C.A.R.E.S
Come as you are — learn, connect, and discover hope on the journey
A 12- Week Educational Support Group Created by Advocates and Families of Children with Autism
Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. Relief, confusion, fear, and even guilt can come all at once, leaving parents struggling to process what this new reality means for their child, their family, and their future. The early days can feel isolating, as questions arise faster than answers, and every decision about your child’s care and support carries both hope and anxiety.
CARES- Community Autism Resource Education and Support Group (CARES) supports families navigating an autism diagnosis. Supported by a grant from the MN Department of Human Services, CARES expands access to underserved populations in Rochester and Southeastern Minnesota.
Questions? Get in Touch
If you would like to register for CARES please contact our CARES Coordinator.
Maggie Baker
CARES Coordinator
Who We Serve
Who Can Join CARES
- Primarily for parents/caregivers of children diagnosed with autism within the last year
- Open to all families, including grandparents, older siblings, and caregivers of children of any age navigating autism-related challenges
- Southeast Minnesota residents
Program Details
How CARES Works
- 12-week intensive family support group
- Weekly sessions facilitated by CARES Coordinator and trained parent leaders
- Sessions include expert guidance, peer support, and connections to community resources
- No childcare available; meetings held at RAAA office, local schools, and community service locations
- Fully funded by charitable donations and grants
Frequently Asked Questions
Any parent/caregiver navigating an ASD diagnosis.
You are welcome to join CARES regardless of the age of your child or where you are in the process of navigating a diagnosis.
Yes, CARES is offered in both online and in-person formats, depending upon the session. Please contact us for the latest flier and schedule to learn more.
CARES features presentations from experts in a variety of fields that work with individuals and families navigating autism. Please contact us for the latest flier and schedule to learn more
Program Goals
Our Objectives
- Help families gain confidence in caring for their child
- Educate families about local and regional resources
- Connect families with professional experts in relevant fields
- Teach families to advocate for their child and encourage self-advocacy
- Expand social support networks by connecting with other families and professionals
Sample Topics & Weekly Sessions
What You’ll Learn
- Understanding Individualized Family Support Plans(IFSP), Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and Special Education
- Managing aggressive or challenging behavior
- Recreational programs and supports for siblings
- Nutrition and feeding challenges
- Applied Behavioral Analysis, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy
- County Case Management, Medicaid, MA-Tefra, and other funding resources
Sample Guest Speakers
Meet the Experts
- Early Childhood Special Education Teachers
- Disability Advocates (SE Minnesota Center for Independent Living (SEMCIL)/The ARC Minnesota )
- Licensed Speech Pathologists & Occupational Therapists
- Board Certified Behavior Analysts / Behavior Specialists
- Music Therapists & Recreation Coordinators
Outcomes for Families
What Families Will Gain
- Knowledge of social support and community services
- Confidence in making decisions for their child
- Tools and resources for handling challenges
- Connections with other families navigating similar experiences
- Understanding that Autism is a new path, not a tragedy
