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Autumn 2026

PPAL PATHFINDER PARENT/PROFESSIONAL ADVOCACY LEAGUE, INC.

www.PPAL.net

(866) 815-8122

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Happy Fall! When I think of fall, I remember those days of back-to-school frenzy, open houses, IEP meetings - all while we’re trying to get our children (and ourselves!) to settle into the “new.” I think settling into the “new” means gradually feeling comfortable, establishing a new routine, finding a rhythm. Then, of course, I think “yeah, right.” Those routines and rhythms don’t always come so easy for our households, do they? I remember wishing that there was a routine or rhythm in my household when my kids were growing up. I never knew what any given day would look like. Would my child be up on time? Would they actually get dressed today (no, a bathing suit isn’t “dressed” in January)? Would they refuse to take their medicine, get on the bus, or go to school altogether? No rhythm, no routine, no settling in. Our settling in is swapped for surviving. Every day. It’s exhausting, worrisome, and disheartening. What helped me? Talking (and worrying) with other parents who shared similar situations. Holding each other up and hugging each other when we needed it. Understanding that surviving every day is our superpower. You got this. And, when you don’t, we’re here to hold you up and hug you.

Be well, my friends.

Pam Sager

Keep In Touch With PPAL! Phone: (866) 815-8122 Email: info@ppal.net Website: PPAL.net Facebook: facebook.com/PPAL.net YouTube: @PPALforFamilies

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Table of Contents Upcoming Workshops......................................................................................

Parent/Caregiver Connections & Support........................................................

PPAL’s July Question of the Month Results.....................................................

PPAL’s August Question of the Month Results................................................

Documenting Mental Health Needs: Why Keeping Good Records Matters.....

Workshop: My Child’s Not Going To School: What Now?................................

PPAL’s Staff Spotlight......................................................................................

PPAL’s Central Mass Area Update..................................................................

PPAL’s Juvenile Justice Updates.....................................................................

Youth MOVE Massachusetts Update...............................................................

LGBTQIA+ Resources for Youth and Young Adults in Massachusetts............

PPAL’s Multicultural Update.............................................................................

National Night Out............................................................................................

Policy Updates.................................................................................................

Timelines for Special Education Services........................................................

Parents of Teens and Young Adults: Are you looking for a safe place to share information, events, stories, and support among families of Transition Age Youth who have behavioral health needs in Massachusetts? Join PPAL’s Facebook group! Click here.

www.PPAL.net

CONNECT WITH US!

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS The Mental Health IEP 10/14/2026

12:00 - 2:00 PM

CLICK A LINK FOR MORE INFO! or visit http://ppal.net/events/

Moving Forward Together: Building a Foundation of Support 10/28/2026

Moving To Young Adult Life: Transition Planning And Post Secondary Options 10/19/2026

10:00 - 11:30 AM

Juvenile Justice Basics: Juvenile Justice 101 10/19/2026

6:00 - 7:30 PM

My Child's Not Going To School: What Now? 10/21/2026

12:00 - 2:00 PM

The Mental Health IEP 10/28/2026

12:00 - 2:00 PM

What to Know, What to Expect: Juvenile Justice 102 10/29/2026

6:00 - 7:30 PM

Conceptos Básicos de Justicia Juvenil: Justicia Juvenil 101 11/2/2026

6:00 - 7:30 PM

Juvenile Justice Basics: Juvenile Justice 101 11/9/2026

1:00 - 2:30 PM

Qué Saber, Qué Esperar: Justicia Juvenil 102 11/16/2026

6:00 - 7:30 PM

(866) 815-8122

Parent/Caregiver Connections & Support Our groups sometimes change. Please visit PPAL.net/Events for links and the most up-to-date info.

Are you navigating the mental or behavioral health systems for a child, teen, or young adult?

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Virtual: Grupo de Apoyo Hispano 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Hybrid: Caregiver Connections 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Request 1:1 peer support!

Hybrid: Parenting Young Adults Looking to the Future 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

We have NO waitlist!

