Several states clustered in the south-central region of the United States have no FASD United Affiliate organization. In order to fill some of the gaps in services created by this lack of affiliates, Arkansas None for Nine is organizing a regional consortium of interested parties. Individuals and organizations in Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Oklahoma are invited to become part of the FASD South Central Regional Consortium, which will serve as an incubator for organizing, mentoring, and nurturing the development of affiliates in those states. In the interim, individuals and organizations might serve as a point of contact for inquiries about services or families looking for one-on-one support. When joining the collaborative, one may determine the role one wishes to take. A member may take an active role as a point or contact or organizer of an affiliate. Members may also choose a role of only participating in webinars or support activities.
Neighboring states with affiliates (Alabama, Kansas, Tennessee, and Texas) are also invited to be part of the consortium. At organizational meetings, those affiliates will have an opportunity to discuss options for mutual support.
Possible activities include:
- Regularly scheduled meetings
- Technical assistance upon request
- Point of contact for FASD United Navigator program
- Recruitment of new consortium members
- Development of resources and events to promote awareness, support, and fundraising
- Other activities as mutually agreed
An organizational meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 13, at 1:00 p.m. (Central), and for those unable to attend, a make-up meeting will be held on Thursday, March 21, at 6:30 p.m. (Central). The Zoom link for the March 13 meeting will be https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84275222666.
For more information or to become part of the consortium, contact David Deere at deere@uark.edu or 501-765-6522.