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.
Now that she is in an appropriate program that can meet her needs, Mia loves preschool, has made enormous progress, and is no longer getting in trouble.
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!
"The help was invaluable because after so many frustrated attempts to connect with OPT, I finally had someone who would listen and affect change on any level. Without AFC I felt powerless."
"I know our journey was a winding and difficult one and we thank you and your organization for helping Omar through it all so he could arrive to this point. I can't imagine how different my son's circumstances would've been without your advocacy."
"I wanted to let you know that Briana is doing so well!! Her reading has improved and the support she is given on a daily basis definitely has improved her confidence. I will forever be so grateful for all your help in finding her the right fit."
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
Our Back to School resource hub has deadlines, helpful links, and more need-to-know information for students, families, and professionals as the school year gets started.
