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            Call (509) 527-3278         

Parent Navigator began in response to the recognition that families often feel overwhelmed by having to navigate multiple social service systems.  Parent Navigator is built upon the realization that families need peer support, information and guidance when navigating these services in the community.

How We Can Help:

Parent Navigators are parents of children with complex needs* who have navigated the system and have demonstrated knowledge of what it takes to access a broad range of services for their children.  Parent Navigators are available to assist families and to support them in ways tailored to their need(s).  Requests for assistance occur in the areas of mental health and chemical dependency.

*Complex Needs -

  • Having social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties at home, school, or in the community.

  • Struggling to navigate the maze of multiple community services.

  • In need of support to improve the quality of individual and family life.

We assist Families to:

  • Initiate a service team meeting representing service agencies and natural supports.

  • And/or implement Individualized and Tailored Care (ITC) on behalf of their loved one or family.

  • Actively facilitate support groups,   such as the "Parents Who Care" video series.

  • Utilize lending libraries and parent resource centers located at area schools, Children's Home Society, and the Walla Walla City Library, containing information on youth drug use and prevention.

Most Families Have one or More of the Following Criteria:

  • A child/children with complex needs*.

  • A child/children between the ages of 6 and 21 having complex needs*.

  • A child/children that need assistance navigating the system.

  • Families that have experienced difficulty navigating the system in the past.

  • Families witha child/children having complex needs* tha feel estranged from the services offered in the community.

Useful Websites/Links:

  • Walla Walla Valley Parenting Commission:  Through this website,  you will stay informed about parenting classes being offered in this area, support groups for parents, parenting workshops, when speakers will be coming to this area, and events that might be of interest to anyone who is parenting.  You will also be able to sign-up for classes, contact the Parenting Commission for more information, and gain access other websites that contain information on parenting and families.

  • PaperBoat.com  - A site containing information relating to the ITC (Individualized and Tailored Care) process.

  • Parent Navigator - A selective guide to the Internet regarding parenting and family issues.

  • Parenting Resources - Information on parenting issues.