Family Advocacy Coaching Supports (FACS)
At The Inspired Community Project, we know that supporting a child means supporting their entire family. Our Family Advocacy Coaching Supports (FACS) program is designed to empower caregivers with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to navigate early childhood special education systems, access critical resources, and advocate effectively for their children.
Integrated into TICP’s mission of advancing equity, advocacy, and empowerment, FACS provides one-on-one coaching, community workshops, and hands-on assistance tailored to each family’s unique needs. Whether it’s understanding the evaluation process, preparing for an IEP meeting, or connecting with local services, our goal is to make sure families never feel alone—and always feel equipped to lead their child’s journey.
FACS Curriculum
The Family Advocacy Coaching Support (FACS) program at The Inspired Community Project is a step-by-step guide to help families understand and navigate the complex systems of special education, services, and long-term planning. Grounded in empowerment and equity, the FACS roadmap follows key transition points in a child’s life—starting from early intervention and continuing through adulthood.
In the Early Intervention stage, families receive support with service coordination, child development education, and tools to practice new skills at home.
As children approach preschool and school age, FACS prepares families for CPSE and CSE transitions, provides “Know Your Rights” training, and offers guidance on placement and advocacy within the Department of Education.
For when the children become teens and adults, the program focuses on long-term planning, community and social support, and career or college readiness.
Finally, FACS supports families with future planning, including financial guidance, estate planning, and guardianship resources.
By meeting families where they are and walking with them through every stage, FACS ensures that caregivers are not only informed—but also confident and equipped to advocate for their child’s success.
Ariane León, Family Advocate at The Inspired Community Project, was born in Caracas, Venezuela. Ariane journey to New York was marked by resilience and determination. Arriving at a time when early intervention services were inaccessible without a green card, Ariane’s personal experiences shaped her passion for advocacy and justice.
With a Bachelor’s degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Ariane has dedicated her career to championing the rights of children with special needs and their families. Her diverse professional background includes working in general education parochial schools, private special education settings, and supporting children with IEPs in foster care.
Ariane’s advocacy is both professional and personal—she has navigated the complexities of Early Intervention (EI), Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE), and Committee on Special Education (CSE) services firsthand as a parent. Her experience extends to supporting families as they secure special education placements through litigation and guiding families through the DOE-funded nonpublic school process with CBST.
Particularly passionate about helping families facing language barriers, Ariane continues to empower parents to advocate for their children’s educational rights. Her commitment to equity, accessibility, and justice makes her an invaluable leader on our team. We are honored to have Ariane lead our Family Advocacy efforts in the Bronx and beyond!
Ariane León