Maine's Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Monthly Learning Series
Basic Advocacy: How to Advocate for What Your Kids Needs
Presented by G.E.A.R. Parent Network
When: October 5, 2026 | 3:30 - 4:30PM
Advocating for a child can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating education, healthcare, behavioral health, and community services. This webinar will provide parents and caregivers with practical tools and strategies to become effective advocates for their children. Participants will learn how to communicate confidently, prepare for meetings, understand their rights, build collaborative relationships with professionals, and ensure their child's needs are heard and addressed. Whether you are new to advocacy or looking to strengthen your skills, this session will empower you to support your child and family with greater confidence and success
Presenter: Candy Sovetsky, BA, MHRT/C: Candy Sovetsky serves as the Director of G.E.A.R. Parent Network, where she leads statewide efforts to support, educate, and empower families of children with behavioral health, developmental, and other complex needs. Since assuming this role in 2026, she has been dedicated to strengthening family engagement, promoting peer support, and advancing family-centered advocacy across Maine.