Recreation and Inclusion Resources
Illinois workNet provides employment information, resources and tools to help individuals with and without disabilities find a job, internship or training, create a career plan, build a resume and more.
Illinois workNet includes Disability Works, which connects and guides individuals with disabilities to benefits, services, training and employment information.
Inclusion Brochure from the Illinois State Board of Education
The Illinois State Board of Education’s Inclusion Brochure provides an overview of early childhood inclusion, the benefits of high-quality inclusive programs, teaching models that support inclusion, and more. It can also help families and professionals to better explain least restrictive environment (LRE) and inclusion.
The brochure is also available in these languages: Arabic Inclusion Brochure, Cantonese Inclusion Brochure, French Inclusion Brochure, Japanese Inclusion Brochure, Mandarin Inclusion Brochure, Polish Inclusion Brochure and Spanish Inclusion Brochure.
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
for more information, call (708) 646-3179.
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.
JCFS Chicago’s Respite Program
JCFS Chicago’s Respite Program provides support to families caring for children and youth with special needs.
Its program “takes a supportive, nurturing and therapeutic approach, combined with fun, social and recreational activities, while providing a well-deserved break for parents.”
For more information, visit the JCFS website, email ask@jcfs.org or call toll-free at (855) ASK-JCFS (275-5237).
Jill’s House Weekend Adventures
Jill’s House House Weekend Adventures (JHWA) and Covenant Harbor in Lake Geneva, Wis., provide a two-day camping experience for kids and teens ages 6 to 17 with intellectual disabilities in the Chicagoland area. The program designs activities around campers’ needs. These activities include playing games, having cookouts, enjoying nature and making new friends.
The camp cannot support certain health and behavioral conditions. Please visit JHWA’s website for the specific eligibility requirements and intake application process.
For questions, please contact Jill’s House using the online form or call (703) 639-5660.
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) provides free consulting services for all employees, regardless of the condition. Services include one-on-one consultation about all aspects of job accommodations, including the accommodation process, accommodation ideas, product vendors, referral to other resources and Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance assistance.
June Jessee Memorial Foundation
The June Jessee Memorial Foundation (JJMF) provides events, information, financial assistance and mental health services to children with medically complex neurological conditions and their families in the St. Louis area and beyond. JJMF resources include:
- Uncomplicated financial assistance for out-of-pocket medical needs
- Free mental health services
- A welcoming, understanding community
- Information to help make journeys easier
For questions, please contact the June Jessee Memorial Foundation using its online form.
KEEN (Kids Enjoy Exercise Now) Chicago
KEEN (Kids Enjoy Exercise Now) Chicago offers youth with disabilities and volunteer coaches free, non-competitive, one-on-one programs that provide physical activity, fun, and support for the overall health and well-being of all participants. Programs are open to all youth ages 5 to 21 with physical or developmental disabilities. Indoor and outdoor recreational activities are available year-round. Registration for programs takes place quarterly.
KEEN Chicago programs are age-appropriate and tailored to each athlete’s needs. Athletes can choose from a wide variety of camps, programs and day trips, including sports, yoga, swimming, dance and more. Fill out the New Athletes Enrollment Form online to learn more about becoming a KEEN Chicago athlete.
For questions, please contact KEEN at (312) 876-2535 or info@keenchicago.org.
KEEN (Kids Enjoy Exercise Now) St. Louis
KEEN (Kids Enjoy Exercise Now) St. Louis offers youth with disabilities and volunteer coaches free, non-competitive, one-on-one programs providing physical activity, fun and support for the overall health and well-being of all participants. Programs are open to all youth ages 5 to 21 with physical or developmental disabilities. Indoor and outdoor recreational activities are available year-round. Registration for programs takes place quarterly.
KEEN St. Louis programs are age appropriate and tailored to each athlete’s needs. Athletes can choose from a wide variety of camps, programs and day trips, including sports, yoga, swimming, dance and more. Fill out the New Athletes Enrollment Form online to learn more about becoming a KEEN St. Louis athlete.
For questions, contact KEEN St. Louis at (314) 399-9458 or info@keenstlouis.org.