Join Our Next Training!

Volunteer Advocate Training Program

Join us for our next PIC Volunteer Advocate Training Program starting March 3, 2010 in Keene.

Click here to submit your application.

Email us or call 224-7005 for more information..

Did You Know?

Our VA program was one of the first special education training programs for parents in the country and has been used as a model by other states. Over the last 30 years, we have trained over 600 Volunteer Advocates. Here are what some VAs have had to say about the training program and their experiences as a VA:

“I looked forward to the class each week. The support and resources that I received from my classmates was invaluable!” – Parent

“I have gained knowledge, confidence and empowerment from the course and am ready to help other parents”
– Parent

“Our relationship with PIC has led to improved educational outcomes for students in our school, better relationships between parents and the rest of the teams, resolving disputes in the least adversarial manner and most importantly, informed parents attending team meetings.”
– Special Education Director

Volunteer Advocate Training Program

PIC on Special Education’s Volunteer Advocate (VA) training program is a free 45 hour course for parents and others who want to gain the knowledge and skills to support parents of children with disabilities in the special education process. This training is offered twice a year at various locations across the state. Professionals are welcome to attend the program for their own professional development for a nominal fee.

Training Topics Include:

The Federal Special Education Law and NH Special Education Process
Developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
Working Effectively as a Member of an IEP Team
Best Practices to Support Children’s Success in School
Strategies for Developing Meaningful Transition Plans

Volunteer Commitment

VAs expected to attend all training sessions and complete a community service project. VAs are also asked to volunteer their time to help the PIC on Special Education through a variety of opportunities, including supporting parents who have special education questions as assigned by PIC on Special Education staff.

Important! PIC on Special Education does not give out the names or contact information of our Volunteer Advocates. Therefore, you can not request the contact information of a VA in your area or that a VA be assigned to you via this website. PIC on Special Education staff can speak with you in more detail to see how we can best assist you in participating effectively as a team member in the Special Education process and together you will then determine if a VA match is appropriate. Please contact us for more information.

For more information on the VA Training Series, contact PIC Volunteer Advocate Coordinator.
224-700 ext.
PO Box 2405
Concord, NH 03302

Site Map	© 2008 NH Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities, dba The Parent Information Center. All Rights Reserved.

Parent Information Center on Special Education - NH’s federally funded Parent Training and Information Center A Project of the Parent Information Center 151A Manchester St. \| PO Box 2405 \| Concord, NH 03302-2405 (603) 224-7005 \| (800) 947-7005 \| \| Info@nhspecialed.org

PIC on Special Education staff provides information and support to parents and others so that they may participate effectively as team members in the Special Education process. While the staff are not attorneys and do not give legal advice, we do offer information on educational laws, regulations and best practices. This support is designed to assist parents in making informed decisions for their children.