Organization helps parents become better advocates for children with developmental disabilities

Florida's Voice on Developmental Disabilities to hold meeting Saturday

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Developmental disabilities, like autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, are becoming more common among school-aged children, forcing more parents to become advocates for their kids.

That's why a local organization is helping families navigate the system.

The organization, Florida's Voice on Developmental Disabilities, was started more than 20 years ago in South Florida.

Arlene Lakin helped start the group after feeling like she was constantly fighting to get fair treatment for her severely developmentally disabled son, Douglas.

Through Florida's Voice, she works to make sure every parent has the information they need.

"We have the talent (and) the resources for a lot of families who don't know about public benefits (and) about school programs," Lakin said. "We need to show people how to do it, and share the advocacy tips so they can be effective at getting what they want."

Florida's Voice is holding a town hall-style meeting Saturday at Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale for anyone who wants to learn how to become a better advocate. 

Click here for more information about the event.
 


About the Author:

Kristi Krueger has built a solid reputation as an award-winning medical reporter and effervescent anchor. She joined Local 10 in August 1993. After many years co-anchoring the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m., Kristi now co-anchors the noon newscasts, giving her more time in the evening with her family.