Equip Parents.
Strengthen Families.
Our Mission & Vision
VELA empowers parents of children with disabilities to become their child's greatest advocates through hands-on courses, support, and community building. Together, we can create a community where all families of children with disabilities thrive.
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VELA At A Glance
We serve parents of children with disabilities ages 0-21.
We provide interactive Courses, Support Groups, Case Management, Workshops and more.
Services offered in English or Spanish, virtually or in-person in Austin, Texas.
At no-cost
to
families and no health insurance is required.
Over 17 different disabilities represented and counting.
Our Approach
Navigating disability can feel overwhelming-parents want the best for their child yet they are faced with so many acronyms, systems, endless paperwork, and confusing meetings. That's where VELA steps in. Through our courses and wraparound services, families gain the knowledge, support, resources, and community to become their child's greatest advocates.
Scroll over the flames below to learn about our approach.
Peer to Peer Model
Parents learn from trained Parent Facilitators who also have children with disabilities and alongside other parents like them.
Culturally Responsive
Services in English or Spanish to account for language and culture.
Equity
Focused
Ensuring that families know their rights so they can unlock ambitious services and supports for their child.
Dynamic
Teaching
Breaking down acronyms, terminology and explaining systems so that they become accessible.
Building Community
Removing isolation and creating safe and welcoming spaces for families to be and share with one another.
Centering Self-Compassion
Teaching and practicing real self-care to make sure parents are caring for themselves while they advocate for their child.
What Parents are Saying About VELA
Funders & Sponsors
Muchas gracias to our funders and sponsors for investing in VELA, so that together we can create a community where all families of children with disabilities thrive.
