Illinois offers a range of disability services designed to support residents with varying needs and conditions. The state prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the resources and opportunities to lead fulfilling lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2025 2,331,134 adults in Illinois have a disability. This is equal to 24% or nearly 1 in 4 adults in Illinois.
The state of Illinois provides comprehensive support through various programs and initiatives. These services aim to address the diverse needs of the disability community, including physical, intellectual, developmental, and sensory disabilities. From healthcare and education to employment and housing, Illinois strives to create an environment where individuals with disabilities can thrive.
Healthcare services in Illinois are tailored to meet the unique needs of those with disabilities, offering specialized medical care, rehabilitation, and mental health support. Educational programs are designed to provide inclusive learning environments, ensuring that students with disabilities receive the accommodations and support they need to succeed academically. Employment services focus on helping individuals with disabilities find meaningful work, offering job training, placement assistance, and workplace accommodations.
Housing services in Illinois aim to provide safe and accessible living arrangements for individuals with disabilities. This includes affordable housing options, home modifications, and supportive living environments. Transportation services are also a key focus, with efforts to improve accessibility in public transit and provide specialized transportation options for those with mobility challenges.
To navigate these services, disability agencies and service organizations play a crucial role. These organizations offer guidance, resources, and advocacy to help individuals with disabilities and their families access the support they need. A detailed outline of these disability agencies and service organizations is provided below, offering a comprehensive look at the resources available in Illinois.
Overall, Illinois is committed to supporting its residents with disabilities, ensuring they have the necessary tools and opportunities to lead independent and fulfilling lives. The following sections will delve into the specific agencies and organizations dedicated to this mission.
Illinois Disability Employment Services
Illinois offers a variety of state and non-profit disability employment services aimed at assisting individuals with disabilities to find and retain meaningful employment. These services are tailored to meet the unique needs of the disability community, ensuring access to job training, placement assistance, and workplace accommodations.
The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is the leading state agency serving individuals with disabilities. DRS works in partnership with people with disabilities and their families to assist them in making informed choices to achieve full community participation through employment, education, and independent living opportunities.
Illinois workNet is another key resource, providing comprehensive employment services, including job placement, career counseling, and skills training specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. Their platform offers a variety of tools and resources to help job seekers with disabilities connect with potential employers.
Working Together Chicago focuses on breaking down employment barriers for young adults with autism, learning disabilities, and developmental disabilities. They provide job development, short-term job coaching, and long-term mentoring to ensure sustained employment opportunities throughout the Chicagoland area.
The Arc of Illinois is the largest statewide advocacy organization for people with disabilities. They offer a broad range of services including employment support, advocacy, and resource connections to help individuals with disabilities achieve their employment goals.
Pathways to Employment supports individuals with psychiatric disabilities by offering a one-stop source for supported employment. This program, administered by the University of Illinois Chicago, provides training, resources, and employment support tailored to individuals with mental health challenges.
These organizations play a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities in Illinois, ensuring they have access to the necessary tools and opportunities to succeed in the workforce.
Illinois Independent Living Services
Illinois provides a network of centers and services aimed at promoting independent living and offering housing assistance for people with disabilities. Here are some of the top centers and services:
The Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living (INCIL) supports 22 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) across the state. These centers offer a variety of services, including advocacy, peer support, independent living skills training, and assistance with transitioning from institutional to community-based living.
IMPACT Center for Independent Living serves several counties in Illinois, providing services designed to help individuals with disabilities achieve maximum independence. Their programs include independent living skills training, advocacy, and community reintegration.
LIFE Center for Independent Living offers a wide range of services, including advocacy, information and referral, peer support, and transition services. They also provide specialized programs for seniors with vision loss and other individuals with visual impairments.
Statewide Independent Living Council of Illinois (SILC) works alongside INCIL to develop and implement the State Plan for Independent Living, ensuring that CILs across Illinois can effectively serve individuals with disabilities. SILC also promotes the development of new programs in underserved areas.
Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) offers a range of home modification and assistive technology services to make it easier and safer for people with disabilities to live independently. These modifications can include ramps, widened doorways, and adaptive equipment.
These centers and services are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve greater independence and fully participate in their communities.
Illinois Rehabilitation Services
Illinois offers various state and non-profit rehabilitation services to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving independence and full participation in their communities. Here are some of the top disability rehabilitation services in the state:
The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is the state’s leading agency for disability services. DRS works in partnership with people with disabilities and their families to provide employment, education, and independent living opportunities.
Equip for Equality is the federally mandated Protection and Advocacy System for Illinois. It provides legal services, self-advocacy training, and resources to people with disabilities to ensure their rights are protected.
The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) offers information, assistive technology demonstrations, and a loan program to help individuals with disabilities access the technology they need for greater independence.
Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) is a Medicaid Buy-In program that allows individuals with disabilities to work and receive Medicaid services, helping them maintain health coverage while pursuing employment.
The Illinois School for the Visually Impaired and the Illinois School for the Deaf provide specialized educational services to children and youth with visual and hearing impairments, respectively, ensuring they receive the education and training needed for independent living.
These organizations and programs provide essential support and resources to help individuals with disabilities in Illinois lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
Illinois Assistive Technology Services
Illinois has several notable state and non-profit organizations that provide assistive technology services for people with disabilities. These organizations offer various resources to help individuals enhance their independence and participation in daily activities.
The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) is a leading statewide non-profit that provides a wide range of assistive technology services. These include device demonstrations, a device loan program, and training and technical assistance to help individuals with disabilities access the technology they need.
Infinitec, a program of UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago, advances independence and promotes inclusive opportunities through technology. Infinitec offers resources such as the Assistive Technology Exchange Network (ATEN), which facilitates the transfer of used technology to Illinois schools serving children with disabilities.
The UIC Assistive Technology Unit is part of the University of Illinois at Chicago and provides comprehensive assistive technology services. They offer assessments, equipment customization, and home modifications to help individuals maximize their independence. Their mobile program serves clients in their natural environments, ensuring that the technology fits seamlessly into their daily lives.
The Arc of Illinois offers various assistive technology resources, including funding assistance, device demonstrations, and training. Their programs aim to enhance the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing access to necessary technologies.
These organizations play a critical role in supporting people with disabilities in Illinois, ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
Illinois Disability Financial Assistance Services
The Social Security Administration offers comprehensive information on disability benefits, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Use the Social Security Field Office locator to find a location near you or call toll-free: 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can call their TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.
Illinois offers a variety of financial assistance programs specifically designed to support individuals with disabilities. Here are some of the key options available:
The Ohio Division of Disability Determination is responsible for making disability decisions for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Ohio.
The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation provides insurance coverage to Ohio employers and employees for work-related injuries, diseases, and fatalities.
The Illinois State Treasurer’s ABLE Program allows people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without jeopardizing their eligibility for federal benefits. Contributions to ABLE accounts are tax-deductible, and the funds can be used for a wide range of expenses, including education, housing, and transportation.
The Aid to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD) Program provides cash assistance to low-income individuals who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled. This state program helps cover basic needs and is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS).
The Arc of Illinois offers financial assistance through various programs, including stipends to attend conferences and training sessions. They also provide information on funding for assistive technology and other resources to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The National Disability Institute’s Financial Resilience Center is an online hub that offers resources to help people with disabilities manage their finances, improve their credit, and navigate financial challenges. This includes webinars, tools for credit improvement, and information on managing unemployment and taxes.
The Rental Housing Support Program offers rental assistance to extremely low-income households, including those with disabilities. This program helps individuals secure affordable housing by providing rental subsidies for eligible properties.
The Illinois Department of Human Services provides various supports, including the Home Services Program, which helps individuals with severe disabilities remain in their own homes. This program offers services like personal assistance, home modifications, and assistive technology.
These resources are designed to help individuals with disabilities in Illinois achieve greater financial stability and independence. For more detailed information on these programs and how to apply, visiting the respective websites is recommended.
