Advocacy - Support - Resources - Training
WE ADVOCATE WITH YOU!
Who We Are​
IEP-Hope, Inc. is a NonProfit organization which was formed BY parents... FOR parents. We offer support, education, training, advocacy services and resources to parents, caregivers and special needs children enrolled in an Indiana public school system with IEPs/504s- at no cost to the family.
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We also offer fee-based services and programs for families and students with special needs who transition away from an Indiana public school system. You can find a list of those programs under our SERVICES tab above.
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But... we can't do this alone.
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As a NonProfit organization, we rely on outside sources and grants to support our Mission and our Vision. We also rely on the support of our community to help us raise awareness of the importance and need for more advocates in the State of Indiana.
So... how can you help???

Volunteer
We are currently accepting applications for Volunteer Advocates. Our VA's are vetted, provided with training in the IEP process, State and Federal laws, and are expected to support and advocate with parents and caregivers in the best interest of the special needs student. They are able to do this by utilizing their training to assist in educating the parents about the IEP process and attending case conferences with them when requested.
We are in need of candidates who have strong organizational skills, good moral values, reliable transportation, trustworthy, a heart of gold, and a belief in our Vision. Just click on the GET INVOLVED link to fill out an application.
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Spread the Word
Believe it or not, there are many parents and caregivers of special needs children who are struggling alone with the IEP/504 process.
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They may be concerned that their child isn't receiving the necessary accommodations to help them succeed... they may be frustrated that their child is having difficulty developing social skills... they may be confused as to why their child doesn't seem to be making academic progress.
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It doesn't have to be this way...
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Federal Law requires that at least one parent training and information center be available in EACH STATE to assist them in the IEP/504 process. Do you know how many organizations service Indiana??? The number might surprise you!
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If you know someone who has a special needs child enrolled in a public school system in Indiana who may be in need of our services, we may be able to help. Share our link on social media and help us spread the word!
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Donate
The need for IEP/504 advocacy services is so great in the State of Indiana that we are committed to continue moving forward by implementing beneficial programs, spreading awareness and expanding our service areas to ensure the success of our Mission.
Any and all individual, corporate, or group donations are greatly appreciated to assist us in achieving this goal... no matter how big or how small! Just click on the DONATE link to begin making a difference with us.
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If your child already has an IEP or 504, then you know that the most difficult part of the process is requesting an evaluation, waiting for approval, having the child tested, and receiving (or not receiving) an eligible educational diagnosis.
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There are 13 areas of eligibility for an IEP, and just 3 for a 504 plan.
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IEPs are the responsibility of the Special Education Department, but 504s are the responsibility of General Education- usually the principal or the 504 coordinator.
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If you feel your child is struggling, believe that he/she may have a qualifying diagnosis, and could benefit from an IEP or 504, then contact your child's teacher and request an evaluation- always in writing.
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In the meantime, familiarize yourself with Article 7 - it has everything you'll need to begin understanding the process.
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If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call - we'll be glad to help!
Eligibility
AREAS OF ELIGIBILITY
"Once you choose hope,
anything's possible."
Christopher Reeve
IEP-Hope, Inc. is pleased to announce our membership with the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)- a valuable resource to help guide us in advocating for you and your child...
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"Protecting the Legal and Civil Rights of Students with Disabilities and their Families"
To be protected under Section 504, a student must be determined to:
Have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life
activities; or
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Have a record of such an impairment; or
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Be regarded as having such an impairment.
3
Section 504 requires that school districts provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to qualified students in their jurisdictions who have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
(Click Diagnosis for Definition)