Family Empowerment: We’ve Been There—We Can Help

Family Empowerment started with local families of children with disabilities asking a simple question: Why isn’t there support for us right here in our own community?

In 1994, tired of driving to Greenfield for help and determined to create something closer to home, they rolled up their sleeves and got to work—and Family Empowerment was born.

Housed originally in a single room on Conz Street in Northampton, Family Empowerment started small, with just a few dedicated staff. But its mission was expansive: to support families raising children with developmental disabilities by providing flexible, accessible, and family-driven support. At its core was the belief that parents are the experts on their children, and when parents and professionals partner, they can create meaningful change.

The name “Family Empowerment” wasn’t chosen lightly. This program is about giving families the tools, information, and support they need to help their loved ones thrive in their own homes and communities. Whether it’s navigating complex systems like MassHealth or the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) eligibility, connecting with other parents for mutual support, or simply learning what services are available, Family Empowerment is a hub for information and guidance.

In 2010, the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services designated Family Empowerment as the official Family Support Center for Hampshire County, a testament to its strong relationships and trusted presence in the community. Since then, it has grown to serve more than 250 families a year, offering:

• Trainings and Transition Fairs on topics from early intervention to adult services
• Parent support networks that help families feel less alone
• Cash assistance and service navigation for families eligible through the Department of Developmental Services (DDS)
• Short- and long-term support tailored to each family’s unique needs
• Self-direction assistance through Agency with Choice and Individual Home Supports

Today, Family Empowerment continues to evolve with the families it serves. Whether it’s offering online groups, collaborating with schools and medical providers, or helping families explore housing and employment options, the message remains the same: We’ve been there. We can help.

With offices now in both Northampton and Greenfield, and a growing presence across Hampshire and Franklin Counties, Family Empowerment is still rooted in its founding purpose—to make sure no family has to go it alone.