Health Condition and Disability-Specific Resources
InfantSEE is a public health program that provides a no-cost comprehensive eye and vision assessment for infants 6-12 months old, regardless of a family’s income or access to insurance coverage. The assessment is designed to detect problems early to ensure babies have the opportunity to develop the visual abilities they need to grow and learn.
The InfantSEE assessment is completed by a doctor of optometry. It includes discussing the patient’s and family’s health history and testing for excessive or unequal amounts of:
- Nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
- Eye movement ability
- Eye health problems
InfantSEE is managed by the Optometry Cares – The American Optometric Association (AOA) Foundation.
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.
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.
KidsWork Children’s Museum of New Lenox
KidsWork Children’s Museum of New Lenox encourages children of all abilities to be curious explorers, engaged learners, creative and critical thinkers, and thoughtful and kind individuals. Kids can have playful learning experiences that encourage gross-motor play, imaginative storytelling, creative projects, and investigative discovery across a range of developmental levels and interests. Sensory-friendly playtime is on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
KidsWork Children’s Museum of New Lenox also offers a social story and other tools to help prepare for museum visits. For questions, contact the museum at (815) 469-1199 or info@kidswork.org.
Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois
The Learning Disabilities Association (LDA) of Illinois offers resources and supports to empower individuals with learning disabilities throughout their lifespan. It provides people with learning disabilities, their families, teachers and other professionals information on state legislation, learning disabilities, awards and scholarships, and more.
Learn more about LDA of Illinois scholarship opportunities for students, special education teachers, parents and other awards.
Lincoln Land Down Syndrome Society
Lincoln Land Down Syndrome Society (LLDSS) provides a support network for families residing in and around Sangamon County. LLDSS programs and events promote awareness, inclusion and education of people with Down syndrome.
LLDSS activities include monthly meetings, social gatherings and recreational opportunities.
The Lions of Illinois Foundation is a nonprofit charitable organization that serves people throughout Illinois with vision and hearing needs. Programs and services include Camp Lions, children’s vision screenings, and help with accessing vision and hearing services and equipment.
See the Lions Club Programs and Services brochure for more details.
Visit the Lions of Illinois Foundation Social Services page to learn more about how Lions Clubs statewide can help provide vision and hearing services or to fill out an application.
For questions, please contact the Lions Club of Illinois Foundation at (815) 756-5633 or (815) 756-5633 V/TTY RELAY.
Little Friends provides programs and supports to empower children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities and their families to live, learn, work and thrive in their communities. Little Friends serves individuals and families throughout ten counties and more than 50 school districts across Illinois. Programs include:
- Schools, educational and vocational training programs
- Respite family services
- Community-based residential living
- The Center for Autism
- Inklude Studio
- The Fun Club
Living Independently Now Center Incorporated of Southern Illinois (LINC Inc.)
The Living Independently Now Center of Southern Illinois Incorporated (LINC Inc.) provides support and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families in St. Clair, Monroe and Randolph counties. LINC Inc. has offices in Swansea and Red Bud. Its resources and programs include:
- Deaf and hard-of-hearing services
- Assistive technology equipment loan program
- Community reintegration
- Computer literacy
- Mental health resources
- Peer-to-peer counseling and support groups
- Respite care program for active duty Air Force and Navy families