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The Federation of Children with Special Needs is a national resource that helps families gain equitable access to the educational, and medical supports.

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The Federation empowers families so that they have the information and resources they need for their children. We work with families with children from birth to adulthood, providing individual assistance, training, and leadership development and support. We focus on education, early intervention, health care, transitions, children in foster care and group homes, and building strong family engagement to support all children, especially those children with disabilities, those at risk, and those with economic, cultural or linguistic barriers.

Enter a keyword or phrase to search our website for resources, trainings or assistance.

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Federation for Children with Special Needs

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The Federation empowers families so that they have the information and resources they need for their children. We work with families with children from birth to adulthood, providing individual assistance, training, and leadership development and support.

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THE MORGAN project stands for Making Opportunities a Reality Assistance Nationwide. This organization is designed for caregivers of children with special needs. The organization provides support groups and a library of resources to support these families

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A Most Special Community Where children with lifelong disabilities, their families and our supporters unite to create an environment of joy in activity and life. Learn More Get Involved

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NYLN is lead by youth members that bring individuals with disabilities and neurotypical peers age 16-28. This organization host workshops around the country that break stigmas about people with disabilities.

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ARCH is a national special education advocacy group that supports individuals with autism gain employment in the workforce.

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In this section of the site, you'll find information on job-related subjects such as employment research and reports, supported employment, transition planning for job opportunities, vocational rehabilitation and more.

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Job Information for Employers and Individuals on Autism | Autism NOW Center| | National Initiative of The Arc

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National autism resource for employers, employees and others on job related issues

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ARCH provides information and welfare to individuals and families of people with special needs. It is designed to connect families with agency and funding to support their loved ones throughout their life.

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ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center

Annandale, Virginia 22003

The mission of the ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center is to assist and promote the development of quality respite and crisis care programs; to help families locate respite and crisis care services in their communities; and to serve as a strong voice for respite in all forums.

Association for Successful Parenting

Baltimore, Maryland 21214

Toll-Free: (800) 599-8810

A nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the lives of parents living with learning difficulties and their families. It brings together researchers, practitioners, and self-advocates to build the capacity of communities and families to support and improve outcomes for parents with intellectual disabilities. The association's work mainly centers around education, advocacy at the local and national level, direct support for parents and professionals, and resource sharing.

Association of University Centers on Disabilities

The Association of University Centers on Disabilities (formerly the American Association of University Affiliated Programs for Persons with Developmental Disabilities) promotes and supports the national interdisciplinary network of university centers on disabilities. The network includes University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD), Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) programs, and Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Centers (DDRC). Through its members, AUCD serves as a resource for local, State, national, and international agencies, organizations, and policy makers concerned about individuals with developmental and other disabilities and their families.

Center for Health Care Strategies, Inc.

The Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) is a health policy resource center dedicated to improving health care quality for low-income children and adults, people with chronic illnesses and disabilities, frail elders, and racially and ethnically diverse populations experiencing disparities in care.

Global Hydranencephaly Foundation

Silverdale, Washington 98383

The Global Hydranencephaly Foundation provides individualized family support and advocacy services to families across the globe who have a member with hydranencephaly.

Little People of America Adoption Committee

Toll-Free: (888) LPA-2001

The purpose of the Little People of America Adoption Committee (LPA) is to find a loving home for every dwarf child. The role of LPA is to act as a link between prospective parents and adoption agencies that represent dwarf children. LPA is not an adoption agency, but a referral source only. By outreaching to adoption agencies, doctors, hospitals, geneticists, and others, LPA is are able to locate available dwarf children for adoption and prospective parents who are interested in adopting them.

8161 Normandale Boulevard

Bloomington, Minnesota 55437

Toll-Free: (800) 537-2237

PACER Center, Inc. provides information, training, and assistance to parents of children and young adults with all disabilities; physical, learning, cognitive, emotional, and health. Its mission is to improve and expand opportunities that enhance the quality of life for children and youth with disabilities and their families.

Parent to Parent supports a national network of programs to ensure access to quality emotional support for families of individuals with disabilities and/or special health care needs.

SAMHSA Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Center for Excellence

Rockville, Maryland 20857

The mission of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Center for Excellence is to facilitate the development and improvement of FASD prevention, treatment, and care systems in the United States by providing national leadership and facilitating collaboration in the field.

The FASD Center is a Federal initiative of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Social Security Administration

Washington, District of Columbia 20037

Toll-Free: (800) 772 1213

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness and who have income and resources below specified amounts.

