The Consumer Stipend Program provides assistive technology funding for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Most conferences, important meetings and training for people with developmental disabilities and their families have gone virtual.

Grant funding is now available through the Consumer Stipend Program to help these individuals stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Arc of Illinois manages the Consumer Stipend Program through a grant from the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. The stipend funds help people with developmental disabilities and their family members attend conferences that are directly related to developmental disability issues.

The Consumer Stipend Program will now allow stipends to pay for the assistive technology needed to attend virtual events.

To apply for the Consumer Stipend Program, an applicant must be:

• An Illinois resident
• A person with an intellectual and/or developmental disability
• A family member of a person with an intellectual and/or developmental disability
• A guardian/foster parent of a person with an intellectual and/or developmental disability

Funding is available for a variety of assistive technology, including:

• iPads and other tablets
• Laptops
• Apps for tablets
• Software
• Other assistive technology that will help people stay connected

Available funds will depend on an applicant’s technology needs. Only one application is allowed per individual or family.

More details about the Consumer Stipend Program and the application process are available on The Arc of Illinois website.

You may also call (815) 464-1832 with any questions about the stipend program.

Four opportunities to learn about government benefits and programs, special needs estate planning, guardianship and more. 

The Arc of Illinois is presenting the “Planning for the Future for Children and Adults with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities” seminar at four different locations throughout northern Illinois. 

Participants will have the opportunity to learn about: 

• Government benefits and programs in Illinois for children and adults with special needs and how to navigate the “maze”
• Appropriate special needs estate planning that is necessary to qualify for, and in order not to lose, government benefits
• Guardianship and alternatives
• Guidance on preparing instructions and thoughts for future care providers

Presenters are:

• Brian Rubin, an attorney and parent
• Sherri Scneider, a Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP) and parent
• Benjamin Rubin, an attorney and sibling 

The seminar is scheduled for the following dates and locations: 

• Sept. 20 – Rock Island
• Oct. 10 – Northbrook
• Nov. 22 – Aurora
• May 13 – Joliet

For more details about each seminar date/location and to register,  visit The Arc of Illinois website.  You may also review the seminar brochure. 

Continuing education units are available. 

If you have questions, email info@thearcofil.org or call (815) 464-1832.