Alabama Disability Resources, Programs & Services

Disability services in Alabama are designed to support and enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities across the state. These services are crucial in providing the necessary assistance and resources to ensure that individuals with disabilities can lead fulfilling and independent lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2024 1,361,232 adults in Alabama have a disability. This is equal to 33% or 1 in 3 adults in Alabama.

The state of Alabama recognizes the diverse needs of its disabled population, offering a wide range of services tailored to meet these needs. These services encompass various areas, including healthcare, education, employment, transportation, and independent living support. Healthcare services ensure that individuals with disabilities receive appropriate medical care and support, while educational programs are designed to provide equal learning opportunities from early childhood through higher education. Employment services focus on helping individuals with disabilities find and maintain meaningful employment, promoting financial independence and integration into the workforce.

Transportation services are another critical component, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can travel safely and conveniently within their communities. This includes accessible public transportation options and specialized transport services. Independent living support aims to empower individuals with disabilities to live as independently as possible, offering assistance with daily living activities, home modifications, and access to assistive technologies.

The state is committed to providing comprehensive support through various programs and initiatives. These efforts are backed by a network of dedicated professionals, caregivers, and advocates who work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Disability agencies and service organizations play a pivotal role in delivering these essential services. They offer guidance, resources, and support to individuals with disabilities and their families, helping them navigate the available services and programs. Detailed information about these agencies and organizations is outlined below.

Here are some of the top state and non-profit disability employment services in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services offers a variety of programs to help individuals with disabilities gain employment, including vocational rehabilitation, which provides job training, counseling, and placement services.

The Alabama Department of Labor provides assistance through its Alabama Career Center System, offering resources such as job search assistance, resume building, and career counseling specifically tailored for individuals with disabilities.

The Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities works to promote independence and employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities by providing advocacy, resources, and support for community inclusion.

United Ability is a non-profit organization that offers comprehensive employment services, including job placement, coaching, and supported employment programs for individuals with disabilities.

The Arc of Alabama provides various services, including employment support and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them achieve meaningful employment.

Disability Rights & Resources offers programs designed to assist individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining employment, including job readiness training, advocacy, and support services.

Goodwill Industries of Central Alabama provides job training, placement, and support services to individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve their employment goals through various programs and initiatives.

These organizations play a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities in Alabama, helping them find and maintain meaningful employment.

Here are some of the top centers for independent living and disability housing assistance services in Alabama:

Independent Living Resources of Greater Birmingham offers various services to help individuals with disabilities live independently, including advocacy, peer support, and skills training.

The Disability Resource Network provides support services such as advocacy, information, and referral to individuals with disabilities to enhance their ability to live independently in the community.

The Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind offers a wide range of services, including housing assistance and independent living skills training for individuals with sensory impairments.

The Center for Independent Living of Northwest Florida serves Alabama residents by offering independent living services, including advocacy, peer support, and assistance with accessing community resources.

The Alabama Housing Finance Authority provides housing assistance programs specifically tailored for individuals with disabilities, helping them find affordable and accessible housing options.

These centers and organizations provide essential support for individuals with disabilities in Alabama, helping them achieve greater independence and secure appropriate housing.

Here are some of the top state and non-profit organizations in Alabama that provide assistive technology services for people with disabilities:

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services offers comprehensive assistive technology services to help individuals with disabilities access the tools they need to live more independently. These services include evaluations, equipment loans, and training.

Easterseals Alabama provides a range of assistive technology services, including evaluations, training, and device loans, to support individuals with disabilities in achieving greater independence.

United Ability offers assistive technology services tailored to the needs of individuals with various disabilities, providing assessments, training, and access to specialized equipment.

The Center for Disability Resources at the University of Alabama provides assistive technology assessments, training, and resources to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have the tools needed for daily living and educational success.

These organizations are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities in Alabama by providing access to essential assistive technology services.

Here are some other financial assistance programs available for people with disabilities in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services provides financial assistance for various needs, including assistive technology, medical services, and vocational training. Their programs aim to support individuals with disabilities in achieving greater independence and employment opportunities.

Easterseals Alabama offers financial assistance for individuals with disabilities through various programs that cover medical rehabilitation, employment support, and other essential services.

United Ability provides financial support for services such as therapy, education, and assistive technology for individuals with disabilities, helping them access necessary resources to improve their quality of life.

The Alabama Housing Finance Authority offers financial assistance programs that help individuals with disabilities secure affordable and accessible housing, providing resources to adapt and modify homes to meet specific needs.

These organizations provide crucial financial assistance to individuals with disabilities in Alabama, ensuring they have access to the resources and support needed to live more independently and improve their quality of life.

Here are some of the top disability transportation services available in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services provides specialized transportation services for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to reliable transportation for medical appointments, employment, and other essential activities.