The National Center for Disability and Pregnancy Research

The National Center for Disability and Pregnancy Research conducts multidisciplinary research, training, and education on reproduction, pregnancy, and disability, including reproductive health, sex education, prenatal health, childbirth, and more.

The National Down Syndrome Adoption Network

The mission of the National Down Syndrome Adoption Network is to ensure that every child born with Down syndrome has the opportunity to grow up in a loving family.

The Special Interest Research Group on Parents and Parenting With Intellectual Disabilities

The Special Interest Research Group on Parents and Parenting With Intellectual Disabilities (SIRG/PID) is the first and only world-wide group dedicated to the scientific study of intellectual disability. SIRG/PID is a scientific and interdisciplinary nongovernmental organization that promotes worldwide research and exchange of information on intellectual disabilities.

Through the Looking Glass

Toll-Free: (800) 644-2666

Through the Looking Glass (TLG) is a nationally recognized center that offers research, training, and services for families in which a child, parent or grandparent has a disability or medical issue. TLG is funded in part by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilation Research (NIDRR), U.S. Department of Education. TLG was awarded a grant by the NIDRR to continue its work through the National Center for Parents With Disabilities and Their Families. The National Center continues TLG's overall mission of empowering parents and potential parents with disabilities by disseminating disability-appropriate information regarding parenting to parents, disability advocates, and legal, medical, intervention and social services providers.

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Disabilities/Special Needs Organizations - Child Welfare Information Gateway

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The following lists provide contact information and websites for related national and State organizations that offer information about child welfare.

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California disability benefit program helps people with disabilities pay their bills in times when they are unemployed.

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California offers some programs that focus on the specific needs of disabled residents. These will be in addition to all of the other local, state, and federal resources that are available. Examples of what may be provided by the Department of Developmental Services as well as local non-profits listed below to individuals or families facing a disability include additional housing support, transportation, in home services and care, emergency financial help and much more.

Locating affordable housing in California can be a challenge for anyone. It can also be difficult to pay the rent on it. Having a safe and affordable place to live is key to to individuals with disabilities. So meeting this need is always a focus. The state of California and other non-profits work to allow them to continue to live in their local communities.

Mostly due to the high, and increasing costs of housing and rental expenses in California, many families supported by the regional disability centers require assistance in the form of subsidies or vouchers. These are required in order to make housing more affordable to them. DDS also works with developers and programs such as section 811 to coordinate resources. There are also a number of emergency rental assistance programs available

Supported Living Services is government administered service for qualified adults with developmental disabilities. This is a service that is offered for people that choose to live in homes that they either rent or own.

As part of this program, staff from Department of Developmental Services can assist them with selecting and moving into a home. They can help them acquire household furnishings or choose personal attendants and housemates. Also get help with performing common daily living activities and receive additional support in an emergency.

Transportation services may be offered to individuals with some form of disability. The agency will coordinate assistance including public transit, partner with specialized transportation companies and offer other day ride type programs. Additional transportation services in California may include help in boarding and exiting a vehicle as well as general assistance while being transported.

In-Home or Respite Services is short term, non-medical care and/or supervision provided in the person's home. This can be regularly scheduled or intermittent. Some of the specific services provided can include the following.

Staff will help the person attend to basic self-help needs that would ordinarily be performed by the family member.

The goal is to assist the disabled family member so they can continue to live at home.

DDS will coordinate appropriate care and supervision to protect that person's safety.

Community Care Facilities are available from the State of California Department of Social Services to provide full time, around the clock non-medical residential care to disabled adults and children. The individual needs to be in serious need of transportation, personal services, supervision, and/or help in satisfying other daily living activities.

Another option are the Intermediate Care Facilities . These health facilities, known as ICF, are licensed by the California Department of Public Health and can also coordinate 24-hour-per-day services.

Individuals with a disability who live in their own home can explore the state's In-Home Supportive Services . This will provide them with personal care and domestic services. The focus is on the blind, disabled, or otherwise affected. This assistance is provided to those disabled California residents who otherwise might be placed in a hospital or some type of out-of-home public care facility.

This IHSS resource is administered at the local county level and by the California Department of Social Services. The organization sets the rules and regulations at the state level. To learn more or apply, call your local county welfare department or center as indicated below.

Independent Living services are provided to adults with some form of disability, including developmental. It provides them with functional skills training necessary to secure a self-sustaining, independent living situation in their town or county. The programs focus on providing functional skills training for adults who do not possess basic self-help skills but who need some more minimal support.

Many individuals on disability live on a fixed income. The cost of living is so high in California that they often need help in saving money, budgeting, and making ends . There are many assistance programs, counselors, and other resources out there for those in need. Everything from saving on food to medical, housing, shopping, and other living expenses. Find information on how to save money.

