Raising a child with special needs is a unique journey that can often feel overwhelming. From navigating complex healthcare and school systems to balancing emotional and financial strain, it is easy to feel isolated. But you don't have to do it alone—connecting with parents who truly understand your experience can make a world of difference.

That is why we are here. In 1985, a small group of parents in Santa Cruz County began meeting in each other's living rooms for mutual support. Over the years, that informal circle grew into a lifeline for local families, officially becoming the Special Parents Information Network (SPIN) in 1996 and incorporating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2000.

Today, SPIN remains dedicated to providing the vital information, resources, and community connections families need to feel supported, informed, and ready to thrive.