Cumberland First In Families

10/16/2026

The conversation around World Mental Health Day does not have to end when the day does.

For families supporting a loved one through mental health challenges, small, compassionate steps can make a meaningful difference:
• Listen without judgment.
• Help identify trusted people and community supports.
• Make space for the individual’s preferences, choices, and voice.

At First In Families of North Carolina, we connect families across North Carolina with practical, community-based support when traditional systems leave gaps. We are here to help families explore resources, strengthen connections, and find a path forward together.

If your family could use support, reach out to our team. Or, share this post with a family who may need to know they are not alone.

10/09/2026

Mental health matters for every member of a family, not just the person who is struggling. That is the idea behind World Mental Health Day on October 10.

We help individuals with severe and persistent mental illness find their footing again.

If you or someone you love could use support, reach out through fifnc.org

10/02/2026

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and at FIFNC, that means celebrating the individuals and families we walk alongside every day across North Carolina.

Support looks different for every family: sometimes it is help planning for the future, sometimes it is connecting with other parents who understand the journey, and sometimes it is simply having someone in your corner who will not let you navigate the system alone.

This month, join us in recognizing the strength and joy that inclusion brings to our communities. Learn more about who we serve at fifnc.org/about-us.

09/19/2026

On Thursday, September 17th and Friday, September 18th, First In Families of North Carolina connected across the state for our 2026 annual Summit. This year we celebrated the power of community. Together we are rooted in relationships and united in purpose.

We want to give a huge thank-you to this year's sponsors:
-Apollo Net
-Unity Home Care
-Aspen Accounting & Advisory

And a special shoutout to our partners in action:
-Akalaka
-The Bill Crabtree Foundation
-Inclusion Seekers (powered by Starfire)
-T&T Creative

Our work would not be possible without you all!



SongCredit: "Upbeat Indie" By Yourtunes

09/18/2026

🚗 Need a lift? Let’s talk transportation!

Families, ask your loved one’s care manager about transportation support—and whether rides through Uber are available through their health plan or approved services!

💬 Ask: “Does my loved one qualify, what trips are covered, and how do we schedule a ride?”

A little information can open the door to more independence! 💙

09/17/2026

Resource ….

Tim Vogt Director of Mission and Scale Tim has worked at Starfire since 2000. He is charged with innovating best practices in two key areas: organizational change and family directed community engagement at Starfire. In 2006, he was named Executive Director

09/17/2026

Resource …

AKALAKA helps family and friends who care for loved ones with disabilities. Get peer support, find financial resources, and make Medicaid work for your family in North Carolina. Authorized NC Tracks provider for S5110, S5111, T2025, T2029, T1999, NC Medicaid Direct, Tailored Plan, Innovations, and T...

09/17/2026

Resource!

09/16/2026

We will be gathering with chapters and staff from across the state this week at our annual Summit, so our office team may be a little slower to respond than usual.

We are still here for you. If something comes up while we are away from our desks, your local chapter is a great first stop for support. Find yours at fifnc.org/find-help.

09/14/2026

Blue Star FamiliesAllysa Parker
Artist credit: Stoosh