Employment and income programs for the disabled in California

Work Activity Programs, or WAP , are administered by the Department of Rehabilitation. Programs provided to qualified disabled individuals include paid work opportunities, work adjustment and supportive habilitation services. These are offered in a sheltered setting. Department of Developmental Services and the WAPs provide paid work opportunities in accordance with Federal Government and State Fair Labor Standards.

Some of these services may include money management skills, developing good work safety practices, and other appropriate employment habits. There are also easy ways for the disabled to make free money using smartphone apps. Additional supportive habilitation services may include community resource and social skill training as long as this can help people achieve their long term vocational objectives.

Supported Employment and related services are offered by the Department of Rehabilitation. These are offered from vocational rehabilitation programs and the state can help people find competitive work in a community integrated setting. The program is mostly for persons with severe disabilities who need ongoing support and assistance. As part of this program, the support is usually provided to the disabled individual by a job coach who meets regularly with the person on the job to help him or her learn the necessary behaviors and skills to work independently. While the the Department of Rehabilitation oversees the program, they may partner with other regional centers or employers as needed.

Another employment type program is Work Services . This will help address the career and employment needs of California residents with developmental disabilities. It can provide opportunities through Work Activity Programs (WAPs) as well as Supported Employment Programs (SEPs).

Education Services are also available for Children with Developmental Disabilities. The main main government entities that oversee this are the California Department of Education (CDE) as well as the State Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Among services provided are early intervention resources to children 0 - 3 years old and the state also coordinates special education programs to children and teenagers under the age of 21.

Many of the regional education and non-profit agencies provide special education and related services to children with disabilities in environments including school, the home, public or private preschools or child care settings. Regional centers may also offer some assistance.

Medical and dental services are generally available from government programs such as Medi-Cal as well as free community clinics in California. This can provide low income disabled residents with the means to get their medical needs met, including prescription drugs and any other needed medications. While in some cases the patient will need to contribute towards paying their bills, in other cases all care is offered for free. Your local Department of Developmental Services office may be the best place to call for information and applications.

A number of other assistance programs may be offered to the disabled in California. Some other resources may include Prenatal Diagnostic Evaluation, Therapy Services, Residential Services, Psychological, Counseling and Behavioral Services, and Equipment and Supplies. Never hesitate to ask about other resources.

Department of Developmental Services locations

To get more information on assistance offered for the disabled, including public assistance or cash compensation resources, residents can contact their local centers.

900 East Main Street, Suite 102
Grass Valley, California 95945
Telephone number is (530) 272-4231

344 Placerville Drive, Suite 1
Placerville, California 95667
Dial (530) 626-1353 for intake.

1620 Santa Clara Drive, #100
Roseville, CA 95661
Call (916) 786-8110

250 West Main Street, Suite 100
Woodland, California 95695
Telephone: (530) 666-3391

1506 Starr Drive, Suite A
Yuba City, CA 95993
Telephone: (530) 674-3070

530 West 16th Street
Merced, CA 95340
Telephone: (209) 723-4245

Main address is 5441 West Cypress Avenue
Visalia, California 93277
(559) 738-2200

Location is 1377 East Lassen Avenue
Chico, CA 95973-7824
Telephone: (530) 895-8633

401 Peninsula Drive, Suite 2
Lake Almanor, California 96137
Main number is (530) 596-4266

421 Chestnut Street
Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Dial (530) 926-6496

3130 La Selva Drive, Suite 202
San Mateo, CA 94403
Telephone: (650) 574-9232

The Harbor Regional Center
Del Amo Business Plaza
21231 Hawthorne Boulevard
Torrance, CA 90503
Main telephone: (310) 540-1711
This sites supports the disabled in Bellflower, Harbor, Long Beach, and Torrance within the city of Los Angeles.

1500 Iowa Avenue, Suite 100
Riverside, CA 92507
Telephone: (951) 826-2608

459 West Line Street
Bishop, CA 93514
(760) 873-7411

825 North Downs, Suite D
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Telephone: (760) 375-9512

Address is 20031 W. Valley Blvd., Suite C
Tehachapi, CA 93561
Main phone - (661) 822-1288

7707 Panama Road
Lamont, California 93241
(661) 845-2286

29 Emmons Park Drive
Taft, California 93268
Primary phone - (661) 765-7294

428 James Street, Suite 5
Shafter, CA 93263
Dial (661) 746-3918 for details on disability benefits. The site can help with the application process and provide other support.

