Health Condition and Disability-Specific 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.
Association for Individual Development (AID)
The Association for Individual Development (AID) serves individuals with developmental, intellectual, physical, and/or mental health challenges, those who have suffered a trauma and those at risk. Operating in the greater Fox Valley area and other western suburban counties, AID provides services to address the unique needs of individuals at every stage of life.
Programs include:
- Autism programs
- Permanent supportive housing and in-home support
- Developmental and vocational training
- Job placement and on-the-job coaching service
- Crisis intervention and victim services
- Mental health treatment
AID is also a sponsor of the Ride in Kane paratransit program in partnership with RTA, Pace, Kane County, and local municipalities and social service agencies.
Attention Deficit Disorder Resources
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) is a national non-profit organization that helps people with ADD/ADHD achieve their potential through education, support and networking.
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.
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 Response Team (ART) is an information line for the autism community. Its team members are specially trained to provide personalized information and resources to people with autism and their families.
(888) AUTISM2 (288-4762) – English
(888) 772-9050 – SpanishThe Autism Society of America provides advocacy, education, information and referral, support and community at the national, state and local levels through its nationwide network of affiliates.
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 Society Southern Illinois
The Autism Society Southern Illinois promotes individual choices and self-determination for those living with autism by providing supportive programs designed to help maximize opportunities and quality of life.
It is based in Carbondale and provides support groups, education and training on autism-related topics, advocacy and recreation opportunities for families and adults with autism.
For questions, please call the Autism Society Southern Illinois at (618) 319-3303.
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