For many people raising children with disabilities, every day can feel like a juggling act. Between therapy appointments, school meetings, paperwork, and emotional energy spent advocating for their children, these caregivers often find themselves putting their own well-being last.
“I’m so busy being strong for my child that I sometimes forget how tired I am,” one mother shared after attending a recent Gateways session. “It was the first time in a long time that I felt seen.”
That feeling is exactly what Gateways hopes to nurture through its newest initiative, Empowering Caregivers: A Supportive Parenting Series, made possible through the generosity of The Miriam Fund.
The idea for the series came directly from mothers themselves. Feedback from families in Gateways’ Jewish Education Programs sent a clear message: While they are grateful that their children with disabilities have these affirming services and spaces, they feel the acute lack of spaces designed specifically for them. Many report feeling like they have no time to care for themselves or connect with peers who truly understand their experiences.
Research shows that mothers of children with disabilities are at higher risk of chronic stress, burnout, and isolation. And it isn’t difficult to imagine why. While it can be deeply rewarding, raising a child with a disability is also often profoundly challenging. These mothers navigate complex systems—schools, health care providers, insurance companies—while juggling work, family responsibilities, and the emotional toll of caregiving.
Earlier this year, Gateways piloted two sessions focused on education and emotional support for mothers and other caregivers of children with disabilities. The response was immediate and powerful. Participants described the sessions as “life-changing,” “comforting,” and “a breath of fresh air.”
“The pilot sessions made it clear how much this community of mothers needs each other,” said Sharon Goldstein, director of day school programs at Gateways. “They were hungry for information, connection, self-care, and for a place where they could talk openly about the ups and downs of parenting a child with unique needs.”
“When you have a child with [disabilities], you’re constantly advocating,” said another mother who attended the pilot session. “You become the project manager of your child’s life—but no one trains you for that. This program helps us learn, connect, and breathe again.”
What the Empowering Caregivers Series Offers
The Empowering Caregivers initiative has three core goals: education, community, and well-being.
Each workshop features experts who guide caregivers through essential topics such as understanding Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), navigating special education systems, exploring therapies, and learning trauma-informed parenting strategies. These sessions offer practical, hands-on tools that mothers can immediately apply in their daily lives.
Through both in-person and virtual cohorts, participants share stories, exchange ideas, and offer each other strength. Some sessions are structured as workshops focused on education and practical strategies, while others are ongoing support groups where caregivers can connect more deeply, discuss challenges in real time, and receive guidance from peers and facilitators. The hope is that every participant will leave with something tangible; something that makes them feel more confident and capable. When caregivers are empowered, their children benefit too.
Perhaps the most transformative element of the series is the sense of belonging it creates, as participants meet other moms and caregivers who truly “get it.” For many, this is a lifeline. “It’s the first time I didn’t feel like I had to explain myself,” one mother reflected, “everyone just understood.”
Beyond knowledge and connection, the series teaches coping strategies for stress, mindfulness, and maintaining balance. It’s not indulgent to take time for yourself; it’s an essential part of caring for your family. When caregivers feel supported, families thrive. For those who have already participated, the results speak for themselves. As one participant summed it up: “I came to this program exhausted and unsure if I belonged. I left feeling stronger, more informed, and deeply connected to other women who understand my world. It’s not just about learning—it’s about healing.”
Thanks to the partnership between Gateways and The Miriam Fund, that healing is spreading; one conversation, one workshop, and one empowered caregiver at a time.
Empowering Caregivers is made possible through The Miriam Fund, a volunteer-led philanthropic community committed to creating an equitable world that expands opportunities for women and girls. While this series is primarily geared toward mothers, any caregiver of a child with a disability is welcome to attend. Learn more and register for upcoming Empowering Caregivers sessions.
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