Our Story
EPU Story
Exceptional Parents Unlimited (EPU) was founded to help struggling parents become exceptional parents of their exceptional children.
Founded
Founded in 1976 by Marion M. Karian, EPU started as a support group for the parents of children with Down’s syndrome. The name Exceptional Parents Unlimited was chosen because EPU wanted to provide services for the parents of children with all kinds of special needs. The concerns and efforts of these parents became EPU’s foundation.
Family - Centered Services
Over the years, EPU developed a wide range of programs and services in response to the expressed needs of the families in our community. Today, EPU serves over 4,000 children and families each year, and has an annual budget of $11.8 million. EPU has become a national leader in providing and promoting comprehensive, family-centered services through its four major departments.
Providing Direct Services in English, Spanish and Hmong
More than 3,000 families receive direct services each year in English, Spanish, Hmong and American Sign Language. These services are available through home visits and our urban and rural centers.
Family Resource Center
EPU’s Family Resource Center provides training and support to families through the (Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) Grant and Family Empowerment Center (FEC) Grant.
Our Staff
Since 1976, EPU has grown to more than 120 employees. This staff includes early childhood therapists, speech and physical therapists, mental health clinicians, case managers, and home visitors. EPU has experienced management personnel and departmental leadership with a broad range of expertise, experience, and knowledge in relevant fields.