ClasTran offers transportation services in the Birmingham metropolitan area, catering to the elderly and individuals with disabilities, providing them with safe and affordable transportation options.

Max Transit in Birmingham offers paratransit services under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to public transportation that is both accessible and reliable.

Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) provides paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in the Montgomery area, offering door-to-door transportation for those who are unable to use the regular bus service.

These organizations provide essential transportation services, helping individuals with disabilities in Alabama maintain their independence and access necessary resources and activities.

Here are some of the top disability child care services available in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Human Resources offers various programs and services to support families with children with disabilities, including financial assistance and access to specialized child care services.

Childcare Resources provides information and referrals to quality child care programs for children with disabilities, helping families find suitable care options tailored to their needs.

United Ability offers inclusive child care programs that cater to children with disabilities, providing a supportive environment that promotes development and learning through specialized services and therapies.

Easterseals Alabama provides child care and early intervention services for children with disabilities, offering programs designed to enhance development and prepare children for school.

These organizations provide essential child care services to families with children with disabilities in Alabama, ensuring they have access to the resources and support needed for their child’s growth and development.

Here are some of the top disability recreational services available in Alabama:

United Ability offers a variety of recreational programs for individuals with disabilities, including sports, arts, and social activities designed to enhance their quality of life and promote social inclusion.

Easterseals Alabama provides recreational and therapeutic activities for children and adults with disabilities, focusing on improving physical, emotional, and social well-being through various programs.

Alabama State Parks offers accessible outdoor recreational opportunities, including trails, camping, and fishing, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can enjoy the natural beauty of the state.

Special Olympics Alabama provides year-round sports training and athletic competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, promoting physical fitness and building self-confidence through participation in sports.

These organizations provide valuable recreational services to individuals with disabilities, helping them lead active, fulfilling lives and fostering a sense of community and inclusion.

Here are some of the top disability support groups available in Alabama:

The Arc of Alabama provides support groups for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. These groups offer a space for sharing experiences, resources, and mutual support.

Disability Rights & Resources offers support groups and advocacy services for individuals with disabilities, focusing on empowerment and community integration. They provide a variety of programs to help individuals connect and support each other.

NAMI Alabama provides support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their families. These groups offer a supportive environment to share experiences and gain support from peers facing similar challenges.

Easterseals Alabama offers various support groups for individuals with disabilities and their families. These groups focus on providing emotional support, information, and resources to help individuals navigate their daily lives.

These organizations offer valuable support and resources to individuals with disabilities and their families in Alabama, helping them connect with others, share experiences, and find the assistance they need.

Here are some of the top disability housing assistance programs available in Alabama:

The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA) provides several programs aimed at assisting individuals with disabilities in finding affordable and accessible housing. These programs include down payment assistance, affordable rental housing, and housing rehabilitation programs.

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services offers housing assistance as part of their services for individuals with disabilities. They provide help with home modifications, accessibility improvements, and resources to secure suitable housing.

United Way of Central Alabama offers various housing assistance programs, including support for individuals with disabilities. They help connect people with the necessary resources to find and maintain affordable housing.

The Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities provides grants and resources to support housing initiatives for individuals with developmental disabilities. They work with local organizations to improve housing options and accessibility.

These organizations offer vital resources and support to help individuals with disabilities in Alabama find and maintain suitable housing, ensuring they can live independently and safely in their communities.

Here are some of the top disability education services available in Alabama:

Alabama Department of Education Special Education Services: Provides a range of special education services and resources for students with disabilities across the state.

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind: Offers specialized education and services for individuals who are deaf, blind, or deafblind.

The Learning Tree: Provides educational services and support for children and adolescents with autism and other developmental disabilities.

United Cerebral Palsy of Alabama: Offers educational programs and services for individuals with cerebral palsy and other developmental disabilities.

Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP): Provides advocacy and legal services to protect the educational rights of individuals with disabilities.

Alabama Parent Education Center: Offers training, information, and support to families of children with disabilities to help them navigate the education system.

Mitchell’s Place: Provides comprehensive education and therapy services for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.

United Ability provides inclusive educational programs for children with disabilities, offering specialized instruction and support to help them succeed in their educational endeavors.

These organizations provide crucial support and resources to ensure that students with disabilities in Alabama have access to quality education and the accommodations they need to thrive academically.

Here are some of the top disability healthcare services available in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Public Health provides various health services aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. These services include health promotion, disease prevention, and access to healthcare services tailored for people with disabilities.

The Division of Developmental Disabilities within the Alabama Department of Mental Health offers a comprehensive array of healthcare services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Services include medical, psychiatric, and dental care through community-based programs and Medicaid waiver programs.

Psychological & Behavioral Services provide medical and psychological care for individuals with special needs. This includes behavioral support, crisis intervention, and training for community providers to ensure individuals receive appropriate care.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer various resources and data on disability healthcare in Alabama, focusing on improving physical and mental health outcomes for people with disabilities through evidence-based strategies and community programs.

