In 1992, because Alabama families had many unmet needs, a grassroots coalition sprang up across Alabama to examine and redirect the way we provide supports and services to children and adults with developmental disabilities.  The FACES (Families and Consumers Establishing Supports) coalition, which included people with disabilities, their family members, friends, and advocates was created.  They embraced a powerful statement of values and goals for the State of Alabama, and 1993 saw the passage of Act 93-334(link to text of Act in other position on site) which created the Individual & Family Support program.  The state was divided into five regions, each with a volunteer regional council made up of individuals with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities.  Regional councils were directed to incorporate as a nonprofit, and administer the program in their area through the work of local councils.  Family Support (Individual & Family Support of South Alabama, Inc.) was created in January, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation designed to serve ten counties in the southern portion of the State.
 
Assistance is provided to individuals and families statewide through volunteer councils using state funding, contracts, grants and donations.  In 2009 Family Supportestablished a new Board of Trustees to add a level of intensity and commitment to the organizations’ plans, goals and objectives.  Supporters of the organization are known as Members and they guide Family Support by electing trustees and playing a key role in Family Support’s planning processes.  You are invited to become a Member. If you are interested in supporting our efforts, please see the Membership section on this website.