Family Navigation Services & Respite Support

Ready to Help 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.

 

How Family Navigation Can Help

Accessing Resources

  • Regional and state developmental disability programs and services options
  • First steps in accessing county, state and federal programs (disability waivers)
  • Housing options: at home, independent living, group homes, respite
  • Access to networks of professionals and service providers who can serve your family’s needs

Major Life Transitions

  • 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

Community Support

  • Support system planning for someone with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Prader-Willi Syndrome
  • Peer support and family connections
  • Community resource connections
  • Navigating any obstacle that is preventing you from achieving your goals

Schedule a FREE Consultation

Keri Pofahl

Keri Pofahl

Family Navigation Specialist

Main: 507-645-8866 Direct: 507-323-5147

Download Family Navigation Brochure

Samatha Engelby

Samantha Engelby

Family Navigation Specialist/Respite Coordinator

Main: 507-645-8866 Direct: 507-850-8860

Respite Events

Saturday Fun Day

A monthly program for families who care for children/adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Adults and children ages five and above with special needs who live at home with their families are welcome to join LBSA on the second Saturday of the month for crafts, games, outdoor activities and snacks.

The events are designed to provide a few hours of respite for caregivers and social interaction for participants. Pre-registration is required.

Families must complete an enrollment medical form prior to the event.

Event Details

  • Held from 1 to 5 p.m. once each month at LBSA’s Oak Street Campus
  • Cost is $20.00, fee waivers are available for those that qualify
  • Refreshments are provided

Register Now

2024/2025 Fun Day Dates

  • December 7
  • January 11
  • February 8
  • March 8
  • April 12
  • May 10
  • June 15

Schedule an Appointment

Hear From One of Our Families

Additional Resources

Family Navigation Blog

See All Articles
group home living

Care and Inclusion: Special Needs Group Homes

Care and Inclusion: Special Needs Group Homes At Laura Baker Services Association (LBSA), we believe that every individual deserves to live in a place where they can thrive, feel safe and be embraced by a community that values them. As dedicated spaces that nurture, empower and celebrate the unique abilities… Read More

group of teens with special needs laughing

Finding the Right Group Home for Your Loved One

Transitioning your loved one with IDD to a group home can be difficult. Individual needs can vary, so it's important to find one that fits their needs. Read More

Teenage girl with down syndrome drawing at class

TEFRA is No Longer a Burden to Special Needs Families in Minnesota

Effective July 1, 2023, parents in Minnesota are no longer required to pay a Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (TEFRA) fee. Read More

Rethinking Guardianship and Supported Decision Making 

Guest author Anita Raymond discusses the importance of collaboration when making guardianship decisions. Read More

A Breath of Fresh Air

Being outdoors has so many benefits for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Read about how you or your loved one can incorporate the outdoors in your weekly schedule. Read More

Person with IDD is serving patrons at cafe

Employment Advice for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Tips for finding the right employment fit for people with disabilities. Read More

family-plays-game-outside

Respite Care: Recharge and Refresh

Respite care provides important time for caregivers to refresh and recharge. We've outlined important things to consider when seeking respite care. Read More

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LBSA Partners with the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) to Help Individuals with IDD Find Employment

We became a Community Partner with MN DEED Vocational Rehabilitation Services. This partnership will focus on helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities create a path to meaningful employment. Read More

LBSA client at music therapy

Music Therapy is More Than Just Fun

Music therapy is more than just fun; it has the power to heal and strengthen! This is especially true for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Read More