Welcome, and thank you for your interest in Laura Baker Services Association’s Family Navigation Services Program – a hub of local resources for special needs.

We Stand with You

We know that as a parent, family member or caregiver of a person with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), you may feel overwhelmed with navigating the complex systems required to support your loved one. These feelings occur at different points along your journey, such as:

• Your child has just been diagnosed with a developmental disability
• You and your loved one are navigating a transition in their life
• You are in need of numerous other services and supports

With over 125 years supporting individuals with IDD and their loved ones, Laura Baker Services Association stands with you and offers special needs resources – ready to be your supportive partner.

Schedule a Free Consultation

We offer customized support packages based on an initial, free consultation. (Sliding fee scale is available.) Family Navigation Services can include assistance with navigating:

• Regional and state developmental disability programs and services options
• Approaches for supporting someone with IDD, such as Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Prader-Willi Syndrome
• Peer support and family connections
• Community connections
• First steps in accessing county, state and federal programs (waivers)
• Housing options
• Major life transitions and challenges, like:
  • Prenatal advising, such as for a newborn with Down Syndrome
  • Birth and infancy
  • Toddlers and preschoolers
  • Preparing for school at various transition points
  • Preparing for life after school, including job preparation and aging-related services
  • Legal considerations, such as guardianship, wills and trusts
• Medical record management
• Access to referral networks of professionals who provide services to families with individuals with developmental disabilities

Sam Gershman

Lead Family Navigator

Main: 507-645-8866 Ext. 124
Direct: 507-581-7078

fns@laurabaker.org