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What We Do

Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center, a federally funded Parent Training Center, exists to provide education, support, resources, and community linkages for families navigating the Special Education system, experiencing key educational transitions, and seeking needed supports and services in the school and community. We work with students with disabilities and their families to ensure they understand their educational rights under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), and can fully participate in the Special Education process.

We aim to ensure families and self-advocates have the information and resources needed to access the services and supports they need. We strive to support families seeking a positive, inclusive, and individualized educational experience for their children.  We are one of two federally funded Parent Training and Information Centers in the state of Illinois. 

Family Matters PTIC serves 94 counties in Illinois outside the Chicago area. Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties are served by Family Resource Center on Disabilities. 

  • Our programs focus on providing accurate information and guidance on Special Education services, Individual Education Plans, 504's, and other key educational processes. We ensure that families and self-advocates have the information and resources they need to partner effectively with their school team and to advocate for the unique needs of their child.

  • Fundraisers and events help us raise awareness and generate crucial resources to serve our community. Join us at our next event and see how you can get involved.
    Find out more.

  • Improve your community by joining our cause. You'd be surprised what a huge difference your time can make. Join us to support families as they work to learn and fully participate in the education of their child with disabilities.
    Read more.

Our Impact This Year

  • Families Helped

    5,241

  • Trainings Provided

    93

  • Dollars Raised

    $10,038.08

  • Volunteers Added

    75

Family Matters Podcasts

Family Matters PTIC has launched a podcast! We are adding this format as a way to reach more Illinois families and professionals with key information about disability support and special education advocacy and navigation. The podcast will bring the voices and experiences of various professionals and families to the table, focusing on exploring experiences, introducing best practices being implemented across the state, exploring services and supports, and sharing the input and guidance of families. Join the conversation on your favorite podcast app! We can be found at Family Matters PTIC Podcast. 

Buy our Family Matters PTIC Merch. Great to wear to IEP meetings, advocacy events, or to promote inclusion.

“Resource Highlight! Are you a family or a professional seeking or promoting inclusion in Early Childhood settings? Check out the AMAZING Early Childhood Least Restrictive Environment Toolkit from EC-LRE! Link here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mBryz96qZRhNDsOMN1vREiYSI5vxnTi9/view?usp=sharing “

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