601 High Street, Suite D
Delano, CA 93215
Telephone: (661) 725-2127

2351 Mendocino Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Telephone: (707) 569-2000

43210 Gingham Avenue, Suite 6
Lancaster, California 93535-4512
Telephone: (661) 945-6761

Main address is 25360 Magic Mountain Parkway, Suite #150
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Telephone: (661) 775-8450

1301-A Northcrest Drive
Crescent City, California 95531
Telephone: (707) 464-7488

270 Chestnut Street, Suite A
Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Phone - (707) 964-6387

1116 Airport Park Boulevard
Ukiah, CA 95482
Telephone: (707) 462-3832 or 800-281-3832

180 3rd Street
Lakeport, California 95453
Cal the office at (707) 262-0470 or 888-909-0470

The Regional Center of Orange County
1525 North Tustin Avenue
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Dial (714) 796-5100

West Area Office
5555 Garden Grove Blvd, #100
Westminster, CA 92683
Telephone: (714) 796-2900
Provides assistance to households in eastern Orange County. Call for information on cash assistance, food, and medical referrals.

344 Salinas Street, Ste. 207
Salinas, CA 93901-2727
Telephone: (831) 759-7500

1110 Main Street
Watsonville, CA 95076
Telephone: (831) 728-1781

Location is 7855 Wren Avenue, Suite A
Gilroy, CA 95020
Call (408) 846-8805

300 Orchard City Drive, Suite 170
Campbell, California 95008
Telephone: (408) 374-9960

Location is 512 W. Aten Road
Imperial, California 92251
Telephone: (760) 355-8383

1370 W. San Marcos Blvd., Suite 100
San Marcos, California 92078
Dial (760) 736-1200

Main address is 2727 Hoover Avenue, Suite 100
National City, CA 91950
Telephone: (619) 336-6600

7305 Morro Rd., Suite 101
Atascadero, CA 93422
Telephone: (800) 771-6898 or (805) 461-7402

Main address is 3450 Broad Street, Suite 111
San Luis Obispo, California 93401-7102
(800) 456-4153 or (805) 543-2833

1234 Fairway Dr., Suite A
Santa Maria, California 93455
Telephone number is (800) 266-9071

1900 E. Los Angeles Avenue, Second Floor
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Telephone: (800) 517-2524 or call (805) 522-8030

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California disability benefit programs | Help for disabled in California

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California offers some programs that focus on the specific needs of disabled residents. These will be in addition to all of the other local, state, and federal resources that are available.

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The people with disabilities resources offers support to families and individuals with special needs. This site offers excellent information on employment for people with special needs. It even offers job coaches to support individuals with special needs.

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In an effort to enhance the lives of the clients we serve, Community Catalysts California embraces a collaborative philosophy and strives to maximize the use of a wide range of community resources. This section of the website lists some of the many agencies, programs, and services commonly used by people with disabilities and Community Catalysts California.
COVID 19 RESOURCES AND INFORMATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AND FAMILIES Covid 19 Info for People with Disabilities Eng-COVID-19 How to Stay Healthy ENG-FA-Coronavirus-q-and-a-for families Managing Fears and Anxiety around COVID-19 SPA-Como mantenerse Saludable SPA-Coronavirus-Preguntas Frequentes SPA-Info de COVID19 para personas con Discapacidades
Click link to learn more about how to: Manage Anxiety and Stress
Internet Websites are listed for your convenience. Inclusion of any website should not be construed as an endorsement of the accuracy, or support for, the information or views expressed by that site.
Association of Regional Center Agencies: http://www.arcanet.org/

California Department of Education: http://www.cde.ca.gov/

California State Independent Living Council: http://www.calsilc.org/

Cerebral Palsy Group: http://www.cerebralpalsygroup.com

Department of Developmental Services: http://www.dds.ca.gov/

Department of Rehabilitation: http://www.rehab.ca.gov/

Department of Social Services: http://www.dss.cahwnet.gov/

Disability Benefits 101-Working with a Disability in California: http://www.disabilitybenefits101.org/

Disability Rights California: http://www.pai-ca.org/index.htm

Family Resource Library and Assistive Technology Center: http://www.elafrc.org/

Government Benefits: https://www.benefits.gov/benefit-finder

Parents Helping Parents: http://www.php.com/

Protection and Advocacy, Inc. -new name Disability Rights California: http://www.pai-ca.org/

State Council on Developmental Disabilities: http://www.scdd.ca.gov/

Supported Life Institute: http://www.suportedlife.org/
Federal Government
Social Security: www.ssa.gov

Ticket to Work: www.socialsecurity.gov/work/aboutticket

Job Accommodation Network: www.askjan.org

Americans with Disabilities Act: www.ada.gov
State Government
State Council on Developmental Disabilities: www.scdd.ca.gov

