Financial Assistance and Grant Programs Resources
The Association of Blind Citizens’ (ABC) Assistive Technology Fund provides funds to cover 50 percent of the retail price of adaptive devices or software. The program helps legally blind residents of the United States access technology products that will significantly improve employment opportunities, increase independence and enhance the overall quality of life.
Assistive Technology Resources
The Illinois State Library provides a list of programs and organizations that can help support assistive technology needs.
Assistive technology is “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.” This includes devices like wheelchairs, laptop computers and even a grip on a pencil or a special can-opener.
Association of Horizon is a non-profit organization in Chicago that provides opportunities for adults with and without physical disabilities to empower and enrich each other’s lives through lifelong friendships and recreation. Horizon’s flagship program is a week-long summer camp. The program pairs campers 18 and older with physical disabilities with a volunteer who helps them experience a range of adapted sports and other activities. Horizon also offers a weekly Zoom hangout, in-person events throughout the year and an annual Horizon Hope Grant.
For more information, contact the Association of Horizon at (773) 477-5170 or horizon@associationofhorizon.org.
The ATI Foundation offers grant awards to individuals in need of assistance to live independent and fulfilling lives in their communities. Typical assistance includes funding for adaptive equipment, home modifications, therapies, specialized social and recreational programming, and medical-related costs. The foundation works with individuals to identify support options that make the most sense for their unique situation.
ATI Foundation also provides sponsorship support for like-minded nonprofit organizations. Learn more or apply for ATI Foundation’s Individual Grant Awards and Sponsorship Support for Nonprofits.
For questions, please contact the ATI Foundation using the online contact form.
Aurora Community Resources for Displaced Residents
The City of Aurora provides information on a wide variety of resources including housing, food, clothing and legal assistance.
Autism McLean Resource Directory
Autism McLean offers parent-centered training and support, community events for families, grants and scholarships, and an autism resource directory. 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
For questions, comments, resources, or needs please email Autism McLean at info@autismmclean.org.
The Autism Society Quad Cities aims to create connections and empower 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 ages 12 to 18.
The Autism Society Quad Cities serves Rock Island and Henry counties in Illinois.
If you have questions, please contact the Autism Society Quad Cities at autismqc@gmail.com.
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
Benefits.gov is an online resource to help you find federal benefits you may be eligible for in the United States. The Benefit Finder questionnaire can help you find benefits you may be eligible to receive – such as healthcare and medical assistance, financial assistance, loans and disaster relief – and direct you to the agency to apply.
Bounce Children’s Foundation is a Chicago area non-profit that aims to transform the lives of chronically ill children and their families, shifting all from surviving to thriving. The foundation serves children from birth to 18 years of age.
Bounce’s free programs aim to build the resilience needed to cope with the ongoing, unexpected setbacks that define chronic illness. Programs include family adventures, education to strengthen vital coping skills, donated tickets to high-demand events, themed care packages for families, access to resources, peer support and more.
For any questions, please email info@BounceChildrensFoundation.org or call (844) 626-8623.