About

Mission

We are peer professionals on a mission to help Rhode Islanders of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds get the support they need to thrive.

Vision

A Rhode Island where systems work for the people who rely on them, driving improved and more equitable outcomes.

Values

Respect – value the diversity and efforts of our colleagues, partners, and the community we serve
Collaboration – work towards goals through genuine partnerships to empower others with shared participation
Commitment – focused on helping and positively influencing the well-being of our community
Integrity – being steadfastly adherent to high ethical principles and professional standards
Professionalism – strive for excellence upholding all core values through conduct that demonstrates cooperation and competence

History

RIPIN is a 501(c)(3), charitable, nonprofit organization established in 1991 by a passionate group of parents of children with special needs. These parents recognized that together they could provide support through sharing essential information and helping to find the resources they needed for their loved ones. This peer model continues to be at the heart of our work and has lead RIPIN’s network to expand statewide. Today we have over 100 employees, most of whom have personal experience caring for a loved one with special health care or educational needs.

RIPIN State and Federal Designations:

Cedar Family Center: coordinates care for children with special health care needs
Early Intervention (EI): Parent Consultants supports families of infants and toddlers with developmental delays
Family Voices & Family-to-Family Health Information Center: resources and support for families who have children with special health care needs
Medical Home Portal (RI): information for parents and professionals caring for children with special health care needs
Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC): for parents of children navigating special education
RIPIN Healthcare Advocate: ombudsman for Rhode Islanders with Medicare and Medicaid
RIREACH: Rhode Island’s health insurance consumer assistance program

Board

RIPIN is proud to acknowledge our Board of Directors who are comprised of parents and community leaders including supporters in the area of education, health, medicine, business, non-profit management, and others. Our Board is an integral part of the Mission and Vision of RIPIN and assists in areas of organizational direction, fiscal health, and governance.