Families Matter, Inc.'s History
Families Matter, Inc. was informally organized in 1992. At that time, the group, comprised and primarily supported by parents of intellectually disabled young adults, provided a one-half day a week program to young adults transitioning from area schools, or young adults not eligible for other area services. In 1994, the group became incorporated with the State of Maine, achieved a designated IRS non-profit, tax exempt [501(c)(3)] status and developed a formal consumer program recognized and funded by MaineCare and the Maine Department of Behavioral and Developmental Services.
The consumer program known as the Personal Social Awareness Program© began operation in Augusta, Maine on February 6, 1996 providing services four days a week to four intellectually disabled young adults. The program has matured since its inception and has grown to a 5 day/week program serving more than 80 consumers in four locations: Augusta, Waterville, Farmington, and Skowhegan, Maine.
Families Matter, Inc. recognizes the need for community involvement, and provides a number of broad-based services, such as support activities and social events for persons with intellectual disabilities.
Mission Statement
Families Matter, Inc. Mission Statement is to enhance the quality of life for ‘intellectually disabled’ young adults and their families. We do this by providing the highest quality of services through our Personal Social Awareness Program ©. The primary goal of Families Matter, Inc. is to support intellectually disabled young adults and their families through education, programming, therapeutic activities, and to encourage participation in all activities of life to the fullest extent possible. Families Matter, Inc. assists in promoting individual independence and motivation to meet individual needs and desires. Our goals are achieved by hiring skilled, dedicated, certified and compassionate staff.