About United Parents

How it began

Founded in 1990, by Norm and Ellen Linder United Parents' principle is “parents helping parents.” Our founders recognized the unique challenges facing families raising children with emotional, behavioral or mental heath needs. Armed with a small group of parents, they worked to enhance the long-term outcomes of families in desperate need of resources and support.


Training parents and working side-by-side with professionals, today United Parents is making a difference in the lives of over 1000 families per year.

Who we are

We are a unique family-driven, community based, non-profit organization. We identify and fill the gaps for parents of children who need support during their most difficult life challenges.


United Parents provides staff and resources to co-empower, strengthen and support parents who have children with emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs.


We advocate for families to be recognized as full partners in the treatment and care of their children, which is key to recovery.


We are here to help!

Our focus

Identifying, addressing and bridging gaps in traditional services through the provision of a wide range of programs and services.

Our goal

To strengthen parenting, improve family function and enhance whole child well-being. 

Our vision

To prioritize the developmental and personal needs of the whole child for safety and family preservation.

Leadership Team

Melissa Hannah

Melissa Hannah

Executive Director

Extension: 25

Steve Varner

Steve Varner

OAC Statewide Grant Coordinator

Extension: 32

Shelly Williamson

Shelly Williamson

Executive Assistant/HR

Extension: 14

Alicia Daddio

Alicia Daddio

Clinical Program Director (FAST and Educational Advocacy Programs)

Extension: 17

Kayla Chey

Kayla Chey

Development Director

Extension: 49

Hannah Abitia

Respite Care Program Manager/Administrative Assistant

Extension: 16

Michael Washburn

Michael Washburn

Controller

Extension: 13

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