ABOUT US
The Empowering Parents & Teachers San Antonio (EPTSA) campaign is focused on meeting the needs of parents and teachers advocating for children with mental health and learning disabilities.
The EPTSA campaign was inspired by three adoptive mothers who, through their experiences navigating the challenges of underfunded public education and mental health systems, recognized the need for such an initiative in our community. Their efforts brought together the expertise of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Greater San Antonio, the Learning Disabilities Association of Texas (LDATX), and Covenant Presbyterian Church, resulting in a four-year commitment to launch EPTSA. EPTSA programs empower parents and teachers through education, training, and support to help improve their children’s mental health and educational outcomes.
EPTSA COMMUNITY PARTNERS
The Learning Disabilities Association of Texas (LDATX) supports people with learning disabilities and their parents, teachers, and other professionals with cutting-edge information, practical solutions, and a comprehensive network of resources.
As an organization, LDATX's strengths include:
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Advocacy: LDATX advocates for individuals with learning disabilities within the community. This helps raise awareness, promote inclusivity, and secure resources for those affected.
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Education and Awareness: LDATX is key in debunking myths, promoting understanding, and educating the public about learning disabilities.
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Empowerment: LDATX empowers individuals with learning disabilities by encouraging self-advocacy and providing them with the necessary tools and skills to succeed. This fosters independence and resilience.
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Research and Innovation: LDATX is involved in research initiatives and innovative programs to improve outcomes for individuals with learning disabilities.
As an EPTSA community partner, LDATX provides training for teachers and families specifically on Learning Disabilities, navigating the Special Education process, offering webinars and books studies, and launching a one-of-a-kind ARD Buddy Program to assist families with Peer Buddies to accompany parents through the IEP process.
For 40 years, NAMI Greater San Antonio has been a beacon of help and hope, fighting for more research, better education, bolder advocacy, and broader public awareness. Through our three pillars of Advocacy, Education, and Support, we are working diligently and tirelessly to create a healthy community. We provide FREE peer-led mental health education classes and support groups for individuals living with a mental health condition and their loved ones through our NAMI Signature Programs. Our trained volunteers with lived experience provide our peer-led programs in various community settings, from churches to schools.
As an EPTSA Community Partner, NAMI Greater San Antonio provides trained support group leaders and class facilitators for EPTSA families and educators participating in our signature programs. Additionally, we provide expert mental health speakers for EPTSA workshops and symposiums.
Covenant Presbyterian Church (CPC) is dedicated to creating an environment that welcomes and supports all people. Even though EPTSA is not a Christian organization, CPC has supported its launch out of our faith commitment to care particularly for vulnerable communities. The congregation is glad to be a part of the EPTSA partnership and to support its mission and development by leading the acquisition of the founding grant, providing space for training events and classes, and administering grant funds.
MEET OUR TEAM
Maria D. Hoenigman, M.A.
Director of Support, Outreach & Bridges to Care SA, NAMI Greater San Antonio
Maria Hoenigman is a dedicated mental health advocate and supporter committed to empowering individuals and families on their mental health journey. She serves as the Director of Support, Outreach & Bridges to Care SA for NAMI Greater San Antonio.
