Resource Directory /

Peoria Resources

  • Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC)

    The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC) provides free, easy to understand resources for people living with traumatic brain (TBI), spinal cord (SCI) and burn injuries and their supporters. The research-based resources aim to improve rehabilitation outcomes and quality of life for people living with SCI, TBI, and burn injuries. MSKTC resources are available in a variety of formats including printable PDF documents, videos and slideshows.

    The MSKTC website features a wide range user-friendly resources divided by topic:

  • Margaret Hackett Family Program

    Congenital anomalies of the central nervous system (CNS) are birth defects of the physical structure of the brain or spinal cord that occur during fetal intrauterine growth such as spina bifida, hydrocephalus and other conditions. The Margaret Hackett Family Program (MHFP) at the University of Chicago provides individuals and families help with diagnosing, understanding, caring for and addressing the challenges of living with CNS congenital anomalies. MHFP also provides research and research grants.

    The Margaret Hacker Family Program also offers:

    • A monthly, virtual “Connect Group” for individuals and families affected by CNS anomalies
    • In-person quarterly socials
    • In-person events twice a year featuring food, giveaways, fun activities and resources
    • Help with finding resources and medical care

  • LaSalle/Putnam Educational Alliance for Special Education

    The LaSalle/Putnam Educational Alliance for Special Education‘s (LEASE-SPED) website provides quick links, event calendars, information to help with navigating the transition to adulthood, and training and educational resources for parents, students, social workers and educational professionals. The LaSalle/Putnam Educational Alliance for Special Education provides:

  • Illinois Help Stop Hate

    Illinois Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to help victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential and not affiliated with law enforcement. Individuals can make online reports in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care.

    You can make reports anonymously by calling (877) 458-4283 or (877) 458-HATE, Monday to Friday from 12 to 9 p.m. or online any time by visiting ILStopHate.org.

  • BACKBONES – Connecting People With Spinal Cord Injury

    BACKBONES connects people with spinal cord injury and their families to others with similar backgrounds, injuries and interests. BACKBONES provides inspirational stories and programs that include events, a youth program for teenagers (ages 15 to 18), leader development and monthly online meetups for people in the spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D) community looking to connect with their peers.

  • Center for Accessibility and Neurodiversity at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby

    The Center for Accessibility and Neurodiversity (CAN) at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby provides a wide range of supports and services to empower diverse learners. CAN services include:

    CAN is on the Oglesby Campus in room C-211. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can also make an appointment by contacting Tina Hardy at (815) 224-0284 or tina_hardy@ivcc.edu.

  • FacingDisability

    FacingDisability provides stories, hundreds of paralysis resources and up-to-date information on spinal cord injury. The organization works with medical experts from major hospitals, universities and rehabilitation institutions nationwide to provide insight and inspiration. FacingDisability resource topics include:

    • Disability advocates
    • Family and caregiver support
    • Assistive technology
    • Financial assistance and government programs
    • Education and employment

  • A Place for Us

    A Place for Us provides students with disabilities and their allies a space to connect, network and empower one another through peer mentoring that spans from high school through college. This nationwide nonprofit helps students with disabilities succeed in higher education by unifying disability rights activists in colleges across the country. A Place for Us provides:

    • A digital network of students with disabilities and their allies to be mentors for high school students and underclassmen with disabilities
    • Students with disabilities and disability advocates willing to share their stories
    • Nationwide mentors who can help you navigate your higher education journey
    • Mentorship opportunities

  • National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

    The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is free, confidential and here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week in English and Spanish for anyone who is pregnant or just had a baby.

    Trained counselors can listen to what you’re going through, connect you with local support groups and organizations, and refer you to other healthcare professionals if you need more care.

    Call or text (833) 852-6262 or (833) TLC-MAMA.