Central NY DDSO – OPWDD

Services Provided: Family Support Services Coordinators are available at each of OPWDD’s regional Developmental Disabilities Services Offices (DDSOs) to help families access Family Support Services. Family Support Services can help in times of crisis when a family member or loved one becomes ill, or when things get difficult at home for other reasons. Find out more information about these services and supports by calling your local Family Support Services Coordinator. Support services may include: information and referral, family and individual counseling, recreation, after-school programs, support groups, transportation and specialized equipment and home modifications.

  • Contact Person: Kelly Biviano
  • Phone: 315-473-5035
  • Website: www.opwdd.ny.gov

Lewis County F/A Parent Support Group

Services Provided: Local Parent Group affiliated with North Country Foster and Adoptive Network. Group leader Dawn Roggie is an experienced foster and adoptive parent who provides telephone support and information with current and prospective foster and adoptive parents.

  • Contact Person:  Dawn Roggie
  • Address:  6465 State Rt 26, Lowville, NY 13367  
  • Phone: 315-376-3606
  • Email: roggies7@yahoo.com

North Country Foster/Adoption Network

Services Provided: Parent Support Group, Advocacy, Referral to Foster/Adoption Competent Service Providers, Warm Line and Trauma/Attachment Presentations for both families and providers.

  • Contact Person: Linda Finerson
  • Address: 3000 Huff Road, Cape Vincent, NY 13618  
  • Phone: 315-783-5562
  • Email: linda@matice.net

Northern Regional Center for Independent Living

Services Provided: Offers a wide range of family support programs including parent support groups, kids groups, advocacy services; and training and education services.  The NRCIL Parent Training and Information center provides training and information to families of children with disabilities and the professionals who serve them. The center serves families of children of all ages and all disabilities to help them better understand their children’s disabilities and education needs, communicate more effectively with school and related professionals, understand their rights and responsibilities under IDEA, and obtain appropriate services for their children. See website for specific program contact information.

  • Contact Person: Kathy Connor
  • Address: 210 Court Street, Suite 107, Watertown, NY 13601 
  • Phone: 315-785-8703
  • Email: kathyc@nrcil.net 
  • Website:  www.nrcil.net

To find upcoming foster and adoptive parent support group meetings, trainings, and other special events on the Coalition's event calendar cclick here.