About Midwest Family Support and Advocacy
Midwest Family Support and Advocacy (MFSA) exists to support families navigating education, disability, and child welfare systems—especially in Greater Minnesota and rural North Dakota. We offer IEP advocacy, parent support, policy education, and system navigation in a way that’s accessible, inclusive, and grounded in lived experience.
Whether you’re attending your first IEP meeting, facing barriers in accessing services, or trying to understand your rights as a parent with a disability, MFSA is here to help. We believe every family deserves to feel heard, informed, and supported—no matter where they live.
Kassi Sofferman
Founder, Executive Director
Hi, I’m Kassi Sofferman, the founder and Executive Director of Midwest Family Support and Advocacy. I started MFSA because I saw—firsthand—how many families in Greater Minnesota and rural North Dakota are navigating education and disability systems without the support they deserve. As a parent, an advocate, I care deeply about making systems more equitable and accessible.
Before founding MFSA, I worked at The Arc Minnesota, where I focused on disability rights, community engagement, and inclusive policy work. I’ve also been involved in child welfare policy, grassroots advocacy, and supporting families in navigating IEPs and special education services. I’m currently finishing my Master of Social Work with a focus on public policy and will be graduating in December 2025.
Right now, I’m the sole person offering services through MFSA, which means every family I work with gets my full attention, care, and commitment. I bring both lived and professional experience to every conversation. I believe real change starts by listening, showing up, and working together.
FAQs
What’s an IEP?
An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a legal document that outlines the special education services a student with a disability will receive in public school. It includes goals, accommodations, and supports tailored to the student's needs.
What kind of support does MFSA offer?
We offer IEP advocacy, one-on-one parent support, system navigation help, and policy education. We also help parents understand their rights—especially under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—in education and child welfare settings.
Do you offer legal advice?
No, we do not provide legal advice. However, we help translate legal and system-related information into plain language so families can better understand their rights and options.
Is this service only for families in Minnesota?
We primarily serve families in Greater Minnesota and rural North Dakota, but you’re welcome to reach out if you’re nearby—we’ll help however we can or connect you to someone who can.
How much do services cost?
We offer a free initial consultation to talk through your needs. After that, services are priced based on time and type of support. We also offer payment plans to keep support accessible.
Can I just talk to someone to see if you’re the right fit?
Absolutely! Our first meeting is always a free consultation. We’ll talk through your concerns and see how we can best support you.