top of page

Essex

ASPEN of Essex County
Contact Person: Anita Finkel
Contact Phone: 973-669-5757
Email: ednee@aol.com
Target Group: Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism, and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities
Meeting Location: Jewish Community Center (JCC), Ross Family Campus, 760 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
Website: www.ASPENnj.org

ASPEN provides families and individuals whose lives are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism), and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities with: Education about the issues surrounding the disorders. Support in knowing that they are not alone, and in helping individuals with ASD's and NLD achieve their maximum potential. Advocacy in areas of appropriate educational programs, medical research funding, adult issues and increased public awareness and understanding.

Broadway School Parent Group through La Casa de Don Pedro.  Newark
Contact: Maria Pinto, Parent Liaison, 973-268-5340
Fax: 973-268-5358

Creating Choices For Children (CCC)

Our Mission
CCC is the parent organization for children with special needs, ages 3-21, in the Caldwell/West Caldwell school district. Our goal is to provide information, education, support and advocacy for the parents of our towns and beyond. Together with our district, we seek to provide community-based learning through education, recreation, & peer socialization. And through our efforts, we believe our children will flourish.

You can email us anytime, for any reason, at cccparents@gmail.com! To contact individual members, please see below for list.

If you'd like to be placed on our email chain, please contact: Janine Novak at jjnovak@comcast.net and she'll add you in immediately.

Welcome to ‘Outreach’: On the third Wednesday of every month, we host ‘CCC Outreach’ -- conveniently and centrally located at the Presbyterian Church of West Caldwell at 31 Fairfield Avenue, (on the corner of Ravine Avenue).  The purpose of ‘Outreach’ is to provide families support, advocacy, education and advice by other parents who can understand the unique and challenging lifestyle we face on a daily basis. 

 

‘Outreach’ Calendar for 2006-7 School Year

(meetings start at 7:30 pm, unless otherwise noted) November 15, December 20, January 17, 2006, February 27** (schools closed on winter recess: 21^st), March 21, April 18, May 16, June 20, July 18

 

Please contact Janine Novak (973) 403-7887 (jjnovak@comcast.net)  or Pam Donovan (973) 364-0717 (pamela.donovan@us.kline.com)  if you have any questions or to RSVP.

Children Having Individual Learning Differences

CHILD’s Purpose:

~ To provide a network and insight to all parents whose child is either: 
1. Classified under IDEA; 
2. Receiving services under Section 504 and 
3. Facing learning challenges 

~ To provide a forum for parents, teachers, and administrators to learn together and work hand-in-hand.

For further information, please contact one of our board members:
Randi Marlo randimarlo@comcast.net  Phone# 973-857-2012
Marie BenIsrael mbenisrael@comcast.net 
Lucille Hahula hulafive@comcast.net 
Norma Francullo forestnyc@aol.com 

Co-Options. Support and Education for Families of Children with Disabilities. 
Meets in Bergen, Hudson and Passaic Counties.
Contact: Mr. Jordan Wellington, 973-244-0850
e-mail: jwellington@efnj.com 

COSAC - The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community
Contact person: Michele Havens
Phone: 201-486-5607 - cell or 973-377-3020
Target group: Parents, Family Members and Caregivers of
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Meeting location: Congregation Beth Ahm, Grove Av., Verona, NJ
Website: www.njcosac.org 
Area served: Essex County

Providing support, information and resources for the autism community.

Determined to Achieve
County: Essex
Address: Services Club House, 1113 Sprigfield Ave, Irvington, NJ
Contact person: Darlene Revees
Phone: 973-373-1908
Email: rambria@yahoo.com 
Meeting location: Same as above
Area served: Irvington, NJ

Meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Activities for children sometimes on Saturdays

East Orange Special Education Parent Group (Essex County)
Contact: Dawn Cooper (President)  e-mail d.cooper@verizon.net  Tel. 973-943-2165

The Jewish Education Association Center for Special Education offers two monthly, support groups that are free to the community.  These groups provide emotional support for members as well as information regarding how to work as a team member with your school district, and how to advocate for your child's needs in the community.  

Group A is for parents of children with medical/developmental disabilities and meets monthly from 9:30 AM -12:00 noon at either the West Orange JCC, 760 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, or the Jewish Education Association, Seminar Room 2, 901 Route 10 East, Whippany, NJ.  This group has been in existence for seven years. The meetings are scheduled month-to-month at each meeting by those in attendance.  

PASSE Parent Support Group in West Orange
Contact: Laura Lab, 973-325-3751
e-mail: wopasse@aol.com
35 Cunningham Drive
West Orange, NJ   07052
 (973) 325-3751  

Montclair Special Education Parent Advisory Council
City or town: Montclair
Contact person: Chair Woman: Billie Gleissner
Email: billie.gleisner@verizon.net
Second contact person: Co-chair woman: Mary Funari
Second contact email: mwfunari@comcast.net
Target group: All disabilities
Meeting location: 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7 pm at different schools (This year we are rotating our meeting locations to include schools throughout the District).
Area served: Montclair

The Parent Advisory Council’s (PAC) goals are to improve the instructional process for children classified for Special Education and Related Services, and to promote the inclusion of children with special needs with the necessary supports within their schools and the community at large. PAC parent workshops include: IEPs (Individualized Education Programs); Positive Behavior Supports; Inclusion, Self-Advocacy and Self-Determination for Youth with Special Needs. PLEASE CONSIDER JOINING PARENT ADVISORY COUNCIL (PAC) FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT PAC OUT-OF-DISTRICT PARENT LIAISONS: Elaine Pardalos, 973-919-0973, email: empardalos@yahoo.com  Lily Vakili, 973-509-5224, email: livakili@verizon.net  Ann-Marie Dassler, 973-746-1670, email: amdassler@yahoo.com 

Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC)
County: Essex
City: Newark
Phone: 973-733-8788
Area served: Newark

Is a parent organization addressing the concerns of parents with children requiring special services

Verona Parent Group: Children Having Individual Learning Differences

CHILD’s Purpose:

~ To provide a network and insight to all parents whose child is either: 
1. Classified under IDEA; 
2. Receiving services under Section 504 and 
3. Facing learning challenges 

~ To provide a forum for parents, teachers, and administrators to learn together and work hand-in-hand.

