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Statewide Parent Conference | Texas Parent to Parent

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Gulf Coast for IDD - Crisis Respite Services-Galveston County only

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Gulf Coast for IDD - Crisis Respite Services-Galveston County only

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crisis hotline at 866-729-3848.

See Gulf Coast IDD Checklist in Medicaid Waiver Column

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Our crisis intervention specialists work with individuals with IDD that are experiencing a crisis or are at risk of crisis to offer de-escalation services or referrals for respite. Individuals and families can choose between out-of-home respite services or in-home respite services as temporary relief for the duration of the timeframe the individual in crisis reaches stabilization. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact our crisis hotline at 866-729-3848.

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Our crisis intervention specialists work with individuals with IDD that are experiencing a crisis or are at risk of crisis to offer de-escalation services or referrals for respite. Individuals and families can choose between out-of-home respite services or in-home respite services as temporary relief for the duration of the timeframe the individual in crisis reaches stabilization.

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Harris Center for IDD/AU - Behavior Services: Crisis, OBI, and PBS (Harris County only)

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Harris Center for IDD/AU - Behavior Services: Crisis, OBI, and PBS (Harris County only)

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Click website and scroll down for description of the behavior-based services. Complete Eligibility Intake first - See checklist in IDD column or call 713-970-7070.

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What Makes Us Different

From respite care to Home and Community-based Services to day habilitation and drop-in programs, The Harris Center assists thousands each year by coordinating caring, compassionate support for individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities. In addition, clinicians and case managers have developed extensive community partnerships that benefit individuals with Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and other conditions. The Harris Center also coordinates care for those with a dual diagnosis of a behavioral illness and an intellectual or developmental disability.

Learn More

If you are interested in receiving IDD services through The Harris Center, please review the eligibility requirements and complete an online intake packet. Click to Learn More:

For questions about these Services, scheduling appointments, and more, contact The Harris Center Patient Access Line.

Services: Testimonial:

Services:

Services:

Services:

Services:

Services:

Services:

Services:

Services:

Services may include:

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Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services | The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD

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From respite care to Home and Community-based Services to day habilitation and drop-in programs, The Harris Center assists thousands each year by coordinating caring, compassionate support for individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities. In addition, clinicians and case managers have developed extensive community partnerships that benefit individuals with Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and other conditions.

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UHCL Center for Autism and Developmental Delay (CADD)

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UHCL Center for Autism and Developmental Delay (CADD)

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Check website for UHCL CADD's current behavior support services

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Important COVID-19 Update

In accordance with the CDC's recommendations, we strongly encourage the use of masks and can provide services to families remotely via videoconferencing. Please contact the individual programs or autismcenter@uhcl.edu for more information.

A University and Community Resource

At University of Houston-Clear Lake's Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, we play a crucial role both in teaching future leaders in the field while supporting families in the surrounding community. Our mission at the center is to support research on autism and developmental disabilities; train current and future professionals in the fields of behavior analysis; psychology; and marriage and family therapy; and provide services and resources to children, teens, adults and their families through partnerships with community organizations.

Tailoring the Treatment

A caring staff of therapists, graduate students and volunteers at UHCL's Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities see more than 100 families a year who struggle with behavioral aspects of autism or other developmental disabilities. A staff member will first assess the child, teen, or adult to identify causes for the difficulties, and then tailor a treatment plan for each individual to encourage more appropriate, successful behavior. As a significant component of each treatment, we also teach parents or teachers how to implement these new behavioral strategies.

Our Goals

To support research on autism and developmental disabilities

To train current and future professionals

To provide services to children, teens, adults and their families through partnerships with community organizations

Scheduling an Appointment

To schedule an appointment, please complete our initial questionnaire. You may return it to the program that is most appropriate for your family (below) or to autismcenter@uhcl.edu if you are unsure or would like services from more than one program.

Our Programs
Verbal Behavior Clinic

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Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities | University of Houston-Clear Lake

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In accordance with the CDC's recommendations, we strongly encourage the use of masks and can provide services to families remotely via videoconferencing. Please contact the individual programs or autismcenter@uhcl.edu for more information. At University of Houston-Clear Lake's Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, we play a crucial role both in teaching future leaders in the field while supporting families in the surrounding community.

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Steps to Connect with VR and VR Counselor Contact Info 2025.26

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Harris Center for IDD and Handouts - English

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Harris Center for IDD and Handouts - English

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Harris County IDD Checklist and Supports English 2025

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Harris County IDD Checklist and Supports Spanish 2025

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Consolidated Planning Group You Tube Channel

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Consolidated Planning Group You Tube Channel

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Concerned about planning for your special needs loved one? You’re in the right place! We are domiciled in Texas and serve all families across the United States. Click the link in our bio for a Complimentary Consultation and register for our free webinars today! Call us at 281-690-1177. CPG also offers Securities and Advisory Services. For more information, please visit our website at https://www.consolidatedplanninggroup.com/ Securities and Advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Consolidated Planning Group and Osaic Wealth are not affiliated. For full disclosures, please visit www.consolidatedplanninggroup.com

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Children with Special Health Care Needs Services - HHS

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Children with Special Health Care Needs Services - HHS

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Children with Special Health Care Needs Services Program | Texas Health and Human Services

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The Children with Special Health Care Needs Services Program helps children 20 and younger who have special health care needs and people with cystic fibrosis of any age improve their health, well-being and quality of life.

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Medical Transition to Adulthood PPT from HHS

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Medical Transition to Adulthood PPT from HHS

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Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) Systems Development Group | Texas DSHS

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This page provides information about Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) Systems Development Group .

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Maternal and Child Health’s Title V contracts with community-based organizations in select counties. Community-based organizations provide case management and support services to children with special health care needs (CYSHCN) and their families.

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Resources, Brochures, etc. for Medical Health Care Needs for Special population

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Resources, Brochures, etc. for Medical Health Care Needs for Special population

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Children with Special Health Care Needs: HHSC Forms & Publications

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The Children with Special Health Care Needs Services Program helps children 20 and younger who have special health care needs and people with cystic fibrosis of any age improve their health, well-being and quality of life. Focused on family-centered and community-based strategies, the program ensures families get services that honor and respect their cultural beliefs, traditions and values.

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Texas ABLE | Savings Program for Texans with Disabilities

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A Savings Program for Texas with Disabilities

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Parent Support Videos - Financial Planning among other topics

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Parent Support Videos - Financial Planning among other topics

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Concerned about planning for your special needs loved one? You’re in the right place! We are domiciled in Texas and serve all families across the United States. Click the link in our bio for a Complimentary Consultation and register for our free webinars today! Call us at 281-690-1177. CPG also offers Securities and Advisory Services. For more information, please visit our website at https://www.consolidatedplanninggroup.com/ Securities and Advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Consolidated Planning Group and Osaic Wealth are not affiliated.

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Adult League Challenger baseball through League City Little League

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Autism, Behavior, Evaluation, Inclusion, Transition

The Texas Autism Conference is an annual event sponsored by the Texas Education Agency. The conference's goal is to promote increased awareness and understanding of evidence-based practices, interventions, standards, and services in the area of autism.

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Autism, Behavior, Evaluation, Inclusion, Transition The Texas Autism Conference is an annual event sponsored by the Texas Education Agency. The conference's goal is to promote increased awareness and understanding of evidence-based practices, interventions, standards, and services in the area of autism.

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Mounting Horizons Inc. - Where the Sky is the Limit!

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Mounting Horizons opens many doors for myself and others, not just by way of transportation, but with all they do. Mounting Horizons allows people with disabilities to reach as high as they feel comfortable. They not only advocate on our behalf, but model what self-advocacy looks like so that we the customers can learn to do it for ourselves.

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Verne Cox Adaptive Rec - City of Pasasdena

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Verne Cox Adaptive Rec - City of Pasasdena

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The Verne Cox Multipurpose Recreation Center is a facility specifically dedicated to recreational activities, programs, and events for youth and adults with disabilities.

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An estimated live with disabilities in the world, and half of them are out of school.

The Christina Sullivan Foundation provides a community of support for parents and caregivers and inclusion for children, youth, and adults with differing abilities through adaptive activities and sports.

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The Christina Sullivan Foundation provides a community of support for parents and caregivers and inclusion for children, youth, and adults with differing abilities through adaptive activities and sports.

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CCISD SPED  2025-26                                      Parent Resource Center Sessions

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CCISD SPED  2025-26                                      Parent Resource Center Sessions

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Parent Resource Center Event RSVPs 2025-2026

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Default Forms Page - Clear Creek Independent School District

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Spanish

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We need volunteers like you to help Goodwill Houston change lives! Through our volunteer program, we offer fun, hands-on opportunities to get you involved and help us make a meaningful impact in the Greater Houston area.

If you are interested in making a difference, Goodwill Houston is the place for you!

We welcome the following types of volunteers:

Volunteer Program

Student Program

Vocational Learning Program

Community Service

How to sign-up to volunteer:

1. Fill out our Volunteer Application. Found HERE.

2. Fill out our Court Order Application. Found HERE.

3. Fill out the Group Application. Found HERE.

4. Please note that applications may take 3-5 business days to process.

If you have any questions, or need help, contact volunteer@goodwillhouston.org or call (713) 699-6367.

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Volunteering - Goodwill Houston, TX | Donation & Thrift Stores

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We need volunteers like you to help Goodwill Houston change lives! Through our volunteer program, we offer fun, hands-on opportunities to get you involved and help us make a meaningful impact in the Greater Houston area. If you are interested in making a difference, Goodwill Houston is the place for you!

