Family Navigation
Family Navigation services provide families with information on systems navigation, resources that meet their individual needs, and advocacy training. Family Navigators help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families lead full lives that align with their personal goals.
Four agencies in the St. Louis area provide navigation services. Learn more about these services below and click the agency logo to be redirected to their website.
Association on Aging with Developmental Disabilities System Navigation services adopt a tailored approach to assist families and individuals with understanding and navigating the developmental disabilities service system. System Navigators provide short-term support and assist with referrals for community resources, as well as provide support to make informed decisions and choices. Services may be provided individually to families, caregivers, the community, or the individual in need.
Parents of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities can sometimes feel lost, confused, or overwhelmed. Our Family Navigation Program ensures that families will not go through difficult times alone. We can help parents and caregivers navigate through services in the St. Louis area, provide a step-by-step plan to improve quality of life for the entire family, support with transitions at each milestone throughout the person’s life and connect families to local resources and funding streams. We can help support you and your child every step of the way - from birth to adulthood.
As a caregiver, you know what is right for your family member. However, navigating the many systems and resources available can be overwhelming. At the St. Louis Arc, a designated staff person is available to provide support to families. A Family Navigator’s role is to provide families with much needed support in discovering the information they need, connecting with peers, and obtaining resources and services to benefit the family.
F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - which stands for Finding Resources Important Everyday Needs and Disability Services - is a central hub for families to call, email, or visit when they need help finding resources within the community to help their loved ones. Through F.R.I.E.N.D.S., Sunnyhill partners with various agencies to ensure the needs of individuals are being met to the fullest by connecting families with the information they need. Whether it's finding recreational opportunities, residential placement, or helping navigate the school system, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is available to help!
Receiving a disability diagnosis or navigating a transition can be overwhelming to families. UCP Heartland is now offering a very personal, one-on-one service through the Services Navigator Program. Families can start to engage our Services Navigator Program any time.
Once you and the Family Navigator have established your needs, they’ll connect you to services and follow up to ensure you are moving forward. It’s like having a personal assistant! Program participants receive supports for information and referral to programs, advocacy, education, family support and personal attention.
