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.

Did you know eligibility for ABLE accounts just expanded—and thousands of Maine adults now qualify who couldn't before?A...
05/19/2026

Did you know eligibility for ABLE accounts just expanded—and thousands of Maine adults now qualify who couldn't before?
As of January 1, 2026, the ABLE Age Adjustment Act raised the disability onset age from 26 to 46. If your loved one's disability began before age 46, they may now be eligible to open an ABLE ME account—regardless of their current age.

ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or MaineCare benefits. Up to $100,000 can be saved without affecting eligibility, creating space for emergency funds, assistive technology, housing expenses, and more.

Maine's ABLE ME program (through Bangor Savings Bank) offers zero fees, a free debit card, and FDIC insurance—plus Maine doesn't recover from ABLE accounts at death.

This is a significant policy change that many Maine families don't know about yet. If you assumed your loved one didn't qualify, it's time to look again.

Learn more about Maine's ABLE ME program: https://familiesmatterinc.org/understanding-able-me-accounts-maines-expanded-savings-opportunity-for-adults-with-disabilities/

Here's what most Maine families don't know: ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or ...
05/18/2026

Here's what most Maine families don't know: ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or MaineCare.

The catch? Many people assume they don't qualify. But as of January 2026, eligibility expanded dramatically—if your disability began before age 46, you may now be eligible.

Maine's ABLE ME program is unique nationwide. Unlike investment-focused programs in other states, ABLE ME is an FDIC-insured checking account through Bangor Savings Bank with:
→ Zero fees
→ Free debit card
→ No minimum balance
→ Immediate access to funds
→ No MaineCare payback at death

You can save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility and use funds for housing, transportation, assistive technology, education, healthcare, and more.

If you've been trapped by the $2,000 SSI asset limit, ABLE accounts create new possibilities for financial security.

Learn whether your loved one now qualifies: https://familiesmatterinc.org/understanding-able-me-accounts-maines-expanded-savings-opportunity-for-adults-with-disabilities/

Today, we celebrate Child Care Provider and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day—honoring the dedicated professiona...
05/09/2026

Today, we celebrate Child Care Provider and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day—honoring the dedicated professionals who nurture, teach, and care for our youngest learners during the most formative years of their lives.

Early childhood educators and child care providers are often the first teachers a child will ever know. They create safe spaces for exploration, foster early social skills, recognize developmental milestones, and build the foundation for lifelong learning.

Thank you for the early morning arrivals and the patient afternoon pick-ups. Thank you for the developmental observations that lead families to resources. Thank you for loving other people's children like they're your own.

Your work plants seeds that grow for a lifetime.

Before spending hundreds on assistive technology, did you know you can try it for FREE?Maine CITE offers device demonstr...
05/08/2026

Before spending hundreds on assistive technology, did you know you can try it for FREE?

Maine CITE offers device demonstrations, 2-4 week equipment loans, expert training, and equipment reuse programs—all at no cost. No disability documentation required.

From communication devices to visual schedules, shopping apps to workplace supports—test what works before making decisions.

Call 207-621-3195 or visit mainecite.org to explore options.
Independence isn't about having technology—it's about having the right tools AND the support to use them effectively.

Learn more about assistive technology that actually works: [LINK]

This week, we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, a time to honor the educators who shape futures, inspire growth, and ...
05/07/2026

This week, we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, a time to honor the educators who shape futures, inspire growth, and believe in every student's potential.

At Families Matter, we've witnessed firsthand the lasting impact teachers have on the adults we serve. Many of the individuals in our programs still talk about teachers who saw their strengths, championed their abilities, and prepared them for life beyond the classroom.

Special education teachers, transition coordinators, and educators throughout central Maine don't just teach—they advocate, they adapt, and they create pathways for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to thrive long after graduation.

To all teachers, thank you. Your work matters more than you know, and your impact extends far beyond classroom walls.

When your loved one graduated from high school, you may have worried: "Will they still be able to use the technology tha...
05/04/2026

When your loved one graduated from high school, you may have worried: "Will they still be able to use the technology that helped them succeed? Or will we go backward now?"

The technology doesn't have to disappear. With the right support, it evolves to fit adult life.

