COVID-19 brought the topic of loneliness to the forefront of our national conversation. Many parents and caregivers raising children with high-support needs feel this sense of isolation profoundly. Our journey is different from that of other families. We often serve as teacher, therapist, advocate, nurse, and direct caregiver—all at once. This can be overwhelming.

Finding other parents who truly understand this unique perspective can make a world of difference. Sharing joys and frustrations, good days and bad ones, helps us feel less alone. These connections provide emotional support, build resilience, and open doors to new resources and ideas we might not have found on our own.

Formal and Informal Connections

Connections can happen in different ways. There are programs and support groups, either in-person or virtual that may focus on a topic that’s important to you. Informal connections can brighten your entire day—even a quick conversation with another parent at school drop-off or in a waiting room.

• Connecting Families is a Wisconsin-based peer support network for families of children and youth with special health care needs. Current areas of support include:
  • Children with Hearing Differences
  • Black Families
  • Children with Medical Complexity
  • Rural Communities

• Parent to Parent of Wisconsin helps parents find one-to-one connections with someone who understands the realities of raising a child with special needs. These relationships can be short-term—during a transition or crisis—or long-term, depending on what each family needs. P2P also offers training for parents who want to become support partners.

Why Connections Matter

Connecting with other families can be lifechanging. It strengthens advocacy efforts and empowers us to improve programs and services for our children and communities. Whether you’re working to change school policy or influence legislation, having other parents by your side can be powerful. Support can include attending public hearings together or writing letters to decision-makers.

The Wisconsin Family Leadership Institute (WiFLI) offers in-person and virtual sessions to help parents gain confidence and skills to participate in community decision-making. Applications for the Spring 2026 WiFLI Foundations program are now open, and a virtual leadership series will return next fall.

Connections also help with resource sharing. Often, the most valuable tips come from other families—whether you’re looking for a new provider, a respite worker, or a summer camp. Talking with other parents can prepare you for navigating programs, requesting services, and overcoming challenges.

Families can also connect for recreation and self-care. Local and virtual support groups, disability-specific agencies like the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin, GiGi’s Playhouse, and organizations such as the Down Syndrome Association, Arc Wisconsin, and Special Olympics offer local events and activities. Sibling-focused programs like WisconSibs provide opportunities for brothers and sisters to build connections too.

Additional Resources

• Nurture Network of Southeast WI Families is a project supported by the Board for People with Developmental Disabilities and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. This opportunity for parents in southeastern Wisconsin raising children with high support needs is facilitated by Family Voices. In-person and virtual events foster authentic friendships, improving mental health and well-being. 
• Wisconsin Wayfinder and the Children’s Resource Centers is a statewide resource that connects families to support groups, recreation, and activities, including one-on-one referrals, events and learning sessions for families.

Supporting a child with special health care needs is more than a full-time job. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and isolated. Whether you join an online group, attend a local event, or participate in the WiFLI leadership series, finding others who share your journey can make the road ahead easier—and brighter.