Department of Health Services: www.dhcs.ca.gov

Medi-Cal: www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/

IHSS: www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/ltc/Pages/IHSS.aspx
Disability-based Advocacy Organizations
Lanterman Parents Coordinating Council: lantermanpcc.org

United Cerebral Palsy - Inland Empire: www.ucpie.org

Cerebral Palsy Guide: www.cerebralpalsyguide.com

Inland Empire Autism Society: www.ieautism.org

Coachella Valley Autism Society: www.cvasa.org

Talk About Curing Autism: www.tacanow.org

Autism Speaks: www.autismspeaks.org

Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles: www.dsala.org

Barstow Reaching for the Stars: www.reachingforthestarsasn.com

Down Syndrome Association of Hemet: www.dsaoh.org

Epilepsy Foundation of Southern California: www.epilepsyfoundationgla.org

Epilepsy Center: www.theepilepsycenter.org

Educate Advocate: www.educateadvocateca.com

Making a Difference Association: www.makingadifferenceassocation.org

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In an effort to enhance the lives of the clients we serve, Community Catalysts California embraces a collaborative philosophy and strives to maximize the use of a wide range of community resources. This section of the website lists some of the many agencies, programs, and services commonly used by people with disabilities and Community Catalysts California.

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EPSDT offers early intervention screenings for families of young children with disabilities. The results of these screenings can support families in getting their children into free preschool programs.

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In accordance with the requirements in Section 1905(r) of the Social Security Act and Title 42 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 441.50 et seq., the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is responsible for providing full-scope Medi-Cal beneficiaries under the age of 21 with a comprehensive, high-quality array of preventive (such as screening), diagnostic, and treatment services under Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment Services (EPSDT). These services are covered without cost.

Consistent with federal law and regulations for EPSDT, Medi-Cal covers all medically necessary services, including those to "correct or ameliorate" defects and physical and mental illness conditions.

Infants, children, and youth up to age 21 with full-scope Medi-Cal are able to receive EPSDT services. More information is available on the
Information for Medi-Cal Beneficiaries resource document.

Medi-Cal, health and mental health plans, and enrolled providers should inform Medi-Cal beneficiaries under age 21 about and how to access EPSDT benefits and services through written and oral information.

SPA 15-034: Updates language regarding Early and Periodic, Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment and preventive and wellness services.

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In accordance with the requirements in Section 1905(r) of the Social Security Act and Title 42 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 441.50 et seq., the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is responsible for providing full-scope Medi-Cal beneficiaries under the age of 21 with a comprehensive, high-quality array of preventive (such as screening), diagnostic, and treatment services under Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment Services (EPSDT).

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California US department of educations offers great information and resources regarding the education system and educational rights for families and individuals with people specials.

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U.S. Department of Education (ED) Resources

Resources from State and National Advocacy Organizations

Please check with your County Office of Education and school district for additional resources and other information specific to your region.

Disclaimer: The resources on the following page are for informational purposes only. These listings are not necessarily comprehensive nor do they imply endorsement by the SCDD or Regional Offices. If you find that any information is incorrect, if you would like to offer feedback or if you know of additional resources that may be helpful to include, please contact us.

Empowering families of persons with disabilities.

The Arc of California
Online access to facts, resources, advocacy information and news for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities.

Community Development

Employment/Reasonable Accommodations

Federal Government

Health and Wellness

Covered California Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal is health coverage, just like the coverage from Covered California health plans. If you qualify for Medi-Cal, your health care will be free or at a lower cost to you and your family. Medi-Cal plans and Covered California plans both offer a similar set of important benefits, called "essential health benefits." If you qualify for Medi-Cal, you will get a benefits identification card (BIC) in the mail, and you can start using it to get your health care as a new Medi-Cal member. In some cases, after you apply, we may need more information from you to make sure you qualify for Medi-Cal. In those cases, your county's human services agency may contact you to verify that information.

Department of Health Care Services

The mission of the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is to provide Californians with access to affordable, high-quality health care, including medical, dental, mental health, substance use disorder services, and long-term services and supports. Our vision is to preserve and improve the physical and mental health of all Californians.

Among the programs administered by DHCS, some of which are mandated by the federal government and others required by state law, are California Children's Services; Child Health and Disability Prevention program; the Genetically Handicapped Persons Program; the Newborn Hearing Screening Program; the Family Planning, Access, Care, and Treatment (PACT) program; Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), Every Woman Counts, and Coordinated Care Management. DHCS also administers programs for underserved Californians, including farm workers and American Indian communities.

Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Early Start

Families whose infants or toddlers have a developmental delay or disability or an established risk condition with a high probability of resulting in a delay may be eligible to receive an "Early Start" in California. Teams of service coordinators, healthcare providers, early intervention specialists, therapists, and parent resource specialists evaluate and assess infants or toddlers and provide appropriate early intervention and family support services for young children from birth to three years of age.

Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program. This is a public health insurance program which provides needed health care services for low-income individuals including families with children, seniors, persons with disabilities, foster care, pregnant women, and low income people with specific diseases such as tuberculosis, breast cancer or HIV/AIDS. Medi-Cal is financed equally by the State and federal government.

National Center for Cultural Competence at Georgetown University The National Center for Cultural Competence (NCCC) was created to help health and mental health programs design, implement, and evaluate culturally and linguistically competent service delivery systems.

Resources for Healthcare Providers

This project is funded by a grant from the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) as part of its Wellness Initiative. The Digest is guided by an advisory committee of physicians with specialized expertise in developmental disabilities and implemented by the UCSD CME. The primary goal of this site is to improve the health of persons with developmental disabilities.
-Information on Specific Disabling Conditions
-Issues Related to Developmental Disabilities
-Health Care Providers
-Families
-Resources
-Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Supported Decision Making (SDM)

Historical Archive

Housing and Community Supports

International Nonprofit/Leadership Development

Legal Advocacy

Publication/Communication

Regional Centers

Self-Determination

State Agency

Technology

University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

Abuse of People with Disabilities: A Silent Epidemic: Abuse of People with Disabilities: A Silent Epidemic is a public service video produced by the Board Resource Center (www.brcenter.org) to encourage people with disabilities to speak up about abuse. Molly Kennedy and Kecia Weller are well known peer advocates in California who are taking a stand to stop abuse

Early Start Resources

Family Resource Centers Network of California (FRCNCA)First 5 California

Employment

Transition

Transportation

Emergency Preparedness

Below is a selection of resources from Cal OES, the Governor's Office of Emergency Services. These resources are intended to assist people with disabilities to become more familiar with disaster and emergency preparedness.

Online Voting Rights Resources

Disability Rights California - Regional Center's Responsibility to Help People Vote

What if I can't sign my name?

League of Women Voters Info Page

University of Minnesota IMPACT Magazine on Voting (free online version)

Selection of Past Grants

Get Safe has developed a multi-tiered training program that provides practical information and necessary tools to ensure a safer lifestyle as well as more successful interactions with the complex and often intimidating legal system, from positive encounters with law enforcement to how to handle court proceedings. Get Safe will provide training seminars for consumers, families, caregivers/service providers, and community professionals, that will teach attendees how to identify, respond and deescalate potentially dangerous and criminal behavior, reducing recidivism rates and adding to the overall safety of the community.

Progressive Employment Concepts
www.progressiveemployment.org/

This project will provide hand on training to staff and clients in the discovery and customized employment process leading to a customized employment outcome for a minimum of two individuals. This project will allow Progressive Employment Concepts to gain the tools needed to have continued success in finding jobs for the individuals we serve, especially those with higher support needs.

Rowell Family Empowerment of Northern California
www.rfenc.org/

Through the "Journey to Adulthood" program, RFENC will provide parents of teens and young adults with developmental disabilities training and support to educate their children about their bodies, personal care, safety, and social challenges using two (2) curriculums including , PACER's national "Journey to Adulthood" and a grant developed training on media safety and peer acceptance.

Team of Adovocates for Special Kids (TASK)
Apps for All
www.taskca.org/

TASKS's Apps for All program will provide workshops and hands-on experience with assistive technology for adults, children and their parents and professional. Through workshops and individualized training, participants will learn about specialized mobile applications and iDevices and the potential communication and social skills benefits that apps can provide to people with developmental disabilities.

Materiales de Capacitación y Publicaciones en Español

Autodeterminación

Los Transportes

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U.S. Department of Education (ED) Resources Resources from State and National Advocacy Organizations Please check with your County Office of Education and school district for additional resources and other information specific to your region. Disclaimer: The resources on the following page are for informational purposes only.

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California Disability Resources is a website that support California families to navigate their rights to health care and support for people with disabilities. This website can offer information about IDEA and live-in-person support for families.

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https://www.chhs.ca.gov/
Scroll down for links to government agencies and disability rights organizations in California. They may be able assist you with:

disability advocacy

home health services

home care

nursing aide services

Medicaid

accessing other community resources to help people with disabilities.

