Family & Friends Support Network
BECAUSE IT TAKES A VILLAGE
We understand that family not only plays an irreplaceable role in the lives of our residents and participants, but also in supporting and caring for one another.
That’s why, ever since the first handful of parents came together to establish Edwards Center in 1972, we’ve been working hand-in-hand with families. We strongly believe in supporting each other, learning from one another and growing together.
The Family & Friends Support Network (F&FSN) of Edwards Center has restructured this past year and is now operating at full strength with some 36 Vox (voice) members strong and even more on our F&FSN mailing list.
Who We Are
We are the parents, siblings, guardians, friends and “family” of folks with intellectual/developmental disabilities who receive services from the Edwards Center.
We meet regularly throughout the year to share our thoughts and ideas, offering advice and support to each other and to Edwards Center management about the services it provides.
Management in turn keeps us up-to-date with events, trends and happenings at the company and within our community.
The Family & Friends Support Network has two representatives who serve on the board of directors. Edwards Center is unique in allowing such a committee to have a direct impact on the planning and decisions it makes.
F&FSN Vox Support Network Groups
Vox Homes
Vox Homes focuses on the homes run by Edwards Center: the group homes, apartments and Edwards Place residential campus. Each property has a Vox Representative who visits periodically and communicates observations and ideas back to Vox and Edwards Center management.
Vox Day
Vox Day focuses on the Community Living Programs at Aloha and Milwaukie, again visiting periodically and then communicating observations and ideas back to Vox and Edwards Center management.
Vox Jobs
Vox Jobs representatives focus on the program supporting work for people with developmental disabilities. This includes the entire process of obtaining and keeping jobs in the community.
HEAR FROM F&FSN MEMEBERS
Gail
MOTHER OF EDWARDS CENTER RESIDENT
Participating in Vox affords me the opportunity to know how I can best use my energies and interests to support clients and staff in all aspects of Edwards Center life and within the community.
Ann
SISTER OF EDWARDS CENTER RESIDENT
Vox is a way for me to stay more involved in my sister’s life and also to give back to the organization that takes such good care of her.
Judy
MOTHER OF EDWARDS CENTER RESIDENT
It’s comforting to walk this journey with other family members, supporting each other and advocating for our loved ones.
About our Work
EVENTS
We love to attend Edwards Center events throughout the year, and you will find many of us at:
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Bowling Tournaments
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Annual Picnic
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Casino Night
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Fall Fundraising Luncheon
EDUCATION
The Family & Friends Support Network is the umbrella group of Vox Homes, Vox Day and Vox Jobs. Its Executive Committee plans and provides quarterly educational meetings for the entire group.
VOLUNTEERING
We are all volunteers. Besides having a “voice” in the management of Edwards Center, we also give back. We notice projects that need help at the various properties and offer our support as best we can – whether it’s gardening, cleaning, monetary donations, gifts the property may need, or just spending time with participants.
LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT
Supporting the Edwards Center, we advocate with our government to support the rights of people with intellectual/developmental disabilities to live a full and independent life.
