Understood.org gives parents step-by-step instructions for how to create an individualized education program (IEP) binder that sorts their child’s evaluation reports, IEP, report cards and other paperwork. The site includes an IEP binder checklist, school contact sheet, parent-school communication log and IEP goal tracker that parents can download and print.

The National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability (NCHPAD) Wheelchair Maintenance Guide offers basic tips for maintaining your wheelchair and keeping it in good working order.

Contact NCHPAD for more information at nchpad@uab.edu or (866) 866-8896.

The Illinois Respite Coalition (IRC) is a not-for-profit organization of caregivers and respite providers dedicated to supporting families and ensuring access to quality respite services for the residents of Illinois. The IRC assists caregivers by connecting them to resources in their area, providing training on respite topics and having funding available for emergency respite. The IRC helps caregivers of individuals across the lifespan with any disability.

The Emergency Respite Care Program offers funding and resources to support caregivers who are not receiving any respite services and have an urgent need for respite care in the absence of any other funding source.  Emergency respite care may be for an unplanned or planned event for reasons including:

• Caregiver illness (physical, mental or emotional)
• Caregiver hospitalization or doctor appointments
• Work-related situation or loss of employment
• Reduction of stress level
• Funeral or wake

The website gives examples of qualifying circumstances and information on how to apply. For more information, contact:

• The Illinois Respite Coalition at (866) ILL-RESP (455-7377), ext. 101, or email ilrespitecoalition@gmail.com.
• Spanish-speaking callers may call (866) 866-ILL-RESP (455-7377), ext. 103,  or email ilrespitecoalition@gmail.com.

CHECK is an innovative health and behavioral health care delivery organization working to improve overall health and quality of life by making sure that patients and their families receive the resources and care they need.

The CHECK team provides comprehensive and coordinated health and behavioral health care coordination to patients across the lifespan. Its team consists of Care Coordinators and Behavioral Health Care Coordinators who provide assistance with navigating the healthcare system, referrals to health and social services, and offer ongoing patient and family support with the goal of improving physical, behavioral, and social well-being.

​The CHECK program is located in the Department of Pediatrics in the College of Medicine at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) and University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences System (UI Health) and operates as the Department of Pediatrics Clinical Population and Behavioral Health Program.

CHECK also provides disease-specific education modules on sickle cell disease, diabetes, asthma and prematurity.

For questions, please call (844) 997-2273 or complete the online form on CHECK’s Contact Us page.

The Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) at John A. Logan College provides families with information, referrals, and financial assistance for child care. It also provides resources and support for child care and early education programs. CCR&R serves residents in Alexander, Gallatin, Franklin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Johnson, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Saline, Union, White and Williamson counties.

For questions, please call (800) 548-5563 or email ccrr@jalc.edu.

Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy (ELSA) is a four-year, post-secondary certificate program for young adults aged 18-28 with disabilities. Elsa students can live on campus or commute and participate in on-campus activities alongside their degree-seeking peers.

If you have any questions, please call (630) 617-3752 or email elsa@elmhurst.edu.

The Center for Enriched Living (CEL) provides a wide range of services to enrich the lives of teens, adults and seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). CEL programs include social, recreational and employment programs, events, adult day programs, and mental health and wellness support to people with IDD, their families and caregivers.

CEL is independently funded and partners with the community for donations, regular volunteers, advocacy and collaborations that support people with IDD.

For questions, please contact (847) 948-7001 or info@CenterForEnrichedLiving.org.

Supporting Illinois Brothers and Sisters (S.I.B.S.) offers support to siblings of individuals with disabilities in Illinois by connecting them with information, networking opportunities, and resources to enhance the quality of life for their entire family.

For questions, please email info@sibsnetwork.org.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. This Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) tip sheet provides information about the ADA, your rights under the law, and resources for more information.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) tip sheet in English

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) tip sheet in Spanish (Coming soon)

The Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery offers a safe, loving place for your child to stay while you address whatever difficult situation or needs you may have. In addition to crisis childcare, Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery provides a basic needs pantry, a family support program and Nurturing Families™ parenting classes.

For more information or individual support, contact the Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery at (217) 525-6800.