Many of these organizations work to address the unique needs associated with different disabilities, including but not limited to physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities, and mental illness. Others focus on issues such as access to housing and legal assistance based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

If you live in California and are a person with a disability, learning about state-specific resources to support people with disabilities can help you advocate for yourself. If you are a friend, family member, or caregiver of a person with disabilities in California, these resources can help you in supporting your loved one.

Note: this website attempts to use people first language and thus uses the term "person with a disability" rather than disabled or handicapped.

We hope you will check out the rest of OlmsteadRights.org to learn about critical rights of people with disabilities.

Protection & Advocacy Organization

The California state disability protection and advocacy (P&A) agency is Disability Rights California (DRC). DRC is part of the nation's federally-funded P&A system. It provides help to people with disabilities in California to expand and defend their rights, including supporting self-advocacy groups and legal assistance. DRC is part of the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN).

Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC)

ADRCs are the main points of access for long-term supports and services for older adults and people with disabilities, including home health care and assistive technology.

Legal Services Organizations

These organizations provide free legal assistance for low-income individuals, including help with accessing Social Security and Medicaid benefits.

Other Disability Advocacy Organizations

These organizations protect and advocate for the civil and human rights of people with disabilities.

State Medicaid Agency

Learn about and apply for Medicaid services in California.

Other State and Non-Profit Agencies

These agencies provide help for people with disabilities and their families and caregivers. Disability services are often free or low-cost.

Money Follows the Person (MFP)

Free assistance with transitioning from a nursing facility or institutional care to the community.

Crisis Services

Crisis intervention and counseling for people who are in need of immediate help or need someone to talk to. If you or a loved one is experiencing emotional distress, these agencies are ready to offer free and confidential help. Common concerns include but are not limited to mental illness, suicide, intellectual or developmental disability, physical disability, substance abuse, grief, sexual assault, and family violence.

Services for Senior Citizens

Free or low-cost resources and disability services for senior citizens and their loved ones to promote successful community living.

Regional Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Center

Provides information, training, and guidance on disability access and California disability services. One of 10 regional centers in the ADA National Network.

Developmental Disabilities Services

These agencies address the specific needs of people with developmental disabilities. They advocate for community inclusion and access to California disability services.

Mental Health Services

These agencies address the specific needs of people with mental illness and promote mental health. Some agencies offer free or low-cost group counseling and education programs.

Physical Disabilities Services

Free or low-cost California disability services for people of all ages, including physical therapy, access to employment and education, support for independent living, and assistive technology.

Traumatic Brain Injury Services

Information and resources for individuals with traumatic brain injuries and their loved ones.

Addiction and Substance Abuse Services

Information and resources for people with substance abuse and their loved ones.

Low-Income Housing Services

Information and tools for locating affordable housing and access to public housing.

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California Disability Resources and Advocacy Organ - Olmstead Rights

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https://www.chhs.ca.gov/ Scroll down for links to government agencies and disability rights organizations in California. They may be able assist you with: disability advocacy home health services home care nursing aide services Medicaid accessing other community resources to help people with disabilities.

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Comfort Zone Camp is a grief camp for children 7-17 who lost a parent, sibling or primary caregiver. This organization is free participates and each camper can come back yearly.

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Dear Comfort Zone Camp Community,

I am so pleased to share that we are holding in-person camps! In fact, we've safely held seven so far this year! So what's next? We anticipate holding in-person camps with 1:1 matching of kids to adults for the remainder of the year. We also will continue to have the programs we launched during COVID--our virtual and in-person family camps. Both were very successful and will be incorporated into our menu of camp opportunities as we look forward to 2022.

Other Camp News: We have our first ever camp in West Virginia, October 22-24, 2021! Please help up spread the word! We also just held our first camp in Nevada and will be back in Utah this August.

This year, we have a camp in Virginia over the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy. We are working on a special way to honor the impacted families who became so close to us. Comfort Zone was one of the first programs to mobilize and help grieving families after the September 11th attacks. When that tragic event happened to our country, CZC was three years old and based only in Virginia; we knew at that moment that we needed to respond and expand our program to families up north.

Our events are also in full swing. Thanks to all those who participated in our Grief Relief National 5K and took the time to run, walk, and remember their loved ones! We have galas, golf tournaments, and more coming this fall. Make sure to check out our events calendar.

We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us for the past 22 years, especially through the pandemic. Grieving children and their families is our priority, and we remain committed to serving that community and making sure they always have a voice and a place.

Lynne Hughes, Founder & CEO

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Dear Comfort Zone Camp Community, I am so pleased to share that we are holding in-person camps! In fact, we've safely held seven so far this year! So what's next? We anticipate holding in-person camps with 1:1 matching of kids to adults for the remainder of the year.