C.H.I.L.D.’s Goal

To help bridge the gap between general education and special education resulting in a greater awareness and understanding among parents and students

For further information, please contact one of our board members:
Randi Marlo randimarlo@comcast.net  Phone# 973-857-2012
Marie BenIsrael mbenisrael@comcast.net 
Lucille Hahula hulafive@comcast.net 
Norma Francullo forestnyc@aol.com 

top of page

---

Hudson

The Arc of Hudson County
Contact: Sandra Vasquez
Phone:  201-319-9229   Fax: 201-319-9227
E-mail: svasquez@arcnj.org
Meets the second Friday of the month at 6 p.m.
Location: 405-409  36th Street, Union City, NJ 07087
www.arcnj.org

ASPENHudson
City or town: Bayonne
Contact person: Mary Engebretsen
Email: maryengebretsen7@aol.com
Target group: Asperger's Syndrome, PDD, High Functioning Autism
Meeting location: St. Henry's School, Room 319, 625 Ave. C, Bayonne, Nj 07002
Website link: www.aspennj.org
Area served: Hudson County

Meetings are held the 4th Wednesday of each month at 7.30 pm The first few meetings will be Support/Information Sharing, and are open to parents, grandparents and caregivers of children with Asperger Syndrome, PDD-NOS, High-Functioning Autism, and Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities. Chapter meetings are filled with a lot of useful information from those who've "been there, done that." As we hear from the new chapter members, and learn what other information you want and need, we will be able to schedule speakers to address questions and concerns of the chapter membership at our meetings. March 28, 2007 General Support, Parent Exchange Open to parents, grandparents and caregivers of children with Asperger Syndrome, PDD-NOS, High-Functioning Autism, and Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities April 25, 2007 General Support, Parent Exchange Open to parents, grandparents and caregivers of children with Asperger Syndrome, PDD-NOS, High-Functioning Autism, and Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities May 23, 2007 General Support, Parent Exchange Open to parents, grandparents and caregivers of children with Asperger Syndrome, PDD-NOS, High-Functioning Autism, and Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities June 27, 2007 General Support, Parent Exchange Open to parents, grandparents and caregivers of children with Asperger Syndrome, PDD-NOS, High-Functioning Autism, and Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities

 

Bayonne Special Education Parent Support Group
Contact: Donna Christensen and Lucy Hanh
Fax: 201-858-0722
e-mail: NJTSREP@yahoo.com 

Co- Options. Support and Education for families of children with disabilities.
Contact: Mr. Jordan Wellington, 973-244-0850
e-mail: jwellington@efnj.com    

COSAC - The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community
Contact person: Susana Albisu
Phone: (201) 864-7262
Meeting location: Iglesia San Augustin, Union City, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Website: www.njcosac.org 

Providing support, information and resources for the Spanish speaking autism community. Usually meets the first Thursday of every month. Please call the contact person to verify specific dates and times.

Jersey City Special Education Parent Advisory Group
City or town: Jersey City
Contact person: Pam Gardner
Email: pgardner@jcboe.org
Second contact person: Nicole Pratt
Second contact phone: 201-344-2820
Second contact email: nicolepratt2@msn.com
Area served: Jersey City

Just Education
Location: Hoboken, NJ
Will meet monthly on the third Thursday of the month.
For further information email JustEducation@gmail.com  or
call Norman Rosenblum at 201-600-8134.

Parent Group at Academy II, Jersey City
Contact: Yolanda Davis
Academy II telephone number: 201-369-2870

Winning Angels
Contact Person: Yolanda Quintero
Phone: 201-988-9670
Target Group: All disabilities; meetings are in Spanish
Meeting Location: Meets monthly in different locations
Area served: Hudson and Bergen Counties

This group is formed by Spanish speaking parents of children that have special needs in Bergen and Hudson counties

top of page

Morris

Boonton Parents of Exceptional Adults and Children
Town: Boonton
Contact person: Wendy Stanton
Email: stanfam3@optonline.net
Second contact person: Gabrielle Bohon
Second contact email: ptamentor@optonline.net
Target group: All disabilities
Meeting location: We hold a monthly "coffee" on Saturday mornings from 9-11am rotating sites. Contact us for more information.
Area served: Boonton and surrounding areas

Boonton PEAC seeks to provide information and support to families, in addition to providing recreational activities to adults and children with and without special needs in our community.

Butler Parents of Exceptional Children
County: Morris
10 Kakeout Road
City: Butler
Contact Person: Frank Rivera, President
Phone: 973-865-6411
Email: butlerpec@optonline.net 
Second Contact Person: Andy Lugo
Target group: All Special Needs welcome
Meeting Location: Butler Public Library, 2nd & 4th Thursdays of each month
Website link: www.butlerpec.org 
Area Served: Butler and surrounding communities

The Butler Parents of Exceptional Children Inc. mission is to improve the quality of life and education for children with special needs and raise public awareness of their needs and talents. We will also support fellow parents of children with special needs in Butler and the surrounding communities.

 

Chatham

ChASE (Chatham Association for Support in Education) is a district-wide parent group focusing on special services. Open to all parents. ChASE meets every other month during the school year

See the calendar for the schedule. For more information check out our

website.http://www.chatham-nj.org/coin/ChatSS/chasehome.htm                  

You can email ChASE at our email address chase@chatham-nj.org.

