Resource Directory /

Springfield Resources

  • Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Southern Illinois

    The Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Southern Illinois aims to lead the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and to accelerate therapies to stop seizures, find cures and save lives. Its programs include epilepsy and seizure support services, home-based services, residential services, epilepsy education programs, support groups, a scholarship and more.

    Its website also provides resources including a New to Epilepsy Guide, Seizure Calendar and more.

  • Illinois STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III

    STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III provide regional training and resources to early childhood community professionals and families of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight. Support includes workshops, webinars (live and on-demand), technical assistance and resource specialists, a lending library and more.

    Visit STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III’s website to learn more and register for webinars, training and events near you.

    See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.

    For questions about STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III, email starnet@wiu.edu or call (309) 298-1634.

    Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education, which receives annual funding from federal sources.

  • DSCC’s Solving Problems and Making Your Own Decisions Tip Sheet

    The Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) created this tip sheet to help youth with special healthcare and their families/caregivers build important problem-solving and decision-making skills. This tip sheet includes suggestions, steps and resources for developing the skills you need to be more independent and responsible as an adult.

    Solving Problems and Making Your Own Decisions tip sheet in English

    Solving Problems and Making Your Own Decisions tip sheet in Spanish

  • Medical Grants Through United Healthcare Children’s Foundation

    United Healthcare Children’s Foundation’s (UHCCF) mission is to help fill the gap between what medical services/items/equipment a child needs and what their commercial health benefit plan will pay for.

    UHCCF grants provide financial help/assistance for families with children that have medical needs not covered or not fully covered by their commercial health insurance plan.

    To be eligible for grants, children must be 16 years of age or younger at the time of application and have a Social Security number. Eligible families must also meet UHCCF’s economic guidelines.

    Families could receive up to $5,000 annually and $10,000 a lifetime per child for eligible medical services, treatment therapies, items and equipment.

  • 211

    United Way supports 211 a free and confidential service that helps people across North America find the local resources they need 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    A toll-free call to 211 connects you to a community resource specialist in your area who can put you in touch with local organizations that provide critical services that can improve and lives. You can find information about supplemental food and nutrition programs, shelter and housing options, utility assistance, disaster relief, employment and education opportunities, and more.

  • Illinois STAR NET

    Illinois STAR NET helps provide early childhood professionals and families with the support needed to provide all children with a high-quality, equitable education in inclusive environments. STAR NET provides workshops, funding opportunities, technical assistance and more to promote:

    • Evidence-based inclusive practices for young children with disabilities from birth to age eight
    • Professional development to support educators and families
    • Meaningful child outcomes through innovative and engaging learning experiences

    See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.

    Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The project receives annual funding from federal sources.

  • Job Corps

    Job Corps is a comprehensive program that provides essential academics and career skills training. The program helps eligible youth ages 16 through 24 complete their high school education, trains them for meaningful careers, and assists them with obtaining employment.

  • Illinois Department of Employment Security Youth Program

    The Hire the Future Program at the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) is designed to provide youth ages 16 to 24 with employment assistance, job readiness and career development services. You c an find out what careers match your skills and interests by using IDES’ online job resources.