The Answers
The Questions Most Asked of WeCAHR
1. What do you do? WeCAHR helps children and adults with disabilities get the services they need to live and work successfully and safely in their community. We do this by direct advocacy representation, advocacy counseling, training, support and systems change
2. Who do you serve? We serve children and adults with disabilities and all age groups. Our case load includes individuals with mental retardation, other developmental disabilities, autism, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, and mental illness.
3. What towns do you serve? We serve the towns of: Bethel , Bridgewater , Brookfield , Danbury , New Fairfield, New Milford , Newtown , Redding , Ridgefield , Sherman , and the residents of Southbury Training School .
4. Where are you located? 211 Main Street in Danbury . We are a storefront location which is very accessible to all in the community.
5. Is there a charge for your service? We ask families we serve to become members of WeCAHR. A membership is $25 per year. We ask the family for $100 when we attend a PPT (Pupil Placement Team) meeting for their child. This includes prep time, travel time and the PPT which can last from one to three hours. If a family cannot allocate $100 for this service, we ask they pay what they can afford. We will never refuse anyone based on income.
6. How do I receive training on special education? We offer a course titled USE (Understanding Special Education). USE is a 12 hour course, that we offer each Spring and Fall. It teaches parents about special education laws, about the IEP (Individual Education Plan) and Inclusive Education. It also teaches parents how to work collaboratively with their school district to achieve the Best outcomes for their child.
7. How do I learn to speak up for myself? WeCAHR provides training for individuals with disabilities to become self-advocates. There is a self-advocacy group in Danbury and chapters through out the state. People 1st of CT statewide meetings are held every other month in a central location. Call WeCAHR for information on meeting dates and transportation.
8. Where else can I get support? Depending on your age and disability there may be other agencies/organizations that can help you. We are very knowledgeable about the agencies in our community and what services they provide. If you call us, we can assist you in getting in touch with these agencies.
9. I feel there is something wrong with my child in school. What should I do? You should ask that your child be tested to see if he or she has a learning problem.
10. I want my child to be tested privately. Can WeCAHR make a recommendation? We will recommend at least two or three different educational consultants and advise you to interview each to decide whom you feel will work best with your child.
11. My child was tested by the school, and a PPT is planned. Do I have the right to see the evaluation results before the PPT? Yes, and we advise all parents to do this. It is often over-whelming to get the results at the PPT. The school may suggest that you come in and review the evaluation with a staff professional who will answer your questions.
12. I get respite money; do you know anyone who can watch my child? From time to time we have the names of individuals who have experience caring for children with disabilities. We always suggest that you meet with the individuals to determine whether you feel he/she would be compatible with your child.
13. I need a job and/or a place to live. Can your agency help me? We cannot directly find you a job and/or a place to live. We will direct you to, or help you find the appropriate resources or supports in the area to expedite your search.
14. I am applying for social security, food stamps or Medicaid; can you help me through the process? Yes, we can help you fill out the paperwork, accompany you to the Social Security Administration Office, and to the Department of Social Services if you have an appointment or interview. You can also ask your case manager for this assistance.
15. Do you know of a support group for autism, mental health and parents of children with disabilities? We have an active, ever changing list of support groups in the area. We also have a program called Parent-To-Parent that matches parents of newly diagnosed children with disabilities with trained or "veteran" parents who can provide information and support.
16. I need somewhere for my child to go after school. Some schools have appropriate after school programs for your child. Sometimes though your own natural supports (neighbors, friends, church, family members) you can find someone to be with your child.
17. My child may be eligible for DMR Services; whom do I call? There is a central phone number to call if you feel your child may be eligible for DMR services. The toll-free number is: 1-866-433-8192.
18. What is available after birth to three years of age for my child? Depending on the child's disability, your school district should be able to help you with your child's transition to a pre-school program.
19. How can I find recreation programs for my child? Through your local Parks and Recreation, schools and local newspapers.
20. Are summer camp opportunities available? We have a listing of camps for children with disabilities. We also receive funds from: The News Times Campership Fund, and The Danbury Cultural Commission, as well as others, and can provide camperships for children with disabilities to attend the camp of their choice.