About Us
Ask Advocacy was founded as a non-profit to support families with special education needs in Massachusetts, with a vision that all families should have access to advocacy services regardless of their ability to pay. The organization operates on the principle that every family or caregiver regardless of financial constraints, deserves the support and guidance necessary to navigate the complexities of special education.
The mission of Ask Advocacy is rooted in the belief that equitable access to advocacy services empowers families to secure the best possible educational outcomes for their children. The organization is committed to breaking down financial barriers, ensuring that no family or caregiver is denied critical advocacy assistance due to economic constraints.
Ask Advocacy conveys its dedication to inclusivity and social justice. The organization strives to make its services accessible to all, embodying the core values of fairness, equality, and the right to quality education for every child.
Kathryn Trainor
Kathryn Trainor (she/her/hers) is a dedicated Education Consultant residing on the South Coast of Massachusetts, she is deeply committed to the field of special education and social work. As an education consultant, she has dedicated her career to championing the rights and well-being of individuals with special needs and promoting mental health awareness.
Kathy as she likes to be called possesses a profound understanding of the unique challenges associated with special needs, as she herself navigates the world each day with dyslexia, dysgraphia, discalculia, and complex medical needs.
Kathy holds degrees in education and social work, a testament to her academic prowess and commitment to providing a holistic approach to her consultant work. With an impressive 25 years of experience in the special education and mental health field, she has honed her skills and knowledge to become a respected figure in her community.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kathy is a devoted mother with lived family and caregiver experience, raising two children with their own unique special education needs. Kathy can bring a unique and empathetic perspective to her work. Her personal family journey adds depth and authenticity to her efforts in supporting families navigating the sensitivities and complexities of special education and mental health services.
Kathy's involvement in various organizations underscores her dedication to making a positive impact. She actively participated in the Wright Law Training Course for Advocates and completed the Federation for Special Needs Advocate Training Course, demonstrating her commitment to staying informed and equipped to navigate the legal and educational aspects of her consultant work.
Her contributions extend to her local community, where she served on the Taunton SEPAC from 2015 to 2017 and acted as an Education Surrogate Parent from 2018 to 2020. Kathy has also been a valuable resource for families and caregivers navigating special education and mental health challenges since 2008, highlighting her adaptability and commitment to addressing diverse needs within her community.
In her free time, Kathy finds joy in running and exploring her culinary pursuits. Her involvement in non-profit organizations and participation in cooking competitions for those with disabilities and those at risk of homelessness showcases her passion for making a positive impact beyond her professional world.
Currently, Kathy is an active member of The Home Family Caregiver LGBTQIA+ Council, starting her tenure in 2023. This reflects her commitment to inclusivity and advocacy for marginalized communities, emphasizing her role as a well-rounded and socially conscious Education Consultant.
In summary, Kathy Trainor is a highly qualified and compassionate Education Consultant, mother, and community member with an extensive background in special education and mental health. Her multifaceted involvement in various organizations and her commitment to lifelong learning make her a respected and valuable asset in her community.
She wants all families, caregivers, and students to know their next steps are just an ask away.