HOPE Program

The H.O.P.E. (Helping Others through Parent Education) Program is an early intervention program which serves infants and toddlers with special needs and their families. As a team, parents or caregivers and professionals work together to help each infant/toddler to develop the skills needed for his or her next environment based on the developmental model, and to assist our families with the total care necessary for their child.

Based upong the recommendations of the HOPE staff, children enrolled in the program may receive special instruction, speech-language therapy, social-emotional therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy. Psychological services are also available. The most appropriate environment for therapy services is determined by the HOPE staff based upon the individual needs of the infant/toddler and family. Service environments may include in-center, home-based, visits to daycare centers and other medical facilities. Children may be seen individually or in small group sessions.

In Alabama, a child is eligible for EI services if he/she is under the age of three and has at least a 25% delay in any of the five major areas of development -- physical, social, adaptive, cognitive or communication skills. A child is also eligible if he/she has a diagnosis of a condition that likely will result in a delay of development.

If you know someone that may need early intervention -- please see a HOPE staff member (Jennifer, Beth, Susan or Quatar) or encourage them to call the Alabama Child Find number (800-543-3098) to be connected with service providers.