Family and Caregiving Support Resources
Illinois Spina Bifida Association
The Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA) works to improve the quality of life of children, adults and families with spina bifida. ISBA works to accomplish its mission by:
- Promoting skills development and independence
- Supporting individuals and families through outreach, education and advocacy
- Investing in people by funding scholarships, mobility equipment, research and emergency help
For more information or to participate in these programs, visit ISBA’s website or call (773) 444-0305.
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 8
- 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 from the Illinois State Board of Education. The project receives annual funding from federal sources.
Illinois STAR NET Northern Regions II and VI
Illinois STAR NET Northern Regions II and VI offer a range of regional resources to early childhood professionals and parents of young children with disabilities from birth through age 8. Resources include training, consultation, webinars and events for families and professionals, a lending library and more.
Visit the STAR NET Northern Regions II and VI 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 more information, email STAR NET Regions II and VI at starnet2and6@cntrmail.org or call (224) 366-8579.
Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant from the Illinois State Board of Education, which receives annual federal funding.
Illinois STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III
Illinois 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 8. 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 from the Illinois State Board of Education, which receives annual federal funding.
Illinois STAR NET Southern Region IV
STAR NET Southern Region IV provides technical assistance, professional development, family learning opportunities and resources to support the education and development of young children with disabilities from birth through age 8.
Regional support includes:
- Webinars and training
- A lending library
- Family support and resources
- Professional and family events
Visit STAR NET Southern Region IV’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 more information about STAR NET Southern Region IV, call (618) 825-3966.
The St. Clair County Regional Office of Education administers Illinois STAR NET through a grant from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), which receives annual funding from federal sources.
Illinois State Board of Education
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is state agency providing information and resources on all aspects of education, including early childhood, general education, special education and assistive technology.
Illinois State Board of Education LGBTQ Student and Family Resources
The Illinois State Board of Education provides resources for LGBTQ students and their families including information on the gender spectrum and Illinois High School Association policy.
Illinois Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline
If you or someone you know needs help, you can call, text or chat live with the Illinois Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline at (877) 863-6338 (877-TO END DV).
The Hotline provides crisis intervention and referrals to an emergency situation and support services to victims who are in an abusive relationship. In addition, Hotline advocates can provide information and resources to concerned family and friends.
The Hotline is confidential, available 24 hours a day and can help you no matter what language you speak. More information about the hotline and other Illinois resources is available on the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence website.
Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living (IVCIL) in Spring Valley
The Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living (IVCIL) serves individuals with disabilities and their families living in LaSalle, Marshall, Bureau, Putnam, and Stark counties. Located in Spring Valley, IVCIL provides services and advocates for the rights of people with disabilities to choose what is best for themselves and their families.
IVCIL also provides community grants. Individuals and agencies can apply year-round. Other IVCIL programs and services include:
- Independent living and community services
- Youth and transition services
- Peer counseling
- Personal assistant program
- Site accessibility assessments
For questions, call IVCIL at (815) 224 – 3126.
If you or one of your family members has mental health and/or substance use challenges and would like to receive support by phone, call the Illinois Warm Line at (866) 359-7953.
Wellness support specialists are professionals who have experienced mental health and/or substance use recovery in their own lives. They are trained in recovery support, mentoring and advocacy.
The Illinois Warm Line is not a crisis hotline, but is a source of support as you recover or help a family member to recover. Illinois Warm Line hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except holidays.
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) also provides a list of state and national helplines offering someone to talk to or help during a crisis.