                     

ChASE distributes a monthly newsletter to all schools and to parents of children in out-of-district placements who request it. This newsletter announces our meetings and lists other nearby meetings and programs of interest. See the current newsletter or archived newsletters

COIN - Chatham Online Information Network
School District of the Chathams
Contact Person: Jean B. Earle
Chatham, New Jersey
973-635-4734
973-635-1926 (fax)
http://www.chatham-nj.org/coin/   

COSAC - The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community
Contact person: Jodi Pimentel
Phone: (973) 663-2505
Target group: Parents, Family Members and Caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Meeting location: Hackettstown Hospital, 7:30pm to 9:00pm
Website: www.njcosac.org 
Area served: Northwestern NJ

Providing support, information and resources for the autism community. The Morris group usually meets the fourth Monday of the month. Please call the contact person to verify dates, times and location.

Denville S.P.A.R.K. (supportive parents advocating for our kids) We meet each month on the first Tuesday of the month (except for November when it's the 2nd Tuesday due to election day.  We meet at the Valleyview Middle School Library at 7:30 pm.   contact person -- Sheila DiFalco 973-586-9712.

Jewish Education Association
County: Morris
901 Route 10, Whippany
Contact person: Linda Kay
Phone: 973-929-2968
Fax: 973-428-4720
Email: lkay@jeametrowest.org 
Second contact person: Wendy Dratler
Second contact phone: 973-929-2969
Second contact fax: 973-428-4720
Second contact email: wdratler@jeametrowest.org 
Target group: CP, Seizure Disorders, Physical Challenges, ADHD, ASD, Behavioral Disorders
Meeting location: Jewish Education Association of MetroWest, 901 Route 10, Whippany, NJ 07981
Area served: Morris, Essex, Union, Sussex Counties

Two monthly parent support groups meet at the Jewish Education Association of MetroWest, 901 Route 10 East, Whippany, NJ. Groups offer guidance regarding educational issues, support, advocacy, and resources to parents. Group A is for parents of children with developmental / medical disabilities. This group meets one morning/ month. Group B is dedicated to parents of children with learning disabilities, ADHD, ASD, and behavioral issues. this group meets one Thursday evening/month. Both groups are facilitated by a clinical psychologist. There is no fee to attend either group. For more information and meeting dates and times contact: Linda Kay - 973-929-2968 / lkay@jeametrowest.org 

Mount Olive Special Kids Group
City or town: Flanders, NJ
Contact person: Awilda Belardo
Phone: (973) 252-9424
Email: mtospecialkids@optonline.net
Target group: All disabilities
Meeting location: We meet the last Thursday of each month at the Mount Olive library meeting room at 6:45 pm.
Area served: Mount Olive school district and beyond, all are welcome.

Open to parents of students with all disabilities or special needs.

Parents Of Exceptional Adults and Children PEAC
Address: 407 Pine St
Town: Boonton
Contact person: Wendy Stanton
Phone: 973 334 5243
Email: stanfam3@optonline.net
Target group: Any disability
Area served: we welcome anyone from anywhere

We are a group of adults committed to improving the lives of people with disabilities in our town; through recreation, life skills and service to the community

Kinnelon PEC
County: Morris
29 Chilhowie Drive,  Kinnelon, NJ 07405
Contact person: Ellen Sharpe
Phone: (973) 492-2909
Fax: (973) 492-6076
Email: elmsharpe@aol.com 
Second contact person: Tania Haycock
Second contact phone: (973) 838-1520
Second contact email: tanianhal@aol.com 
Target group: All
Meeting location: Kinnelon Public Library - 132 Kinnelon Road, Kinnelon, NJ
Website link: http://www.kinnelonpec.org 
Area served: Kinnelon and surrounding communities

Kinnelon PEC supports the educational, emotional, and social welfare of children with special needs and their families.

Lincoln Park PEC
Address: 19 Jardine Lane
Town: Lincoln Park NJ 07035
Contact person: Margaret Hefferle
Phone: 973 331-0705
Fax: 973 290- 7358
Email: LPPEC@aol.com
Second contact person: Denise McCarthy
Second contact phone: 973 694-7817
Target group: All disabilities
Meeting location: meetings are a monthly coffee on the first Saturday of the month 9-11am
Area served: Lincoln Park/Morris County

Lincoln Park Parents of Exceptional Children is a district-wide organization whose goal is to support children with special needs (of all ages) and their families.

Madison Parents & Professionals for Exceptional Children
Contact Person: Tara Amaral
Contact Phone: 973 410-0965
E-mail: tnamaral@optonline.net 
Second Contact: Joan T. Palmieri
Phone: 973 377-6809  Fax: 973 377-6809
E-mail: joanpalm@optonline.net 
Website: www.madisonpublicschools.org 

PPEC is a collaboration between parents and the Special Services Department of Madison. By working together, our goals are: • To provide support and advocacy for families with children who have special needs • To develop more effective communication between parents and special services personnel in the schools • To provide programs and information for parents and professionals on current topics in special education • To improve the educational, recreational, vocational and social programs for our children • To keep abreast of federal, state and local legislation that may affect the education of exceptional children 

Parents Advocating for Special Services
Contact person: Rachelle Welt
Phone: 908-604-1131
Email: rachelleshelly@msn.com
Meeting location: Long Hill Twp. Library
Area served: Long Hill Township

To educate and provide support to families with children having disabilities.

 

Parents and Professionals for Exceptional Children
Randolph, NJ

Monthly Meetings are held at 2 Emery Ave.

on Wednesday nights at 7:30pm

President: Laurel Clark (973)328-0531 lclark88@hotmail.com

Vice President: Lucy Ortiz (973)537-0539 lucyortiz@yahoo.com

Pathways for Exceptional Children
Address: 4 Cherokee Court
Town: Montville, NJ 07045
Contact person: Melinda Jennis, President
Phone: 973-334-9240
Email: mvtpec@aol.com
Target group: Disabilities of all types
Meeting location: Check our website for scheduled meetings and locations
Website: http://www.montvillepec.org/
Area served: We are based in Montville Township but service all areas throughout New Jersey

Pathways for Exceptional Children is an organization whose goal is to support the educational, Emotional, and social welfare of children with special needs and their families.

THE ROXBURY PARENTS FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN, INC. (PEC)

PO Box 128

Succasunna, NJ  07876

(973) 598-0848

Jodi Cullen, treasurer

Programming for children and teens with disabilities and their families are offered throughout the year.

E-mail Jodi Cullen at cullens@optonline.net

S.P.A.R.K. (Supportive Parents Advocating for Ou"R" Kids)
Town: Denville, NJ 07834
Contact person: Dr. Sheila Brodhead DiFalco
Email: sbdifalco@optonline.net
Target group: All disabilities
Meeting location: Contact sbdifalco@optonline.net for a calendar, to join, or to be put on the mailing list.
Area served: Denville, Parents and children from other towns are welcome to participate.

A parent group dedicated to providing resource sharing, and emotional, social, and recreational support for families who have children with special needs. A main goal is to help these children integrate successfully into the larger community. Educational evening programs for parents are held periodically during the school year

---

Passaic

Association for Special Children & Families
Address: 1810 Macopin Road Room 25
(mailing address) P O Box 494 Hewitt NJ 07421
City or town: West Milford NJ
Contact Person: Catherine Grisbacher/Julie Rikon
Phone: 973-728-8744
Fax: 973-728-5919
Email: ASCFamily@hotmail.com 
Target group: Day - all disabilities Night-Autism/Aspergers
Meeting Location: 1810 Macopin Road-West Milford-Room 25
Website: www.ascfamily.org 
Area served: Bloomingdale, Pompton Lakes, West Milford, Ringwood, Sussex County, Haskell, Wayne, Pompton Plains

Day meeting held from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. the last Friday of the month. Evening meeting the last Wednesday of the month from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m

(COSAC) The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community 
Parent Contact: Gail Sansiveri, 973-473-8274  Meets in Wayne

Share Group for Parents of Children with ADHD and/or Learning Disabilities
Address: PO Box 494,  1810 Macopin Road
City or town: Hewitt, NJ
Contact person: Robin Montegari
Contact phone: 973-728-8744
Fax: 973-728-5919
Email: ascfamily@hotmail.com
Second contact person: Angela Abdul
Second contact phone: 973-728-8744
Second contact fax: 973-728-5919
Second contact email: ascfamily@hotmail.com
Target group: ADHD, Learning Disability
Meeting location: Hillcrest Community Center 1810 Macopin Road Hewitt, NJ Room #25
Website link: www.ascfamily.org
Area served: Upper Passaic County

Group will foster support and empowerment through sharing concerns, learning new information and making connections with other parents and resources.

Sussex

The Center for Families with Special Needs, Inc.
293 Route 94, P.O. Box 1221, Vernon
Contact Person: Sheila McNally
Contact Phone: 973-827-4419     Fax: 973-827-2819
E-mail: thecenter@nac.net 
Group Served: Children with special needs
Meeting Location: St. Thomas Espiscopal Church, Rt. 94, Vernon
Area Served: Sussex Cty.

"The Center" is a non-profit parent run information and referral center. The Center's mission is to provide parents connections to already existing services that will benefit families of children with special needs. Our support group meetings are usually held the third Friday night (7:30) of the month. Everyone is welcome.

COSAC - The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community
Contact person: Jodi Pimentel
Phone: (973) 663-2505
Target group: Parents, Family Members and Caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Meeting location: Hackettstown Hospital, 7:30pm to 9:00pm
Website: www.njcosac.org 
Area served: Northwestern NJ

Providing support, information and resources for the autism community. The Morris group usually meets the fourth Monday of the month. Please call the contact person to verify dates, times and location.

Newton Parents : Advocates for Education (NPAE)
County: Sussex
185 Spring Street, Newton
Contact person: Bonnie Sue Bastin
Phone: (973) 940-2959
Email: bonniesue@earthlink.net 
Target group: all parents of children with school problems/issues
Meeting location: Dennis Library, Newton
Area served: Newton, Newton sending districts (Andover, Green)

NPAE is open to all parents concerned about their child's education. NPAE will focus on: 1)Advocacy - training parents to advocate effectively for their child. As a group, parents can also target and address problem issues in the educational system. 2)Education: NPAE will sponsor workshops and guest speakers. Literature and internet resources will also be available. 3)Social Support-NPAE will provide parents with a network to pool coping skills/resources

Union

Advocating For Special Kids (ASK) of Berkeley Heights
County: Union
Address: Berkeley Heights Library Meeting Room
City or town: Berkeley Heights
Contact person: Jeanne Mirabella
Contact phone: (908) 464-7048
Email: ASKBHinfo@yahoo.com 
Target group: All parents of children with special needs are welcome to come and find support and to work with us as we make Berkeley Heights a great place for our children to live and grow
Area served: Berkeley Heights

On the third Tuesday of each month, the whole group meets in the BH Library meeting room. On the first Tuesday of each month, the parents of classified children meet with our liaison to the School District, Sandy Gogerty, in the District Offices. NOTE: Meetings listed for the first Tuesday of each month are held in the school district offices and are only open to parents of classified children. The meetings on the third Tuesday of each month are open to ALL parents of ALL children with any special needs.

ASPEN
9 Aspen Circle
Edison, NJ 08820
Contact Person: Lori Shery, President
Contact Phone: 732-321-0880
Email: info@aspennj.org
Target Group: Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism, and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities
Meeting Location: Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County, 1775 Oak Tree Road, Edison, NJ 08820
Website: www.ASPENnj.org

ASPEN provides families and individuals whose lives are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism), and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities with: Education about the issues surrounding the disorders. Support in knowing that they are not alone, and in helping individuals with ASD's and NLD achieve their maximum potential. Advocacy in areas of appropriate educational programs, medical research funding, adult issues and increased public awareness and understanding.