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Texas Transition and Employment Guide | Texas SPED Support

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Information on statewide services and programs that assist in the transition to life outside of the public school system.

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Parent Videos

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Families, Information, Resources, Support & Training

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Family to Family Network -Houston Resources

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Family to Family Network -Houston Resources

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Houston Area Resources

Details

Last Updated: Thursday, 16 May 2019 13:52

FAMILY RESOURCES
Here are Local Parent resources that provide Parent Support, Training Opportunities, Respite or other activities.

Those that are Bold Printed have Spanish resources/ Espanol recursos

Arc of Fort Bend, 281-494-5959

Arc of Greater Houston, 713-957-1600

Arc of Gulf Coast, 281-388-1161

Arc of Katy, 832-754-9802

Arc of Texas, 512-454-6694

Asian American Family Services, 713-600-9400

Attention Deficit Disorders Association - Southwest Region 281-897-0982

Autism Share (The Woodlands)

Autism Society of America Texas Gulf Coast , 409-925-1861

Bay Area Autism Group

Bear Hugs Support Group of Humble/Kingwood/Atascocita/Porter (See Parents Supporting Parents)

Big Little JC Association, Supporting Families with Medically Dependent Children 832-891-5096

Blue Skys Over Autism - 281-687-4694

Candlelighters 713-270-4700

Depression and BiPolar Alliance 713-600-1131

Disability Rights Texas 1-800-252-9108

Down Syndrome Association of Greater Houston 713-682-7237

Easter Seals Houston (formerly United Cerebral Palsy and Houston Area Respite Center), 713-838-9050
Education Resource Center on Deafness
Epilepsy Foundation, 713-789-6295

El Grupo de Apoyo 713-921-3036

FEAT Houston (Families for Effective Autism Treatment), 281-361-3328
Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health
Friends and Families of Asians with Special Needs 281-840-8435

Fragile X Alliance 713-494-3115

Galveston-Houston Families Exploring Down Syndrome 281-736-8008

Hope For Three - support group for DADS 281-245-0640

Houston Center for Independent Living, 713-974-4621
Houston Deaf Network
Katy Autism Support (their Online Yahoo group has moved to Facebook)

Lean On Me (meets 3rd Sat. of Month at Ecclesia) 832-995-9084

Light & Salt Association 713-988-4724 www.light-salt.org (Chinese)

Muscular Dystrophy, 713-522-8561

NAMI Greater Houston, 713-970-4419

NAMI Fort Bend, 281-494-5193

Partners Resource Network - TEAM Project, 1-800-866-4726 or 713-524-2147

Parents Supporting Parents: The Woodlands, 832-364-6992

Pearland Autism Connection, 281-910-5412

Reach for Kids

Region 4 Education Service Center , 713-744-6868

Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America

Side By Side Community Support Group (League City, Pearland area), 281-332-9270
Special Education Assistance Services
Spina Bifida Association of Houston Gulf Coast , 281-447-2707

Texas Assoc. of Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (TAPVI)
Texas CHARGERS Texas Guide by Your Side
Texas Parents of Blind Children, 713-501-9659

Texas Parent to Parent, 866-896-6001

Tourette Syndrome Assoc. of Texas - Katy Support Group 281-395-5392

Tourett Syndrome Assoc. of Texas - North Houston Group

University of Houston Families CAN Parent Education Program & Transition Workgroup, 713-743-5491

Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome 22q11.2, 281-795-8727 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Williams Syndrome, 713-417-9418
RESPITE:
Arc of Greater Houston 713-957-1600

Be An Angel - Respite Vouchers

Care Connection Lifespan Respite Care Program

Easter Seals Houston (formerly United Cerebral Palsy and Houston Area Respite Center), 713-838-9050 x307 or x332

Home Run Hitters 855-364-5898

Infinite Elevations 832-845-8056

St Peters United Methodist Church Friday Night Friends, 281-492-8031

The Harris Center for Mental Health & IDD 713-970-7070 or 713-970-7616

The Center 713-525-8339

Treasures of Joy 281-468-6716

Can't Find what you need? You may want to do a search on the NavigateLifeTexas website - Search for Parent Groups, Services and Events:
https://www.navigatelifetexas.org/en/services-groups-events

ALSO - Download the Carestarter App and search for resources by disability/zip code.

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Texas Parent to Parent provides support, information, and education for families of children and adults with disabilities, chronic and mental health conditions and other health care needs.

"Having a child with special health care needs is a life-altering experience... but with the support of another parent we begin to see through the cracks and find joy in places we never could have imagined. Our journey continues, but this time we feel we will survive because we know another parent who has."
Click here to download our new emergency preparedness checklist
Important Information

You can stay updated with what's happening with COVID-19 in Texas on the following websites:
https://gov.texas.gov/organization/disabilities/coronavirus
Texas Department of State Health Services

Peer support is very popular these days but parent-to-parent programs have been using peer support since the 1970's. Sharing experiences with other parents is the key to what Texas Parent to Parent (TxP2P) does and has been proven to help families. Our services and programs are all family-centered in order to provide support, information, and education to as many families as we can.

The Texas Parent to Parent staff are parents of children with disabilities, chronic illness, or special health care needs. We have also spoken to thousands of families over the years. We are here to help - give us a call at 866-896-6001 or 512-458-8600.

Program Spotlight

TxP2P Care Notebook - A Care Notebook is an organizing tool that is particularly useful for parents. Use it to keep track of important information about your child's health care, education, or transition.

Medical Home Toolkit- A medical home is not a building, house, hospital, or home healthcare service, but rather a family-centered approach to providing comprehensive primary care. The Medical Home Toolkit explains what a medical home is and how to get one.

TxP2P is funded by Texas Department of State Health Services' Children with Special Health Care Needs Program Contract, Federal Maternal Child Health Bureau Family to Family Health Information Center Grant, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, and private grants and donations.

Please check out these two websites

TxP2P helped with both of these sites, and we feel they can be very helpful to a new parent or a parent new to an issue around their child. We especially recommend looking at the videos:

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support for parents of children with disabilities

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Texas Parent to Parent Home | Texas Parent to Parent

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Texas Parent to Parent (TxP2P) is committed to improving the lives of Texas children who have disabilities, chronic illness, and/or special health care needs.

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Skip to main content

Youth & Young Adults:
Are You Ready to Transition to Adult Care?

Take the Quiz

Parents & Caregivers:
Is Your Child Ready to Transition to Adult Care?

Take the Quiz

Stay Connected with Got Transition!

Keep up to date on transition-related news and resources with our quarterly transition newsletter.

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Got Transition® aims to improve transition from pediatric to adult health care through the use of new and innovative strategies for health professionals and youth and families.

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We update these resource directories on a regular basis. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information for every resource listed as organizations frequently alter the resources they provide, their locations, and contact information. We encourage organizations listed in the Directory to contact us at disabilityresources@tamu.edu if their listing needs to be edited. Users may also contact us via disabilityresources@tamu.edu with any suggestions or comments.

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Directory of Community Resources for People with Disabilities

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We update these resource directories on a regular basis. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information for every resource listed as organizations frequently alter the resources they provide, their locations, and contact information. We encourage organizations listed in the Directory to contact us at disabilityresources@tamu.edu if their listing needs to be edited.

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Easterseals of Greater Houston: Transition Services

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Easterseals of Greater Houston: Transition Services

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Transition Services
Job Placement, Job Coaching, Supported Employment, Work Readiness Training, and Pre-employment Training offered to clients of the Texas Workforce Solutions - Vocational Rehabilitation Services program. Persons receiving these services may have any disability and must be over 17 years old for Supported Employment Services and Work Readiness Training, and between 14 and 22 years old for Pre-Employment Training.

Job Placement - Assistance in developing and carrying out a job search plan. We help you choose a job, develop a resume, submit applications, prepare for job interviews, and begin your job.

Job Coaching - After you begin working, our staff will go to your job with you to help you learn your job and become a part of the team. We will come to your job on a schedule we set together. Over time, we will adjust the schedule and come to the job fewer times per week/month until you can do your job independently.

Supported Employment - A system of services that lead to a good job. It begins with a comprehensive assessment to identify your strengths and preferences regarding jobs. We then develop a plan to address whatever barriers stand in the way of success on the job, and work that plan with you until you find the right job. When you begin working, we will be there to help you learn your job and adjust to the routine of your new work environment.

Work Readiness Training - A classroom-based training program designed to help you learn the "soft" skills you will need to be successful at work. In addition to learning to interact in a positive manner with your coworkers and boss, you will learn financial planning and budgeting. Classes are small, with no more than six students per teacher.

Pre-employment Training - A two week day camp where you will decide upon a vocational field, learn about your rights and responsibilities as an adult, develop a resume, practice job interviewing, and spend two days gaining valuable work experience.

Services and support for persons, ages 16 - 27, who have an Autism Spectrum Disorder and Mental Illness, designed to help youth become more independent and successful in their communities. Services may include a combination of the following:

Supported Employment provided by Easter Seals Greater Houston to help persons who want to go to work find and keep a job with a future in their area of interest;

College classes at the Houston Community College VAST Academy to help beginning HCC students successfully complete their basic English or Math courses and to bridge the gap between high school and college;

Financial Coaching for youth and families, provided by Easter Seals Greater Houston, to help in planning for attending college, saving for a car or apartment, or helping their family buy a home; and,

On-line Driver's Education for a limited number of participants provided by Easter Seals Greater Houston in collaboration with SafeWay Driving;

Mobile Technology for a limited number of participants provided by Easter Seals Greater Houston will provide training, loaner devices and apps to help youth meet their goals in education and/or employment

Self Sufficiency Fund of Easter Seals Greater Houston

Persons who qualify for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families or SNAP (food stamp) benefits can take advantage of training and job placement services provided through a partnership between Easter Seals Greater Houston and Houston Community College's Corporate College.

