Twenty-five years ago, a small group of parents of children with special needs established the Rhode Island Parent Information Network. Today, RIPIN is a statewide nonprofit organization that helps tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders each year to navigate healthcare and education systems. In recognition of this silver anniversary, RIPIN will hold a gala celebration October 14th at 6 p.m. at the Providence Marriott Downtown.

"Peer-to-peer support is the cornerstone of all RIPIN programs," says Stephen Brunero, RIPIN Executive Director. "The majority of RIPIN employees are individuals with personal experience who assist others as peers, mentors, advocates. The majority of RIPIN staff has personal experience navigating the challenging terrain of caring for a loved one with special needs."

Tim Hebert, CEO of Atrion,and his wife Kim Hebert will host the gala. Alison Bologna of NBC 10 will emcee the evening. There will be a silent auction and a live auction featuring retreats to vacation homes in Maine and Naples, Florida. Roger Ceresi's All Starz band will provide entertainment and live music. RIPIN has received Diamond Sponsorships from Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island and Mr. and Mrs. Hebert. The donations and sponsorship proceeds from the event will allow RIPIN the financial stability needed to set the course for another successful 25 years.

RIPIN's mission is to assist individuals, parents, families, and children to achieve their goals for health, education, and socioeconomic well-being by providing information, education, training, support, and advocacy. Through its peer-support model, RIPIN offers a variety of programs and services to support Rhode Islanders from all backgrounds. Some of RIPIN's work includes:

Helping families access appropriate services in schools for children with special needs,

Enabling Rhode Islanders to access healthcare and health insurance,providing extra support to families accessing Early Intervention services for children with special health care needs, and reducing the cost of healthcare by improving education and services to families in need. For additional information, go to www.ripin.org.