Advocates for Children of New York has been protecting and promoting the educational rights of students with disabilities since 1971. As a result, we have unparalleled experience and expertise in special education, particularly in the New York City schools. All of AFC’s projects involve special education advocacy to some extent, as they target specific populations that tend to include a disproportionate share of students with disabilities.
AFC’s Project Thrive offers free legal representation and in-depth case advocacy to low-income families who need support obtaining appropriate school services for preschool and school-aged children with disabilities.
Our Parent Center helps families navigate the school system through free NYC educational rights workshops, community education events in English or Spanish, and a wide array of free know-your-rights resources.
In 2008, AFC founded the ARISE Coalition, a diverse group of parents, educators, and advocates working together to improve the education of students with disabilities in New York City’s public schools. AFC continues to coordinate and lead the coalition.
After months of advocating to Karla's old high school, the superintendent, and administrators at the Department of Education’s central office, AFC was able to negotiate a successful result: Karla could complete portfolios to make up her missing credits in exchange for her local diploma!
Gabriel, a kindergarten student with speech delays, needed a bilingual class and speech therapy but the DOE wasn't responding to his mother's pleas for help.
"I was in over my head with figuring out ways to best support Abi. I am still amazed how the school and DOE no's turned into yes once AFC stepped in, and I am so grateful Abi will finally have the supports she needs. We are very thankful that AFC not only provided me with the knowledge I need to know, but advocated for my daughter so that she doesn't continue to fall through the cracks."
Josh was an incredibly motivated and eager student who made enormous progress when he received the support and specialized instruction he needed. After less than six months, he had already jumped to a 4th/5th grade reading level.
Supported by a five-year grant from the United States Department of Education, AFC leads the New York Region 1 Parent Training and Information Center Collaborative. The Collaborative, which coordinates the parent centers for New York City and Long Island, includes Sinergia, IncludeNYC, and the Long Island Advocacy Center. We are also proud members of the New York State Parent Network.
Our free trainings and workshops provide important information to help parents, communities, and professionals advocate effectively on behalf of their children
