Events/Disability Awareness
Hosting or co-hosting community events are a fun way to “advertise” the SEPAC and meet new members:
- Partner with the district pre-school program to organize a “coffee” for parents to provide them with information about the SEPAC and the districts’ special education programs.
- Make presentations to school PTOs or PTAs on the role of a SEPAC in the district.
- Back-to-School open houses and Community Resource Fairs are a great venue for informational tables.
- Meet with local religious groups as a place for meeting new people.
- SEPAC officers can participate in regional SEPAC networking events to share local information and possibly join together to share costs for speakers – a great way to unite neighboring communities.
Many SEPACs host Disability Awareness Events to help educate the community and build partnerships. SEPACs may want to highlight special disability months and host speakers on those topics.
Recognition or Awards Ceremonies are another way to celebrate individuals in the school or community who make the day brighter for a child with disabilities. These individuals can be recognized and serve as models for others. These events not only publicize the SEPAC but bring a sense of good feeling within a community.
Resource Fairs
Many SEPACs host community resource fairs to help families connect to local special education resources. These resource fairs can be local or regional (a collaborative project among several school districts/SEPACs). Fairs can have fun activities for children (face painting, crafts) and are an opportunity for parents to meet other parents. Ask local disability organizations, including FCSN to attend and staff resource tables. Many FCSN’s resource materials are available in Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Chinese and Haitian Creole. Your SEPAC Resource Fair information can be shared on the MassPAC Listserv or the MassPAC Facebook page. Please let MassPAC know as early as possible in the school year if your SEPAC will be having a Resource Fair so we can find a staff member to attend your event!