Film Festival, Family Support Spring Break Camp, as well as a monthly “Chance to Dance” community dance, and regular parties and social events.

Service Types

  • Case Management
  • Family Support
  • Skills Training
  • Socialization Activities

Program Type

  • Community Supports Program

Populations Served

  • Autism Spectrum

Ages Served

  • 3 - 4
  • 5 - 8
  • 9 - 13
  • 14 - 18
  • 19 - 22
  • 23 – 59
  • 60 +

Accessibility Features

  • Accessible Parking
  • Accessible Restrooms

Additional Information

  • Fees: MassHealth, Private Insurance, Personal Funds