We The People, By The People, For ALL the People
Our Story
This started the way so many important things do, with a small group of families who cared deeply and wanted to do more.
On August 4, 2023, families gathered in Collier County to talk about the challenges facing people with developmental disabilities in Florida.
They were led by a shared desire to make things better, to be heard, and to learn how to connect with local legislators. The passion was there, but like many families across the state, they weren’t sure what to do next.
What came from that night wasn’t a formal organization. It wasn’t about titles or roles. It was the beginning of a movement built by families, for families.
Out of that conversation, two parents ,one mom and one dad, began meeting weekly on Zoom. It started small, but it was grounded in hope. As more parents, caregivers, self-advocates, and providers joined in, the calls grew into a safe space where families could learn, share, and take action together.
Together, we learned how to share our stories. We listened, encouraged one another, and began to understand the legislative process. We watched families go from feeling isolated to feeling empowered, and we kept showing up.
For many of us, the first time we met in person was at Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day in Tallahassee during the 2024 legislative session. Standing side by side, we witnessed the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 1758, a bill shaped by the very voices that had been showing up every Friday on our calls.
That moment wasn’t the end. It was just the beginning.
The following year, we continued organizing, encouraging others, and showing up for each other. House Bill 1103 passed with unanimous support, again reflecting the lived experiences of Florida’s disability community. These weren’t victories claimed by a few. They were the result of hundreds of families raising their voices together.
What began with a handful of people has now grown into a statewide community of more than 1,200 families, advocates, and allies. We are not defined by a few leaders. We are defined by a shared belief that real change comes from real people working together.
This is your story too. Whether you’ve been with us since that first Zoom or you just found your way here, there’s a place for you. We’re families helping families. And together, we are stronger than we ever could be alone.
