Organizations & Supports for Families

Wellesley SEPAC has gathered this list of statewide and local organizations that provide information, training, and advocacy related to special education and disability rights.

This list is not exhaustive, and inclusion does not mean SEPAC formally endorses any organization. Please contact each organization directly or visit its website for the most current information.

How to Use This List

  • Start with a parent training and information center if you are new to special education.
  • Look at legal and advocacy organizations if you need help understanding your rights or problem‑solving a dispute.
  • Explore information and support organizations for condition‑specific resources or local connections.

If you’re not sure where to begin, you can always contact SEPAC and we can help point you in a direction.

Parent Training & Information

Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN)

FCSN is Massachusetts’ Parent Training and Information Center. It offers:

  • Workshops and webinars on special education rights and the IEP process
  • The Recruitment, Training, and Support Center (RTSC) for foster and kinship caregivers
  • Individual phone/email support through their call center
  • Website: https://fcsn.org/

Legal & Advocacy Organizations

Massachusetts Advocates for Children (MAC)

Massachusetts Advocates for Children is a nonprofit organization focused on education rights and child welfare.

They provide:

  • Publications on special education, discipline, and school exclusion
  • A helpline families can contact for information and referrals
  • Legal representation in selected cases
  • Website: https://massadvocates.org/

Disability Law Center (DLC)

The Disability Law Center is the protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in Massachusetts.

They offer:

  • Information about legal rights in areas such as education, employment, and access to services
  • Intake for potential legal cases
  • Systemic advocacy to improve policies and practices
  • Website: https://www.dlc-ma.org/

Information & Support Networks

Family TIES of Massachusetts

Family TIES (Together In Enhancing Support) is a statewide information and referral network for families of children and youth with special health needs and disabilities.

They provide:

  • One‑to‑one support from trained parent coordinators
  • Information about local and statewide resources
  • A directory of disability‑specific organizations
  • Website: https://massfamiyties.org/

Condition‑Specific Organizations

Families may also find support from organizations focused on particular disabilities or health conditions (for example, autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, mental health, etc.). Many of these groups offer:

  • Parent support groups and online communities
  • Educational materials and toolkits
  • Webinars and workshops

You can search the Family TIES database or talk with your child’s providers to find groups that match your child’s needs.

Wellesley & Local Resources

Wellesley Public Schools – Student Services / Special Education

WPS Student Services provides information about district special education programs, contacts for school‑based teams, and links to policies and procedures.

Community Partners

Local organizations, such as your child's PTO and the Recreation Department, may also offer inclusive activities and supports. You can also contact SEPAC if you’re looking for ideas about inclusive community programs.

Questions About These Resources?

Wellesley SEPAC volunteers can’t provide legal advice, but we can:

  • Help you think about which type of organization might fit your situation
  • Share our understanding of what different resources offer
  • Connect you with other families who may have used similar supports