COSAC - The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community
Contact person: Deb Ritter
Phone: (908) 233-8510 (1-5 pm only)
Target group: Parents, Family Members and Caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Meeting location: Children's Specialized Hospital, Mountainside NJ, 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Website: www.njcosac.org 
Area served: Central New Jersey

Providing support, information and resources for the autism community. The Union group usually meets the fourth Tuesday of each month. Please call the contact person to verify dates, times and location.

Linden Educational Association for Parent and Professionals
County: Union
100 Edgewood Road
City: Linden
Contact Person: Joann Fruciano
Phone: 908-486-2615
Email: jmfm24@comcast.net 
Second contact person: Tirrell Martin
Second contact phone: 908-275-0773
Second contact email: autism_advo@yahoo.com 
Target group: All
Meeting location: Department of Pupil Personnel Services

L.E.A.P.P is a parent run organization that collaborates with professionals with in the district that have an impact on our children's educational process, be it administratively or in the classroom.

Parent Led Support and Social Action Group.
Meets in Springfield.
Contact: Julie Powell  917-449-6957

Parents of ADD Children.
Meets in Cranford.
Contact: Debbie Hargiss, 908-272-2362
e-mail: dhargiss@comcast.net  

Westfield Parent Teacher Council Special Education
City or town: Westfield
Contact person: Fee Buttrick
Contact email: FButtrick@comcast.net 
Second contact person: Annie Corley-Hand
Second contact email: AnnieCorley@comcast.net 
Meeting location: Visit the website for information about meeting location www.westfieldnjk12.org
Area served: Westfield School District

top of page

Warren

(COSAC) The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community 
Parent Contact: Jodi Pimentel, 973-663-2505  Meets at Hackettstown Hospital

IEP Parents Support Group
Address: 380 Mt. Lake Rd.
City or town: Great Meadows
Contact person: Natalie Kitts
Contact phone: 908-637-8371
Email: allkitts@msn.com
Second contact person: Linda Feula
Second contact phone: 908-852-6008
Target group: ALL LEARNING DISABILITIES
Meeting location: Trinity United Methodist Church
Area served: Warren county

To support, offer encouragement and resources in an non-judgmental environment. We can be better together.

North Warren Special Needs Advocacy Group
City or town: Blairstown
Contact person: Margaret Scocozza
Phone: 908-362-9066
Email: scocozza@earthlink.net
Second contact person: Mary Alice Landis
Second contact phone: 908-459-9380
Second contact email: landismcgowan@att.net
Target group: All Special Needs
Meeting location: Catherine Dickson Hofman Library 4 Lambert Road Blairstown, NJ
Area served: North Warren County

Our mission is to empower parents, guardians, and other individuals interested in helping our children receive quality educational and meaningful life experiences within their community.

Sensory Support Group
Contact person: Lori Barbadora
Phone: (908) 213-0636
Email: Lori1197@netzero.com
Target group: Sensory Processing Disorder, Sensory Integration Dysfunction, Autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy
Meeting location: Panera Bread, Phillipsburg, NJ (Pburg Mall parking lot)

Support group for caregivers of children facing sensory processing/integration difficulties. Talk on relevant topics, offer resources, ask questions, share success stories, discuss raised awareness, and enjoy camaraderie.

 

CENTRAL
New Jersey

ASPEN's Fathers Group
Meeting Location: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 233 South Highwood Avenue, Glen Rock, NJ
Contact Person: Vincent J. Varrassi, MA, LDT-C.
Email: vjvarrassi@excite.com
Target Group: Fathers of children with Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism, and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities
Website: www.ASPENnj.org
Meeting Dates: The Father's Group will meet the last Monday of each month at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd.

ASPEN of Central New Jersey
Contact Person: Beth Rolleston
Email: blondedawg@aol.com
Meeting Location: Beth Rolleston will be hosting a virtual group, please e-mail her with any questions or concerns.
Target Group: Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism, and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities
Website: www.ASPENnj.org

ASPEN provides families and individuals whose lives are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism), and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities with: Education about the issues surrounding the disorders. Support in knowing that they are not alone, and in helping individuals with ASD's and NLD achieve their maximum potential. Advocacy in areas of appropriate educational programs, medical research funding, adult issues and increased public awareness and understanding.

Hunterdon

ASPEN of Hunterdon / Somerset Counties
Contact Person: Inez Gutman
Contact Phone: 908-904-1610
Email: dgutman@patmedia.net 
Meeting Location: Hillsborough Presbyterian Church, 770 Rt. 206 South, Hillsborough, NJ 08844-1506
Target Group: Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism, and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities
Website: www.ASPENnj.org

ASPEN provides families an! d individuals whose lives are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism), and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities with: Education about the issues surrounding the disorders. Support in knowing that they are not alone, and in helping individuals with ASD's and NLD achieve their maximum potential. Advocacy in areas of appropriate educational programs, medical research funding, adult issues and increased public awareness and understanding.

Asperger Friends
county: Hunterdon
Address: 126 petticoat lane
City or town: Lebanon
Contact person: Matthew Loscialo
Contact phone: 908 236 6153
Email: info@aspergerfriends.com 
Second contact person: Carolyn Loscialo
Second contact phone: 908 236 6153
Second email: info@aspergerfriends.com
Target group: high functioning autism, or PDD
Meeting location: Health Quest
Website: www.aspergerfriends.com 
Area served: Hunterdon and all NJ 

We are the Young Adults group for ages 18 and up - who have Asperger Syndrome. Other young people with high functioning autism, or PDD may also be comfortable in our group. The main purpose of the group will be socializing. We meet once a month for a support-type group where we will get to know one another and talk about the challenges of our jobs or college classes, learning to deal with co-workers, and finding friends when school is over. We would also like to meet one other night each month to go to a movie, out to dinner, bowling or any other activities that group members are interested in. We have tentatively arranged to meet at Healthquest in Flemington. We have reserved a room for late Sunday afternoons. We would meet for two hours from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. Parents would be welcome to meet with one another at the same time. If you or someone you know would be interested in joining our group please e-mail me or call me.

