Maine Champion Coaching was founded by Janet and Alycia, two mothers who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of raising children with autism and intellectual disabilities. Both have spent over a decade as advocates for families of children with disabilities through their roles in local schools, but they recognized a growing need for similar support in the adult world.

Janet, a Parent Mentor for 10 years, has four children: Abbie (31), Libby (28), Matt (26), and Frannie (24). Her son Matt has Down syndrome. Throughout Matt’s life, Janet faced the challenge of ensuring he was included in school activities and that people’s expectations of him were fair and appropriate. Many times, Matt’s capabilities were underestimated because of his diagnosis. Now, Matt lives independently with minimal supports, commutes via Uber to his job at Procter & Gamble, and has built a rich social life with his friends.

Alycia, a Parent Resource Coordinator for the past 10 years, is the mother of three: two daughters, ages 21 and 27, and her son Max, who is 25 and has severe autism. When Max was younger, life was often isolating and difficult, culminating in his last five years of school being spent in a residential placement. Today, however, Max enjoys a life of independence that Alycia could hardly have imagined. He lives on his own with the necessary supports and participates in a wide range of athletic and social activities.

Janet and Alycia started Maine Champion Coaching, in Cincinnati, because they saw firsthand how families often feel as though they’ve fallen off a “cliff” when their child with a disability graduates from high school. The support and resources that were once readily available during their school years suddenly become difficult to access or nonexistent in adulthood. They are living this reality with their own sons and want to provide the same kind of guidance, resources, and hope to other families as they navigate crucial transitions throughout adulthood.

At Maine Champion Coaching, we are here to fill the gap, offering personalized support to help your family member live a fulfilling, independent life. Whether you need guidance on housing, employment, or future planning, we’re ready to help you and your family build a brighter future.