Persons can receive training in:

General Construction and Carpentry

Classes last from one to three months and you will leave with a certificate in your chosen area which you can present to employers to show them you have the training and skills they are looking for in an employee. Easter Seals will help you get a job in your chosen field and can help you acquire the uniforms or special footwear you might need to start your new career.

Email: Program Manager: Robert Williams
Phone: 713-838-9050 ext. 343, Fax: 713-838-9050
rwilliams@eastersealshouston.org

Intake/Information: Jacquelyn Privitera
Phone: 713-838-9050 ext 363 - Fax: 713-838-8098 JPrivitera@EasterSealsHouston.org
Email:

Easter Seals Main Office - 4888 Loop Central Drive, Suite 200, Houston, TX 77081

Learn more about our Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP) and High School/High Tech Programs.

*This program is made possible by: Shell Oil, Texas Work Force, and Genny Winter. Special thanks for your generous support!

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Transition Services Job Placement, Job Coaching, Supported Employment, Work Readiness Training, and Pre-employment Training offered to clients of the Texas Workforce Solutions - Vocational Rehabilitation Services program. Persons receiving these services may have any disability and must be over 17 years old for Supported Employment Services and Work Readiness Training, and between 14 and 22 years old for Pre-Employment Training.

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Bridging the gap between technology and people with disabilities

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BridgingApps and Easter Seals Houston are committed to your health and safety. This information is not intended to be medical advice. Please see your doctor if you have any medical questions. What is it: A new virus that has spread...

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BridgingApps and Easter Seals Houston are committed to your health and safety. This information is not intended to be medical advice. Please see your doctor if you have any medical questions. What is it: A new virus that has spread...

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Harris Center for IDD (Harris County Residents)

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Harris Center for IDD (Harris County Residents)

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From respite care to Home and Community-based Services to day habilitation and drop-in programs, The Harris Center assists thousands each year by coordinating caring, compassionate support for individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities. In addition, clinicians and case managers have developed extensive community partnerships that benefit individuals with Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and other conditions. The Harris Center also coordinates care for those with a dual diagnosis of a mental illness and an intellectual or developmental disability.

Accessing Services

If you are seeking Early Childhood Intervention services for a child under the age of 3, please call 713-970-4800. For all other services, please call The Harris Center Patient Access Line at 713-970-7000, option 2.

A Consumer Services Coordinator will explain what documents are needed and how you can get them.

After your documents are received, if necessary, you will receive a Determination of Intellectual Disabilities (DID) to determine your eligibility for services.

A Business Office staff member will discuss possible fees that may apply and assist you in obtaining benefits for which you may be eligible.

An Eligibility Coordinator will meet with you to assess needs, explain services and explain rights.

If you are eligible for services, a Service Coordinator will be assigned to help you and your family understand your rights and available benefits.

Please click here for a complete list of the services we provide for individuals with Intellectual Disability/Autism and their loved ones (for the Spanish version, click here).

Waiver Programs
List of HCS Providers in Harris County
Please click here to access an updated list of HCS providers in Harris County.
Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or related conditions (ICF/IID) Program
Please click here for more information.
Texas Home Living
Please click here for a list of providers.

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From respite care to Home and Community-based Services to day habilitation and drop-in programs, The Harris Center assists thousands each year by coordinating caring, compassionate support for individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities. In addition, clinicians and case managers have developed extensive community partnerships that benefit individuals with Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and other conditions.

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Harris Center for IDD  - All In One Brochure

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Harris Center for IDD  - All In One Brochure

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The Harris Center for IDD.AU All in One Brochure

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Folleto del Centro Harris para IDD - Español

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Folleto del Centro Harris para IDD - Español

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Gulf Coast Center for IDD (Galveston County Residents)

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Gulf Coast Center for IDD (Galveston County Residents)

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Our crisis intervention specialists work with individuals with IDD that are experiencing a crisis or are at risk of crisis to offer de-escalation services or referrals for respite. Individuals and families can choose between out-of-home respite services or in-home respite services as temporary relief for the duration of the timeframe the individual in crisis reaches stabilization. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact our crisis hotline at 866-729-3848.

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Our crisis intervention specialists work with individuals with IDD that are experiencing a crisis or are at risk of crisis to offer de-escalation services or referrals for respite. Individuals and families can choose between out-of-home respite services or in-home respite services as temporary relief for the duration of the timeframe the individual in crisis reaches stabilization.

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Pre-ETS Brochure (VR Services while enrolled in school)

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Pre-ETS Brochure (VR Services while enrolled in school)

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Texas Workforce Solutions - Vocational Rehab Services - Go To website, then click on "START MY VR" 

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Texas Workforce Solutions - Vocational Rehab Services - Go To website, then click on "START MY VR" 

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Adults

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Get help preparing for, obtaining, retaining or advancing in your employment through the following individualized services. Services are based on eligibility and your individual needs.

Services to Assist with Employment

Services may be provided to help you prepare for, obtain, retain or advance in employment, including (as needed):

Vocational counseling and guidance

Referrals for hearing, visual and other examinations

Assistance with medical appointments and treatment

Rehabilitation devices, including hearing aids, wheelchairs, artificial limbs and braces

Therapy to address a disability, including occupational or speech therapy and applied behavioral analysis

Physical restoration services

Medical, psychological and vocational assessments

Assistance with college education or trade certification

On-the-job training

Training in workplace and employer expectations

Vocational adjustment training

Rehabilitation Teachers Services to help you learn Braille, orientation & mobility, and home and health management skills if you are blind or have a visual impairment

Supported employment

Job Matching & Placement Services

Transportation assistance to and from your job, including travel vouchers and vehicle modifications

Follow-up and supported employment services to help you maintain employment

Referral to Business Enterprises of Texas program, Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center and other state, federal and community agencies and organizations

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Get help preparing for, obtaining, retaining or advancing in your employment through the following individualized services. Services are based on eligibility and your individual needs.

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Gulf Coast Center for IDD Checklist and Handouts

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Gulf Coast Center for IDD Checklist and Handouts

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Galveston County IDD Checklist and Supports English 2025

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Galveston County IDD Checklist and Supports Spanish 2025

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Workforce Solutions - Texas Workforce Commission

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Workforce Solutions - Texas Workforce Commission

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Office Information 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday
1300-A Bay Area Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77058

Financial Aid Forms

Financial Aid Forms Fax: (713) 266-2495
Financial Aid Forms Email: supportcenter@wrksolutions.com
Financial Aid Voice: 1 (888) 600-5936

Jasmine Nelson

(346) 230-7018 P
(832) 915-5161 F

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career office locations | workforce solutions offices | career center | find a job | career planning

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Career Office Locations | Workforce Solutions - Workforce Solutions

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Workforce Solutions offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. Hours vary at each Information Center. To reach Workforce Solutions toll free, call 1 (888) 469-5627. To check the status of current financial aid application, call 1 (888) 600-5936.

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Medicaid for Children & Adults with Disabilities

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Medicaid for Children & Adults with Disabilities

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Medicaid can provide free or low-cost health care and long-term services and supports to low-income children and adults with disabilities.

Children and adults with disabilities who get Medicaid usually are in one or more of the following groups:

To get Medicaid, you must be a Texas resident and a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen. When you apply, we'll ask about your income, your age, and your disability status to see if you qualify.

Children with Disabilities

To get Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities, children with disabilities must be age 20 and younger. Children with disabilities can also be covered through Children's Medicaid.

When you apply, we'll ask you about your income and your child's disability to help determine which programs your child might be able to get.

If you have a child with a disability and make too much money to get Medicaid, you might be able to get coverage through the Medicaid Buy-In for Children program. MBIC allows families of children with disabilities to make a monthly payment to get Medicaid coverage.

Adults with Disabilities

Adults with disabilities who qualify will get Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities.

If you have a disability and work, you might be able to get the Medicaid Buy-In for Adults program.

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Medicaid for Children & Adults with Disabilities

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Medicaid can provide free or low-cost health care and long-term services and supports to low-income children and adults with disabilities. Children and adults with disabilities who get Medicaid usually are in one or more of the following groups: To get Medicaid, you must be a Texas resident and a U.S.

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18+ Adult Child with a Developmental Disability

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18+ Adult Child with a Developmental Disability

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If your child has a developmental disability and has turned 18 - consider helping him/her apply for SSI as an adult - see next collumn for SSI info

Medicaid (STAR KIDS/PLUS) is automatically approved for anyone found elibilgle for SSI ***There is NO WAIT for these services like there is for thew Medicaid Waivers Services***

Also, once your child is 18 years old, SSI eligibility is based on the adult child's employment income - not the parent/guardian's income.

Medicaid includes long term services and supports - namely group home/residential via ICFs; Day programming support via DAHS, and Community First Choice (CFC)  - See below for information weblinks for each.

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Medicaid: Community First Choice   - Paid for by traditional Medicaid, services coordinated by either Gulf Coast Center or Harris Center for IDD.

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Medicaid: Community First Choice   - Paid for by traditional Medicaid, services coordinated by either Gulf Coast Center or Harris Center for IDD.