(Winchendon)

es. Servic FREEinsurance

No quired. re

(Gardner) up In-person Support Gro ster! coming soon to Worce

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Virtual: Relax & Connect 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Virtual: Grandparents Lunch and Learn 2nd Thursdays 12:00 - 2:00 PM

Virtual: Parenting Power UP 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Virtual: Caregiver Connections 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

4th Thursdays 6:30 - 8:00 PM

In Person: Family Support Group 2nd & 4th Fridays 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Virtual: Empowered Caregiver Connections 6:00 - 7:30 PM

(Lynn, MA)

Do you need help navigating and advocating in the school system for a loved one with mental or behavioral health needs?

Email Dalene to RSVP: ptahsw@verizon.net

School Problem Solving Clinic

Make An Appointment! PPALSchoolClinic@ppal.net

www.PPAL.net

PPAL's Question of the Month July 2026 Results How does parenting a child with mental health needs impact your work day? What families are saying...

85%

of families reported that raising a child with mental health needs has impacted their ability to work outside the home. PPAL hears from families that income stability, access to medical care, and dependence on state supports are negatively impacted. 54% decided to pass on promotions or job changes. 50% can only work part time. 36% can only work remotely. 20% are UNABLE to work for pay. Families reported significant disruptions in their day-to-day work.

79% Often late or have to leave early 66% School calls a lot 65% Miss work for lots of meetings 39% Miss work for hospital boarding/hospital stays

35% Needed to go on FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE 9% FIRED from their jobs

What does this mean for families? It’s almost impossible for the primary caregiver of a child with mental health challenges to work outside the home. The challenges of raising a child with mental health needs create immeasurable pressure for caregivers and families. It has longterm implications for the caregivers, the child, the family, and the entire community. PPAL offers FREE 1:1 family support and workshops led by PPAL staff who are caregivers just like you. Request family support here or call us toll-free at (866) 8158122.

(866) 815-8122

PPAL's Question of the Month August 2026 Results Are you navigating Massachusetts State agencies in your child’s life? What families are saying...

74%

61%

navigated at least one Massachusetts state agency* in their child’s life.

interacted with 2 or more state agencies*.

51%

interacted with the Dept. of Children & Families (DCF).

58%

47%

have Dept. of Developmental Services (DDS) involvement.

have Dept. of Mental Health (DMH) involvement.

When asked if a single point of entry for all state child-serving agencies would help, 92% indicated they would like something different. 54% of families recommended a single application. Other suggestions to improve access to state agencies included: 57% Someone to help with paperwork 50% Website 48% Online portal

39% Call line 25% Access in my preferred language 16% Video instruction

* MA Agencies: Dept. of Children and Families (DCF), Dept. of Developmental Services (DDS), Dept. of Mental Health (DMH), Dept. of Public Health (DPH), Dept. of Youth Services (DYS), Juvenile Court, MassAbility, Office of the Child Advocate (OCA)

What does this mean for families? Given the numbers above, clearly the system needs to be streamlined to ensure it is accessible and meets the needs of families. PPAL offers FREE 1:1 family support and workshops led by PPAL staff who are caregivers just like you. Request family support here or call us toll-free at (866) 815-8122.

www.PPAL.net

Documenting Mental Health Needs: Why Keeping Good Records Matters By Robin Richardson

Don't just document the diagnosis— document what happens A diagnosis tells only part of the story. What matters is also how a person's mental health affects their ability to function at home, at school, at work, and in the community. Thomas recommends keeping track of symptoms in concrete terms, including how often they happen, how long they last, and what happens afterward. For example, instead of writing: “My child has frequent panic attacks,” you might keep track of information such as: When a child or young person is struggling with their mental health, families often spend a lot of time trying to get the right help. There may be therapy appointments, medication visits, school meetings, hospitalizations, crisis services, or other supports. Keeping track of all of this can feel like one more thing to do. But good documentation can make a difference— especially when a young person needs to show how their mental health affects everyday life or when a family is applying for disability benefits such as SSI

How many panic attacks happen in a week or month? How long do they usually last? Do they happen at home, at school, at work, or in other settings? Does the person have difficulty concentrating afterward? Are there activities they cannot do because of the panic attacks?

or SSDI. We spoke with Caitlin Thomas, an expert who works with families navigating the disability process. Her biggest message was simple:

“It’s about documentation, documentation, documentation.”

