Family Network on Disabilities

09/08/2026

A powerful part of disability history is coming to the big screen.

“Being Heumann,” a new Apple Original Films movie about disability rights leader Judy Heumann, will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival this week before arriving in select theaters on November 6 and on Apple TV on November 13.

The film follows Heumann’s role in the historic 1977 Section 504 sit-in, when more than 100 people with disabilities spent nearly a month demanding enforcement of protections under the Rehabilitation Act. Her work would go on to influence major disability laws, including IDEA and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

We are looking forward to seeing this important piece of history introduced to even more people.

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day from all of us at Family Network on Disabilities.

Today, we recognize the people whose work helps strengthen our families, schools, workplaces, and communities. We also appreciate the parents, caregivers, educators, professionals, and community partners who work every day to support people with disabilities across Florida.

We hope you and your family have a safe and restful Labor Day.

09/04/2026

FND is out in communities across Florida! Meeting families where they are and connecting them with information and support.

Last weekend, our FND PEN team attended the largest disability resource fair of the year in Miami-Dade County. Events like this give us the chance to talk with families, answer questions, share resources, and connect with other organizations serving people with disabilities.

Want to know where FND will be next? Join our email list or visit https://fndusa.org/ to stay up to date on upcoming events, trainings, resources, and opportunities to connect with us.

09/03/2026

IEP or 504 Plan? They can both support students with disabilities at school, but they are not the same. In this video, we break down a few key differences, including what each is designed to do and the types of support they may provide.

One important reminder: good grades do not automatically prevent a student from qualifying for an IEP or 504 Plan.

Watch the video, then visit https://buff.ly/21iWh1j for our full comparison resource.

09/03/2026

Looking for something fun and educational to do with your child this Saturday?

Join FND POPIN for Breakfast, Bytes & Books on September 5 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. in Lynn Haven. Families of children in Pre-K through 5th grade are invited for a morning of stories, learning, creativity, technology, and family fun.

This free event is a great opportunity to discover new ways to make reading and learning something the whole family can enjoy together.

Learn more: https://buff.ly/yvrL2U5.

09/02/2026

IEP or 504 Plan? It can be hard to know the difference, especially when both are designed to support students with disabilities at school.

FND created a new, easy-to-read resource that compares IEPs and 504 Plans side by side, including who may qualify, what each plan can include, how goals and reviews work, and an easy way to remember the purpose of each.

One important reminder: good grades do not automatically mean a student cannot qualify for an IEP or 504 Plan. What matters is the student’s individual needs and eligibility.

Take a look at the resource and learn more at https://buff.ly/21iWh1j

09/01/2026

The Paralympics are coming to Los Angeles for the first time in 2028, and this article looks at the big goal LA28 has set for itself: staging “the best Paralympic Games ever.” Read the article - https://buff.ly/ILhWs4e

What caught our attention was the focus on both elite competition and the experience around it. Athletes are breaking records and pushing performance to new heights, while organizers are also working through questions about transportation, seating, venue access, athlete housing, and how to provide clear information for fans with disabilities.

The 2028 Games could leave an impact that lasts far beyond the competition, especially if the attention leads to more adaptive sports opportunities and better access across communities.

08/31/2026

Did you know FND has a mailing list to help families stay up to date on upcoming events? From workshops and webinars to family activities, resource events, and community opportunities, there is always something happening throughout Florida. Join our mailing list so you can receive event updates directly in your inbox and make sure you do not miss what is coming next: https://buff.ly/UFZvFgg

08/28/2026

Let's share and add more names! Thank you, Disability Rights Florida.

Time is running out. You have until August 31 to add your name.

Florida is still one of only three states participating in Texas v. Kennedy, a lawsuit challenging Section 504 regulations that protect the rights of people with disabilities.

If you have been meaning to sign the letter, now is the time. Add your name by August 31 and help defend the civil rights of people with disabilities.

Sign the letter today. Link in comments.

08/28/2026

A small change to the Lyft app could make a meaningful difference for some people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who use Medicaid home and community-based services. Through Lyft Pass for Public Funding, participating providers can pay directly for approved rides, but riders were previously required to add a personal payment method even when their transportation was already covered. Lyft has now removed that requirement for eligible riders invited through participating organizations. The update could make it easier for more people to use transportation for work, community activities, appointments, and daily living without needing a personal credit card or bank account.