PATHs for Parents & Family to Family
Health Information Center

Family Support Groups

The Paths for Parents and Family to Family programs offer multiple support groups for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities and/or special health care needs. In addition to a weekly Circle of Parents virtual support group, several in-person Parent Connect meetings take place in the West Virginia counties of Logan, Mingo, Ohio, and Raleigh. These informal meetings provide warm, welcoming space for parents/caregivers to talk, laugh, learn, and support one another. A monthly Path Forward grief support group also meets at the CED’s Morgantown location.

  • Weekly Virtual Support Group

    The virtual Circle of Parents group meets every Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. EST to share information, resources, laughter and support. For your safety and security, registration is required.

    For more information, contact Tina Crook, Lead Family Resource Specialist and Program Coordinator at tina.crook@hsc.wvu.edu.

    Register for Virtual Meetings

  • Parent Connect Meetings

    Parent Connect Meetings are led by the Paths for Parents program at the WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities. We’re committed to providing a friendly, judgment-free space where parents and caregivers can connect, share, and grow.

    Why join us?

    Parenting a child with special health care needs or disabilities is filled with unique joys and challenges, and you don’t have to do it alone. Our meetings offer:

    • A welcoming community of parents and caregivers who “get it.”
    • Real conversations about everyday challenges and successes.
    • Connections and networking with others who share similar experiences.
    • Information on local supports, services, and opportunities for your family.

    Whether you're seeking support, ideas, connection, or encouragement, you belong here. Use the dropdown menu below to find details about in-person meetings:

  • Path Forward Group

    Find comfort in a supportive community where parents and caregivers who’ve experienced the loss of a child or adult with disabilities can come together, share their stories, and find connection as they journey forward. This group is a place to honor memories while discovering new paths to healing and growth. Life after caregiving is not easy, so please join us to share, connect, and find strength with others.

    When: 4th Wednesday of each month at 5:00 p.m.

    Where: The WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities
    959 Hartman Run Rd.
    Morgantown, WV 26505

    Contact: Bonnie Shannon
    Family Resource Specialist and Certified Grief Facilitator
    304-293-4692
    bonnie.shannon1@hsc.wvu.edu

    View Path Forward Group flyer

Looking for other support groups?

Check out some other statewide support groups for autism, mental health, parent support, sibling support, and traumatic brain injury (TBI).

View Statewide Support Groups

Circle of Parents Discussion Series