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Who We Are


Vermont Family Network helps families navigate health, education, and community systems so every child can thrive.

Our Mission & Vision

The mission of Vermont Family Network is to empower and support all Vermont children, youth, and families, especially those with disabilities or special health needs. We do this by giving a strong start, lifting family voices, and advancing inclusive communities.

Our vision is that all Vermont children and youth reach their full potential.

Listening, Guiding, and Lifting Up Vermont Families

Vermont Family Network (VFN) is a statewide nonprofit that helps families navigate complex systems of care and education so every child can grow, learn, and thrive.

We provide free, confidential support and training for families and the professionals who serve them—rooted in the belief that families are their child’s best advocate.

Our staff are parents and family members themselves, so we understand both the challenges and strengths that come with raising a child with a disability or special health need. Whether a family is looking for information, emotional support, or help understanding their options, VFN is here to listen, connect, and guide the way.

Our Affiliations

  • Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) for Vermont, funded by the U.S. Department of Education
  • State affiliate of Family Voices and Parent to Parent USA
  • Family-to-Family Health Information Center (F2F HIC) for Vermont
  • Co-host of the Vermont Leadership Series, which develops leadership skills for parents and self-advocates
  • Active collaborator with partners including:
  • Vermont Coalition for Disability RightsVermont Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance
  • Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council
  • Green Mountain Self-Advocates
  • University of Vermont’s Center on Disability and Community Inclusion

Notice: This website is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number H84MC21657. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by, HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government 

Our History


Vermont Family Network was built on a foundation of family leadership and collaboration.

  • 1980s: Three parent-led organizations form in Vermont to support families of children with special needs:
  • 2008: Parent to Parent and VPIC merge to create Vermont Family Network, combining peer connection with education advocacy under one roof.
  • 2017: Puppets in Education joins VFN, expanding educational outreach through performances that promote kindness, inclusion, and mental health awareness.
  • Today: VFN continues to grow as a statewide resource for families and professionals, helping build inclusive communities where all children are valued and supported.
Our story continues through the people who bring VFN’s mission to life.

Real Families, Real Stories


Every family’s journey is unique, and hearing from others can make all the difference. See how families across Vermont have found support, understanding, and hope through Vermont Family Network.

  • “Many Thanks!”

    Thanks to Vermont Family Network who connected us with some great families when we moved back into the area. It’s assuring knowing there are organizations like this out there with tons of resources for us families with medically-complicated kids.
    Kristin Isgro
    Parent

Share Your Story

Tell us how VFN has made a difference for your family by filling out the form in this section.

Annual Reports

We are pleased to present our 2024 Annual Report. We hope that you will enjoy learning about some of our accomplishments over the past year, and that this report will demonstrate how our donors’ contributions have made a significant and positive impact on our work  with children and families across the state. Vermont Family Network has a 501c3 non-profit designation. Verified on GuideStar. 

If you would like to see reports prior to 2014, please contact us.

Past Annual Reports

Here is a list of our past annual reports.

Stories & News


  • October 2025 E-Newsletter
    October 29, 2025
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    September 29, 2025