PAR for NHV
County: Hunterdon
23 Wellington Drive, Annandale, NJ 08801
Contact person: Renay Zamloot
Phone: 908.730. 0080
Fax: 908.730.0063
Email: rzamloot@earthlink.net 
Second contact person: Martha Davis
Second contact phone: 908.319.0755
Second contact fax: 908.713.9714
Second contact email: nhdavis23@earthlink.net
Target group: Medical, Emotional and Learning disabilities
Meeting location: North Hunterdon High school
Area served: Hunterdon County

PAR for NHV is a sub-group of PAR for Learning, the Hunterdon County Parent Support Group that provides Educational Seminars to parents of children with special needs. PAR for NHV offers its members the opportunity to dicuss areas of specific interest to the North Hunterdon/Vorhees sending district. In a collaborative effort with the Department of Special Services PAR for NHV brings education and advocacy to another level.

Pro-Active Resources for Learning
County: Hunterdon
202 Main Street - Jutland, 
City: Hampton
Contact person: Martha Davis
Phone: 908.319.0755
Fax: 908.713.9714
Email: nhdavis23@earthlink.net 
Second contact person: Renay Zamloot
Second contact phone: 908.730.0080
Second contact fax: 908.730.0063
Second contact email: rzamloot@earthlink.net 
www.parforlearning.com 
Target group: Medical, Emotional and Learing diabilities
Meeting location: Meetings are generally at Sensagration Whole Child Center
Area served: Hunterdon County, Warren County

PAR is a Hunterdon County Parent Support Group that provides educational seminars for the parents and guardians of children with special needs. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to join in on the coffee and chat session proir to the presentation. This is a great time to connect with other parents. Started by Parents in 2003, PAR runs seminars and workshops Sept. through June. We have members not only in Hunterdon County, but across NJ. PAR for Learning...empowering parents to enable children.

Sensagration Whole Child Center, LLC

75 North Street, Suite 11

Bloomsbury, NJ  08804

908-479-1000

mail@sensagration.com

www.sensagration.com

Tracey L. DeMaria, OTR - Owner/Director

---

Mercer

ASK (Advocates for Special Kids)
Address: 6 Stonerise Drive
City or town: Lawrenceville
Contact person: Diane Goff
Contact phone: 609-912-0487
Email: dianegoff@asknj.org
Website: www.asknj.org 
Area served: Lawrenceville

ASK provides advocacy, support, and information. Meetings are held 5 times a year and can be found on our website.

ASPEN
Contact: Beth Rolleston 609-275-5922  Meets at W.Windson Library, Princeton Junction

COSAC - The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community
Contact person: Kelly Lutz
Phone: (609) 584-8825 (evenings & weekends)
Target group: Parents, Family Members and Caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Meeting location: Hamilton YMCA, 7:00 pm - 9:00pm
Website: www.njcosac.org 
Area served: Mercer County

Providing support, information and resources for the autism community. The Mercer Group usually meets the third Friday of every month. Please call the contact person to verify dates, times and location.

The Hamilton Township Parent Advisory Council on Special Education (PAC) is a concerned group of parents and professionals who meet to discuss, support and educate each other on various issues and concerns in special education. Meetings are open to ANYONE involved in special education through the Hamilton Township School District or any local school districts; including parents of students in and out of district placements. In addition to planning meetings, we hold large meetings providing information on topics in special educations.

President: Beverly Bowser 393-4077
Vice President: Lauren Agoratus 584-5779
email: HTPAC@aol.com 
web: http://groups.msn.com/HamiltonPAC 

If you prefer, we can also connect you with volunteer parent liaisons at your school.

See our What's Happening section for upcoming events

Special Olympics New Jersey - 3 Princess Road, Lawrenceville
Contact Person: Kimberly Baraldi, Training Manager, (609) 896-8000 ext. 225, fax (609) 896-8040, e-mail: kb@sonj.org 
http://www.sonj.org  
Special Olympics New Jersey provides year round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

West Windsor Plainsboro Special Kids Special Parents
Address: 11 Rowanberry Ct
Town: West Windsor
Contact person: Anne Marie Veno
Phone: 609-799-8036
Fax: 609-799-5689
Email: AnneMarie@wwpsksp.org
Second contact person: Kristin Rogers
Second contact phone: 609 799 4813
Second email: Kristin@wwpsksp.org
Target group: All disabilities
Meeting location: WW library or Plainsboro Municipal Building
Area served: West Windso/Plainsboro NJ

A community based support group of parents and caregivers who live in the West Windsor-Plainsboro Community and have special needs children.Our goal is to support and empower each other through shared knowledge and understanding.

---

Middlesex

A.I.C. & Support
County: Middlesex
Contact person: Angela Frazier
Email: angelafrazier123@yahoo.com 
Target group: Autism, Add, And learning disabilities, Down syndrome

I provide information from parent to parent with children who have disabilities. And support group for single moms who need someone to talk to in the same position as themselves

ASPEN
9 Aspen Circle
Edison, NJ 08820
Contact Person: Lori Shery, President
Contact Phone: 732-321-0880
Email: info@aspennj.org
Target Group: Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism, and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities
Meeting Location: Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County, 1775 Oak Tree Road, Edison, NJ 08820
Website: www.ASPENnj.org

ASPEN provides families and individuals whose lives are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS, High Functioning Autism), and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities with: Education about the issues surrounding the disorders. Support in knowing that they are not alone, and in helping individuals with ASD's and NLD achieve their maximum potential. Advocacy in areas of appropriate educational programs, medical research funding, adult issues and increased public awareness and understanding.