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* Community First Choice  - HHS

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Day Habs - HCS/TXHmLv Waiver -CCISD and surrounding area

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Day Habs - HCS/TXHmLv Waiver -CCISD and surrounding area

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Gulf Frwy Area - South of 610 to Galveston

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Day Activity and Health Services - Medicaid - Galveston and Harris Counties

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Day Activity and Health Services - Medicaid - Galveston and Harris Counties

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DAHS Galveston and Harris Counties 11.2024

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Texas Health and Human Services - Intellectual and Development Disabilities Explanation of Services and Supports Handbook

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Texas Health and Human Services - Intellectual and Development Disabilities Explanation of Services and Supports Handbook

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Texas Medicaid waivers are a gateway to getting services for your child. We don't want to tell you what to do, but we strongly suggest that you consider adding your child to the waiver interest list(s), which many parents call "waiting lists," if you haven't already done so.

Even if you hope your child will never need those services, it is important that they be added to the interest list for any program(s) that might meet their needs. Your child might have to wait a long time to get services through the waiver. You can always decline the services once your child moves to the top of the list.

Many parents say they wish they had signed up for the waiver interest lists when their child was born or first diagnosed. Some of the interest lists have more than a 15-year wait time.

We know this page has a lot of information for you to take in. It's okay if you don't absorb everything here in one visit. Take a deep breath and come back as much as you want or need to.

What Are Waivers and How Do They Work?

Waivers let states use Medicaid funds for long-term home and community-based services for people with disabilities or special health care needs in order to help them live in the community.

Before the creation of waiver programs, people had to live in hospitals, nursing homes, or other institutions like State Supported Living Centers or Residential Treatment Centers so Medicaid would pay for long-term services.

Some of the services you can get with a waiver are:

Personal care for help with things like bathing or dressing

Nursing care

Home modifications like ramps

Car modifications

Respite care

Certain therapies

They are named "waivers" because certain Medicaid requirements are waived (meaning they don't apply). For example, family income. All but one waiver are based on just the child's income alone. Your child's income means any money that they personally have earned or are paid-not your whole family's income.

Besides getting these additional services, people who receive waiver long-term services and supports also get full Medicaid health care benefits. This is a huge help for children and adults who have complicated medical needs and no other health insurance.

Texas has seven waivers. Each one has its own interest list. Consider adding your child to all the interest lists based on their identified diagnosis and current needs. You don't know what future needs your child might have. You might want to place them on as many of the lists as possible.

Waivers are managed by the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and the Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

When there is room for your child or young adult on one of the waiver programs, they will come off of the interest list for the program with the opening. You may choose to continue to leave your child's name on interest lists for other waiver programs. This is when HHSC and/or DSHS will review diagnostic and other information to decide if your child meets the waiver requirements. Depending on the waiver, you might be asked for information about their medical, psychological, and developmental history, as well as financial and income eligibility. The eligibility information that is needed changes based on the waiver. The comparison of Texas Medicaid waiver programs chart gives you more details about what is needed for each of the waivers.

How to Add Your Child to Interest Lists

You do not have to prove your child is eligible before adding them to the waiver interest lists. Your child will go through this process once they move to the top of the list. Only then is the eligibility information reviewed and used to decide if your child can enroll.

Call 1-877-438-5658 for information about putting your child on an interest list for long-term services. This is for the CLASS, DBMD, and MDCP waivers. See the section below for details about each of these waiver programs.

Call your Local Mental Health Authority about the Youth Empowerment Services (YES) waiver program. Go to the DSHS website to find the Local Mental Health Authority in your area.

Call your Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority (LIDDA) to get your name on the interest list for the HCS and Texas Home Living Waiver programs. You can search for your LIDDA's telephone number.

Texas Medicaid Waivers

Click on the links below for more information:

Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS): gives home and community-based supports to children and adults with related conditions. There are over 200 related conditions, like cerebral palsy and spina bifida. The related condition must have occurred before the child was age 22.

Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD): gives services for children and adults who are deaf-blind or have a related condition that leads to deaf-blindness, and who have another disability.

Home and Community-based Services (HCS): gives services and supports to children and adults with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live with their families, in their own homes, or in small group homes with no more than 4 people.

Medically Dependent Children Program (MDCP): gives services to children and adults who are 20 and younger who are medically fragile as an alternative to receiving services in a nursing facility.

STAR+PLUS Home and Community-based Services (HCBS): gives services to adults over the age of 21 to keep them in their community and not in a nursing home facility.

Texas Home Living (TxHmL): gives services to children and adults with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live in their own home or their family's home.

Youth Empowerment Services (YES): gives home and community-based services to children under the age of 19 who otherwise would need psychiatric inpatient care or whose parents would turn to state custody for care.

Important Tips About Interest (Waiting) Lists

Consider adding your child to as many waiver interest lists as possible when your child is first diagnosed with a disability or special health care needs. You should also think about adding your child to the lists even if they aren't diagnosed but have reason to believe that your child will have a long-term disability or special health care needs. If your child no longer needs the service when they come off the interest list, you can tell them you do not want the waiver. If you refuse a waiver slot offer for your child once they are at the top of the interest list, your child's name will be placed at the bottom of the interest list again.

Ask for an email confirmation or a mailed letter when you add your child to the Medicaid waiver interest lists. Keep this in a safe place.

It is very important to keep your address and contact phone numbers updated. If your child moves to the top of the interest list and they can't reach you, your child will be dropped from the list. They might also call you or send you a letter to see if your child still needs services. If they can't reach you, they might take your child off the list.

At least once a year, call to update your contact information. Most parents remember by calling around their child's birthday. During these calls, you can also find out where your child is on the list. Write it down in a safe place, like your care notebook, so you can keep track of how far your child moves up the list each year. See our Organizing Medical Records page for more information about care notebooks.

Once your child moves to the top of an interest list, a service coordinator, case manager, or nurse will schedule a home visit. This will start the process of determining if your child is able to enroll in one of the waiver programs. You can also research the waiver program beforehand to learn what it takes for your child to get services.

Your child can remain on other waiver interest lists while receiving waiver services. They just can't receive services from more than one waiver program at the same time. For example, your child is receiving MDCP services. They move to the top of the CLASS interest list and are approved for CLASS services, you will have to pick between the two programs. You might want to connect with other parents who have done this before.

If you have other health insurance through an employer and your child is enrolled in a waiver program, you might be reimbursed for health insurance premiums through the Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) program. Once your child starts receiving waiver services, call your local utility company about possible discounts on electricity, water, and wastewater bills, if your child lives in your home. Depending on income, your family might also be able to receive food stamps (SNAP benefits).

Most of the waivers offer the Consumer Directed Services (CDS) choice for at least some, if not all, of the program's services. Also known as "self-directed services," this gives you more personal control over how your child's services are delivered, and many parents prefer it. For example, parents who pick the CDS choice serve as the employer for their child's attendants. They are able to interview, hire / fire, and train them. It can take up a lot of your time. You might want to check out our connecting with other parents page to learn from other parents.

If your child has an intellectual disability or a condition related to an ID, and is in a crisis or has high medical needs, call your LIDDA to ask about diversion slots. You can search for your LIDDA's telephone number on the HHSC website. These slots are for extreme cases only, such as a critical health crisis that puts the family at risk of placing the child in a state-supported living center. If approved, your child moves to the top of the HCS interest list.

Quotes from Parents

"Our son has been receiving MDCP services for 4 years, and we don't know what we would do without this waiver program. It has allowed us to care for him at home and provides services we wouldn't otherwise be able to afford."

"We are still waiting. We started on the CLASS list at number 50,000 and now we are down to number 8,000. We've been waiting for 9 years. I should have done it sooner."

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Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs for Children with Disabilities | Navigate Life Texas

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Parents of children with disabilities in Texas should consider adding their child to Medicaid waiver interest list(s), even if they hope their child will never need those services.

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Health and Human Services Guardianship and Alternatives Brochure

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Health and Human Services Guardianship and Alternatives Brochure

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The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetime. ACHIEVE WITH US

One of our primary goals is to provide families and professionals with information than can be easily accessed and used independently at any time. To help achieve this we have a resource webpage with links to local, state and national organizations serving the needs of people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities

Stay up to date with events that The Arc of Greater Houston is hosting. Our calendar provides information and links to register for our upcoming events.

The Candy Cane Ball was a great success! Thank you to all our volunteers. Thank you to Amegy Bank, Triple S Steel, Mr. Stein & Community Health Choice for providing volunteers and sponsoring this fantastic event!

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The Arc of Greater Houston: IDD Services Organization

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The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetime. ACHIEVE WITH US One of our primary goals is to provide families and professionals with information than can be easily accessed and used independently at any time.

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The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.

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Partners Resource Network (PRN) has been empowering families of children and youth with disabilities since 1986.

We can help you understand your child's disability, understand your rights and responsibilities under IDEA, obtain and evaluate resources and services, and effectively participate as an equal team member with professionals in planning services for your child.

Call us at 1.800.866.4726 or email us to be connected with our person assisting parents and families in your area.

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Arc of Texas on Guardianship and Alternatives - Supported Decision Making

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Arc of Texas on Guardianship and Alternatives - Supported Decision Making

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As defined by the Texas Probate Code, guardianship is a legal process used to provide protection for adults who are incapacitated. The Probate Code defines an incapacitated person as: "An adult individual who, because of a physical or mental condition, is substantially unable to provide food, clothing, or shelter to himself or herself, to care for the individual's own physical health, or to manage the individual's own financial affairs."

