Resource Directory /

Transition: Independence Resources

  • Assistive Technology Resources

    The Illinois State Library provides a list of programs and organizations that can help support assistive technology needs.

    Assistive technology is “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.” This includes devices like wheelchairs, laptop computers and even a grip on a pencil or a special can-opener.

  • Autism Speaks Transition to Adulthood Resources

    Autism Speaks offers autistic teens and their families inspiration, information, toolkits and support for creating a roadmap for their transition to adulthood journey. Its transition planning tools for individuals and their families include:

  • Autistic Self Advocacy Network

    The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) is a nonprofit organization run by and for autistic people. ASAN works to promote a more inclusive society for people with autism and to change the way people think about autism. ASAN provides:

    • Information about autism
    • Plain English toolkits
    • Accessibility resources
    • Self-advocacy resources and leadership training

    For questions, please visit ASAN’s Contact Us page for details about who to contact.

  • Blue Envelope Program in McLean County

    The Blue Envelope Program is a free, voluntary statewide initiative offered in partnership with the Normal Police Department in Normal, Ill. The program aims to support safer, less stressful interactions between law enforcement and individuals who may experience communication challenges, disabilities, sensory differences or severe anxiety. Participants can use a Blue Envelope to store identification, vehicle information, emergency contact information and communication preferences.

    The envelope also serves as a visual cue to law enforcement that an individual may benefit from additional communication support or accommodations during an interaction.

    Visit the Normal Police Department’s Blue Envelope Program page for a list of locations where Blue Envelopes are available.

    You can also email Autism McLean at info@autismmclean.org to request an envelope or more information.

     

  • Bridgeway

    Bridgeway provides a wide range of programs for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities in west-central and northern Illinois. Bridgeway offers a variety of person-centered programs that focus on greater choice, achieving independence and community participation. Bridgeway programs include:

    • Day services
    • Adult learning services
    • School-based counseling
    • Community living and supports
    • Employment programs
    • Substance use assessments and programs for youth and adults

  • Bus Training from RAMP

    RAMP Center for Independent Living (RAMP CIL) helps people with disabilities learn how to use public transportation in Rockford and Belvidere through a cooperative effort with the Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD). RAMP CIL can help individuals learn how to navigate fixed-route buses, read schedules and transition from paratransit to regular service. 

    For more information, contact RAMP CIL at (815) 968-7467. Phone hours are:

    • Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
    • Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

  • Caritas Family Solutions

    Caritas Family Solutions is a non-profit social services agency that works to meet the physical, social and emotional needs of people in southern Illinois.

    Services include adoption support, foster care, community integrated living arrangements, counseling, parenting classes, pregnancy care and more.

    For questions, please contact Caritas Family Solutions.

  • Center for Disability and Elder Law

    The Center for Disability and Elder Law (CDEL) provides free legal services to low-income seniors and people with disabilities throughout Cook County. CDEL offers programs and appointments at community sites on matters including:

    • Adult guardianship
    • Financial and housing stability
    • Estate and end-of-life planning
    • Divorce

    For questions, please call (312) 376-1880 or email info@cdelaw.org.

     

  • Center for Parent Information and Resources (formerly NICHCY)

    The Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR) is a central “hub” for the network of Parent Centers serving families of children with disabilities nationwide. Materials on CPIR’s website are user-centered and created for and by Parent Centers across the country to support and provide services to the families they serve. Resources include parent guides, training materials, information on special education and transition planning, webinars and more. CPIR also provides information in Spanish to help parents understand specific disabilities, the special education process, and where to find help.

    CPIR also offers:

    • A family-friendly resource library
    • A monthly e-newsletter featuring new resources, upcoming events, and materials to share
    • Native American resources
    • The Office of Special Education Program (OSEP)’s Glossary of Common Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Terms in Spanish and in Korean
    • An events calendar
    • A Parent Center locator tool

    For questions, please visit CPIR’s contact page.

  • Central Illinois Public Transit

    Central Illinois Public Transit (CIPT) provides reliable and timely transportation that is wheelchair-accessible and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The program serves Christian, Clay, Effingham, Fayette, Montgomery, Moultrie and Shelby counties.

    For rides or more information, call (855) 755-CIPT (2478) or TTY 7-1-1.