Register to attend our monthly virtual workshops on various topics, and learn how to effectively advocate for your child within the Special Education system. Click HERE for the most current Workshops.

Register to attend our monthly virtual workshops on various topics, and learn how to effectively advocate for your child within the Special Education system. Click HERE for the most current Workshops.

Monthly Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Information Sessions for 2025 typically take place on the second Monday of the month from 9:30 am to 10:30 am via Zoom. Click this link to register in advance: https://form.jotform.com/250894916586171

RSVP for one of our monthly Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Info Sessions! Info sessions take place on the 2nd Monday of the month from, 9:30 am -10:30 am via Zoom. Click this link to get started: https://form.jotform.com/250894916586171
You will be emailed the Zoom invitation by the next business day.

Josh Garay, PEP Coordinator
(845) 452-3913 Ext. 116
J.Garay@taconicresources.org
This workshop will present an overview of Advocacy and Parent/Caregiver to Parent/Caregiver Networking, Direction on starting a Parent Group,
(SEPTA, PTO, or informal groups)
What is the Special Education Parent Empowerment Program?
Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) is a program at Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc. (TRI). PEP provides training and information to families of children and young adults with disabilities, between the ages of 3 and 22. TRI’s Special Education program offers specialized and collaborative advocacy training, parent-to-parent networking and support, information, and referral services.
Click the flyer below for a PDF copy

Join Us for Support and Community!
* Upcoming workshop December 10th *
What is the Special Education Parent Empowerment Program (PEP)?
PEP is a new addition to Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc. (TRI). PEP provides training and information to families of children and young adults with disabilities, between the ages of 3 and 22. TRI’s Special Education program offers specialized and collaborative advocacy training, parent-to-parent networking and support, information, and referral services.
Who We Are:
A supportive community for parents of individuals and children with disabilities, offering understanding, resources, and a safe space to share experiences.
What We Offer:
Topics for Discussion:
Workshop Coordinators:
– Jennifer O’Neill, Senior Special Education Advocate, TRI j.oneill@taconicresources.org 845-745-8097 mobile phone.
– Patricia Lucio-Penn, Special Education Advocate -Bilingual Spanish, TRI p.lucio-penn@taconicresources.org 845-745-8057 mobile phone.
TRI’s Special Education Advocacy Services are paid for in part by Dutchess County, NYSED ACCES-VR, and NYS OPWDD Family Support Services.
Upcoming Meetings:
Morning Session only
Tuesday, December 10th
*9:30 am – Click HERE to register in advance.
(Requests for American Sign-Language interpreters must be submitted by December 2nd, Email j.kreitzer@taconicresources.org