Spanish-language parent support group at Easterseals Joliet connects families to services

Alicia Hahn, facilitator of a Spanish-language parent support group affiliated with Easterseals Joliet, described how the group connects Spanish-speaking caregivers of children with disabilities to information, peer support and services.

"This is for Spanish speaking families," Hahn said, explaining the group targets families who may feel isolated because of language barriers and provides a space to celebrate small milestones, share practical information about Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and refer families to services. Hahn said the group meets virtually and sometimes in person, and she emphasized peer-to-peer learning and advocacy.

Beatrice, a parent educator at the Morris-Grundy location, said Jumpstart and the support group coordinate closely with local partners — including the We Care Building, NAMI and Guardian Angels from Joliet — and that staff can refer families to the group and other resources. Mariah Solis, a parent educator in Grundy County, described outreach at local events such as a Morris High School career fair and joint community screenings that help make families aware of services.

Hahn provided practical access details: a Facebook group used to announce meetings and activities, email contact at anisiat.an@jolieteasterseals.com, and reminders sent out months in advance for upcoming virtual and in-person meetings. The facilitator said meetings emphasize peer connection and practical steps families can take during IEP meetings, and that bilingual presentations are used so information is received directly in Spanish.

The presentation did not include votes or policy changes; it focused on outreach, peer support and access information for families who prefer Spanish-language services.