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The SELPA is a non-profit organization that provides resources to of families, educators, and people with disabilities. The have a wealth of resources to support the community of people who with or people who have special needs

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Autism Learning Partnership is a local agency that supports families that have children with Autism. They offer parent trainings; ABA services; social skills and workshops.

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Ventura Region

Autism Learning Partners (ALP) is a national leader in the field of developmental disabilities specializing in the evidenced based practice of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a targeted intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder. ALP services include: ABA, Functional Behavior Assessments, Social Skills Groups and Parent Training. Services are provided for children, infants, adolescents and families and are provided in the home, in school and in the community. Some regions may also offer clinic/center-based services. Services are provided throughout this region and most insurance plans are accepted.

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Ventura Region Autism Learning Partners (ALP) is a national leader in the field of developmental disabilities specializing in the evidenced based practice of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a targeted intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder. ALP services include: ABA, Functional Behavior Assessments, Social Skills Groups and Parent Training.

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Rainbow Connection is family resource center in Ventura County that supports families of children with developmental disabilities and special needs. The resources can support babies to adults with special needs. The Rainbow Connection others family support groups. They also offer friendships groups for people with special needs

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Rainbow Connection is a Family Resource Center in Ventura County that serves people with developmental disabilities and other special needs, and their families.

Whether you are just starting your journey with a baby in the hospital or you are a family member looking at the issues of aging for someone with special needs, Rainbow is here for you.We are here to help you find information, training and the support of other parents who are on your same journey.

Rainbow is staffed by parents of children and adults with special needs. We draw from our own experiences and understand the daily joys and challenges of parenting a child or an adult with special needs. We are great listeners and can assist families with problem solving.

Our staff and families work together in relationships based on dignity, respect, and confidentiality. We believe that every person should be valued, respected, and given the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. We are dedicated to building sensitivity, knowledge, and understanding between individuals, families, professionals, and the community.

Events

Rainbow Support

Talking to a trained staff member who is a parent.

Parent to Parent Matches - Connecting parents with similar concerns and interests.

Rainbow has support groups for specific disabilities, military families, and general ones for all special needs. We also list the groups available in the community.We encourage parents to attend a support group at least once. They might be surprised at how much it will help them and how much they can help others.

Socializing

Social time for teens and adults receiving services from TCRC

Sib Club

Information on various disabilities

on local, state, & national resources

on parent's Rights & Responsibilities when raising a child with special needs

Education and training

Presentations on topics of interest for parents

Basic training on Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Workshops to help parents organize all the paperwork that comes with a child with special needs

Spanish Outreach Assistance

Support for Spanish speaking families, some resource materials are available in Spanish.

Library

A large multi-media library is available at the Tri-Counties Regional Center office in Oxnard. A satellite library is available in the Simi Valley Tri-Counties Regional Center office and at Channel Islands Social Services. Internet access is available at both Regional Center sites. A mobile library is available for group meetings. The library is open to the public.

E-Mail: rainbow@tri-counties.org

Website: http://rainbowconnectionfrc.weebly.com
or find us at Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RainbowConnectionFRC

Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center - Oxnard Office
2401 East Gonzales Road, Suite 100, Oxnard CA 93036
Main Phone: (805) 485-9643
Toll Free: (800) 332-3679
Spanish Line: (805) 485-9892
Fax: (805) 278-9056
Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm
Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center - Simi Valley Office

2635 Park Center Drive, Suite A, Simi Valley, CA 93065
Main Phone: 805-823-2325
Spanish Line 805-485-9892

Monday through Thursday 9 am to 1 pm and by appointment.

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Ventura County - Rainbow Connection - Tri Counties Regional Center

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Rainbow Connection is a Family Resource Center in Ventura County that serves people with developmental disabilities and other special needs, and their families.

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The Autism Society of Ventura County has several resources to support families of children with autism. Some of the resources include but are not limited to childcare; afterschool programs; extracurricular programs -i.e. horseback riding; cooking.

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Description:

Respite, Behavioral Respite, Community Integration. 1:1 Assistance, Social Skills, aides for after school programs, Special Programs: Bike Riding for Dads, Parents Night Out (drop-off respite service), Sensory Integration in gym setting, carry-over from gym to community.

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Community Resources - Respite & Companion Care | Autism Ventura

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Description: Respite, Behavioral Respite, Community Integration. 1:1 Assistance, Social Skills, aides for after school programs, Special Programs: Bike Riding for Dads, Parents Night Out (drop-off respite service), Sensory Integration in gym setting, carry-over from gym to community.