Families Matter Inc

Families Matter Inc Families Matter Inc provides goal-based, community support programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

We foster growth, friendship, and independence in a safe, welcoming, and family-centered environment. Families Matter Inc is a nonprofit organization serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through individualized, goal-based programs in Maine. Founded by families in 1992, we’ve grown from a one-day pilot into a five-day-a-week program serving more than 80 individuals across

four locations. Our mission is to enhance quality of life through therapeutic community integration, lifelong learning, and personal growth. We offer community support services, shared living, volunteer opportunities, recreational activities, and skill-building programs—all guided by the Person-Centered Planning process. Rooted in compassion and built on trust, Families Matter is known for its long-standing staff, welcoming culture, and deep relationships with the families and communities it serves. We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to grow, connect, and live a meaningful life—supported, celebrated, and never left behind.

Flowers for everybody! 💐Our Board of Directors gathered for our annual meeting — and yes, we made them pose in a parking...
08/25/2026

Flowers for everybody! 💐

Our Board of Directors gathered for our annual meeting — and yes, we made them pose in a parking lot at sunset. Worth it.

Thank you to every one of our Families Matter Inc board members for the time, expertise, and heart you give to our organization. Because of you, families across our four central Maine locations have a place where their loved ones belong.

We're lucky to have you. 💚

Your loved one has the right to privacy in their living space. The right to choose what they eat, who they spend time wi...
07/31/2026

Your loved one has the right to privacy in their living space. The right to choose what they eat, who they spend time with, and what they do. The right to work in real community jobs. The right to control their own money.

These aren't perks. They're federal rights under the HCBS Settings Rule.

Most families have never heard of them. Yet they fundamentally shape what quality support looks like.

We just published a complete guide to understanding these rights and what they mean in practice—because knowing them is the first step to demanding them for your loved one. >> https://familiesmatterinc.org/your-rights-in-adult-services-what-the-hcbs-settings-rule-means-for-you/

Today, we celebrate International Day of Friendship—a global day dedicated to recognizing the power of friendship to bui...
07/30/2026

Today, we celebrate International Day of Friendship—a global day dedicated to recognizing the power of friendship to build understanding, strengthen communities, and connect people across all differences.

At Families Matter Inc, friendship is at the heart of everything we do. We create opportunities for individuals to build authentic relationships—with peers, with supportive staff, and with their broader community. We believe everyone deserves to belong, to be valued, and to experience the joy of genuine connection.

To everyone in our community: thank you for showing up for each other, for celebrating differences, and for building friendships that matter.

Signed on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act transformed workplaces, schools, transportation, and commun...
07/26/2026

Signed on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act transformed workplaces, schools, transportation, and communities. It affirmed a fundamental truth: disability rights are civil rights, and people with disabilities deserve full participation in society.

At Families Matter Inc, the ADA's promise of inclusion guides our work every day. We're committed to creating pathways for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build independence, engage in their communities, and live with dignity and respect.

The work of the ADA isn't finished. We continue to advocate for full inclusion and equal opportunity for all.

Here's something that should be obvious but isn't: your loved one deserves autonomy. The right to make choices, even ris...
07/23/2026

Here's something that should be obvious but isn't: your loved one deserves autonomy. The right to make choices, even risky ones. The right to disagree. The right to live how they want, in community, with dignity.

The HCBS Settings Rule calls this "dignity of risk." It means respecting someone's right to take chances and learn—like adults without disabilities get to do every day.

If your loved one receives Medicaid services in Maine, they have this right. Do they experience it?

We just published a detailed breakdown of your loved one's HCBS rights and what quality support actually looks like. >> https://familiesmatterinc.org/your-rights-in-adult-services-what-the-hcbs-settings-rule-means-for-you/

Because understanding these protections is how you demand them.

Did you know? Fragile X Syndrome is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability—affecting approximately 1...
07/22/2026

Did you know?

Fragile X Syndrome is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability—affecting approximately 1 in 3,600 to 4,000 males and 1 in 4,000 to 6,000 females, often co-occurring with autism and anxiety. Yet individuals with Fragile X are capable, valued members of our communities who deserve support, inclusion, and opportunity to thrive.

At Families Matter Inc, we're honored to support individuals with Fragile X and their families. Every person deserves to be seen for who they are—not defined by their diagnosis, but celebrated for their unique strengths and potential.

To families affected by Fragile X: you are not alone. Support, resources, and community are here.

This July, we celebrate Disability Pride Month—a time to honor disability identity, community, and the incredible contri...
07/21/2026

This July, we celebrate Disability Pride Month—a time to honor disability identity, community, and the incredible contributions of people with disabilities in our lives and communities.

At Families Matter Inc, we've learned something beautiful from the individuals we serve: disability isn't something to hide or overcome. It's part of who they are, and it makes them exactly who they're meant to be. Their perspectives, creativity, resilience, and unique ways of experiencing the world make our community richer, kinder, and more genuine.

Disability Pride is about belonging. It's about being accepted on your own terms. It's about knowing that your voice matters, your presence matters, and the world genuinely works better when you're included.

To every person with a disability in our community: you belong here. Your gifts matter. Thank you for making us all better.

Case managers carry heavy caseloads. Budgets are tight. Turnover happens.But here's the thing: when families, case manag...
07/03/2026

Case managers carry heavy caseloads. Budgets are tight. Turnover happens.

But here's the thing: when families, case managers, and service providers communicate clearly and work together intentionally, the system actually works.

✓ You ask the right questions
✓ Your case manager knows you're engaged
✓ Your provider follows through

We've put together practical strategies for strengthening case manager partnerships in Maine—from setting communication expectations to navigating transitions when change happens.

Ready to build a stronger partnership? Check out our new guide for families. https://familiesmatterinc.org/working-with-your-case-manager-a-familys-guide-to-navigating-maines-system/

Here's something many families don't know about Maine: conflict-free case management.Your case manager is required by la...
06/25/2026

Here's something many families don't know about Maine: conflict-free case management.

Your case manager is required by law to work for a DIFFERENT organization than your service provider. No financial incentive to say "no." No budget pressure influencing their advocacy. Just clear focus on YOUR family's outcome.

It's a structural safeguard that protects you—and it's unique to Maine.

But do you understand how it works? Do you know what questions to ask your case manager?

We just published a complete guide on building strong case manager partnerships, understanding your rights, and navigating the Lifespan Waiver changes coming this July. >> https://familiesmatterinc.org/working-with-your-case-manager-a-familys-guide-to-navigating-maines-system/

What's one thing you wish you'd known about working with your case manager? Share in the comments—we'd love to hear from you.

Today, we celebrate Olympic & Paralympic Day—honoring athletes of all abilities who embody courage, determination, and t...
06/23/2026

Today, we celebrate Olympic & Paralympic Day—honoring athletes of all abilities who embody courage, determination, and the joy of sport.

At Families Matter, Special Olympics has been a cornerstone of our programs since 1996. Year-round, the individuals we serve train with dedication, compete in regional and state events, and experience the pride of representing their communities.

Our Special Olympics athletes don't just participate in sports—they inspire us. They show us what courage looks like and demonstrate that with determination and support, anyone can achieve greatness.

To every athlete who trains with heart and competes with courage: you are champions. Thank you for inspiring us all.

Address

28 Mayflower Road
Hallowell, ME
04347

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4pm
Tuesday 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 8am - 4pm
Thursday 8am - 4pm
Friday 8am - 4pm

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