Our Story: Where Family, Community, and Belonging Begin
Since our founding, we’ve been more than a service provider—we’ve been a bridge to independence, a catalyst for growth, and a place where every person is valued for who they are.
Born from Love, Built on Hope
Families Matter Inc began in 1992 with a simple but powerful belief: every person deserves to belong, grow, and contribute to their community. A dedicated group of parents of young adults with intellectual disabilities, watching their children transition from school-based services, saw a gap that needed filling—not just with programs, but with genuine care and lasting relationships.
These founding families started with just a half-day program once a week, serving young adults transitioning from area schools or those not eligible for other services. What started as informal gatherings quickly grew into something remarkable. By 1994, we had achieved our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and developed a formal program recognized and funded by MaineCare and the Maine Department of Behavioral and Developmental Services.
On February 6, 1996, our Personal Social Awareness Program© officially opened its doors in Augusta, serving four young adults with intellectual disabilities four days a week. Those early days were filled with determination, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to seeing each person as an individual with unique gifts and potential.
Today, nearly three decades later, that same parent-driven vision continues to guide everything we do—proving that when families come together with purpose, they can create lasting change that transforms not just individual lives, but entire communities.
Our Mission
To enhance the quality of life for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families by providing person-centered support services that foster independence, community engagement, and meaningful relationships.
Our Vision
A community where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are valued, included, and empowered to live their best lives.
Three Decades of Expanding Possibilities
1992 – Informal organization begins with a parent-led advocacy group providing half-day weekly programming
1994 – Incorporated as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and achieved MaineCare/MDBDS funding recognition
1996 – Personal Social Awareness Program© launches in Augusta, serving four individuals four days a week
2000s – Expanded programming and locations to serve the growing central Maine community, establishing the multi-site model that defines Families Matter today
2024 – Serving nearly 100 individuals across four central Maine locations
Today – Nearly 30 years of continuous service with no waiting list
Why Families Matter
“Families Matter” is more than just a name—it’s a statement. We’re an organization dedicated to providing services to adults with intellectual disabilities, enabling them to enjoy life to the fullest while embracing and supporting their families.
Our name reflects our understanding that when we support individuals with disabilities, we’re supporting entire families and strengthening our broader community. The relationships we build—between individuals, families, staff, and community partners—transform services into something much more meaningful: a lifelong network of care, growth, and belonging.
Our Financials
As a nonprofit organization, we’re committed to responsible stewardship of the resources entrusted to us. Families Matter Inc maintains financial stability through diversified funding sources, careful budget management, and transparent reporting practices.
Key Financial Information:
• 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status maintained since 1994
• Primary funding through Maine Department of Health and Human Services
• Additional support through community partnerships and donor contributions
• Board of Directors provides governance oversight of all financial operations
Access Our Documents:
Transparency Statement: We believe families, referral sources, and community members deserve to understand how we operate. Our financial and governance documents, as well as board meeting minutes, are available upon request, and we welcome questions about our programs, funding, and organizational practices. Please send all written requests to Hello@FamiliesMatterInc.org.
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or a community member interested in our mission, we'd love to connect with you.