COSAC - The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community
Contact person: Steve Sobel
Phone: (732) 390-1796
Target group: Parents, Family Members and Caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Meeting location: Raritan Valley Academy, Piscataway, NJ
Website: www.njcosac.org 
Area served: Middlesex County

Providing support, information and resources for the autism community. Middlesex County group usually meets the first Thursday of every month. Call the contact person to verify dates, times and location.

East Brunswick Special Education PTA (SEPTA)
Contact Persons: Eddie & Audrey Weiner
Contact Phone: 732-390-9265
Email: eddieweinersepta@hotmail.com
Target Group: All classifications, families and educators interested in information
Meeting Location: East Brunswick Public Library, Meeting Room
Website: http://teacherweb.com/NJ/FrostElementarySchool/SEPTA

The objective of The East Brunswick Special Education PTA is to provide information to families on a wide variety of special education topic. We strive for all students and families to make a connection within the school community. The goal is to increase a sense of tolerance, acceptance and belonging for families throughout the district. Mission SEPTA's mission is to provide diversity in the district so that all children can develope to their potential socially, emotionally and academically. It is to further provide the community with information so that typical and classified families can integrate succdessfully. SEPTA is committed to educate families for the good of the district to accept each other and assimilate as a school community. It is the vision for famlilies to see that what makes us the same is that we are all different. It is the hope for all to view and treat each other equally, and to reinforce the positive things in our differences.

EDISON:  Edison Special Education Parent Support Group
Contact Person: Patti Rittman
Contact Phone: 732-572-4153
E-mail: rritt58878@aol.com 
Meeting Location: Woodrow Wilson Middle School (call for dates and times)

Our support group meets monthly from October to May. We meet to discuss and share any issues that parents may have.

Grandparents Support Group
Contact person: Shelly Mendias
Phone: 732-727-5398
Target group: Grandparents, Family Members and Caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Website: www.njcosac.org 
Area served: Central New Jersey

Providing support, information and resources for the autism community. January 2006 and February 2006 groups canceled. New location for March, Castle Senior Living at Forsgate, 380 Forsgate Drive, Jamesburg.

 MONROE TOWNSHIP:   MT SEPA (Monroe Township Special Education Parents Assoc.)
8 Cypress Drive
Contact Person: Kathy Leonard
Contact Phone: (732) 723- 1838
E-mail: kaleo@comcast.net 
Meeting Location: Brookside School Library
Area Served: Monroe Township and anyone who would like to attend.

PISCATAWAY:  Special Education Parent Advisory and Support Group of Piscataway (SEPA)  Meets in the school district.

Candy Serra 732-981-8262 candy@umsmail.com

South Amboy Special Education Parent Support Group
County: Middlesex
City or town: South Amboy
Contact person: Kim McDonald
Phone: 732-316-2900
Email: kimm_mcdonald@yahoo.com 
Area served: South Amboy and surrounding areas

People who share a common experience are uniquely qualified to provide support and understanding to each other. We hope to provide training for parents as well as a strong support system.

Sewaren: P.A.C.E. Parents' Organization
Address: 99 Glen Cove Avenue, Matthew Jago Elementary School
Town:  Sewaren
Contact person: Victoria Romanienko
Phone: 732-636-1284
Email: vromanienko@comcast.net
Second contact person: Chris Penik
Second contact phone: 732-499-8295
Second email: cpenik@comcast.net 
Targetgroup: Woodbridge Township parents of any and all Special Needs Children
Meeting location: Matthew Jago School, Glen Cove Ave., Sewaren, N.J., 07077 (use rear door #9)
Website: www.woodbridge.k12.nj.us/pace/PACE.htm
Area served: Woodbridge Township

We are parents of children with special needs. We understand. We care. We are the P.A.C.E. Parents' Organization. Meetings are the 1st Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m. Parents of special needs children are welcome to attend the P.A.C.E. P.O. Monthly Meeting/Support Group. The P.A.C.E. Parents' Organization is in its 3rd year. Woodbridge Township's In-District Extended School Year Program for the Advancement of Children's Education celebrates its 40th year in 2006.

Woodbridge:
Parents of Internationally Adopted Children
Middlesex
Contact person: Deborah Chitester
Phone: 732-642-5118
Fax: 609-737-7225
Email: djcslp@slllc.org
Meeting location: Woodbridge Public Library Main Branch, George Frederick Plaza, Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Website: www.slllc.org

Support group for parents with internationally adopted children. Those seeking a support system, friendship, interest in sharing information, understanding, will receive relevant information helpful for both child and parent. This group will feature guest speakers on relevant issues such as education, developmental concerns as well as second language acquisition. Topics may also include discussions in how to make family trips to birth countries, as well as other themes of interest to the family and the internationally adopted child.

West Windsor Plainsboro Special Kids Special Parents
Address: 11 Rowanberry Ct
Town: West Windsor
Contact person: Anne Marie Veno
Phone: 609-799-8036
Fax: 609-799-5689
Email: AnneMarie@wwpsksp.org
Second contact person: Judith Gregory
Second contact phone: 609 799 3344
Second email: Judith@wwpsksp.org
Target group: All disabilities
Meeting location: WW library or Plainsboro Municipal Building
Area served: West Windso/Plainsboro NJ

A community based support group of parents and caregivers who live in the West Windsor-Plainsboro Community and have special needs children.Our goal is to support and empower each other through shared knowledge and understanding.

 

Monmouth

Ocean

ASPEN Ocean County Chapter
Address: 1041 Kaitlyn Court
Town: Toms River
Contact person: Eileen Davis Kovar
Phone: 732-473-9630
Fax: 732-473-9631
Email: aspenoc@comcast.net
Target group: Asperger Syndrome & PDD-NOS
Meeting location: Toms River
Website: www.aspennj.org
Area served: Ocean County

A parent support group for children under the age of 18 with Asperger Syndrome and PDD-NOS. Meetings held in Toms River from September to June. All parents and professionals are encouraged to attend our speaker meetings.

