Empowering vermont families and youth project (see grant narrative)

The Department of Education Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services awarded Vermont Family Network, Inc. $500,000 on October 1, 2025, under the Special Education Parent Information Centers program (CFDA 84.328) to support the Empowering Vermont Families and Youth Project.

Vermont Family Network, a tax-exempt nonprofit in Williston, Vermont, will deliver training, information, and resources to parents of children with disabilities and to youth with disabilities themselves. The program aims to equip families with knowledge to make informed education and early learning decisions and to help youth understand their rights, responsibilities, and self-advocacy skills to prepare for independent, productive lives.

Performance occurs in Williston, Vermont. The award runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2027. The program supports families of children with disabilities and youth with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Awards under the parent center program may be renewed annually for up to five years subject to substantial progress toward project goals and appropriations availability.