Family Support is creating a non-judgmental place where families can find information, guidance, understanding and connections.
Family Support
The Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) supports families who have a family member with a disability by connecting them to trained volunteers referred to as “Resource Parents/Peers” (RPs) .
This provincial network supports families by sharing experiences, expertise, and guidance.
All RPs have a family member with a disability.
FSI receives a family support request.
Anyone can call for support. Professionals often call FSI to brainstorm ways to best support families in BC.
FSI staff will speak with the family and learn about their needs.
FSI staff and the family will decide the best way to match with a FSI volunteer Resource Parent/Peer based on age, region, diagnosis, experience and others.
FSI staff will make a referral to resources right away.
AND/OR FSI staff will make a referral to a FSI volunteer Resource Parent/Peer.
A FSI volunteer Resource Parent/Peer calls a family.
Family will get a call within 48-72 hours. FSI volunteer Resource Parents/Peers can share their experiences, guide to resources, mentor advocacy and much more.
The peer-to-peer family support is powerful! Read about what our families have to say about FSI family support!
“I just wanted… no, needed to talk with someone who was facing similar behavior challenges with their child. That connection immediately lifted a cloud of isolation and despair. We are still in touch today!”
“Every parent will benefit from connecting with other parents - no matter how strong they may seem outside. I certainly could have as I was going through some challenging times with my daughter.”
“School IEP meetings are very emotional for me. Having a volunteer RP attending a meeting with me, taking notes and debriefing me after allowed me to give my full focus on the meeting.”
“Talking to another family member makes a huge difference in feeling less alone, feeling accepted and understood.”
“I will still email the FSI RPwho helped me through those transition years, particularly during high school years.”
“When I first contacted FSI many years ago, I was in crisis and it was so wonderful to talk to another parent who could give me real life advice.”
The Family Support Institute is a rights-based organization that supports the voices of families and people with lived experience of disability. We will highlight issues of significance and concern through surveys, reports and presentations in order to elevate the voices of families and people with disabilities. We do this with 3 main priorities in mind:
227 6th Street
New Westminster, BC
V3L 3A5
(604) 540-8374 ext. 523
Fax: (604) 540-9374
Support Line:
1-800-441-5403
Did you have a great experience with FSI? Please let us know!
©2023 Family Support Institute | Privacy Policy | Registered Charity Number: 105629497RR0001. We acknowledge the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia.