The same approach can be used for other symptoms. Families might keep track of crying spells, nightmares, flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, days when a child cannot get out of bed, meltdowns, aggression, impulsive behavior, hallucinations, or other symptoms that are part of that person's experience. The goal isn't to make a list of everything that is wrong. The goal is to create an accurate picture of what the person is actually experiencing.

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Consider keeping track of:

Make sure providers know what is happening

Symptoms

One of Thomas's strongest recommendations was

What is happening? How often does it happen? How long does it last? What happens afterward?

to make sure that important information gets into the person's medical records.

Daily functioning What is difficult at home, school, work, or in the community? What can your child do independently? What requires reminders, assistance, or support? What happens after a stressful day?

Treatment Appointments and hospitalizations Medication changes and side effects Changes in symptoms Therapy, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, or other services

School IEPs and evaluations Relevant disciplinary or nursing records Other records that help show your child's needs and functioning

Important events Mental health crises Significant changes in functioning Work or school difficulties Other events that help tell the story

Communication Keep a record of important conversations with providers, schools, Social Security, and other agencies. Bring updated information about symptoms and functioning to appointments.

Most important: Keep the information accurate. The goal isn't to make your child look better or worse; it's to help others understand what life is really like for your child.

www.PPAL.net

She suggests bringing a short list of current symptoms to appointments and updating it as things change. Even if a provider says, “I know that already,” she recommends sharing the information again. For example: “Crying spells: one to three times a week, lasting 5–30 minutes.” Or: “Nightmares: four to five times a night.” The numbers don't have to look exactly like these examples. What matters is being specific and updating the information when the frequency or severity changes.

“These are not static,” Thomas explained. “If the numbers get better, change the numbers. If the numbers get worse, change the numbers.” Thomas recommends telling providers about medication side effects and other changes in symptoms rather than assuming they already know. Information from family members can also be important. If a child or young person is having frequent meltdowns, becoming aggressive, isolating themselves, or experiencing significant changes at home, parents and caregivers can keep a record and make sure the prescribing or other medical provider knows about it.

Ask providers to describe functioning Another important piece of documentation is information about how a person's mental health affects their functioning. A provider saying that someone is “very depressed” or has bipolar disorder, for example, doesn't necessarily describe what the person can or cannot do day to day. Thomas recommends asking providers to document specific limitations, such as difficulty: attending school or work reliably; staying focused or concentrating; remaining on task; interacting appropriately with other people; managing symptoms such as hearing voices; maintaining a regular schedule; or completing everyday responsibilities independently. For someone who may appear to function well in some settings, it can also be important to document the level of support they need outside of work or school. Someone might be able to complete a job with support but still have significant difficulty managing a household, keeping track of bills, preparing food, communicating with medical providers, or handling unexpected problems. The more clearly the records describe a person's actual functioning, the more complete the picture becomes.

What happens outside the doctor's office matters, too Some of the most useful information may come from everyday life. For example, a young person might technically be able to work, but what happens around that work may tell a much fuller story. Do they become overwhelmed during their shift? Spend time crying in the bathroom? Have trouble sleeping the night before work? Come home exhausted and unable to do anything else?

Thomas recommends making sure that this information is communicated to the people supporting the young person, including employment-support programs when appropriate. The same principle applies to school and home. A person's functioning isn't limited to what a provider sees during a short appointment.

Don't overlook school records For children and young adults, school records can provide valuable information about how mental health needs have affected them over time. Thomas recommends keeping copies of relevant records, including: Individualized Education Programs (IEPs); recent school evaluations; records from specialized schools or programs; disciplinary records when behavior is related to mental health needs; and school nursing records when frequent visits are related to symptoms such as anxiety, headaches, or stomach problems. For young adults, older school records can also help show what their functioning looked like during adolescence. If a teacher, counselor, or other school professional has information that helps describe a student's functioning, that information may also be useful. The important thing is that school records can add another perspective to the story.