The Arc of Texas and The Arc of the United States believe that the majority of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can manage their own affairs with informal assistance and guidance and do not need a guardian. People with IDD can be supported in many ways to make their own decisions without taking away their rights through a guardianship. Learn more about alternatives to guardianship by reading the documents below. Each of the documents is provided in three formats: For Families, For Self-Advocates, and For Self-Advocates with Dyslexia. In addition, each of these documents are available in English and Spanish.

For more information on alternatives to guardianship, call our offices at 1-800-252-9729.

Paper on Guardianship - Most people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities can manage their own affairs with assistance and guidance from others, such as family and friends. If guardianship is necessary, it should be tailored to the person's needs. Strict monitoring must be in place to protect the best interests and preferences of each person.
Education Decision Making When Your Child Turns 18 Other Helpful Links: Texas Project First
Family Eldercare - Family Eldercare is appointed by the Probate Court to be legal guardian for elders and people with disabilities who have no appropriate family or friends to act in that capacity.

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Alternatives to Guardianship - The Arc of Texas

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As defined by the Texas Probate Code, guardianship is a legal process used to provide protection for adults who are incapacitated. The Probate Code defines an incapacitated person as: "An adult individual who, because of a physical or mental condition, is substantially unable to provide food, clothing, or shelter to himself or herself, to care for the individual's own physical health, or to manage the individual's own financial affairs."

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Guardianship and Alternatives - Disability Rights Texas

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Guardianship and Alternatives - Disability Rights Texas

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Guardianship is Not Your Only Option: Supported Decision-Making On-Demand Webinar

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Disability Rights Texas presents an overview of supported decision-making and other guardianship alternatives.

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Guardianship and Alternatives-Region IV - Debbie Wilkes

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Guardianship and Alternatives-Region IV - Debbie Wilkes

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alternatives to guardianship including supported decision making

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It’s difficult to predict the future, but it’s never too early to start planning for it. Our tool will show you how much your living expenses will cost, and the amount of money you will need to earn to pay for them.

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An employee with a disability must be able to perform the essential functions of their job with or without a reasonable accommodation. If you need an accommodation due to a disability, you must request it from your employer. A reasonable accommodation is a requested item or action that would enable you to perform the required functions of your job.

For example, the accommodation may be one of the following:

Make buildings and bathrooms readily accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities

Change your work schedule or reassign you to a vacant position you are qualified for

Provide you with equipment or devices that will aid you in performing the essential functions of your job

Provide additional training

Provide qualified readers or interpreters

An employer is required to make a reasonable accommodation unless the request causes significant difficulty or expense to the employer.

An employer is not required to lower quality or production standards for disabled applicants or employees.

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An employee with a disability must be able to perform the essential functions of their job with or without a reasonable accommodation. If you need an accommodation due to a disability, you must request it from your employer. A reasonable accommodation is a requested item or action that would enable you to perform the required functions of your job.

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Streamlined career search and discovery for students and job seekers. Includes a built-in interest assessment and access to training, education, and job opportunities. Straightforward, easy-to-read one-page career reports help guide individuals' next move on their road to a satisfying career.

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The Institute on Person-Centered Practices

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The Institute on Person Centered Practices uses a person-centered framework to support people with disabilities, and other people who are marginalize from their communities to live their lives as they define them. We do this by offering training and technical assistance on person centered practices with a wide range of organizations that support people to be included in their communities, family members and people with disabilities. We believe we must take it to scale by embedding person centered practices in the fabric of organizations that support people to maximize impact that leads to positive life changes. Further, to offer training and support directly to people to develop plans that guide outcomes based on what is important to them.

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The Institute on Person Centered Practices uses a person-centered framework to support people with disabilities, and other people who are marginalize from their communities to live their lives as they define them. We do this by offering training and technical assistance on person centered practices with a wide range of organizations that support people to be included in their communities, family members and people with disabilities.

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Self Determination and Self Advocacy Activities

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Self Determination and Self Advocacy Activities

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*Building Self -Determination in my child - Garrett Center
*Parent and Child Self Determination Activity-Garret Center

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College Contacts for College Programs for Students with Disabilities, 2021

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College Contacts for College Programs for Students with Disabilities, 2021

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College Contacts for College Programs for Students with Disabilities

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VAST Academy - Houston Community College

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VAST Academy - Houston Community College

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Dr. Adria Baker, Rice University/Parent advocate

Kristen Davis, Texas Workforce Solutions/Vocational Rehabilitation

Ana Esparza, Partners Resource Network Region 4

Winston Chambers, Houston Independent School District

Dr. David Cross, HCC Office of Institutional Equity & Diversity

Dr. Jaishree Ellie, Greater Houston Disability Chamber of Commerce

Tiffany Grady, HCC and VAST Academy Alumni

Cheryl Guido, Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation

Andrew Hardwick, Social Security Administration

Charles Kerlegon, The Harris Center

Claudia Magallan, Baker Ripley House

Janniece Sleigh, The Arc of Harris County

Jan Stailey, The Rise School of Houston

Shelley Townsend, University of Houston-Parent Project-Families CAN

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Dr. Adria Baker, Rice University/Parent advocate Kristen Davis, Texas Workforce Solutions/Vocational Rehabilitation Ana Esparza, Partners Resource Network Region 4 Winston Chambers, Houston Independent School District Dr. David Cross, HCC Office of Institutional Equity & Diversity Dr. Jaishree Ellie, Greater Houston Disability Chamber of Commerce Tiffany Grady, HCC and VAST Academy Alumni Cheryl Guido, Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Andrew Hardwick, Social Security Administration Charles Kerlegon, The Harris Center Claudia Magallan, Baker Ripley House Janniece Sleigh, The Arc of Harris County Jan Stailey, The Rise School of Houston Shelley Townsend, University of Houston-Parent Project-Families CAN

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Vocational Training

STRIVE - Skilled Training Rewarding Independence and Vocational Education

Program Description

The STRIVE Program consist of a 2 year college program for adults with intellectual disabilities. The program will provide vocational training with the end goal of the student obtaining a job. This is not an accredited college degree program. Upon completing the program, each student will receive a certificate of completion. Students who have completed the program will attend the graduation ceremony that is held in May.

Admission Requirements

Program application

Interview with program

At least 3rd grade reading level and/or compensatory comprehension skills

Basic math understanding and ability to use a calculator

Ability to function independently for a period of time

Can follow directions, accepts authority; no severe behavior or emotional problems

Can handle and adapt to change; not overly stressed

Ability to be successful in competitive employment situations

Desire and motivation to complete a post-secondary program

Minimum 18 years of age at the start of the program

Must have work and/or volunteer experience

Must have access to dependable transportation

Program Length

STRIVE is a two year program with a combination of morning and afternoon classes broken down into two levels.

Program Overview

Semester One

Interpersonal Skills: This course is the study of factors in positive relationships.

Communication Skills for the Workplace: This course addresses essential listening, speaking, reading, writing and computational skills.

Career Exploration and Planning: An Introductory course in career exploration, educational planning, and job searching.

Semester Two

Occupational Math: The student will be introduced to math skills applicable to business and industry for successful on-the-job performance.

Professionalism in the Workplace (Preparation): This course is designed to prepare the student for career success including ethics, interpersonal relations, professional attire, and advancement.

Internet Basics: This class will introduce the student to the internet including email, home page, and how to perform basic research to address individuals/company/business needs.

Semester Three

Community Ethics: In this class students will identify community resources and learn the role of ethics as it pertains to health care and community settings including ethical decision-making.

Semester Four

Wellness Health and Promotion: This course is designed to expose the student to good health and hygiene practices necessary to living independently.

Job Search and Employment Skills: Students will complete standard employment applications, demonstrate interviewing skills, and discuss the job search process.

Professionalism in the Workplace: Develop entry-level skills for the workforce. Includes professionalism, interpersonal skills communications, workplace civility, and employability skills.

Semester Five

Enhancing Workplace Communication: Focuses on the principles of communication to facilitate sending and receiving various forms of written and spoken communication in the workplace.

Work Diversity: Examines gender, cultural background, age and other factors effecting coworker/client relationships. Includes behavioral expectations and standards in the business environment.

Occupational Safety and Health: Students will learn to recognize common occupational hazards and describe the components of effective workplace design and accident prevention programs.

Request more information at strive@alvincollege.edu or call 281.756.3787

Register in the H Building, Room 103.

Download the course application (required).

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The STRIVE Program consist of a 2 year college program for adults with intellectual disabilities. The program will provide vocational training with the end goal of the student obtaining a job. This is not an accredited college degree program. Upon completing the program, each student will receive a certificate of completion.

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4 Year Comprehensive Transition Program

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PATHS Certificate Program at Texas A&M  - College Station

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PATHS Certificate Program at Texas A&M  - College Station

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Direct Support Professional

Para-Professional or

Child Care Professional

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Our mission is to provide training to prepare individuals to enter the competitive workforce using innovative, research-based training that improves and enhances individuals' Professionalism, Self-determination, Self-advocacy and Leadership skills.

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Our mission is to provide training to prepare individuals to enter the competitive workforce using innovative, research-based training that improves and enhances individuals' Professionalism, Self-determination, Self-advocacy and Leadership skills.

