YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - Cindy Chandler, Family SOUP Executive Director, has announced plans to retire prior to the end of 2020.   Founding member of the 1992 non-profit organization, the Sutter County Parent network, Chandler has been instrumental in expanding the Parent Network into Family SOUP’s reach to three counties, Sutter, Yuba, and Colusa, serving children ages birth to 22 with disabilities.   The Family Soup organization assists families with system navigation, resource referral, emotional support, parenting classes and activities designed to serve the entire family. Family SOUP is also home to Able Riders, the only therapeutic horseback riding program in the area.  Chandler is often asked why the name Family SOUP? The explanation, “We are about families of children with special needs and collaborating with our partners to best serve these families.  A soup is made up of many ingredients and now you’re a part of our warm and inviting SOUP. And maybe the soup stands for “Serving Our Unique People”. Chandler often says to parents, “don’t take this journey alone because together we can make a difference.” Chandler’s involvement with Family SOUP started with her own experience as a parent of a toddler with no language, a limited diet and sensory disorder. “Fear was my driving force and finding a supportive team of parents and professionals was a lifeline and a game changer. I wanted that formula for all parents with concerns about their child’s development.”

Over the years services and opportunities for children with disabilities have grown along with the empowerment of parents to serve as their child’s best advocate. Chandler sees a future with increased inclusion of individuals with different abilities in the community including increased employment and independent living opportunities.

Working with moms and dads, grandparents, adoptive and foster parents all wanting to help their child with special needs has been rewarding and inspiring.  Families with children facing medical, developmental or mental health challenges appreciate the help they find at Family SOUP.

Chandler is confident that the dedicated Family SOUP board will find the right person to lead the organization. “This is a community that cares about the diverse nature of our families and believes in the potential of all children. Chandler feels confident that Family SOUP staff will be here to support them.” The Family Soup board and staff believe that Chandler, as Board President Kimberly Butchers says, leaves “big shoes to fill”! The search for her successor will not be an easy feat, but we are charged with finding someone who goes the extra mile, as Cindy Chandler has, to navigate special education policies that not only protect, but strengthen the development of children with disabilities.” 

Currently Family SOUP staff is working remotely from home and is serving families.