Family-to-Family Health Information Center
ECAC is North Carolina’s Family-to-Family Health Information Center. Family-to-Family Health Information Centers (F2Fs) are family-led centers funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). There is one F2F in each state, in the District of Columbia, in five U.S. territories, and there are three F2Fs serving tribal communities.
Each F2F is staffed by highly skilled, knowledgeable family members who have first-hand experience and understanding of the challenges faced by families of children with special health care needs.
These uniquely qualified staff provide critical support to families caring for children with special health care needs, particularly families of children with complex needs and those from diverse communities. F2Fs also assist providers, state and federal agencies, legislators, and other stakeholders to better understand and serve this population and their families.
North Carolina's DeafBlind Project
The North Carolina DeafBlind Project (NCDBP) is a federally funded grant through the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and is a collaboration between the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, Office of Exceptional Children, East Carolina University, and the Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center.
The North Carolina DeafBlind Project provides free individualized support to families of children with DeafBlindness from birth through 21 years of age. The following are examples of the type of assistance offered to families:
- Information and Referrals: Access state and national resources. Receive a free resource packet.
- Consultation: Receive individualized assistance from a Parent Educator.
- Training: Attend state and national conferences, attend in person workshops or online webinars.
- Networking: Meet and connect with other parents and professionals.
For program information and technical support please contact:
Dr. Alan Chase – NCDPI, alan.chase@dpi.nc.gov or 984-236-2582
Virginia Madorin – NCDPI, virginia.madorin@dpi.nc.gov or 984-236-2307
Dr. Sandra Warren – ECU Teacher Support Program, warrens@ecu.edu or 252-328-2699
Brittany Cutshaw – ECAC Family Support Program, bcutshaw@ecacmail.org or 1-800-962-6817
ECAC and the North Carolina State Improvement Project (NCSIP)
NCSIP is a program in the Exceptional Children Division of the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Funded by the Office of Special Education Programs in the U.S. Department of Education, NCSIP works to improve the quality and effectiveness of educational programs and instruction for students with disabilities in North Carolina.
ACHIEVE Transition Program
ACHIEVE is a statewide, virtual Pre-ETS program designed for students with disabilities, ages 14 to 21. This program is available to those enrolled in an educational program who are eligible or potentially eligible for EIPD services and have a recognized need for Pre-Employment Transition Services. ACHIEVE is accessible to students in various educational settings, including those who are homeschooled, or enrolled in traditional public schools, charter schools, virtual schools, private schools, early college programs, vocational schools, college courses, or training programs. The ACHIEVE Transition Program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need for successful transitions from school to work and into adult life.