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Supporting your child without accidentally hiding their needs

Don't try to make your child look better— or worse

This can be one of the hardest parts for parents and caregivers.

Parents often become very good at helping their children get through difficult situations. They may prepare them before an appointment, remind them what to say, help them get dressed, or explain what has been happening.

When a child is struggling, it is natural to step in. Parents may remind their child about appointments, make sure they have what they need for school or work, help them get places, or take care of responsibilities that have become difficult. That support can be necessary—and families should not feel guilty for providing it. At the same time, Thomas points out that extensive support can sometimes make it difficult for other people to see how much help a young person actually needs.

Thomas's advice is to make sure that this support doesn't accidentally hide the person's difficulties. At the same time, the goal is not to make a child appear worse than they are. Accurate information is what matters. If a child is doing well because of substantial support, that is important information, too.

The goal isn't to make a child “fail” or deliberately leave them without support. Instead, families can pay attention to what the child can do independently, what requires assistance, and what happens when that assistance isn't available. For example: Does a young person need reminders to keep appointments? Can they get themselves ready for school or work? Can they manage transportation independently? What happens after a stressful school or workday? How much help do they need with everyday responsibilities? Those details can help providers and other professionals understand the person's actual level of functioning.

www.PPAL.net

Keep your own records Families can also keep a simple record of important events and contacts.

If your family hasn't been keeping detailed records, don't worry about trying to recreate everything.

Consider keeping track of:

Start now.

appointments and missed appointments; hospitalizations or intensive treatment; major changes in symptoms; medication changes and side effects; significant crises; school meetings and changes in services; work-related difficulties; and conversations or correspondence with agencies involved in the disability process.

Write down what is happening. Bring that information to appointments. Ask providers to document changes in symptoms and functioning. Keep important school records. Save records from significant mental-health episodes.

Thomas recommends keeping a log when communicating with Social Security or other agencies, including the date, who you spoke with, and what was discussed.

They can help a new provider understand what has happened over time. They can help a school understand a student's needs. They can help families communicate with other professionals. And if a young person eventually needs to demonstrate how a mental health condition affects their ability to function, those records may provide important evidence.

It doesn't need to be complicated. A notebook, spreadsheet, or simple document can work.

Start where you are

And remember that documentation isn't just about applying for SSI or SSDI.

Good records can help tell your child's story

(866) 815-8122

Does your child resist going to school, avoid doing schoolwork, or frequently ask to come home early? If your child is struggling with school avoidance, join PPAL’s discussion of how to face this challenge while maintaining the number one priority: our relationship with our child!

October 21

https://bit.ly/school-1021

12:00 - 2:00 PM on Zoom

or scan to see all events:

ABOUT PARENT/PROFESSIONAL ADVOCACY LEAGUE The Parent/Professional Advocacy League, Inc. (PPAL) is a statewide family organization dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of children, youth and families through support, education, and advocacy.

Parent Support

Advocacy

Education

We offer 1:1 and group support for families of children with mental and behavioral health needs

PPAL works with parents and policy groups to improve children’s mental health

PPAL offers workshops and trainings for parents and professionals

PPAL.net

18 Lyman Street, Suite 260, Westborough, MA 01581

Questions? Email Training@PPAL.net www.PPAL.net

Staff Spotlight

Meet Beth Bergstrom Assistant Program Manager, Central MA Celebrating 4 years with PPAL! Fun Fact: I hate feet! Tell us about your role with PPAL and how you got here. I have the honor of working under our DMH Central MA Area contract as Assistant Program Manager. I was first connected to PPAL as a parent looking for support. I began working for PPAL for 10 hours a week while my family was going through a big transition. What drew you to children's mental health advocacy? The youth, especially my own children, who are carrying largely invisible struggles. As well as the families trying to navigate complex systems and a vision for better. What is your favorite part about your job and why? This is the hardest question! While this may sound cliché, it's that my job doesn't feel like work; it feels like purpose. What professional accomplishments are you most proud of? The growth that the staff I get to supervise make in themselves. As well as the growth in the families we serve and their youth.

