Resource Directory /

General Resources

  • Toilet Training Children with Special Needs – HealthyChildren.org

    The American Academy of Pediatrics’ website HealthyChildren.org provides parents of children with disabilities information for determining when to start and how to begin the toilet-training process.

    The information includes:

    An overview of physical and developmental challenges and how they can impact toilet training
    Tips on when and how to begin toilet training
    The importance of having a parent support network and focusing on celebrating your child’s overall growth, not the mistake

    This information is also available in Spanish.

  • TotalLink to Community

    TotalLink to Community provides individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities ages 18 years or older in the north suburbs of Chicago with a wide range of person-centered services to promote employment, independence and strong social connections in the community.

    TotalLink provides career and vocational services, including job development and placement, using Customized Employment, a proven and innovative approach that utilizes skill-based coaching, family coaching, life planning, and educational and recreational opportunities designed to get young adults with disabilities involved in their community and deepen social connections.

  • Transition Coalition

    The Transition Coalition provides professional development tools and technical assistance to professionals and families supporting students with disabilities in transition to adulthood planning. Resources include webinars, on-line training modules, study guides and free publications.

  • Travel Guide for Children with Medical Complexity

    Traveling with a child with medical complexity can be challenging. With extra planning, a family vacation can be a memorable and enjoyable experience. This travel guide from the Courageous Parents Network offers practical advice on choosing a location, what and how to pack the medical supplies your child needs, tips for traveling by car and airplane, and what precautions to take should your child have a medical emergency while on vacation.

    The guide is available in English and Spanish.

  • Tri-State Food Bank

    The Tri-State Foodbank partners with southern Illinois agencies to provide food assistance in Alexander, Edwards, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Johnson, Lawrence, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, Richland, Saline, Union, Wabash, Wayne and White counties.

    Please use the “Find A Pantry” tool to locate local pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens offering free food to those in need.

  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

    The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is the nation’s leading science-based, data-driven, service organization that protects the public’s health. The CDC provides up-to-date information and resources on topics such as nutrition, diseases and conditions, healthy living, violence and safety, detecting and responding to new and emerging health threats, and more.

  • Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Van) Ride Service in Chicago

    Uber WAV provides affordable rides in wheelchair accessible vehicles to individuals using motorized wheelchairs or scooters in Chicago. Uber WAV driver-partners complete training courses covering driver safety and how to help riders with assistive devices as they enter and exit the vehicle. Drivers must also provide service to riders with service animals.

    Uber WAV is not available everywhere. Riders with folding wheelchairs can request a ride using other options available through the Uber app. Learn more about Uber’s accessibility programs on its website.

  • UIC’s Resource Center for Autism and Developmental Delays

    UIC’s Resource Center for Autism and Developmental Delays (RCADD) provides support for those who care for, teach and serve children with an autism spectrum disorder or other developmental delays. RCADD serves families currently enrolled in an Early Head Start or Head Start program as well as others throughout the Chicagoland area.

    Anyone can also visit RCADD’s website for:

    • Free autism trainings/webinars in English and Spanish
    • Printable visuals
    • Activity ideas

    For questions, please contact RCADD at (312) 413-4441 or rcadd@uic.edu.

  • Unique Sweets

    Unique Sweets provides delicious treats and a safe space for people with autism and other disabilities to participate in life skills training. Team members participate in event planning, purchasing supplies, baking, decorating and packaging and receive a stipend to cover their expenses to get to the kitchen. Unique Sweets also hosts social events throughout the year to foster peer relationships, social skills and community support.

    Unique Sweets also offers:

    • Life skills (virtual or in-person) peer-led cooking classes
    • Social events and an annual Party With a Purpose
    • Inclusive workshops, information sessions and social events with other organizations
    • Referrals to other programs and services as needed

    If you have any questions, please email Unique Sweets at contact@uniquesweetsinc.org.

  • United Spinal Association

    The United Spinal Association empowers and advocates for wheelchair users and people with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D) nationwide. The organization provides local chapters, disability resources, peer support, a manual wheelchair guide and app, a health equity checklist and toolkit and more. Its resources include:

    For questions, please contact the United Spinal Association, Monday thru Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (800) 962-9629.