Resource Directory /

Olney Resources

  • National Down Syndrome Society

    The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) aims to empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities and shifting public perceptions.

    Its resources include information on Down syndrome across the lifespan as well as in the areas of aging, caregiving, education, employment, health and more.

  • DSCC’s Using Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to Get Ready for Your Future Tip Sheet

    The Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) created this tip sheet to help youth with special healthcare needs and their families learn more about Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI can help pay for food, clothing and housing needs.  It also helps you keep your medical benefits.

    The tip sheet includes:

    • Steps for applying for SSI
    • Work incentives
    • Where to look for more information

    DSCC’s Using Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to Get Ready for Your Future Tip Sheet in English

    DSCC’s Using Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to Get Ready for Your Future Tip Sheet in Spanish

  • DSCC’s Self-Care Skills Assessment for Parents/Caregivers of Young Adults With Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities

    DSCC’s Self-Care Assessment for Parents/Caregivers of Youth with Intellectual/Development Disabilities is designed to help caregivers of young adults (ages 18 to 25) assess the young adult’s ability to care for their own health. The assessment will help provide information about what your young adult already knows about their health and areas where you/they need to learn more.

    If a young adult is able to fill out this information independently, they should complete the young adult version of this form instead.

    Self-Care Skills Assessment for Parents/Caregivers in English

    Self-Care Skills Assessment for Parents/Caregivers in Spanish

  • iCanConnect

    iCanConnect is a national communication equipment distribution program for people with significant combined hearing and vision loss. The program helps eligible individuals who are deaf-blind stay connected to friends, family and the world by providing equipment specific to each person’s needs.

    The iCanConnect website provides information about each local program and application requirements. The local program works with iCanConnect participants to provide an individualized assessment and help with equipment needs.

  • Brightpoint (formerly Children’s Home & Aid)

    Brightpoint provides a wide range of programs statewide to help families and their children navigate challenges such as poverty, trauma and systemic barriers to equity. Brightpoint focuses on prevention and helping families before problems become life-altering crises. Its programs include:

    • Early childhood care and education
    • Parenting support and family services
    • Foster care
    • Workforce development and youth programs
    • Mental health and wellness

    Brightpoint started as Children’s Home & Aid and has offices in Bloomington, Carpentersville, Englewood, Palatine and Schaumburg.

  • The Painted Turtle Overnight Camp for Children with Serious Medical Conditions

    The Painted Turtle is a year-round, overnight camp in California for children ages 7 to 17 with a variety of serious medical conditions, their siblings and family members. Condition-specific camp sessions and family weekends (for children ages 6 to 17) aim to encourage children to try new things and develop lasting friendships. Campers and their families attend free of charge.

    The camp has a full-time medical staff, a health center and a physician onsite at all times. The Painted Turtle provides camper eligibility guidelines and medical criteria to help determine the best session for your child and family.

  • REACH Learning and Resource Hub

    REACH Learning and Resource Hub provides free, virtual training to help educators, clinicians, parents and caregivers better support the mental health and resilience of the children and youth in their lives. The interactive, on-demand resources focus on:

    • Trauma-responsive practices
    • Personal and professional resilience
    • Social-emotional awareness
    • Self-care

  • American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) Internship Programs

    The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) provides two internship programs offering professional and career development opportunities for students and recent graduates with disabilities. The programs help participants access meaningful employment, gain leadership skills and connect to the broader disability community.

    Learn more about the programs and how to apply: