Fort Scott Biz

Support For Parents of Special Needs Children: Parent Empowerment Circle

Loretta George Loretta George

The First Southern Baptist Church, 1818 S. Main.

This Sunday, Feb. 23, from 1:30 to  3:30 p.m., parents of children with special needs will have an opportunity to connect with others who understand the challenges and joys of this responsibility.

“You’re not alone. We’re here to inspire, educate, and connect you with others who understand your unique challenges and joys,” according to Cherri Walrod, who is a Community Health Worker with K-State Research and Extension Southwind District.

The Parent Empowerment Circle event will be at First Southern Baptist Church Family Life Center at 1818 S. Main this Sunday.

There will be refreshments and parents are welcome to bring their children.

A head count is needed, so please contact Walrod at 620-945-9081 or cwalrod@ksu.edu

Cherri Walrod. From her Facebook page.

Background of the group

“In December of 2023, I was giving a presentation for a local church,” Walrod said.  “During my presentation, I mentioned that I am the mom of special needs children.  I talked briefly about the special kind of loneliness and isolation that many parents of special needs children experience.  After the presentation, Becky Lee (also a mom of a special needs child) asked if I would be willing to meet with her to discuss ways to begin a group to help connect, inspire and educate parents of special needs children.”
  “The Parent Empowerment Circle is the result of working with many community members and partners over the last year to launch this important resource for local parents,” Walrod said.
Walrod joined the K-STATE Southwind District in August of 2024 as the Community Health Worker.
Community Health Work aims to address the social determinants of health, some of which include isolation and loneliness. The Parent Empowerment Circle fits well within the scope and mission of the CHW by helping to reduce the isolation and loneliness the parents of children with behavioral or physical differences sometimes experience.
 “Parents of children with behavioral and physical differences are invited to become part of the Parent Empowerment Circle in Fort Scott for inspiration, education, connection, and empowerment, according to a press release from Walrod.
Why Join?
  • Inspiration: Find motivation in shared stories, successes, and resilience within our community. Let’s turn obstacles into opportunities together.
  • Education: Gain access to expert-led workshops, resources, and the latest information tailored to support your child’s needs. Knowledge is power, and we’re here to empower you.
  • Connection: Build a network of support. Meet parents who share your experiences, exchange advice, and form lasting friendships. From navigating the educational system to understanding therapy options, we’re a collective of shared wisdom.
  • Empowerment: Move from merely surviving to truly thriving. Our circle is designed to elevate your parenting journey, providing you with the tools and encouragement to embrace every moment.
What Is Offered:
  • Monthly Meetups: Engage in discussions, learn from guest speakers, and find solace in community.  At this time, monthly meetups are scheduled for the fourth Sunday of the month, at the First Southern Baptist Church, Family Life Center at 1818 S. Main Street, Fort Scott. Meeting time is from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.  Children are welcome to attend with parents.  Refreshments will be served. 
  • Special Workshops: Topics range from advocacy strategies, understanding IEPs, to self-care for parents.  Once we have additional feedback from parents, we will work to schedule programs the parents feel will help them the best. 
Join – Because Together, We Thrive
Whether you’re facing questions about education plans, therapies, or daily life, our group is here to provide the answers and support you need. No judgment, just understanding and empowerment.
Let’s inspire each other. Let’s educate ourselves. Let’s connect hearts and minds.”
 
The CHW project has received funding and support from K-State 105, Kansas State University’s economic growth and advancement initiative for all 105 counties in Kansas. Learn more at k-state.edu/105.
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