About |
The Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN) is a nonprofit organization based in Massachusetts that is committed to empowering families of children and youth with disabilities and complex medical needs. Founded by parents, for parents, we serve as a trusted partner to families, caregivers, and the professionals who support them. Our work is rooted in the belief that every child—regardless of ability, background, or zip code—deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and a supportive community.
FCSN provides information, support, and training on topics such as special education rights, transition to adulthood, early childhood development, healthcare access, family leadership, and more. We are home to several key projects and centers, including the Massachusetts Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC), the Family-to-Family Health Information Center, and the MassPAC program for Special Education Parent Advisory Councils (SEPACs). Many of our staff are parents or family members of individuals with disabilities, giving us a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that families face.
Each year, we support thousands of families across the Commonwealth through free workshops, one-on-one support, multilingual resources, and public events. Whether helping a parent navigate the IEP process, supporting a young adult in transition planning, or training a new advocate, our goal is to equip individuals with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for themselves and their loved ones.
Our vision is a world where all children and young adults with disabilities are valued, included, and supported to reach their full potential. We achieve this by working in partnership with families, educators, healthcare providers, and policymakers to build more equitable and inclusive systems.
To learn more about our services, workshops, and impact—or to get involved—visit www.fcsn.org.