Resource Directory /

Family Support Resources

  • Talking to Children About Tragedies and Other Traumatic News Events

    The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents, teachers, child care providers, and others who work closely with children to filter information about crises and present it in a way that their child can accommodate, adjust to and cope with. HealthyChildren.org provides information on where to start and how to provide the right support in this article, “Talking to Children About Tragedies and Other Traumatic News Events.”

  • Talking with Children During Infectious Disease Outbreaks

    The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a tip sheet for caregivers, parents, and teachers on talking with children during infectious disease outbreaks.

    SAMHSA tip sheet provides information for toddlers to teens and includes:

    • Possible reactions
    • Talking with children and youth in different age groups
    • Supporting children and managing their responses
    • Self-care
    • More resources

  • Taller De José

    Taller de José is an agency that helps individuals find their way through the social services system. It links individuals with a bilingual Compañera/o, or “Companion,” who will listen, identify goals and help find needed services. The organization collaborates with other agencies to provide social services and help including financial, domestic violence, immigration, counseling and legal assistance.

    Taller de José serves Cook County residents.

  • The Answer, Inc.

    The Answer, Inc. provides resources and education, recreation and advocacy services to families with loved ones with autism and developmental disabilities in the greater Chicago area.

    Visit The Answer, Inc., website for more information.

  • The Arc of Illinois

    The Arc of Illinois advocates for and empowers people with disabilities and their families to reach their goals and fully participate in community life. The Arc of Illinois provides information, resources, family support, and training to help make Illinois a place where people with disabilities can learn, play, work, and live in communities across the state.

    The Arc of Illinois services and programs include:

    • The Illinois Life Span program
    • Children’s services and caregiver support
    • Monthly webinars
    • Assistive technology resources
    • The Arc of Illinois fact sheets and more

  • The Arc of Illinois Family-to-Family Health Information Center

    The Arc of Illinois Family-to-Family Health Information Center works with families and professionals to help with questions and concerns related to the health of children and youth with special healthcare needs under the age of 22.

    The center focuses on sharing the most thorough, up-to-date resources regarding health insurance options, government benefits, youth transition concerns and more to help children thrive in their community.

    For more information, call (815) 464-1832, ext. 1017, or email familytofamily@thearcofil.org or mary@thearcofil.org.

  • The Autism Collective

    The Autism Collective is a collaboration of Easterseals Central Illinois and OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois. The collective is working to end the isolation felt by those living with autism by uniting experts and connecting families.

    The collective coordinates early identification, diagnosis, therapy, services and support. Its care coordination services are available throughout Illinois (outside of Chicago).

  • The Autism Hero Project

    The Autism Hero Project champions inclusion and fosters an environment where everyone, regardless of neurodiversity, is valued and empowered to thrive. The organization helps support, equip and foster acceptance of people with autism.

    The Autism Hero Project provides:

    The Autism Hero Project Medical Insurance Grant Application program application period usually runs from September through October. If you have any application questions, please email applications@autismheroproject.org.

  • The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) Service Center at CTF Illinois

    The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) Service Center at CTF Illinois provides services and support to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities and their families. CTF Illinois family and community resource rooms are located in in both Charleston and Olney.

    TAP at CTF serves Coles, Cumberland, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Clark, Moultrie, Douglas, Shelby, Clay, Richland, Crawford and Lawrence counties. Services include:

    • Family nights and new diagnosis family orientation
    • Play groups for children under 3
    • Social skills and monthly support groups
    • Food and nutrition-related consultations

  • The Center for Chronic Illness

    The Center for Chronic Illness (CCI) is a nonprofit organization offering support and education to promote well-being and decrease isolation for people affected by chronic illness. CCI offers adults and teens living with chronic illness a variety of support groups and programs focusing on emotional well-being, health education and community. ​CCI provides: