General Resources
Illinois Transformative Justice Law Project
The Illinois Transformative Justice Law Project (TJLP) provides free information, training resources and life and gender-affirming legal services to everyone on the gender spectrum regardless of financial status. TJLP also provides:
- Workshops for organizations and groups wanting to learn more about allyship for trans and gender-expansive communities
- Free in-person and virtual name change services
- Name change guides
- Educational resources
Illinois Unidos – Advocating for Latinx Families
Illinois Unidos provides a collection of resources developed for and focusing on Latinx families to address:
- Frequently asked questions regarding vaccinations and mitigation measures
- Accessing health, economic and mental health community services
- The devastating economic impact of COVID-19
Illinois Unidos is a consortium of more than 150 Latino elected and appointed officials, health professionals and representatives of community-based organizations.
Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living (IVCIL) in Spring Valley
The Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living (IVCIL) serves individuals with disabilities and their families living in LaSalle, Marshall, Bureau, Putnam, and Stark counties. Located in Spring Valley, IVCIL provides services and advocates for the rights of people with disabilities to choose what is best for themselves and their families.
IVCIL also provides community grants. Individuals and agencies can apply year-round. Other IVCIL programs and services include:
- Independent living and community services
- Youth and transition services
- Peer counseling
- Personal assistant program
- Site accessibility assessments
Illinois Valley Industries helps adults with intellectual, sensory, physical and developmental disabilities participate in their community, live independently, contribute to society and enhance the quality of their lives. Illinois Valley Industries programs for Grundy County residents include community day services, self-direction assistance, community employment and personal support services.
For questions or more information, contact Illinois Valley Industries at (815) 942-6133 or info@ivigrundy.com.
The Illinois.gov website provides information about all the different services that various Illinois state agencies offer.
Independent Living Radio/Radio Vida Independiente
Independent Living Radio/Radio Vida Independiente broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the internet. The station aims to promote inclusion and awareness about issues related to disability. In addition to music, the station provides programs in English and Spanish on topics including:
- Adaptive technology
- Disability programs and services
- Employment
- Laws
- Activities around the world
Infinite Potential Through Technology (Infinitec)
Infinite Potential Through Technology (Infinitec) brings assistive technology to people with disabilities in Illinois. Infinitec provides information about assistive technology as well as training, equipment and access to specialists and resources.
Infinitec includes information about mobility devices, home modifications, independent living, orthotics and prosthetics, adaptive toys, adaptive sports, hearing resource guides, vision resource guides and more.
Internet Essentials from Comcast provides affordable home internet for qualifying households, low-cost computers, free WiFi hotspots and free internet training. Families may qualify if they live in an area where Xfinity Internet service is available and are eligible for public assistance programs, including the National School Lunch Program, housing assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, and other programs.
iTaalk Autism Foundation
iTaalk (Interactive Technology Assisting Autistic Little Kids) Autism Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides resources, training and assistive technology to help individuals with autism and other disabilities develop greater independence at all stages of life.
iTaalk’s App Facilitator Program provides grants to individuals of all ages and disabilities (not just autism) to help them access apps that are key to helping them communicate. Applicants must own the device for which they are requesting apps.
Jack’s Basket supports new parents of a child with Down syndrome by providing information, a support system and a welcome basket to let them know they’re not alone. Baskets are available from the time of diagnosis (prenatal or at birth) up to the baby’s first birthday. Parents, friends, family members, healthcare providers or Down syndrome organizations can request baskets.
The website also includes local and national resources to support people with Down syndrome and their families.