In this season of giving, we’d like to recognize three local nonprofits dedicated to supporting San Diego’s special needs community. Read on to discover how each is making a lasting impact in the lives of others. As your family discusses different ways to give back, consider getting involved or supporting their efforts.  – sponsored content –

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As a licensed (#370603102) Resource/Foster Family Agency, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) provides resource family placements for youth with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD), as well as respite for parents. We are looking for families who can provide a caring home. Resource families receive a financial stipend, respite, back up services, extensive training, and support. TMI also provides community living and employment services for individuals with IDD. We have provided innovative and trusted programs since 1981. Visit TMI-INC.ORG or call (800) 877-5452 to learn more.

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DOPcrowdThe Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego (SNRFSD) supports the special needs community of San Diego and Imperial Counties by providing extensive resources online and in Flourishing Families (an annual publication specifically for families with special needs), emailing relevant articles and events to subscribers via bi-monthly eNewsletter, and by hosting a fun annual event (the All-Inclusive Day of Play & Resource Fair), which is free and open to the public. Join SNRFSD in supporting families and children with special needs by making a financial donation to this community-centric nonprofit at www.SNRFSD.org.    Photo by Tony Andrews

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HGH Natalie DeniseSince its inception in 1961, Home of Guiding Hands has been committed to providing quality community support, critical housing and life skills training for individuals with developmental disabilities in San Diego County. We connect individuals, like Natalie, to loving families in the community. Natalie has been living with Denise for over a year. They have a bond that will last a lifetime. Home of Guiding Hands is seeking caring people to open their homes as a foster care provider for adults with special needs. As a foster provider, you will receive a tax-free monthly stipend ranging between $1,800 and $3,600. Visit http://www.guidinghands.org/programs-services/adult-family-home-agency/ or contact Lynn Scott at 619-954-7847 to find out how to become a foster provider.

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My husband and I adopted our daughter when she was nine years old. She has a long list of mental health diagnoses. We quickly discovered that parenting a child with special needs results in the whol . . .

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