F.I.R.S.T. is a community benefit organization dedicated to providing information, education, support and advocacy to persons with disabilities, their family and the community.
Although some projects are county specific due to funding, F.I.R.S.T. is able to share information and ideas from all projects to families in Western North Carolina.
F.I.R.S.T. offers:
Free family/individual training related to educational issues and rights under IDEA and section 504 and accessing state and federal supports for persons with disabilities
Staff available to attend school and team meetings - including Spanish speakers
Advanced training for parents to become better advocates
Training for educators and agency staff related to educational issues, inclusion of preschoolers and students with disabilities and community supports.
Resource materials related to specific disabilities, inclusion, special education law and transitions
Website with 24 hour access to information and resources to help support families
Staff is trained in a variety of areas including early intervention, special education law and procedures, community supports and specific disability issues including mental and developmental