Open Doors for Multicultural Families

The mission of our organization, Open Doors for Multicultural Families, is to ensure that diverse families who have family members with developmental disabilities and special health care needs have equal access to culturally and linguistically appropriate information, resources, and services. We promote culturally competent services through community collaboration, training and partnerships. The organization was formed in June, 2009 by a diverse group of passionate parents of children with disabilities and professionals who care about people with disabilities and valued community volunteers after their collaborative work together for more than a decade.

Since then, we have grown from one full time volunteer position to over 60 full time and part-time staff. Through 20+ languages spoken by our staff and volunteer board members, we provide linguistically and culturally responsive services to families of children, youth and adults with disabilities.

Open Doors for Multicultural Families recognized the challenges that families faced on daily basis in raising their children with disabilities, particular those who are low income. Based on our inclusive and family support values, family stipends are available and program fees are waived to remove financial barriers and encourage their participation in our training and family fun events. Free onsite childcare and foods are also provided at our events. In addition, with guidance and support by our trusted bilingual Family Support Specialists, families with limited English proficiency are able to access needed services in the community to better support and advocate for their children’s special needs through our case management and system navigation support services.