Maine Parent Federation, INC

11/30/2025

“Recently, a derogatory term referring to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities was used publicly by a national leader. Regardless of who uses it, this word is harmful, outdated, and deeply offensive to our community.

At Best Buddies we believe that every person deserves to be spoken about with dignity and respect. Words shape attitudes and attitudes shape actions. When harmful language is normalized, it reinforces stigma and erodes the progress our community has worked so hard to achieve.

We stand with the individuals and families we serve and call on all public figures to choose language that reflects compassion, respect, and humanity. Our mission is to create a more inclusive world, and we urge everyone to join us in that effort—starting with the words we choose.”

11/30/2025

MPF would like to take a moment and address a Thanksgiving Day truth-social media post which used the “R” word. We have worked hard in our society to end the use of the “R” word. While this was unfortunate at MPF we will use it to continue to energize our work and continue to increase awareness and positive outcomes for all the incredible individuals in our lives.

Lastly, a thank you to Indiana State Senator Mike Bohacek who has a daughter with Down Syndrome and took a stand against the use of the “R” word.

Send a message to learn more

11/26/2025

https://www.caltrin.org/blog-holiday-overwhelm/

Holiday stress can negatively impact families. Help parents and caregivers who may be struggling with managing expectations and stress this holiday season.

11/26/2025

The office will be closed until 12/01/2025. We hope you all have a happy holiday!

11/26/2025

11/25/2025

11/25/2025

Maine Youth Chat is a virtual group for young people in Maine to network and learn about new opportunities. Together we will build and share skills in communication, self-advocacy, and decision making, with the shared purpose of building a supportive community of like-minded people.

Please email dcampbell@mpf.org with any questions.

Nov 25, 2025 04:00 PM
Dec 9, 2025 04:00 PM
Dec 23, 2025 04:00 PM
Jan 6, 2026 04:00 PM
Jan 20, 2026 04:00 PM

11/25/2025

Check out the winter edition of our newsletter- Parent Connection:

The MPF Newsletter, Parent Connection, is published quarterly. The newsletter is sent electronically via Constant Contact to parents and professionals by request and is also found through the links below.

11/25/2025

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, a time to deepen understanding, raise awareness, and stand with the more than 3 million Americans living with epilepsy. One of the most meaningful ways we can support individuals and families is by learning about potential seizure triggers and how they impact daily life.

Some common triggers include:

• Lack of sleep

• Stress

• Illness or fever

• Flashing or flickering lights

• Very low blood sugar

• Alcohol or drug use

While not every seizure has an identifiable trigger, being aware of these possibilities can help individuals, families, classmates, coworkers, and caregivers create safer and more supportive environments.

We also know that experiences vary greatly from person to person — and your perspective helps others feel seen and understood.

💬 Did we miss anything?

Join the conversation and share your thoughts or personal insights on Instagram or Facebook:

• Instagram

• Facebook

Your voice helps expand understanding and builds a more informed, compassionate community.

11/24/2025

Greetings MPF Families and Community Partners,

Here is an updated link for the Ask Us Anything on Tuesday November 25th at noon.

Ask Us Anything Live Q@A on Tues, Nov 25th at noon

A general forum to ask us… well… anything! Join alongside MPF staff, community members, and Maine families to meet us and have your questions heard. We will have the option of one-to-one breakout rooms for more private questions and personal preferences.

Please register with the link below.

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEucOCqqzsuE9QllHV5ECWAZKty01TqHUhZ

As a reminder, The Maine Parent Federation does not offer compensation, including gift cards, or other monetary incentives for attendance at our events.

Our events are free of charge to parents/caretakers, self-advocates, and professionals/providers of individuals with different abilities. The intention of our resources is to provide education to improve access to systems of care to increase more positive outcomes in our state. We respectfully ask if you have registered for compensation only and are not a parent or provider looking for resources to improve outcomes for individuals with different abilities to refrain from attending. We pride ourselves on creating safe spaces for individuals to receive information.

A general forum to ask us... well... anything! Join alongside MPF staff, community members, and Maine families to meet us and have your questions hears. We will have the option of one-to-one breakout rooms for more private questions and personal preferences. Occurs on the last Tuesday of each month....