Join Us
Special Needs Support Group Stronger Together is a parent led support group for families of children with special needs.
We meet on the second Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM at 76 St. Alban’s Place, Staten Island, NY 10312 (Upper Parish Hall).
No registration required — just come as you are.
Why We Started
We are three moms of children with special needs who first connected through our children’s school and shared activities. What began as simple conversations quickly grew into meaningful friendships.
We feel incredibly lucky to have built a strong circle of supportive friends who understand this journey. Through the years, those connections have become a source of strength, comfort, and encouragement in our lives.
We came together to create a space where other families can build the same kind of connection and support that has meant so much to us. Because in this world, it truly takes a village — and that’s exactly what we are building.
We support parents and caregivers of children with special needs who are looking for connection, understanding, and community.
Whether you are just starting your journey or have been navigating it for years, you are welcome here.
Who We Serve
Meet the Founders
Joanne Parker
Joanne is a proud wife and mom to a son with special needs, her journey as his parent is what inspired her to help create Stronger Together. For over 30 years, she works as an office manager at a law firm, but her true passion has always been helping people feel supported and understood. She knows firsthand how overwhelming this journey can be, and how important it is to have a community that truly “gets it.” Her hope is that through Stronger Together, no family ever feels alone, and every parent knows they have a place where they belong.
A proud wife and mother April is a Family Worker for the DOE and authorized NYS Self Direction Broker. As a parent of a child with special needs, she has been introduced to a whole new world and is passionate about building connections, sharing information, and creating a space where families feel supported and heard.
April Riccardelli
Big Ideas, Real Impact
Gina is a medical receptionist and a proud wife and mom to her beautiful daughter with special needs. Through Gina's journey as her mother, she has learned more than she ever imagined about patience, strength, and unconditional love. Her daughter inspires her every day to grow, advocate, and connect with others. Being part of Stronger Together means so much to Gina because she truly believes in the power of support, understanding, and community.