Connecting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to state agencies, community organizations, and information that supports living a good life.
Alabama participates in the Community of Practice for Supporting Families through representatives from state agencies, community organizations, and family advocates.
The state’s Community of Practice includes leadership from the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities and the Alabama Department of Mental Health’s Division of Developmental Disabilities. Together with community partners and family representatives, the team participates in a national network focused on strengthening supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Alabama’s Community of Practice brings together professionals, community partners, and family representatives to participate in shared learning and conversations about supporting individuals and families.
Through its participation in the national Community of Practice, Alabama has opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from other states, and explore approaches to supporting families across the lifespan.
Darin Prewitt
Executive Director
Ability Alliance of West Alabama
dprewitt@aaowa.org
Vonda Reeves
Parent Peer Coordinator
Alabama Department of Mental Health, Office of Peer Programs
vonda.reeves@mh.alabama.gov
Francilla Allen
Director of Support Coordination
Alabama Department of Mental Health, Division of Developmental Disabilities
francilla.allen@mh.alabama.gov
Carolyn Greene
Parent
carolyngreene04@gmail.com
Susan Ellis
Parent
pf.susan.200@gmail.com
Facilitator
Executive Director
Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities
darryle.powell@mh.alabama.gov
Facilitator
Call Center Supervisor
Alabama Department of Mental Health, Division of Developmental Disabilities
frannie.mccoy@mh.alabama.gov
Kansas continues to strengthen family leadership and collaboration through its Community of Practice for Supporting Families.
In April 2026, the Kansas Community of Practice brought together a group of family leaders to connect, share experiences, and learn about innovations in family support across Kansas and the nation. The gathering created opportunities for shared learning and dialogue among family leaders, helping strengthen connections and support continued collaboration.
Kansas offers a variety of programs and resources to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families connect with support, navigate services, and plan for the future.
A community-based resource offering free support to individuals and families whose lives are touched by autism.
Launched October 1, 2026, the Community Supports Waiver is designed for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who do not require 24-hour support. The program helps individuals live more independently in their homes and communities.
The Parent Empowerment Peer Project connects families involved in the child well-being system with trained parent peers who offer guidance, encouragement, and support based on lived experience.
Families Together serves as a Parent Training and Information Center and Family-to-Family Health Information Center, offering resources and guidance to help families navigate education, health care, and disability services.
Families Together’s Parent-to-Parent program connects parents who have experience raising a child with a disability with other parents seeking encouragement, understanding, and support.
Connects individuals and families to caregivers in the state of Kansas.
A virtual space where families can connect, explore possibilities, and plan for the future together.
Connect with Alabama’s Community of Practice and organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
