Welcome
Navigating disability systems is confusing, overwhelming and isolating for families. That's where VELA steps in. VELA is a nonprofit that empowers families of children with disabilities to gain knowledge, empowerment, resilience, and community so they can become their child's greatest advocate.
Think of VELA as your partner in serving families of children with disabilities. We know your time with families is limited and that families need support with accessing therapies, navigating special education, connecting to key services and gaining community and emotional support. That's where we can support you!
What VELA Provides
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Courses for Parents: Special Education, Autism, Transition to Adulthood and Caregiver Wellness Courses
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Monthly Support Groups
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One-time Workshops for Parents
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Supportive Case Management
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Family Events
Who We Serve
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English-Spanish Speaking parents of children with disabilities in Austin and beyond.
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Any zip code or diagnosis
What Parents Gain
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Knowledge & skills: Understanding their child's needs, learn to navigate medical, educational and social services, and build collaborative relationships with their child's providers.
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Support & Community: Learn to manage stress and emotions, practice self-care and meet other parents!
Resulting In...
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Improved Parent & Provider Relationships
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Increased Effectiveness of Interventions and Services to Child
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Better Outcomes for Children with disabilities and their Families
How to Support Families
Showing up big for the community requires working in partnership. See the ways we can work together to create a community where all families of children with disabilities thrive.
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"VELA is about teaching the parent to be the best advocate, the most informed advocate,"
says referring pediatrician
Our Top Referral & Program Partners
We are so grateful to our education, healthcare and community partners for referring families to VELA and collaborating with us to bring a version of our services to the families they serve. Learn how your organization can also Get Involved.
