General Resources
Alcoholics Anonymous(AA) Illinois
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a recovery resource devoted to supporting people struggling with alcoholism. AA provides information and support for taking the next step to overcoming alcohol addiction. AA provides a localized support system and statewide meetings throughout Illinois to help members who need the extra support to stop drinking and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) is a volunteer organization of dedicated therapy dog handlers and their dogs on a mission of sharing smiles and joy. ATD offers an international registry of certified therapy dog teams, testing, certification, support and insurance for members who volunteer with their dogs in animal-assisted activities. ATD can also help facilities such as schools or nursing homes start a therapy dog program. Its website includes:
- Information on what makes a good therapy dog
- Steps for becoming an ATD member
- A video showing testing and how to handle your dog to interact with others
- Search tool for finding a tester/observer near you
For questions, please visit the Alliance of Therapy Dogs’ Contact Us page or call (877) 843-7364.
American Board of Medical Specialties Lookup Tool
The American Board of Medical Specialties’® (ABMS®) 24 Member Boards certify doctors in 38 specialties and 89 subspecialties, following rigorous standards for training and assessment. ABMS® provides a board certification lookup tool that allows patients to find board-certified doctors by name, location, city, state and specialty.
American Sign Language Lessons
If you are interested in learning or practicing the basics of American Sign Language (ASL), these sites provide free lessons to get you started:
- ASL Connect – Gallaudet University
- Sign Language 101 – Learn Sign Language Online Free
- American Sign Language | Complete 3-Level Course | Start ASL
- Free Basic ASL Classes – Oklahoma State University
There are also free YouTube videos available to help you learn, practice and supplement your sign language instruction:
Are You Ready? Preparing for Emergencies: Tips for Families
Information from Family Voices on how families of children with special healthcare needs can prepare for emergencies.
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 Eats provides autism-friendly non-judgmental environments for family dining, socializing and connecting with others who share similar joys and challenges. Autism Eats hosts dinners and events year-round. They also provide comprehensive autism awareness training and certification for restaurant management and staff.
Autism Eats dinner parties:
- Take place in private rooms of restaurants or function facilities.
- Serve food buffet or family style so there is no waiting.
- Adjust music and lighting to accommodate those with sensory sensitivity.
For questions, please visit Autism Eats Contact Us page.
Baby Formula Tips and Information – HHS
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) website has resources in a variety of languages to help families choose the correct infant formula, and prepare and use it safely.
These resources include information on safe substitutes, formula company contacts and community programs.
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.
Bottom Line Diaper Bank in Champaign
The Bottom Line Diaper Bank is a collaborative effort of the United Way of Champaign County and the Champaign-Urbana Public Health Department. Together they provide diapers to local programs to distribute to families and caregivers in need. Visit the diaper bank’s website for more details on how to receive help.