What Are Stipends and How Can They Help?

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A stipend is funding provided by an organization to help people in the community access something they need. This funding is like a gift that doesn’t have to be paid back. Usually, the organization would like to know how the funding was used and who used it. This is important information to be aware of if you have a child with a disability.

Did you know that nonprofit groups often offer stipends for families to attend conferences? Many times, there are conferences that parents or people with disabilities may want to attend, but conference fees can be costly. Then there’s the cost for the hotel or meals. It might be a distance away and might require travel. Many times, parents cannot afford the expenses. Stipends are used to help parents or others attend an event. 

For example, Family to Family Network (F2F Network) has been able to offer stipends over the years to young adults with disabilities, parents and family members, thanks to a grant from the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities. These stipends have made it possible for many individuals to attend the conference and learn more about the disability topics and issues that are important to them.

If registration costs are keeping you from attending a conference, be sure to ask about stipends. There are often a limited number of stipends available. Stipend funds go fast, so be sure to apply well ahead of the registration deadline.

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