Programs that link parents whose children have a specific disease, disorder, disability or other issues with other parents whose children have similar challenges for the purpose of information sharing and support. Also included are programs for parents who themselves have a disability or other problems that have an impact on their parenting ability.

Programs that provide educational and supportive services for parents with disabilities and/or parents of children with disabilities who want to acquire the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their parenting role.

A developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior, and includes symptoms that impair the individual's ability to function properly in school, work and other areas of life. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is said to be a "developmental disorder" because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life. Autism is also known as a "spectrum" disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. People with ASD have difficulty with social communication and interaction (e.g. lack of eye contact, voice tones that sound sing-song or robotic, facial expressions or gestures that don't match what is being said), restricted interests (e.g., intense interest in numbers, details, facts), restrictive/repetitive behavior (e.g., repeating words or phrases, getting upset at changes in routine or sensory input such as light or noise). People with ASD may also experience sleep problems or irritability, but also have many strengths including the ability to learn things in detail and remember information for long periods of time; being strong visual and auditory learners; and excelling in math, science, music or art. But although ASD can be a lifelong disorder and while children who have ASD have difficulty in talking, playing with other children, and relating to others, including their own family, treatment and services can improve their symptoms and ability to function.

Individuals whose nationality, ethnic background and cultural ancestry are those of one of the countries and peoples of the continent of Africa.

Individuals who identify themselves as part of the Somali community. Somalia is a country in east Africa, although without any effective national government due to lengthy civil war. Breakaway governments operate in Somaliland and Puntland. The official language is Somali.