Raissa Chandler, Candice Aaron and Jennifer Confonti are moms on a mission. As busy mothers of children with disabilities, they work lovingly to make the world a more accepting place for their children.
Not long after moving to Fayette County, Raissa joined Fayette FACTOR (Fayette Alliance Coordinating Teamwork, Outreach and Resources), a statewide nonprofit organization working to improving the quality of life for Georgia’s families living with a disabled family member. One connection led to another and ultimately Raissa was approached by Parent to Parent to become a primary parent contact in Fayette County. Parent to Parent provides a variety of support opportunities to families of special needs children and youth.
Raissa educated herself, formed meaningful relationships with other parents of special needs family members, and set out to create a series of links to support these families. These efforts resulted in the development and growth of Southside Support, Inc., a nonprofit, 501(c) 3 organization.
The mission of Southside Support is clear. Their goal is to empower families of special needs children by linking them to a vast support system. Group support meetings take place in coffeehouses and restaurants throughout the South Metro area. Those unable to leave their homes get support online from Southside Support’s website, www.southsidesupport.org, and a “Virtual Village” of support through a Facebook Group “Southside Support for Special Needs Families.”
Educational opportunities are offered through symposiums and monthly meetings known as “coffee talks” in Tyrone. As one parent gains knowledge it is passed along to other parents.
Southside Support president Candice Aaron wants families to know that their goal is to “support the entire family unit” and promote inclusion for all.
The current focus for Southside Support is the development of a permanent structure, such as a RV or trailer, for the Special Needs Accommodation Zone, or SNAZ. During one of their meetings, a parent and board member suggested that what they needed most was a place to care for their children while out in public. The current SNAZ is a partitioned tent. The “permanent” SNAZ will offer a truly ADA accessible changing area, a food prep area, a family inclusive space and a calm room for those on the Autism spectrum. SNAZ allows special needs families the opportunity to attend exciting events in our community such as The Great Georgia Air Show, art festivals, concerts and movie nights.
Southside Support has teamed up with Clayton State University students in the Special Education Certification program looking to gain volunteer hours. The students who volunteer help set up and take down the SNAZ tent and assist families as needed. Volunteers are needed to help with the Metro South Regional Transition Fair this March in Griffin. If you are interested in volunteering for the fair, contact Raissa Chandler at 770-713-673.
One of the greatest sources of revenue for Southside Support is its annual fundraiser. “A Night in Monte Carlo” is the theme for this year’s event Saturday, March 12, 7-11 p.m. in The Loft at Due South in Peachtree City. The black-tie optional affair includes dancing, gaming chips, silent auction, delectable cuisine and open bar. For more information visit www.southsidesoiree.com. Sponsorships and tickets are still available. Contact Jennifer Conforti at 404-823-7943 or Jennifer@southsidesupport.org for more information.
The photos above include: Southside Support president Candice Aaron with husband Kevis, toddler Liam, and Benjamin; Jennifer Conforti, executive director of Southside Support, with her daughter Abby; and Harper Kate Pardue, one of the children benefiting from Southside Support programs.
