Chicago Resources
UIC The Resource Center for Autism and Developmental Delays
UIC The Resource Center for Autism and Developmental Delays (RCADD) provides support for those who care for, teach and serve children with an autism spectrum disorder or other developmental delays. RCADD serves families currently enrolled in an Early Head Start or Head Start program as well as others throughout the Chicagoland area.
Anyone can also visit RCADD’s website for:
- Free autism trainings/webinars in English and Spanish
- Printable visuals
- Activity ideas
Rush Autism Resource Directory
The Autism Resource Directory is an online resource guide to help families find service and support referrals in the following counties: Lake, McHenry, Kane, DuPage, Cook, Kendall, Will, Grundy and Kankakee.
For more information or if you have any questions about navigating the directory or finding a referral, please call (312) 563-2272.
Guidebook on Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications
The Illinois Department of Human Rights provides a first-of-its-kind Guidebook on Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications.
In accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, this book provides guidance and clarification on the accommodations and modifications that must be made in housing for persons with disabilities and their family members.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has created a new webpage for coping with stress in the difficult times resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by advancing innovative research and improving quality of life for individuals and families impacted by paralysis.
The website includes:
- A search tool for finding local resources and organizations that support people living with paralysis
- A paralysis resource guide
- Comprehensive resources and support for people living with paralysis and their caregivers
- Information on the inclusive “Outdoors for Everyone” initiative
COVID-19 Resources for Supporting Students with Disabilities
National Center for Systemic Improvement (NCSI) provides resources, strategies and support materials for K-12 special education during the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Resources for Schools, Students and Families
The U.S. Department of Education provides these guidance and policy resources related to elementary and secondary education, special education, higher education and other essential components of lifelong learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The U.S. Department of Education has issued resources specific to the education of students with disabilities in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving prevention strategies as schools assess their policies to remain open for in-person learning for everyone.
You can access these documents at:
- Disability Rights | U.S. Department of Education (English and Spanish)
Additional information is available through the Agency’s Office of Special Education Programs at:
Illinois Mental Health Collaborative for Access and Choice
The Illinois Mental Health Collaborative for Access and Choice is a partnership devoted to the recovery and resilience of children and adults with mental illness. The collaborative is committed to making it easier for people in need of mental health services to get the right care, at the right time and in the right amount.
Mental Health America of Illinois
Mental Health America of Illinois is a statewide organization that works to promote mental health, prevent mental disease and improve the care and treatment of those suffering from mental and emotional disorders. For more information go to www.mhai.org/.