At Families Matter, we've spent 30 years learning that technology alone doesn't create independence. But technology + person-centered support + genuine community inclusion? That changes everything.

From visual schedules and communication devices to shopping apps and video calling—when individuals have staff who understand how to support technology use, remarkable things happen.

Our 3:1 staff ratio means we actually have time to help individuals use the tools that support their goals.

Learn how technology and support work together: [LINK]

04/29/2026

🌟 A long time ago (September 8th, 2025) in a YMCA Camp of Maine far, far away…

The Rebellion gathered — not to fight the Empire — but to celebrate the real heroes of our galaxy: the Families Matter team who transform lives every single day.

✨ Epic costumes worthy of the Galactic Senate
🍽️ A cantina spread that would make Mos Eisley jealous
🎯 Games that brought pure galactic joy
🏆 A team that shows up, suits up, and steps up

Our mission is building lives through independence, empowerment, and community. And our secret weapon? It's not a lightsaber. It's a staff that turns challenges into possibilities and sees potential where others see limits.

To our team: You ARE the chosen ones. And unlike the Death Star, your impact is built to last. 💚

👉 Learn more about our mission and the incredible team behind it at https://familiesmatterinc.org/ or call us at 207-621-1024 today!

April is Autism Acceptance Month—a time to move beyond awareness and toward genuine understanding, inclusion, and celebr...
04/27/2026

April is Autism Acceptance Month—a time to move beyond awareness and toward genuine understanding, inclusion, and celebration of individuals with autism in our community.

At Families Matter, we've had the privilege of supporting adults with autism for 30 years. We've witnessed firsthand the unique perspectives, talents, and contributions they bring to our community every single day.

Did you know? Approximately 1 in 36 adults in the United States has autism, yet many face barriers to employment, community participation, and genuine inclusion. When we create truly accepting environments, everyone benefits from the creativity, innovation, and perspectives that individuals with autism bring.

How you can practice acceptance:
💙 Listen to and respect how individuals choose to identify themselves
💙 Challenge assumptions and stereotypes when you encounter them
💙 Support autism advocacy organizations and initiatives
💙 Amplify the voices of individuals with autism rather than speaking for them

To the individuals with autism in our community: your perspectives matter, your contributions are valued, and you belong—fully and completely.

This week, April 19-25, marks National Volunteer Week—a time to celebrate the individuals who give their time, talent, a...
04/21/2026

This week, April 19-25, marks National Volunteer Week—a time to celebrate the individuals who give their time, talent, and heart to strengthen our communities.

At Families Matter, volunteering looks different than you might expect. For 30 years, the adults we support have been active volunteers throughout central Maine—serving at the Augusta Food Bank, local nursing homes, animal shelters, and community organizations. They don't just receive support—they give it, proving that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

Volunteering benefits volunteers as much as the organizations they serve—building confidence, developing skills, creating meaningful relationships, and fostering purpose and belonging. Our volunteers experience all of this while making genuine contributions that community partners depend on.

💚 To the individuals we serve: Thank you for showing us what true community service looks like. Your volunteer work changes perceptions, builds bridges, and reminds everyone that we all have gifts to share.

💜 To our community partners: Thank you for creating inclusive volunteer opportunities and seeing the capable, committed volunteers our individuals are.

This National Volunteer Week, we celebrate every volunteer who shows up, gives back, and proves that building stronger communities is something we do together.

Today, is World Autism Awareness Day—a global moment to affirm the dignity, worth, and unconditional value of every pers...
04/20/2026

Today, is World Autism Awareness Day—a global moment to affirm the dignity, worth, and unconditional value of every person with autism as part of our shared human future.

Established by the United Nations in 2007, this day has evolved from raising awareness to actively promoting acceptance, appreciation, and inclusion. At Families Matter, we're honored to walk alongside adults with autism every day—witnessing their achievements, celebrating their milestones, and learning from their unique perspectives.

Today and every day, we stand with individuals with autism and their families in affirming: your life has value, your voice matters, and you deserve to be heard, respected, and fully included.

Address

28 Mayflower Road
Hallowell, ME
04347

Opening Hours

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

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Families Matter Inc posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category