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Texas A&M Bridge to Career (B2C) Summer Program

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Texas A&M Bridge to Career (B2C) Summer Program

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Personal Care Attendant Training

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For any questions about the program, please email Destiny Garza at destiny.garza@austin.utexas.edu.
E4Texas is a post-secondary opportunity for people with or without a disability, who are over the age of 18, who have a high school diploma, and are employment-focused.

The E4Texas 3-semester experience combines classroom instruction with practical career building experiences, independent living skills, and self-determination.

1. Empower Texans to become self-determined & independent.

2. Educate Texans to gain employment, professional, and independent living skills.

3. Employ Texans in the areas of caregiving.

4. Give Texans the tools they need to excel in life!

During the course, students will learn the main aspects of independent living, will receive their caretaker certification, and will be supported as they find jobs in their final semester.
For more information contact:
E4Texas has four goals:

E4Texas is a tuition-based program. Students who are current customers with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) may qualify for assistance with tuition. Contact your TWC counselor to get more information on qualifications. If you are not a TWC customer, you can contact them to inquire about registering as a customer.

OR

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For any questions about the program, please email Destiny Garza at destiny.garza@austin.utexas.edu . E4Texas is a post-secondary opportunity for people with or without a disability, who are over the age of 18, who have a high school diploma, and are employment-focused. The E4Texas 3-semester experience combines classroom instruction with practical career building experiences, independent living skills, and self-determination.

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SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income or resources.

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University of St. Thomas - Associates of Applied Science in Pragmatic Studies

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University of St. Thomas - Associates of Applied Science in Pragmatic Studies

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2-year program for students with learning differences

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Associate of Applied Science in Pragmatic Studies

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The Associate of Applied Science in Pragmatic Studies at University of St. Thomas prepares students with learning disabilities the skills necessary to have a successful career and life.

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El Paso Community College - Project Higher

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El Paso Community College - Project Higher

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Mission

The mission of UNT ENGAGE is to improve the quality of life for neurodivergent students by supporting their social, vocational, and academic success at the University of North Texas and beyond.

Program Overview

ENGAGE serves neurodivergent students (diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, etc.) enrolled at UNT with reaching their academic and vocational goals through person-centered planning and individualized services. Students participate in assessment and planning meetings to identify personal, academic, and vocational goals.

ENGAGE staff support and guide students to reach those goals through weekly meetings, check-ins, group activities, and referrals.

ENGAGE is dedicated to helping UNT's neurodivergent students with adjusting to university life and turning their degrees into careers.

Admittance into the program is based on staff availability, support needs, and a completed application.

Our application is currently CLOSED for the 2023 - 2024 school year. Please check back in the Spring to apply for the 2024 - 2025 school year.

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The mission of UNT ENGAGE is to improve the quality of life for neurodivergent students by supporting their social, vocational, and academic success at the University of North Texas and beyond. ENGAGE serves neurodivergent students (diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, etc.) enrolled at UNT with reaching their academic and vocational goals through person-centered planning and individualized services.

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Go TO CSF Website and click on Events: https://www.christinasullivanfoundation.org/

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Go TO CSF Website and click on Events: https://www.christinasullivanfoundation.org/

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CSF GAME NIGHT eSports, Board Games, and Movie Night

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University of  North Texas - UNTWise Applied Learning Lab

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University of  North Texas - UNTWise Applied Learning Lab

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Transition Services and Summer Camps

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MISSION: To improve the quality of life for people with disabilities by researching innovative best practices, training professionals in effective and ethical service, and directly supporting the disability community.

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Workplace Inclusion & Sustainable Employment

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MISSION: To improve the quality of life for people with disabilities by researching innovative best practices, training professionals in effective and ethical service, and directly supporting the disability community.

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Highlights

Second Inclusive Post-Secondary Education program in Texas

10-12 Students per Cohort (per year)

Seeking: $100,000+ in donations to support students with scholarships

Self-Sustaining: Designed to be self-sustaining by 2025

Program Activities

UNT courses for zero-credit (non-degree seeking) focusing on career interests

Inclusive internships on campus & community focusing on competitive employment

Participation in traditional college activities with UNT students

UNT ELEVAR Classes: designed for their needs (life skills, financial literacy, career planning, health & wellness)

Need & Impact

UNT ELEVAR is part of an international trend of post- secondary education for young adults with intellectual/ developmental disabilities. It addresses a significant social problem: inclusive education is widely available for children with disabilities in PK-12 level, but there are few educational opportunities after high school.

UNT ELEVAR not only provides these opportunities for an underrepresented population, but it supports them in pursuing a career of their choice building on skills necessary to pursue a competitive job, live independently, and continue to be part of a larger, inclusive community.

It also provides a larger impact to the students, faculty, and staff at UNT and the surrounding communities in broadening their perceptions through inclusive experiences.

Finally, partnerships with on- campus and local organizations, school districts, and employers, extend on the importance of diversity in the workforce.

Program Description

UNT ELEVAR (Empower, Learn, Excel, en Vision, Advance, Rise) is a four-year inclusive postsecondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities (ID). Following the definition of the program's name, ELEVAR [lift, soar, rise, in Spanish], the program's vision is to empower young adults with ID who wish to continue postsecondary education (PSE) to become self-determined, independent, and healthy adults readied for integrated competitive employment. Most importantly, the UNT ELEVAR program welcomes young adults with ID to be part of the Mean Green family experience. UNT ELEVAR has been approved as a Comprehensive Transition Program through the U.S. Department of Education accreditation. For more information about the UNT ELEVAR program, please contact us at elevar@unt.edu or 940-369-8563.

Admissions Information

The UNT ELEVAR program is designed to serve young adults with intellectual disabilities of at least 18 years of age, has completed high school with or without a high school diploma, and who received services through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), been served by IDEA, or completed an alternate assessment portfolio. The application is now closed but will open again October 1, 2023 and closes December 1, 2023 for the 2024-2025 cohort. For more information, visit our Admission Information page.

Family Resources and Information Sessions

To learn more about the UNT ELEVAR program please attend one of our Open Houses (see Events for more information). In this virtual or in person open house, we share more about the program, admission process, housing, and all other components of our inclusive post-secondary education program. To visit UNT, please schedule a tour with UNT admissions at https://tours.unt.edu

RESOURCES: Middle school and High school students interested in pursuing and experiencing a college career can prepare early on! Here is a great website from our Think College partners: Click Here

Supporting the UNT ELEVAR Program

Spreading the word about the inclusive options and possibilities for students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities is a great way to support the program. Your gift will empower students with intellectual disabilities to become more independent and prepared for competitive employment. To give, please visit our official GIVING page.

For more information about donating to the future UNT ELEVAR program, please contact us at elevar@unt.edu

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Second Inclusive Post-Secondary Education program in Texas 10-12 Students per Cohort (per year) Seeking: $100,000+ in donations to support students with scholarships Self-Sustaining: Designed to be self-sustaining by 2025 UNT courses for zero-credit (non-degree seeking) focusing on career interests Inclusive internships on campus & community focusing on competitive employment Participation in traditional college activities with UNT students UNT ELEVAR Classes: designed for their needs (life skills, financial literacy, career planning, health & wellness) UNT ELEVAR is part of an international trend of post- secondary education for young adults with intellectual/ developmental disabilities.

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A 4-year Comprehensive Program at Lonestar College

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Lone Star College was founded in 1973 and offers Associate Degrees, Workforce Certificates and Transfer Credits.

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The Garrett Center - Sam Houston State University

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The Garrett Center - Sam Houston State University

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Mission Statement

The Eleanor and Charles Garrett Center on Transition and Disability Studies is the first of its kind in Texas to have a dedicated focus on the practitioner aspects of transition services and will serve as a dedicated gateway of information for transition team members including educators, students with disabilities, their families, and agencies and community partners. In addition to the website and other communication platforms, the Garrett Center will offer workshops and conduct research to improve services and outcomes for children, youth and adults with disabilities.
Find Out More

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The Eleanor and Charles Garrett Center on Transition and Disability Studies

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The Eleanor and Charles Garrett Center on Transition and Disability Studies is the first of its kind in Texas to have a dedicated focus on the practitioner aspects of transition services and will serve as a dedicated gateway of information for transition team members including educators, students with disabilities, their families, and agencies and community partners.

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NTACT: National Technical Assistance Center on Transition

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NTACT: National Technical Assistance Center on Transition

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NTACT:C | National Technical Assistance Center on Transition

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The Collaborative (NTACT:C) Supporting you to improve opportunities and outcomes for students and youth with disabilities

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Texas Project First: Self Determination 

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Texas Project First: Self Determination 

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en Español * Share *
"Self-Determination. Be Reasonable. Do it my way." - seen printed on a post-it note on the desk of a leading self-advocate in Holland, Michigan.
We all have a desire to lead self-determined lives...lives in which we have choice and opportunity, and the freedom to choose for ourselves. It's no different for people with disabilities. Does your child experience self-determination in his or her life? The opportunities for self-determination begin early. The more experience we provide our children, the better prepared they will be for the choices of adulthood.
What is Self-Determination?
Self-Determination is a broad term that describes an individual's right to make choices about their own lives, to have the same rights and responsibilities as everyone else, and to speak and advocate for themselves. Self-Determination is not the same as self-advocacy, although the two go hand-in-hand. For more information on self-advocacy, . The right to self-determination is not dependent on age or disability. Children obviously need guidance in making choices for themselves, but need practice and experience with decision-making nonetheless. Many people with disabilities may need the assistance of those who know and care about them to truly live a self-determined life, but they can and should have the same opportunities for decision-making as any other person without a disability.
What Parents Need to Know 5 principles of self-determination 1. Freedom: The freedom to make basic choices in one's life. Even very young children can and should practice making choices. For example: 2. Authority: Control over one's life, particularly one's finances. There are many ways to assist a person with a disability to manage their own finances, or participate in the management of their money. For example:

1. Your 3-year-old makes a choice between 2 kinds of cereals for breakfast, 2 different choices of toys to play with, or 2 choices of bedtime stories.

