We empower you to work alongside schools for proper services and supports for your child.
Together we make a difference.
As a parent of a child who’s been impacted by a disability or special education needs, it’s really hard to see your child struggling in school. If you could take all their struggle away from them, you would. Despite all the barriers and roadblocks that are in the way, you just want your child to have the best chance at success. Their future may look different from other kids, but it doesn’t mean that it can’t be bright. You just know if the right people -- the right teachers, the right educators, the right helpers -- are there for your child, they can be successful.
Our Vision.
We envision a world where: Wyoming families––across the far reaches of the state––are equal partners and confident self-advocates in the special education system, steering all children toward their full potential in education and in life.
To encourage, educate, and elevate parents as recognized experts in their children’s lives, maximizing the benefits of education and achieving positive outcomes through proper services and supports
Our Mission.
We are you.
The Parent Information Center (PIC) is a parent-founded organization that was created to assist parents in their efforts to effectively advocate for their children's educational rights and services. Since 1991, they have connected and supported families, communities, and schools to make sure that no family ever felt lost or alone in the maze of special education services. To this day, Parents Helping Parents (PHP) of Wyoming has board members and staff that have shared-experience with their audience; they know what it’s like to struggle with a child that has a disability. They’ve walked the walk and can talk the talk!
Debbie Cottonware
Chairman of the Parents Helping Parents of Wyoming, Inc Board of Directors
Parents Helping Parents of Wyoming, LLC is a private, 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in 1990 by Terri Dawson in collaboration with parents, educators, and professionals serving families across the state of Wyoming. PHP of WY is governed by a board of directors, the majority of which are parents or family members of children with disabilities. PHP of WY has been the federally-funded Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) since 1991. PTIs are funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs to help families with special education needs. The Wyoming Parent Information Center (PIC), as a program of PHP of Wyoming, provides these services and supports to assist families –– particularly those underserved including minorities, low-income, and the disabled –– through their staff and volunteers located throughout the state. PIC collaborates with agencies, parent groups, and professional organizations to assist parents in their efforts to effectively advocate for their children’s educational rights and services.
Parents are experts.
We acknowledge the need for parental involvement to maximize the benefits of education and affirm their role as partners in their children’s education and learning. We ensure parents have the knowledge, tools and support to make informed choices and build their capacity. We support parents in their efforts to communicate effectively and find their voice.
Every family is exactly where they ought to be.
We sincerely speak and listen from the heart, with respect and without judgment. We are compassionate; our staff, volunteers, and board are family members of children with disabilities. We foster connection so that no family ever feels alone.
Parents Help Parents.
We encourage parents to share ideas, stories, challenges, and resolutions. When parents help parents, they foster a community of support, understanding, and affirmation that removes the isolation and stigma of having a child with a disability.
Every child has value.
We believe children of all abilities should be seen for their potential and deserve inclusion to the greatest extent possible. We create empowered, self-advocates striving for positive outcomes and choices for individuals with disabilities.
It takes collaboration.
We work with organizations, agencies, and school districts across the state of Wyoming, advocating for children’s education rights and services. We strengthen the relationship between parents and professionals, creating inclusive, family-centered services that are responsive and welcoming to all children and parents.
Parents have always led the fight.
We uphold the work of the early pioneers before us –– acknowledging their contributions toward the continued protection of families’ rights –– and work hard to maintain these gains for our future generations.