FRN’s Support Services provide individuals with disabilities and families of children with disabilities to get the support they need to lead a full and happy life.
FRN’s employment and transition programs support youth and adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities through mentorship, education, and employment in order to become integrated, productive members of their communities.
FRN’s public health department aims to address the social determinants of health that impact individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and chronic conditions.
The Family Resource Network provides engaging educational opportunities for professionals, families, and individuals across New Jersey. Our programs are offered both virtually and in person and cover a wide range of topics, including epilepsy, autism, caregiving, transition planning, and IEP development.
It’s DSP Week, and today we’re highlighting another one of our incredible DSPs, Mimi Wulfekotte!
Mimi Wulfekotte has been a dedicated member of the Family Resource Network team since 2018 and has served as the lead staff member for Kidz Korner for many years. Throughout her time with the program, Mimi has built meaningful relationships with participants and takes great pride in creating special connections with each individual she supports. Her caring nature, patience, and enthusiasm help make Kidz Korner a welcoming and positive environment for everyone involved.
Outside of her work, Mimi is a loving mother of six children and serves as a full-time caregiver for her mother. Her nurturing spirit extends beyond her family and is reflected in the compassion and dedication she brings to her role every day. When she is not working, Mimi enjoys spending time listening to live bands and taking walks along the boardwalk. She finds joy in helping participants grow, build confidence, and create lasting memories through their experiences at Kidz Korner. Mimi`s commitment to the individuals and families she serves makes her a valued member of the Family Resource Network and an important part of the Kidz Korner community.
#DSPWeek #DirectSupportProfessional #FamilyResourceNetwork
REMINDER: Registration for October Out N` About events closes in 3 days!
This month, participants can enjoy outings in Essex and Union counties, including pumpkin picking, a Halloween dance and costume party, fragrance making, and mini golf.
Register by September 20 at the link in bio!
Out N` About is a community inclusion program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering opportunities to explore new places, try new activities, build friendships, and take part in the community.
This DSP Week, we’re taking a moment to recognize Mark Nordyke and the dedication he brings to his work.
Mark Nordyke has been a dedicated Direct Support Professional for more than 20 years and has been a valued member of the Family Resource Network team for over 14 years. He currently serves as a DSP in our Weekend Respite Getaway program for adults ages 21 and older and also lends his support to our Out N About program whenever needed. Mark`s commitment to helping individuals with disabilities live fulfilling and meaningful lives is evident in everything he does.
Outside of Family Resource Network, Mark works as an Autism Support Teacher for students in kindergarten through second grade. He is also a Certified Employment Support Specialist for adults with disabilities in Pennsylvania and a Licensed Behavioral Health Technician. His extensive experience and professional expertise allow him to provide exceptional support and guidance to the individuals and families he serves.
Mark is passionate about opening new doors and creating opportunities for people who need extra support. He takes great pride in helping individuals achieve their goals, build independence, and reach milestones they may not have thought possible. His patience, encouragement, and unwavering dedication make a lasting impact on the lives of those he supports, and he is truly an asset to the Family Resource Network community.
#DSPWeek #DirectSupportProfessional #FamilyResourceNetwork
Throughout DSP Week, we’ll be celebrating a few incredible Direct Support Professionals who make a difference in the lives of the people they support. Today, we’re highlighting Maryann Fergus, a valued member of the Family Resource Network team for the past three years.
Maryann works in both our Kidz Korner and One-to-One programs. Participants are always excited to spend time with her, and her positive energy and genuine care help create meaningful connections with everyone she supports.
Maryann`s passion for the disability community began through her personal experience growing up with a sister who lives with autism. This connection inspired her to become a Direct Support Professional and fueled her commitment to helping others. In addition to being a dedicated Direct Support Professional, Maryann is a full-time caregiver for her sister and a devoted mother to her two sons.
Maryann loves helping people in any way she can and finds great joy in seeing participants achieve their goals and reach important milestones. Her compassion, patience, and dedication make a lasting impact on the individuals and families she serves, and she is truly an asset to the Family Resource Network team.
#DSPWeek #DirectSupportProfessional #FamilyResourceNetwork
Mark your calendar for Monday, September 28 at 12 PM for the second webinar in our Conversations in Caregiving series, leading up to the National Caregivers Conference.
This session will focus on caring for a loved one experiencing brain changes, including navigating grief and changing roles, communicating through change, maintaining connection, and finding ways to support yourself throughout the caregiving journey. The conversation will feature Sheli Monacchio of The Dementia Center and Holly Gainsboro of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education.
Our Conversations in Caregiving series explores the caregiving journey across a range of diagnoses and caregiving topics, offering support and insight for family caregivers and anyone supporting a loved one.
Register at the link in bio!
#ConversationsInCaregiving #NationalCaregiversConference #CaregiverSupport #CaregiverResources #GriefSupport
This week, we’re celebrating Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) across the country!
Every day, DSPs bring compassion and dedication to the people they support, helping individuals with disabilities pursue their goals, build independence, and create brighter futures.
Please join us in recognizing and thanking the extraordinary Direct Support Professionals who make a difference every day.
Check back on our socials throughout the week as we highlight and celebrate some of our own incredible DSPs!
#DSPWeek #DirectSupportProfessionals #DirectSupportProfessionalRecognitionWeek #ThankYouDSPs
Help bring meaningful events to life. Gain experience that shapes yours.
Family Resource Network is looking for a Fundraising & Event Planning Intern to join our Development team.
As an intern, you`ll help plan and execute signature events like Walk for the ONE, connect with sponsors, support fundraising campaigns, and play an active role in creating memorable experiences for the communities we serve.
You`ll work on real projects, collaborate with experienced nonprofit professionals, and develop practical skills you can carry into a career in nonprofit leadership, event planning, fundraising, marketing, or beyond.
We`re looking for someone who is organized, creative, curious, and ready to jump in. Candidates should currently be enrolled in a two- or four-year college or university.
Learn more and apply at the link in bio!
Please note: This is an unpaid internship. Academic credit may be available through your college or university.
#NowHiring #Internship #EventPlanning #Fundraising #NonprofitJobs #FamilyResourceNetwork