2. Your 8-year-old chooses between several types of food options (particularly at a restaurant!), ways to spend his/her free time, or friends with whom he/she prefers to spend time.

3. Your 13-year-old is included in the decision-making process of scheduling elective classes at junior high, or extracurricular activities in which to become involved.

4. Your 17-year-old is included in the decision-making process regarding his/her transition from high school to the adult world.

1. Wells Fargo banking has created a free interactive money management educational program, designed to meet the needs of a variety of abilities and ages. Find it at: http://www.handsonbanking.org/

2. There are a variety of technologies available to assist with money management, even for those who have limited math skills. One example: http://www.readingmadeez.com/products/TalkingCheckbook.html

5. Confirmation: Proof of your importance, the role you play in the lives of others. When we realize that we matter, our lives take on a whole new meaning and significance. Your child needs it as much as you do! To learn more: Beach Center (University of Kansas)
3. Support: Organizing the people who support you to live your life, in a way that makes sense for you. Many people with disabilities need support from others to do the things that are important to/for them. Allowing the individual to have as much control as possible over who provides the support and how they provide it is crucial to self-determination.

4. Responsibility: With freedom and authority comes responsibility. Don't let your child's disability stand in the way of taking responsibility in ways that make sense for him/her! Disability should never be an excuse.
Center for Self-Determination
Before you leap to the conclusion that self-determination is an impossible concept for your child, we encourage you to learn more. Self-determination will (and should!) look different for every individual. Self-determination is an unending destination, with many baby steps in the journey. Self-determination begins at birth and, with support and opportunity, can carry your child to a more self-determined life as an adult with a disability.
National Gateway to Self-Determination National Technical Assistance Center on Transition (NTACT)

A Parent's Guide to the Self-Determined Learning Model for Early Elementary Students

It's My Future

Ten Steps to Self-Determination

What is Self-Determination and Why is it Important

The Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education (CADRE) - Your Journey to Self-determination Accessible Online Learning Series

Garrett Center on Transition & Disability Studies (Sam Houston State University) - Parent resources include strategies for building self-determination skills in children and young adults.

PACER's National Parent Center on Transition & Employment - Developing self-determination skills, mentoring and family support

Syracuse University, Center on Human Policy - Fact Sheet: Summary of Self-Determination

Texas Statewide Leadership for Autism Training - Self-Advocacy and Self-Determination (video)

Virginia Dept. of Education - I'm Determined

Zarrow Center (University of Oklahoma) - Self-Determination Assessment Tools

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en Español * Share * "Self-Determination. Be Reasonable. Do it my way." - seen printed on a post-it note on the desk of a leading self-advocate in Holland, Michigan. We all have a desire to lead self-determined lives...lives in which we have choice and opportunity, and the freedom to choose for ourselves.

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Rachel Schwartzman

Accessibility and Inclusion Specialist

Space Center Houston

Manned Space Flight Education Foundation

Office: +1 281 244 2147

rschwartzman@spacecenter.org

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Our Teen Explorer Crew (TEC) volunteers are a vital part of our Explorer Camps, Space Center University, and the overall guest experience. During the summer, TEC volunteers may serve on one of three different teams:

Explorer Camps
Explorer Camp volunteers serve as classroom assistants and runners for our STEM-focused camps for ages 4 - 11. These volunteers help with many aspects of camp, prepare materials, escort students, and help students with space-related STEM activities.

Space Center University
Space Center University volunteers serve as classroom assistants for Space Center U, which is a challenging multi-day program that promotes engineering solutions to space-related situations. Volunteers help participants with activities, prepare materials, and escort groups.

Guest Experience Team
Guest Experience volunteers engage guests on the floor of the museum, sharing information about our exhibits and human space flight, using props and storytelling techniques. They may also assist with other duties that enhance the guest experience. Volunteers in this area must be friendly and comfortable speaking to guests of all ages.

This program runs from June 1 to Aug. 14 and gives teens the opportunity to contribute over 100 volunteer hours. Applications will be accepted Jan. 10 - March 9.

Teen volunteer requirements

Must be 13-17 years of age on, or by, June 1, 2020

Must be available to volunteer for three full weeks (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) between June 1 and Aug. 14

Be enthusiastic and willing to adhere to our policies, procedures, and customer service standards

Attend an in-person interview on March 28

Pay a one-time fee of $25, which helps us defer the cost of your volunteer shirts and badge

Attend a teen volunteer orientation

Teen volunteer application

We are no longer accepting applications for the 2020 summer teen volunteer program. Please check this page in December for information on applying for the 2021 summer teen volunteer program!

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Our Teen Explorer Crew (TEC) volunteers are a vital part of our Explorer Camps, Space Center University, and the overall guest experience. During the summer, TEC volunteers may serve on one of three different teams: Explorer Camps Explorer Camp volunteers serve as classroom assistants and runners for our STEM-focused camps for ages 4 - 11.

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A person centered plan can help those involved with the focus person see the total person, recognize his or her desires and interests, and discover completely new ways of thinking about the future of the person." - Beth Mount & Kay Zwernik, 1988

Person Centered Planning is an ongoing problem-solving process used to help people with disabilities plan for their future. In person centered planning, groups of people focus on an individual and that person's vision of what they would like to do in the future. This "person-centered" team meets to identify opportunities for the focus person to develop personal relationships, participate in their community, increase control over their own lives, and develop the skills and abilities needed to achieve these goals. Person Centered Planning depends on the commitment of a team of individuals who care about the focus person. These individuals take action to make sure that the strategies discussed in planning meetings are implemented.

Purpose

To look at an individual in a different way.
To assist the focus person in gaining control over their own life.
To increase opportunities for participation in the community.
To recognize individual desires, interests, and dreams.
Through team effort, develop a plan to turn dreams into reality.

Who is involved in person centered planning?

The focus person and who ever they would like can be involved. It is best when there is a facilitator and a person to record what is being shared. The facilitator should be a person that is neutral and unbiased, leads the group through the process, handles conflict and assures equal opportunity for all to participate. Others that may be included are parents/guardians, other family members, friends, professionals, and anyone else who has a personal interest in the person.

Where is person centered planning done?

At focus person's home or somewhere comfortable, informal and hospitable.

When should person centered planning take place?

At anytime in a person's life. It is best done before transition services are determined. person centered planning can be a very useful tool to develop the transition plan.

Tools needed for person centered planning

A flip chart or large pieces of paper to record the information shared. Several different colored markers.

The Steps of Person Centered Planning

1. Develop a history or personal life story of the focus person. This is accomplished by everyone sharing past events in the person's life. The focus person's parents and family may share the largest amount of this information. Things such as background, critical events, medical issues, major developments, important relationships, etc., may be shared.

2. Description of the quality of the focus person's life is shared next. This may be accomplished by exploring the following: Community participation, community presence, choices/rights, respect and competence.

3. Personal preferences of the focus person. Things the focus person enjoys doing. Also including the things that are undesirable to the person.

The meeting to develop the personal profile usually occurs several days before the planning meeting so the participants have time to reflect on what is shared. The meeting, which takes about two hours, may use graphic symbols in place of words to help stimulate creativity and encourage participation.

The Next Step...the planning meeting

1. Reviewing the personal profile. The group at this point has the opportunity to make additional comments and observations.

2. Review trends in the environment. Identify ongoing events that are likely to affect the focus person's life.

3. Share visions for the future. Through brainstorming participants are challenged to imagine ways to increase opportunities.

4. Identify obstacles and opportunities. Things that make the vision a reality.

5. Identify strategies. Action steps for implementing the visions.

6. Getting started. Identifying action steps that can be completed within a short time.

7. Identify the need for service delivery to be more responsive to individual needs.

For a plan to be successful it is best if:

The people have a clear and shared appreciation of the talents and capacities of the focus person.
People have a common understanding of what the focus person wants.
The group involved agree to meet regularly to review activities.
The group include a strong advocate or family member assuring that the interest of the focus person is being met.
That the group include a person committed to making connection to the local community.

This is the beginning of a process that continues throughout a lifetime. Not a product.

Resources

Cornell University's Person Centered Planning Education Site

Institute on Community Inclusion Brief, More Than Just a Job: Person-Centered Career Planning

It's My Choice : A self-guided workbook on person-centered planning by William T. Allen published by the MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities. Included is a Housing Checklist.

Think & Plan is an interactive site that allows you to view and access person-centered thinking tools, and fill them out, and print them.

The Learning Community for Person-Centered Practices
The Learning Community for Person-Centered Practices is an international community that started with the development of Essential Lifestyle Planning by Michael Smull and Susan Burke-Harrison. Their focus is sharing knowledge about supporting people in getting the lives they want by developing and disseminating practical tools to people with disabilities, their families and professionals.

Person Centered Future Plans This resource from the Arc helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families plan for supports needed throughout all stages of life, especially after the parent or caregiver is no longer able to provide support in the future.

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Person-Centered Planning - National Parent Center on Transition and Employment

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Person Centered Planning is an ongoing problem-solving process used to help people with disabilities plan for their future. In person centered planning, groups of people focus on an individual and that person's vision of what they would like to do in the future.

