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The Maryland Coalition of Families is the statewide voice for children’s behavioral health and is dedicated to building a family-driven network of information and support, improving services in all systems of care for children, youth and their families. The MCF provides connection, support, and empowerment for parents, caregivers, children and young adults experiencing mental health, substance use and/or other behavioral health challenges. MCF's staff in every Maryland county and Baltimore City:

• work with caregivers to help them access needed supports and services for their families
• support and amplify the youth voice
• empower family members to advocate for improving services in all systems of care for children, youth and families

Visit the website to find the contact in your geographic area, from Western Maryland, the Eastern Shore, Southern Maryland, Central Maryland, and more.

Anyone who needs assistance with obtaining services or support for their child or family can call a Family Navigator. There is no eligibility requirement or fees to contact a Family Navigator. A Family Navigator can provide:

• Information, referral and linkage to appropriate services for your child;
• One-to-one support and advocacy for your family;
• Guidance in completing forms and applications for services;
• Support at meetings related to your child, when possible;
• Education on laws, policies and procedures to access services for your child; and
• Workshops to inform you and other families on services and ways to effectively advocate for your child.

Family Navigators also work in partnership with local agencies and participate on planning and advisory boards to provide a family perspective on policies and programs for children with special needs. Navigators make every effort to involve many families in leadership roles in their community.

Adults with developmental disabilities receive services that help in obtaining and maintaining community-based employment. These services include job placement, transportation, and retention services. Individuals with developmental disabilities and their families are often unaware of the various training, services, and employment opportunities that are available. Maryland Community Connection will help identify desired employment, provide employment training, and assist in maintaining employment. Maryland Community Connection services include job development, technology access, job search, resume and application development, job training, and job retention.Once employment is in place, Maryland Community Connection will serve as an advocate in continuing training and services for achieving the desires and needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

The Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program is a cooperative effort between the Office of Therapeutic Recreation Services and the Maryland Council for Special Equestrians (MCSE), offers Equine Facilitated Therapy to individuals with disabilities. For more information regarding registration, cost, and necessary paperwork for any of these horseback riding programs, call Terry or Tina at the farm 410-418-4300. The program operates year-round in the Catonsville area with the following opportunities: Recreational Riding lessons are available for children and adults. Riders learn basic horseback riding and horse safety while improving their physical fitness, socialization and communication skills. Classes are offered throughout the week. To be considered for the program, applications must be completed and returned to MCSE?s office. Some restrictions apply. Please call 410-418-4300 for more information regarding registration, costs, class availability, and enrollment packet.