Our Mission We are a group of individuals and families throughout the Upper Valley and beyond who proudly work together to create a community where people with special needs, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, can live their best lives.Our VisionAll people with special needs, and their families, have opportunities and support to pursue their goals and aspirations.Our HistoryIn 1979 the parents of a girl with autism began reaching out to other parents in their community. Their informal parent support network quickly began to get a lot of calls. The new parent network grew tremendously. With boundless enthusiasm and a drive to make a difference, this group of parents started what would become The Special Needs Support Center, a place that helps children and adults with special needs, and their families, meet their unique challenges through advocacy and program support.Since then, The Special Needs Support Center has grown into a system of resources and programs that:

• Empower and support Upper Valley Vermont and New Hampshire families of children with special needs;
• Help children and adults with special needs and their families meet their unique challenges through advocacy and program support; and
• Support families and individuals with special needs become empowered through learning, sharing and collaborating with each other.