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Help #keepABNC Wild!

Armand Bayou Nature Center's unique wildlife refuge and wilderness preserve could not exist without the support of its volunteers. Our volunteers generously donate tens of thousands of hours a year helping us achieve our two-fold mission to:

To preserve the habitats with which we have been entrusted.

To provide opportunities for people to experience and understand the local ecosystem.

Every day, volunteers help maintain and care for our grounds, carry out stewardship projects, guide and educate visitors and the general public, organize and plan events that raise essential funding, as well as support our staff with operations.

Adult Volunteers (18+)

VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS: A desire to learn, A love of nature, Dependability, Dedication

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Weekday Education Guides, Weekend Education Guides, Natural Resource Preservation, Outreach to the Community, Building and Ground Maintenance, Special Events

Click the button below to start your application or contact Elisa O'Neal, our Volunteer Coordinator, at volunteering@abnc.org or 713 274 2664 for more information.

Group Volunteering

Special volunteer projects can be arranged for groups of volunteers. Projects may range from carpentry, painting, trail clean up, prairie restoration activities to administrative projects. Groups of volunteers may also help at special events. Waivers are required for all service group participants.

Click the button below to tell us about your group or contact Elisa O'Neal, our Volunteer Coordinator, at volunteering@abnc.org or 713 274 2664 for more information.

Youth Volunteers (14-17)

ABNC welcomes teens between the ages of 14-17 who enjoy nature, like working with children and want to learn about the environment. There are a variety of opportunities in which you can participate: i.e. aides with EcoCamps, The Martyn Farm Harvest Festival and other programs and events held at the nature center. Please call for available opportunities.

For EcoCamp Volunteers, there is a Required Teen Volunteer Training held during the first week of summer break.

School Related Required Volunteering: Students need to fill out the Teen Volunteer Application and contact the Education Department for available opportunities.

If you think this sounds like the place for you, click the button below to download and print your application (be sure to include your email address) and return it to Heather at heather@abnc.org. Any questions about youth volunteering please email Heather or you can call her at 713 274 2667.

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Armand Bayou Nature Center's unique wildlife refuge and wilderness preserve could not exist without the support of its volunteers. Our volunteers generously donate tens of thousands of hours a year to help preserve the habitats and wildlife that sustain us all.

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League City Pets Alive Volunteering (Animal Shelter)

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League City Pets Alive Volunteering (Animal Shelter)

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Volunteer Friends of League City Animal Shelter League City TX

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Higher kill shelters don't focus on training the animals, because the dog probably won't make it out alive, so its behavior doesn't matter. We are committed to changing the dog's behavior and placing it in a home, regardless of how long it takes.

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What is Future Planning?

Future Planning is creating a guide for a person with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) to lead a good life as independently as possible. A plan is important throughout all stages of life and especially in the future after the parent or caregiver is no longer able to provide support.

A person-centered future plan should reflect the wishes of the person with I/DD, as well as his or her parents, siblings, extended family members and friends, and other important people in his or her life. The plan should include information about all aspects of a person's life including:

Daily routines, needs and supports

Living arrangements

Finances, including the family and person's public benefits, assets, incomes, trusts, insurance policies

Doctors' contact information and information about the person's medical history (including any medications and food allergies)

Decision-making support

Education history

Details about the person's employment, leisure activities, religious beliefs, behaviors, interests, friendships, and other important relationships

To help guide your planning, first ask: "During a life transition, what would the person need so his or her daily routine is maintained?" Next, create a vision for the person's life after the transition. It is important to use a team approach when discussing and creating the plan and always to keep the person with I/DD's interests, preferences, and skills as the main focus.

Who is on the future planning team?

Ask the person with I/DD who he or she would like to invite as part of the team, which can include the person with I/DD, parents, siblings, other family members, friends, legal and financial professionals, and other important people in the person's life. Some of these people may live out-of-state but should be included if they play a large role in the person's life. This team works together to identify and take steps to create the supports the person will need.

Future Planning: It's Possible and Necessary

Future planning is important for all families. Thinking about the future can be challenging and emotional. However, experience shows that adults with I/DD make a better transition from the family home when a future plan is in place.

Some families might feel that planning is not available to them because they don't have any money to leave to an adult son or daughter with I/DD or can't afford a lawyer or estate planner. This is not true. There are many aspects of the planning process that aren't related to money. It is also important that families with limited resources learn about what public benefits may be available and take steps to enroll their family member in available programs.

Plain Language

For information on Future Planning in plain language, click here:
PDF | Word

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Future Planning is creating a guide for a person with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) to lead a good life as independently as possible. A plan is important throughout all stages of life and especially in the future after the parent or caregiver is no longer able to provide support.

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Dear Parents,

Clear Creek Challengers would like to extend an invitation to you and your child to get involved with Special Olympics. The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

The Special Olympics program is compromised of 22 Olympic-type sports. The Clear Creek Challengers participate in aquatics and softball in the fall, bowling in the winter, and basketball, soccer, and track & field in the spring. We practice once or twice weekly at various locations around the district. During competition event divisions are based on age, gender and ability level in order to give athletes an equal chance to win. Each participant receives a medal or ribbon following his/her event. Special Olympics athletes train for eight weeks prior to each sport's competition. Each sport has an Area Competition and Chapter Games. Both may require travel as well as overnight stay. Funding is mainly generated through donations and fundraising.

To be eligible to participate in Special Olympics your child must be 8 years of age or older with intellectual disabilities. An Athlete Enrollment/Medical Release Form must be submitted to the Head of Delegation or an event coach prior to competition. This form can be filled out by a parent or guardian, but must be signed by a physician, physician assistant, or registered nurse recognized as an advanced practice nurse. Students whose functional limitations are based only on a physical, behavioral, emotional, specific learning or sensory disability are not eligible for Special Olympics.
Attached is the Athlete Enrollment/Medical Release Form. If you have any questions please call or email me. I look forward to working with you and your athlete.

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Dear Parents, Clear Creek Challengers would like to extend an invitation to you and your child to get involved with Special Olympics.

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Space Center Rockets: Adult Special Olympics (Gulf Coast Area 22)

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Space Center Rockets: Adult Special Olympics (Gulf Coast Area 22)

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An Adult Special Olympics Team We have about 45 athletes, ages 18 years and up. Located in the Clear Lake Area, we participate in the following sports:

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Special Olympics offers many ways to take part. The first step to getting involved-whether you want to be an athlete, Unified partner, coach, or volunteer-is to connect with your local program for more details.

Special Olympics offers many ways to take part. There are short-term and long-term volunteer opportunities, the option of playing Unified Sports and to become a Special Olympics athlete.

Please donate and help us get one more athlete onto the playing field.

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Special Olympics offers many ways to take part. The first step to getting involved-whether you want to be an athlete, Unified partner, coach, or volunteer-is to connect with your local program for more details. Special Olympics offers many ways to take part.

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Find Local Special Olympics Teams in Area 22 (Gulf Coast)

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Find Local Special Olympics Teams in Area 22 (Gulf Coast)

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Special Olympics Texas is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

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After much consideration, Upstage Arts will remain closed until further notice, due to the corona virus pandemic. Essential members of our staff are immunocompromised or have loved ones at home who are at risk. Based on this fact, current status of the quarantine , and the results of the survey, we felt our best course of action would be to use this time to make building and procedural improvements and re-open in the fall. We wish you all good health!

In the meantime, You may see a "For Lease" sign on the door. We are using this time to look for potentially better sites, but may choose to go back into the original space if we do not find something more suitable to our needs.

We will be announcing very soon our upcoming season with new and exciting shows!

Upstage Arts is a non-profit community theatre for all ages and skill levels. With full scale, high quality shows, actors train in all aspects of theatre including acting technique, voice, musical theatre dance, and technical theatre.

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After much consideration, Upstage Arts will remain closed until further notice, due to the corona virus pandemic. Essential members of our staff are immunocompromised or have loved ones at home who are at risk.

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We have marked out chairs, floor spaces and the stage keeping a 6 ft distance and have Clearly marked places where kids can sit, stand, act dance and sing

Everything is cleaned and sanitized each day

*NO hanging out or gathering in the Lobby allowed

*Classes will wait outside until a teacher escorts them in. Do Not enter the building without a teacher. Please use social distancing while waiting.

*Each child will be given some hand sanitizer upon entering the building and after class as they exit

*Dance numbers and Blocking is choreographed so that no one is touching one another

*Props that would normally be used by several kids during a show are being abolished for summer performances . Only props being used are personal props that only are touched by that person

*Everything will be wiped down after each rehearsal before next group is allowed in the building

*Please do not send your child to rehearsal if they are sick. If a teacher deems a child is not well they will call a parent to pick them up.

*Restrooms- During this time our restrooms will be open Only to teachers and kids in class. if a child must use the restroom during class/rehearsal- only one at a time will be allowed and they will be escorted by a teacher. Teacher will make sure they wash their hands before returning to class. Teacher will wipe down the restroom, doors, etc after child goes back to class.

Kids will be DROPPED OFF in FRONT- No adults or siblings in building

Kids will be PICKED UP in BACK (police parking lot). (escorted out by a teacher)

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We have marked out chairs, floor spaces and the stage keeping a 6 ft distance and have Clearly marked places where kids can sit, stand, act dance and sing Everything is cleaned and sanitized each day *NO hanging out or gathering in the Lobby allowed *Classes will wait outside until a teacher escorts them in.