BUFFALO, NY – Parent Network of WNY and EPIC-Every Person Influences Children are excited to announce their upcoming Parent Leadership Series . The series is funded by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, which provides support for low income individuals and families as well as persons with special needs in New York State.

“We are honored to support these organizations doing critically important work to improve the health and well-being of New York’s most vulnerable communities,” says Alfred F. Kelly Jr., Chief Executive Officer of Visa and Chair of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation Board.  

The Parent Leadership Series is an entirely virtual series of workshops for parents who want to be a stronger voice in their schools and districts, influence positive change and be better leaders in the community. In a series of four day-long workshops, parents will learn to support families and individuals with disabilities, educate the community about issues and struggles, connect with a larger group of parent leaders with similar goals and ideas, and learn how to empower yourself and others to speak up.

“We want to be capable of representing the needs of individuals- particularly those with disabilities or those from disadvantaged, under-served and isolated backgrounds,” says Sue Barlow, Executive Director of PNWNY. 

Tara N. Burgess, Executive Director at EPIC, agrees, saying “This series will allow us to extend our reach in Western New York and truly increase the number of both parents and children that are engaged, responsible and successful.” 


  • August 15
  • September 12
  • October 3
  • November 7
  • Graduation: November 14

Space is limited for the series, so parents are encouraged to apply today. Applications close July 16 and participants will be notified shortly after. For more questions, e-mail Parent Network directly or visit the application page here.