FAMILY SUPPORT • RESOURCES • ADVOCACY
Helping families understand available services, find local support, and take informed steps toward getting the help their children need.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Many parents hear about programs and services but don't know where to begin. This resource center brings together helpful information, official websites, and local organizations to make the journey easier to navigate.
NEW YORK STATE
The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) helps eligible individuals with developmental disabilities access supports and services.
Learn about the agency, developmental disability eligibility, and the types of supports that may be available. A diagnosis alone does not guarantee eligibility.
Official OPWDD Family Resources → Read Our Step-by-Step Parent Guide →OPWDD's Front Door is the starting point for families seeking services. Call 1-866-946-9733 and provide your county to connect with the appropriate office.
Learn How to Get Started →Understand how OPWDD reviews eligibility, why evaluations and documentation matter, and how care coordination organizations may assist families through the process.
Eligibility & Referrals →ROCHESTER • MONROE COUNTY
Explore organizations serving families in Rochester, Monroe County, and surrounding communities.
Find county information about developmental disability services, regional offices, and community-based support organizations.
Visit Monroe County Resources → Explore Our Local Family Services Directory →Explore family advocacy, education, disability resources, workshops, and support for navigating available services.
Visit Starbridge →A Rochester-area organization offering autism-focused classes, family resources, educational opportunities, and community connections.
Visit AutismUp →PARENT ADVOCACY
You don't have to know everything to begin advocating for your child. Start by learning about your child's needs, available supports, and the questions you can ask.
Organize evaluations, diagnostic reports, school records, medical documentation, and written communications that may help when requesting services.
Ask about eligibility requirements, available services, timelines, application status, next steps, and how to request decisions in writing.
Record important dates, phone calls, names of contacts, submitted documents, appointments, and follow-up requests.