Meet Zaida Gomez Family Support Specialist/Multicultural Outreach Specialist Celebrating 2 years with PPAL! Fun Fact: I can go from supporting a family to planning a party! I love helping people in both my professional and creative worlds. Tell us about your role at PPAL and how you got here. I am a Family Support Specialist helping families from different cultures access and advocate for the services and resources their child needs. I came to PPAL as a parent who once needed the same help and support that I now provide to other families. What drew you to children’s mental health advocacy? My own experience motivated me, especially seeing the stigma many Latino families face around mental health and the lack of culturally responsive resources and support. I wanted to help families understand that mental health is real and important. What do you like most about your job and why? I love supporting and empowering parents to advocate for their children and families while helping them navigate and access the resources available to them. What professional achievements are you most proud of? I am most proud of knowing that my work helps families feel heard, understood, and supported during some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Tell us something interesting about yourself! I can go from supporting a family to planning a party! I love helping people in both my professional and creative worlds.

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Staff Spotlight

Meet Johana Rodriguez Statewide/Multicultural Outreach Program Manager Celebrating 5 years with PPAL! Fun Fact: I enjoy gardening and cooking and am a proud member of a Bolivian group that celebrates Latin American culture through dance, music, and community. Tell us about your role with PPAL and how you got here. I am PPAL’s Statewide/Multicultural Outreach Program Manager, where I lead efforts to connect families and youth with culturally responsive resources, advocacy, and family support. Originally from Honduras, my lived experience as a parent, immigrant, and community member navigating complex systems inspired me to do this work and help families feel heard, respected, and empowered. What drew you to children’s mental health advocacy? My lived experience showed me how overwhelming it can be when a child or family is struggling and parents do not know where to turn. I believe every family deserves support without judgment and services that honor their culture, language, strengths, and unique experiences. What is your favorite part about your job and why? My favorite part of my work is meeting families in their communities and helping them recognize that they are not alone. Whether I am at a school event, resource fair, workshop, family celebration, or community gathering, I enjoy creating welcoming spaces where families can ask questions, find resources, and build confidence in advocating for their children. What professional accomplishments are you most proud of? I am proud of leading and expanding PPAL’s multicultural outreach through statewide events, partnerships, and collaborations. I am also honored to have been publicly recognized by many organizations for my work.

www.PPAL.net

Meet Zack Lavergne Family Support Specialist Celebrating 3 years with PPAL! Fun Fact: I just recently completed my Bachelor's degree in Human Services and was the oldest person in my graduating class. Tell us about your role with PPAL and how you got here? I am a Family Support Specialist at PPAL on the Central Mass and Juvenile Justice teams. I first came to PPAL as a parent seeking support and came on board in 2023. What drew you to children's mental health advocacy? I was drawn into children's mental health advocacy because I have 2 children who both have significant mental health challenges. What is your favorite part about your job and why? My favorite part of my job is being able to come alongside other parents who are struggling and helping them find a way through the mess and seeing them succeed. What professional accomplishments are you most proud of? The professional accomplishments that I am most proud of are being the lead facilitator for the Mental Health IEP workshops and being in charge of managing our School Problem Solving Clinics.

Connecting, Celebrating & Building Community Across Central Massachusetts Central Mass Highlights! It was a busy and exciting summer for PPAL across Central Massachusetts! Our team was out in communities throughout the region, connecting with families, building partnerships, and making sure caregivers know they don't have to navigate challenges alone. This summer, PPAL staff were proud to participate in the DMH Pride Event in Fitchburg, celebrating inclusion, belonging, and the importance of creating welcoming spaces for every young person and family. We also joined National Night Out events across the region, giving us opportunities to meet families right in their own communities, share resources, and strengthen connections with local organizations. We are excited to continue our in-person Coffee Meets! These informal gatherings are a chance for caregivers to grab a cup of coffee, meet PPAL staff, connect with other families, ask questions, and learn more about the free support and resources available through PPAL. Coffee Meets are happening in communities including Plainville, Walpole, Needham, Newton, and more locations throughout the region. Let us know if you’d like one in yours! Whether we meet you at a community event, over a cup of coffee, at a support group, or through one-on-one family support, our goal remains the same: to make sure families feel heard, supported, connected, and empowered. There is much more coming this fall! Watch your email and follow the PPAL Facebook page for upcoming Coffee Meets, family events, trainings, support groups, and other opportunities to connect.

