Speak Life, a special needs family support group serving Chattooga County, will hold its August gathering Saturday, August 29, at 11 AM at the Trion Recreation Department.

This month’s meeting will focus on helping families better understand Individualized Education Programs, or IEPs, as well as 504 plans and other educational options and accommodations available to individuals with special needs.

Organizers say the gathering will provide an opportunity for families to learn from one another, ask questions and share their own experiences navigating education and services.

The meeting is free and open to all ages and the entire family, and organizers emphasize that individuals with all types of special needs are welcome.

Saturday’s gathering will include a taco bar for lunch, followed by an opportunity for families to visit the splash pad at the Trion Recreation Department.

Organizers say the IEP discussion will take place in a private room, with respite workers available to help watch children while parents and caregivers participate in the conversation.

In addition to IEPs and 504 plans, families can discuss homeschooling, college opportunities and workplace accommodations, making the meeting relevant not only to parents of school-age children but also to families planning for life beyond high school.

Speak Life describes itself as a family-oriented support group offering hope, fellowship, encouragement and resources to individuals with special needs and their families. The organization is led by parents of children with special needs who understand many of the challenges families encounter.

The group says its gatherings aren’t sales events and are intended to provide a welcoming environment where families can listen, share experiences, find encouragement and build relationships with others facing similar circumstances.

Speak Life also has several activities planned in the coming months, including a September gathering at the Summerville Library, a Halloween event in Trion, a Christmas train ride, participation in the Summerville Christmas Parade, Special Olympics Winter Games and Night to Shine in February.

For questions about Saturday’s meeting or Speak Life, contact Victoria at 706-767-3386 by phone or text. Information is also available through the Speak Life Chattooga County Special Needs Support Group on Facebook.

Saturday, August 29
11 AM
Trion Recreation Department
IEP and 504 Discussion • Taco Bar • Splash Pad
Free and open to the whole family