Updated, March 2017
There is a great deal of help available to address the needs of children and youth with disabilities and their families at every level: national, regional, state, and local. This page is a doorway into those systems of help.
Of course, we hesitate to put all that information into one page, so we’ve divided it into the types of groups and agencies and resources you’ll likely want to know more about. Please do explore the areas below in keeping with the nature of your disability concerns and questions. We’re very glad you’re here.
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Disability Groups
Disability groups operate nationwide to share information and resources on specific disabilities. Often, these national-level organizations also have chapters in every state—and those state chapters may have multiple local chapters. All operate as a source of help for families and professionals in addressing the needs and well-being of individuals with the disability of interest.
State Agencies to Know
What a wealth of help and information! There are many state agencies that address the needs of children, youth, and adults with disabilities. If you’re looking for resources and services in your area, you’ll want to know the agencies to contact.
TA&D Network
The TA&D network stands for the Technical Assistance and Dissemination network of projects funded by the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) at the U.S. Department of Education. This is a network of approximately 40 projects concerned with educational and other services to children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education (IDEA) Act, our nation’s special education law. Each center has a particular focus or field of endeavor. The TA&D network can come in very handy as a steady and reliable fountain of information on disabilities and disability issues.
Parent Groups
Families with a child who has a disability have special concerns and often need a great deal of information. That’s why many families find it very useful to join a parent group, where they can meet other families with similar needs. Parent groups can serve many purposes, but primarily they offer parents a place and a means to share information, give and receive emotional support, and work as a team to address common concerns. Interested?
Medical and Healthcare Resources
Are you looking for information on a health condition? Need to find medical or healthcare services in your community? Here’s a scad of information and connections to resources in healthcare.
Mental Health Resources
There are many, many organizations and groups that deal with mental health. This page will help you find the one or ones that offer the type of assistance, intervention, or information you’re seeking.
Services for Adults with Disabilities
Once a student with disabilities leaves high school, other agencies are available to assist with putting the individual in contact with helpful resources. CPIR has prepared this listing of resources for adults with disabilities to help you connect with those resources.