These organizations and services work together to provide comprehensive healthcare support for individuals with disabilities in Alabama, ensuring they receive the necessary medical, psychological, and behavioral care to improve their overall well-being.

Here are some of the top vocational training programs for people with disabilities available in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services offers comprehensive vocational training services designed to help individuals with disabilities gain the skills necessary for employment. This includes job readiness training, on-the-job training, and support for post-secondary education and training programs.

Goodwill Industries of Central Alabama provides vocational training and employment services for people with disabilities. Their programs focus on job skills training, job placement, and supported employment to help individuals achieve financial independence through work.

Easterseals Alabama offers a variety of vocational training programs, including career exploration, job training, and work experience opportunities. They aim to prepare individuals with disabilities for successful employment in various industries.

United Ability provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities. Their programs include job readiness training, vocational evaluation, and supported employment to help individuals find and retain meaningful work.

These organizations offer essential services and support to help individuals with disabilities in Alabama gain the skills and experience needed for successful employment.

Here are some of the top mental health services for people with disabilities available in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Mental Health provides a range of mental health services tailored for individuals with disabilities. These services include community-based mental health programs, crisis intervention, and support for managing psychiatric conditions.

United Ability offers mental health services alongside their other disability support programs. They provide counseling, therapy, and behavioral health services specifically designed for individuals with disabilities.

Easterseals Alabama provides mental health services as part of their comprehensive support for individuals with disabilities. Their programs include therapeutic services, counseling, and mental health assessments.

The Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) offers mental health advocacy and support services, helping individuals with disabilities access the mental health care they need and ensuring their rights are protected within the mental health system.

These organizations offer crucial mental health support tailored to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities in Alabama, providing a range of services from counseling and therapy to crisis intervention and advocacy.

Here are some of the top vision services for people with disabilities available in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services offers comprehensive vision rehabilitation services, including low vision evaluations, training in the use of assistive technology, and mobility training to help individuals with visual impairments live more independently.

Easterseals Alabama provides vision services as part of their broader rehabilitation programs. They offer support for individuals with visual impairments, including access to specialized equipment and training to enhance daily living skills.

United Ability offers vision rehabilitation services that focus on improving the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments through training, support, and access to assistive technology.

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind provides specialized services for individuals with visual impairments, including educational programs, vocational training, and independent living skills training to help them achieve their personal and professional goals.

These organizations are dedicated to providing essential vision services to individuals with disabilities in Alabama, helping them gain independence and improve their quality of life.

Here are some of the top hearing services for people with disabilities available in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services offers comprehensive hearing services, including evaluations, hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and auditory training to help individuals with hearing impairments improve their communication abilities.

The Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind provides a wide range of services for individuals with hearing impairments, including educational programs, vocational training, and support services designed to promote independence and enhance quality of life.

Easterseals Alabama offers hearing services as part of their comprehensive rehabilitation programs. These services include hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, and support for individuals with hearing impairments.

United Ability provides hearing services alongside their other support programs for individuals with disabilities. Their services include hearing evaluations, assistive technology, and communication training to help individuals with hearing impairments lead more independent lives.

These organizations are dedicated to providing essential hearing services to individuals with disabilities in Alabama, helping them improve their communication skills and overall quality of life.

Here are some of the top speech and language services for people with disabilities available in Alabama:

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services provides comprehensive speech and language services, including evaluations, therapy, and assistive technology to support communication needs for individuals with disabilities.

Easterseals Alabama offers speech and language therapy as part of their broader rehabilitation programs. Their services include individualized therapy plans designed to improve communication skills for children and adults with disabilities.

United Ability provides specialized speech and language services tailored to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. Their programs focus on enhancing communication abilities through various therapeutic interventions and the use of assistive technology.

The Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind offers a range of services for individuals with hearing and vision impairments, including speech and language therapy. Their programs aim to support effective communication and enhance overall quality of life for individuals with sensory impairments.

These organizations are dedicated to providing essential speech and language services to individuals with disabilities in Alabama, helping them improve their communication skills and achieve greater independence.

Here are some of the top autism services available in Alabama:

The Autism Society of Alabama offers a range of services including support groups, resources for families, educational workshops, and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families.

Mitchell’s Place provides comprehensive autism services, including applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups to support children with autism.

The UAB Civitan-Sparks Clinics offer multidisciplinary evaluation and treatment services for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities, providing personalized care plans to address their unique needs.

The Learning Tree, Inc. offers a variety of services for children with autism, including residential programs, educational services, and early intervention programs designed to support developmental growth and learning.

These organizations provide essential support and resources for individuals with autism and their families in Alabama, helping them navigate the challenges and maximize the potential of those with autism.