Accessibility Resources
UIC’s Institute on Disability and Human Development
The University of Illinois Chicago’s Institute on Disability and Human Development (IDHD) promotes community participation, health, empowerment and advocacy for people with disabilities and their families across all aspects of life. IDHD is part of the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) network for the state of Illinois.
UIC’s IDHD supports and services include:
- Webinars
- Services and clinics for individuals with disabilities, their families and professionals
- Research
- Continuing education
Understanding the Individualized Education Program
Equip for Equality provides information to help parents and caregivers understand special education rights in Illinois and the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requirements. Printable guides in a frequently asked questions format are available on a wide range of topics. The individualized education program (IEP) guide walks caregivers through understanding what it is, why it’s helpful, and how and when to get one for your child.
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) promotes a life of inclusion and provides resources for individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, their families and communities.
The UCP website has resources on topics such as assistive technology, housing and home modification, travel and transportation, education, caregiving, and more. You can also find UCP affiliates in Illinois.
Variety – The Children’s Charity of Illinois
Variety of Illinois helps children with disabilities and their families feel supported and included in their community. Variety provides inclusive and accessible activities, equipment and experiences to help children with disabilities have fun, learn and grow. Its programs include:
- Accessible activities for the whole family
- Providing adaptive and mobility equipment not covered by insurance for children with disabilities
- Encouraging participation in adaptive sports
- The Build-a-Bike program
Visit Variety of Illinois’s website to apply for a grant or sign up for its newsletter.
For questions, please contact Variety of Illinois at (312) 822-0660 or info@varietyofillinois.org.
Western DuPage Special Recreation Association
Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) provides recreation and social opportunities for individuals with a wide range of disabilities. From ages 3 to their senior years, individuals can enjoy adaptive sports, athletics, camps, social clubs, trips and more. WDSRA is a cooperative extension of nine park districts and serves the communities/member districts of Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Glen Ellyn, Naperville, Roselle, Warrenville, West Chicago, Wheaton, and Winfield.
WDSRA programs include:
- Rec & Roll for individuals ages 22 to 55 with an intellectual disability
- Adaptive sports and athletic programming
- Camps
- Cultural arts
- Social programs and clubs
- Trips and special events
If you have any questions, please see the WDSRA Family Welcome Guide or contact WDSRA at (630) 681-0962 or info@wdsra.com.
Will-Grundy Transition Planning Committee
The Will-Grundy Transition Planning Committee strives to connect families to community-based services and providers for students and adults with disabilities. Made up of schools, agencies and not-for-profit organizations, the group is working together to improve vocational transition from education to jobs for all learners but particularly for individuals with disabilities.
The Will-Grundy Transition Planning Committee provides:
- Educational events
- A resource directory covering Will, Grundy and Kendall counties
- Recorded videos on a variety of topics
- Information about community resources and service providers grouped by type (advocacy, assistive technology, etc.)
Your Vote Counts: A Self-Advocate’s Guide to Voting in the U.S.
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network has “Your Vote Counts: A Self-Advocate’s Guide to Voting in the U.S.” that includes how to get ready to vote and how to get accommodations when voting.
