My name is Sara Basurto and I want to express the importance of having the support of Alianza Latina Aplicando Soluciones (A.L.A.S.) in my life.  A.L.A.S. has helped me make important decisions in my life which have benefited me and my son who has a special need.

A.L.A.S. offers various educational training to parents of children with disabilities such as, Down syndrome, Cognitive Disabilities, Spina Bifida, and Autism among other disabilities. All the information provided is important. They also train us on how to advocate for our children. In many cases, as parents we don’t know how to defend our children and are afraid or embarrassed to ask or admit that we don’t understand. At times we stay quiet and afraid. When parents are not informed many injustices are committed. A.L.A.S. helps us to work well with our children’s school and connects us to medical and community services.  Having the support of an organization like ALAS is so important for us.

During my years as an A.L.A.S. participant I have learned the importance of educating myself and supporting other parents who are experience similar situations. I’m one of the volunteer mothers of the Spanish Parent to Parent of WI program. As a volunteer, I’m part of the team that trains new support parents and I also provide support over the phone to new parents who are in need of support.

I’m very grateful for everything they have done for my family and can’t imagine this organization not being around as it would be really unfortunate to all the families who come to A.L.A.S. for help. All of the families in our community need the services given by A.L.A.S. and I congratulate them for their great work.