In Partnership, Dani and Beth Central MA Program Director and Assistant Program Manager

Contact PPAL: Request family support here Call us toll-free at (866) 815-8122 Email: info@PPAL.net

(866) 815-8122

Juvenile Justice Updates In June, PPAL’s Juvenile Justice team held a very successful “Solace in Solidarity” retreat for families. The “Solace in Solidarity” retreat is designed specifically for parents and caregivers of children navigating juvenile justice, courts, police, school/resource officer challenges, child welfare, and other systems. PPAL recognizes the unique challenges faced by families involved in those systems, and knows that entering them can be traumatic and painful. This retreat enabled parents and caregivers to come together to share experiences, learn, heal, and build a circle of support. Also in June, we held a screening of “Seeing RED: Changing the Narrative” for families and professionals. “Seeing RED: Changing the Narrative,” a short video released in 2024 by DYS, shows the issues of racial and ethnic disparities and other systemic biases from the perspective of impacted youth, families, and communities. Three families share their personal stories of system involvement and offer candid critiques and advice that challenge Massachusetts’ systems to be more inclusive of impacted voices and to work towards racial equity. Viewers appreciated the film and held a lively discussion after the screening. We have continued our ongoing collaboration with 911 dispatchers and trained a cohort of their dispatchers in August. PPAL’s Juvenile Justice Program Manager, Candice Gabrey, recently received her official certificate from the Capstone Diversion Project from Georgetown University’s School of Public Policy, and is now a Georgetown fellow in their fellows network. The Diversion Project centers diversion as the default response for at-risk youth, aiming to reduce racial and ethnic disparities, disrupt school-to-prison pipelines, and build community-driven infrastructure. Congratulations, Candice! Finally, PPAL was excited to receive and begin distributing its “NO CRA” T-shirts - woohoo!

Candice Gabrey PPAL Juvenile Justice Program Manager

Contact PPAL’s Juvenile Justice Program: Request family support here Call us toll-free at (866) 815-8122 Email: info@PPAL.net

www.PPAL.net

Autumn Updates!

Youth MOVE Massachusetts has had an exciting summer, full of events and trainings for young adults. In July, Youth MOVE Massachusetts collaborated with the Statewide Young Adult Council (SYAC) to host a second Young Adult Advocacy Day. We welcomed young adults from across Massachusetts to the PLACE for Empowerment for a day of advocacy education. Speakers included: Lydia Proulx, Owner and Peer Support Specialist at Space Cases ADHD Coaching and Peer Support Kate Alicante, Associate Director of Public Policy and Government Relations for the Massachusetts Association for Mental Health Jayden Hernandez, Youth Advocate and Speaker from More Than Words Ewidji Vincent, Legislative Aide and Disability Advisor to Senator Jamie Eldridge Pamela Bows, PPAL’s Policy and Communications Coordinator Special guest, Representative Brian Murray! Advocacy Day concluded with young adults writing postcards to their legislators about topics they wanted prioritized in the upcoming legislative session. Youth MOVE MA hand-delivered these to legislators’ offices in the State House, emphasizing the importance of youth voice in advocacy. Advocacy Day is always a blast and helps equip young adults with knowledge and practical skills for future advocacy!

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Speaking of advocacy skills, Youth MOVE

delicious Dominican cuisine. Huge thank you to

Massachusetts has been busy partnering with youth-serving organizations to train youth how to

Youth MOVE National for opportunity to host this event!

share their lived experience for advocacy! “Strategic Sharing” is a workshop YMM provides that is designed to equip young adults to share their mental health journey in a safe, meaningful, and effective way. Youth MOVE MA partnered with LifeScene and Luk to offer this workshop to their young adults. If your organization is interested in Strategic Sharing, reach out to youthmovema@ppal.net for more information.

giving

the

Lastly, Youth MOVE MA has been working with Citizens for Juvenile Justice on their Youth Voter Guide. With primaries and general elections coming up, YMM wants youth to be educated and empowered to vote for candidates that best represent their interests. The Youth Voter Guide is packed with information on voter rights, a calendar of key deadlines, the roles of different

