Family Support Resources
The Ariana Rye Foundation helps children up to age 18 with developmental disabilities and complex medical medical needs get equipment to foster their social, mental and physical development. Families in need, from anywhere in the United States, can apply for help. Requests for equipment can include feeding or bath chairs, car seats, adaptive strollers, mats, wedges, specialty swings, sensory equipment and more.
The application, requirements for applying, and the annual application deadline are posted on its website.
Families can apply once per year. The one-time equipment grant provides up to $1000 per child.
Association for Individual Development (AID)
The Association for Individual Development (AID) serves individuals with developmental, intellectual, physical and/or mental health challenges, those who have suffered a trauma and those at risk. Operating in the greater Fox Valley area and other western suburban counties, AID provides services to address the unique needs of individuals throughout every stage of their lives.
Programs include:
- Autism programs
- Permanent supportive housing and in-home support
- Developmental and vocational training
- Job placement and on-the-job coaching service
- Crisis intervention and victim services
- Mental health treatment
AID is also a sponsor of the Ride in Kane paratransit program in partnership with RTA, Pace, Kane County, and local municipalities and social service agencies.
Autism McLean Resource Directory
Autism McLean created an autism resource directory that is available electronically and as a booklet. The directory includes:
- Personal stories
- Local health, education and service providers
- Transportation contacts
- Camps and recreation opportunities
- State and national organizations
- Books, magazines and newsletters
Download the resource directory here. For a hard copy of the directory, please contact Chuck Hartseil at chuck.hartseil@comcast.net.
The Autism Response Team (ART) is an information line for the autism community. Its team members are specially trained to provide personalized information and resources to people with autism and their families.
(888) AUTISM2 (288-4762) – English
(888) 772-9050 – SpanishAutism Society Greater Chicago
The Autism Society Greater Chicago’s mission is to create connections and empower the autism community with the resources they need to live fully. It provides information and support to individuals with autism and their families.
The Autism Society Greater Chicago’s website includes sensory-friendly programs and recreation opportunities in Chicago as well as resources focused on health and wellness, employment, housing, legal rights, interventions and therapies.
The Autism Society of America provides advocacy, education, information and referral, support and community at the national, state and local levels through its nationwide network of affiliates.
The Autism Society Quad Cities aims to create connections, empowering everyone in the autism community with the resources they need to live fully. Its programs include educational workshops, grants, support groups for moms, support groups for young adults and the “Friendship Island” group for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder who are ages 12 to 18.
The Autism Society Quad Cities serves Rock Island and Henry counties in Illinois.
Autism Society Southern Illinois
The Autism Society Southern Illinois promotes individual choices and self-determination for those living with autism by providing supportive programs designed to help maximize opportunities and quality of life.
It is based in Carbondale and provides support groups, education and training on autism-related topics, advocacy and recreation opportunities for families and adults with autism.
Autism Speaks is is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. Its website offers individuals with autism and their families information about autism, research and innovation, available resources and grants, advocacy and more. It includes:
- Search features for finding information by topic, life stage, and the level of support needs (some support, moderate amount of support, intensive support) of the person with autism
- A resource guide providing events, information and supports in your local community
- Resources created specifically for self-advocates, parent/caregivers and professionals
- A list of grants from national organizations offering support to families
Autism Support of Central Illinois
Autism Support of Central Illinois aims to improve the lives of those affected by autism in central Illinois by providing access to resources, support, educational opportunities and recreational/social activities for families.