BEAM  OF  OCEAN - BECOMING EDUCATED AND MOTIVATED ABOUT SPECIAL EDUCATION 
BEAM is a support group for parents of children in special education. Our goal is to help parents understand and become educated partners in their child’s special education needs.    
CONTACT:  Julia Zindzius   732-929-9212
Trisha Falotico  732-606-0915 

BRICK TWP. SPECIAL ED. PTA
101 Hendrickson Avenue
Brick, NJ 08724
(732)785-3000
All meetings are on Monday evenings @ 7:00 at the new Educational Enrichment Center (EEC) located on Hendrickson Ave., next to the Board of Education Building.  

COSAC - The New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community
Contact person: Maria & Brandon Chornobroff
Phone: (732) 363-6228
Target group: Parents, Family Members and Caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Meeting location: Children's Specialized Hospital, Toms River, NJ, 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Website: www.njcosac.org 
Area served: Central New Jersey

Providing support, information and resources for the autism community. The Ocean group usually meets the second Thursday of every month. Please call the contact person to verify dates, times and location.

FACES AUTISM SUPPORT NETWORK
Counties: Atlantic, Cape, and Ocean
Address: P.O. Box 2341
Town: Ventnor
Contact person: Isabelle Mosca
Phone: 609-412-3750
Fax: 609-926-9757
Email: facesgroup@comcast.net
Second contact person: Trish Cowan
Second contact phone: 609-625-1697
Target group: Autism Spectrum Disorder
Meeting location: EHT, Manahawkin, and Cape May Courthouse
Website: www.facesautismsupport.org
Area served: Atlantic, Cape May, and Ocean Counties

Autism Support for families of children with autism spectrum disorder. Monthly meetings are held in each county. To find out the latest on meetings in your area, please check out our yahoo group at http://groups.yahoo.com/facesautism/

Family Resources in Education and Development (FRiEnD)
Address: Office of Special Services,  2100 Panther Path, 
City or town: Pt. Pleasant Boro
Contact person: Maureen Martino
Phone: 732-642-4728
Email: mmartino@forallages.net  
Second contact person: Maureen Martin-Dragon
Target group: All disabilities
Meeting location: Pt. Pleasant Boro Special Services Office
Area served: Pt, Pleasant Boro and surrounding communities

Jackson Parent 2 Parent
Contact Person: Pattie Carollo
Contact Phone: 732-886-9584
E-mail: jacksonparent2parent@yahoo.com 
Second Contact: Sarah Logan
Phone: 732-367-0712
Meeting Location: Crawford-Rodriguez Elementary School Library

The Jackson Parent-2-Parent Support Group is dedicated to serving the special education needs in Jackson Township. The mission is to provide a forum where parents/caregivers can find emotional support on the challenges of raising a child with special needs and a venue to be informed on matters related to special education.

Lacey Special Education Parent Group
Mill Pond School Library Annex
210 Western Boulevard, Lanoka Harbor, NJ 08734
Please check the What's Happening section for upcoming meeting schedules.

Ocean County Family Support Organization
 44 Washington Street - Suite 2A
Toms River, NJ
Contact Person: Deedra Eckhoff
Phone: 732-281-5770 x14
Fax: 732-281-5880
Email: deedra.eckhoff@ocfso.org 
Website: www.ocfso.org 
Area Served: Ocean County

The FSO is a nonprofit organization made up of parents and community members whose mission is to ensure that every Ocean County family who have children with special emotional and behavioral needs is given community based resources and support in a family friendly, child centered, culturally competent manner.

Plumsted Township Special Education Advisory Council
New Egypt, NJ
Contact Person: Vicki Molokie
Contact Phone:609-758-2371
Email: vickimolokie@aol.com 
Second Contact: Debbie Simicsak
Contact Phone: 609-758-1799
Email: simicsak@aol.com

---

Somerset

c/o 888 Ardsley Lane

Bridgewater, NJ  08807

908-429-8596 Dorothy Driscoll

or 908-253-0778  Sue Meola

Care to Share Parent Support Network
Address: PO Box 504
Town: Flagtown
Contact person: Tina
Email: tina@caretosharenj.com
Target group: All developmental delays or disabilities
Meeting location: Arc of Somerset, Manville, NJ
Website: www.caretosharenj.com
Area served: Anyone who wants to attend

We Are families of children with special needs who have come together to provide resources and support to one another. Although our lifestyles may differ our children’s needs create a common bond between us. Our mission is to create an open and inviting community where our families thrive.

Central NJ Down Syndrome Parent Advocacy Group
Address: 563 Greenbrook Road
City or town: North Plainfield
Contact person: Sandra J. Dodd
Phone: 908-756-6774
Email: sjdodd@aol.com
Second contact person: Janet Costello
Second contact phone: 908-222-1281
Second contact email: janetcostello@verizon.net
Target group: Down syndrome
Meeting location: Children's Specialized Hospital, Mountainside
Area served: Morris, Union, Somerset, Middlesex counties

We are a parent-run, non-profit parent support/advocacy group that meets monthly. We work with children and families of individuals with Down syndrome.

HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP:    S.T.E.P. Support for the Exceptional Parent
18 Murray Drive, Hillsborough
Contact Person: Laura Kinney
Contact Phone: 908-369-8424
E-mail:  lkkinney@patmedia.net 
Second Contact: Kathy Abashinow
Phone: 908-359-9928
E-mail: hellopuffy@aol.com 
Group Served: Special education issues in Hillsborough Township School District
Meeting Location: Triangle Elementary School on South Triangle Road
Area Served: Hillsborough Township School District

STEP is a support group for parents of children with special needs in the Hillsborough Township School District. STEP's goal's are to: share information; facilitate communication between parents, schools and professionals and to present speakers to discuss important special needs topics.

Rutgers Community Christian Church Parent Support Group for parents of autistic children (RCCCPSG)
Somerset, Somerset, NJ 08873

Target group: Chinese parents