In August, Youth MOVE MA was awarded grant

elected officials, such as state legislators, Governor's Council members, and District

funding from Youth MOVE National to host an inperson “Food for Thought” event. This event

Attorneys, and more. Check out the Voter Guide here.

aimed to celebrate Latine culture, bring the community together over food, and open up conversations about mental health. We had an amazing turnout, and young adults talked about mental health stigma while enjoying some

If you are interested in keeping up with Youth MOVE Massachusetts, join our newsletter and stay up to date with events, opportunities, and more!

What is Youth MOVE Massachusetts? Youth MOVE Massachusetts is a youth- and young

Contact Youth MOVE Massachusetts:

adult-led organization rooted in peer support through lived experience with mental health needs. We provide

https://youthmovemassachusetts.net

our youth participants with access to leadership development and training opportunities and we offer

@youthmovemassachusetts

opportunities for engagement in statewide and national policy advocacy efforts.

www.PPAL.net

LGBTQIA+ Resources for Youth and Young Adults in Massachusetts Sometimes it’s hard to find someone who will talk with you about the things you’re facing as an LGBTQIA+ youth or young adult. These organizations are available to do just that:

The Trevor Project 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678-678 thetrevorproject.org/get-help

LGBT National Youth Talkline 1-800-246-PRIDE (7743) lgbthotline.org/youth-talkline

If you are struggling, in crisis, or considering suicide, call The Trevor Project for help. If you’d rather, you can also text or chat online with someone from The Trevor Project.

Peer counseling via phone or email – talk with someone your own age about coming out, relationships, your parents, school, safe sex, and more.

Pathways for Change 1-800-870-5905 (English) pathwaysforchange.help

Trans Lifeline Hotline 877-565-8860 https://translifeline.org

Get in touch with PFC if you need help because of sexualized violence.

Peer support hotline run by trans people for trans and questioning peers. Call if you need someone trans to talk to, even if you’re not in a crisis or if you’re not sure you’re trans.

There are also organizations in Massachusetts that exist specifically to offer support inperson to LGBTQIA+ youth. If you want to get together with others your age for face-toface peer support, check out these groups!

BAGLY 617-227-4313 www.bagly.org

Safe Homes 508-755-0333 https://safehomesma.org/

A youth-led organization that offers health education, social support groups, and leadership development.

A program supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) young people, and their straight allies, between the ages of 14 and 23. Safe Homes offers two locations: Worcester and North. They also host virtual drop-ins to reach youth, no matter where they are located.

Contact them for more information, or go to their website to find a youth group near you.

Supportive Educational Groups at AIDS Project Worcester 508-755-3773 aidsprojectworcester.org Structured discussions in a supportive social space – there are multiple groups meeting at different times throughout the week. Call or go online to find out which group is right for you.

youthmovemassachusetts.net ppal.net

(866) 815-8122

PPAL in the Community:

The Multicultural Outreach Team in Action Over the past several weeks, PPAL’s Multicultural Outreach Team has been actively connecting with families, youth, schools, community partners, and resource organizations across Massachusetts. Through resource fairs, school-based events, family celebrations, and community gatherings, our team continues to meet families where they are, sharing culturally responsive information, advocacy, and family-centered support. Each conversation is an opportunity to listen, build trust, and remind parents and caregivers that they do not have to navigate challenges alone. This summer, the team proudly represented PPAL at events including Lynn Family Fun Day, the Men and Gender-Based Violence Summit in Boston, the 11th Annual Peace B’Que in Dorchester, the Framingham Back-to-School Celebration, Jamaica Plain Open Streets, and the METCO Annual Tabling Event in Dorchester. From connecting families with local resources and school-year supports to participating in conversations about healing, prevention, and community well-being, PPAL staff brought meaningful information and encouragement directly to the communities we serve. These events offered more than an opportunity to distribute materials. They created space for real connection. Families were able to ask questions, learn about receiving PPAL’s family support and resource navigation services, and meet staff who understand the importance of culturally responsive, family-centered care. The Multicultural Outreach Team also strengthened partnerships with schools, family resource centers, local leaders, and community organizations working toward the shared goal of helping children, youth, and families thrive. We are grateful to every family, youth, partner, school, and event organizer who has welcomed PPAL into their community. Look for us at an event near you, stop by our table, or reach out directly. PPAL is here to support you, your family, and your community.

