The Rhode Island House of Representatives has passed a resolution congratulating the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) on its 35th anniversary of service to the community. Founded in 1991 by parents of children with special needs, RIPIN has evolved into a vital nonprofit organization that assists Rhode Islanders in navigating health care, special education, and healthy aging. With a network of over 100 peer professionals, many of whom have personal experience with special needs, RIPIN provides support and resources to families, empowering them to achieve their health, education, and socioeconomic goals.

The resolution highlights RIPIN's significant contributions, including saving Rhode Islanders over $10 million since 2018 through its health insurance call center and serving as a critical resource for families in special education and healthy aging. With hundreds of thousands of interactions each year, RIPIN has made a profound impact on the state's healthcare, education, and disability systems. The House recognizes RIPIN as an essential partner in strengthening Rhode Island's safety net and ensuring equitable access to necessary supports, commending its leadership, staff, and peer professionals for their dedicated service.