For more than eight years now, James “Jim” Reed has focused on and given greatly of himself assisting children and families with their unique needs.

He volunteers his time, and asks for and receives nothing for his expenses. Reed’s expertise and experience are highly sought after in two areas. He works diligently to advocate for children with disabilities in the educational setting, and also works with foster/adoptive parents to help them stay in compliance with state regulations.

Reed was apppointed by former Gov. Ernie Fletcher to sit on the State Advisory Panel for Exceptional Children. He is also a parent consultant with KY-SPIN, for which he provides training and workshops for those with disabilities. He stays current on educational law, and his advice is regularly sought by parents as well as school administrators.

Reed recently received an appointment to sit on the State Advisory Panel for Mental Health/Mental Retardation, and advises parents about available services for their children at the Clinic for Children with Special Health Care Needs.

In addition, Reed works with Caveland Educational Cooperative and special ed directors. Reed is a co-parent to eight special needs adopted children ranging from age 7 to 17. On this front, Reed is the parent leader of Kentucky Adoptions Option Support and Training Center. He seeks funding donations for this organization in order to allow 20 families to attend a weekend retreat at All Saints Episcopal Church Camp at no cost.

Reed is also the secretary for Kentucky Partnership for Families and Children, and is under contract by the University of Louisville School of Social Work to act as a resource director for 16 counties of Two Rivers Region.