Johana Rodriguez, Statewide/Multicultural Outreach Program Manager

Contact PPAL: Request family support here Call us toll-free at (866) 815-8122 Email: info@PPAL.net

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National Night Out Connecting With Our Communities

This year, we had the opportunity to participate in National Night Out events across Massachusetts, connecting with families, youth, community members, and local organizations. Our team was out in the community tabling, sharing information and resources, and connecting with families and community partners. We participated in events throughout the Boston area, including Roslindale, West Roxbury, Jamaica Plain, and Brighton, as well as communities across the state, including Worcester, Chicopee, Newton, Dedham, Malden, and others. Each event offered something special, with music, food, games, face painting, raffles, community activities, family entertainment, and opportunities to meet local organizations and first responders. Families and young people had the chance to enjoy the activities while connecting with neighbors and learning about resources available in their communities.

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Local mayors, state reps, and other legislators were also at many of the National Night Out celebrations, including Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, who managed to visit several Boston area events in one evening, and who spoke (and took a selfie!) with PPAL's own Statewide/Multicultural Outreach Program Manager Johana Rodriguez. Several other local officials invited PPAL to visit them at the State House! Being present at these events gave us the opportunity to meet people where they are, listen to their experiences, answer questions, and share information about supports and services available to families and young people.

National Night Out is an annual campaign designed to strengthen police-community partnerships and foster neighborhood camaraderie. It provides us an important opportunity to come together, build connections, and strengthen relationships within our communities. We are grateful to all of the organizers, families, community members, and partners who welcomed us and made these events such a great experience.

We were proud to be out in the community and meet so many of you. We look forward to continuing these connections throughout the year!

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Policy Updates Massachusetts State Budget Process Brief Overview

Massachusetts State Legislative Process Brief Overview Legislative sessions are 2 years, and begin on the odd-numbered year: 2025, 2027 Prospective laws, called bills, are filed early in the session, and the rest of the session is spent deciding their fates The State Senate and State House of Representatives come together in Joint Committees a variety of subject-specific working groups Joint committees hear from interested parties - YOU - about whether bills should be passed There are multiple times throughout the 2-year session to advocate for meaningful change!

Want to learn MORE about the Commonwealth’s budget and legislative processes? Join us every other month at The Inside Track: Advocacy in Action, the fourth Tuesday of the month from 10:00 - 11:30 AM. Register for our November 17th meeting here.

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Policy Updates Bill Updates

AN ACT REGARDING FAMILIES AND CHILDREN IN NEED OF ASSISTANCE

Senate Bill S.141

House Bill H.265

Bill reported favorably by

New draft H.4599 An Act

committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and

establishing a bill of rights for children in foster care

Means

SIGNED INTO LAW

To the right are some updates around bills we’ve previously talked about. In most cases, PPAL has signed on to publicly

AN ACT EXPANDING ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

House Bill H.1131

Senate Bill S.773

Accompanied a new draft,

Accompanied a study order, see

support each bill.

see H.4895 Committee recommended bill

S.2972

Click on underlined words to go to each link.

ought to pass and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means

AN ACT RELATIVE TO SCHOOL MEDICAID REIMBURSEMENT

Senate Bill S.862

House Bill H.545

Bill reported favorably by

Health Care Financing, Reporting

committee and referred to the

date extended to Friday, July 31,

committee on Senate Ways and

2026 - died in committee

Means

AN ACT ENSURING EFFICIENT & EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ROADMAP FOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH REFORM

Senate Bill S.1394

House Bill H.2193

Accompanied a study order, see

Committee recommended bill

S.2972

ought to pass and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means

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Timelines for Special Education Services in Massachusetts NOTE: In measuring time - School districts use school days and parent(s) use calendar days