Illinois Disability Transportation Services
Illinois offers several transportation services specifically designed to support individuals with disabilities. These services ensure accessibility and independence for people with disabilities, enabling them to participate fully in community life.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) provides accessible bus and rail services. All CTA buses and rail cars are equipped with accessibility features, and the CTA is committed to making all rail stations accessible by 2050. They offer various resources and updates on accessibility features, including elevator status alerts and an ADA advisory committee.
Ride Lake County is a paratransit service that offers transportation to residents with disabilities and seniors. It operates throughout Lake County, providing trips that can be scheduled up to seven days in advance. The service is funded by Lake County and Pace Suburban Bus, with fares based on trip distance.
CTF Illinois provides point-to-point transportation services in southern Cook and northern Will counties. This nonprofit organization supports individuals with developmental and physical disabilities by offering transportation for daily activities and employment. CTF Illinois also provides transportation training to help individuals learn to use public transit.
The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) in Chicago offers various accessible transportation options. These include ADA paratransit services through Pace Suburban Bus, ensuring that residents with disabilities can access necessary transportation for daily activities and medical appointments.
Access Living offers resources and information on transportation services for people with disabilities, including discounts and accommodations available through Amtrak and other public transit systems.
These services collectively work to improve the mobility and independence of individuals with disabilities across Illinois, ensuring they have access to essential transportation options.
Illinois Disability Childcare Services
Illinois offers a range of disability child care services to support families and ensure that children with disabilities receive appropriate care and early education. Here are some key services available:
The Illinois Early Intervention Program provides developmental supports and services to families and caregivers with children who have developmental delays or disabilities. The program includes evaluations, service coordination, and therapeutic services to help children between birth and three years of age.
The Division of Early Childhood within the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) offers access to quality, affordable child care, and community-based prevention and intervention programs for children with disabilities or delays. This includes services such as home visiting and early childhood special education.
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps families pay for child care, making it possible for guardians to work, attend training, or go to school. This program is available to families with children who have disabilities, providing financial support to ensure access to appropriate child care services.
UIC Specialized Care for Children partners with families to help children with special healthcare needs connect to services and resources. They offer care coordination, support for accessing diagnostic tests, specialized medical care, and assistance with insurance and Medicaid.
The Illinois Early Learning Project provides resources and support for early childhood educators and parents of children with disabilities. They offer guidance on inclusion, developmental milestones, and special education services, ensuring that children with disabilities receive the support they need in early care and education settings.
These services collectively work to support the developmental, educational, and care needs of children with disabilities in Illinois, providing crucial resources and assistance to families.
Illinois Disability Recreational Services
Illinois offers a variety of recreational services tailored for individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusive and enjoyable activities. Here are some key services available:
The Rockford Park District provides a wide range of therapeutic recreation programs for individuals with disabilities. These programs include sports, fitness activities, arts, social programs, and special events, promoting inclusion and accessibility for all participants.
The Special Recreation Associations Network of Illinois (SRANI) is a network of therapeutic recreation agencies offering community-based recreational services. These associations provide a variety of programs, including sports, arts, day camps, and social activities, designed to meet the needs of children and adults with disabilities.
New Star Recreation Services offers therapeutic recreation programs in cooperation with local park districts. Their activities include Special Olympics, community-based therapeutic activities, leisure education, and various special events, ensuring participants can engage in meaningful and enjoyable experiences.
The South Suburban Special Recreation Association (SSSRA) provides year-round recreation programs for individuals with special needs. Their offerings include sports and fitness, cultural arts, summer camps, social programs, and special events, designed to enhance the quality of life for participants from birth through adulthood.
These organizations and programs are dedicated to promoting the inclusion and well-being of individuals with disabilities through recreational activities across Illinois.
Illinois Disability Rights & Legal Services
Illinois provides various legal services tailored to support individuals with disabilities. Here are some key organizations offering such services:
The Illinois Attorney General’s Disability Rights Bureau enforces state and federal laws that protect the rights of people with disabilities. They handle complaints related to discrimination in housing, public accommodations, employment, and financial services. The Bureau also provides education and technical assistance to ensure compliance with disability rights laws.
Illinois Legal Aid Online offers resources and assistance on a wide range of legal issues affecting individuals with disabilities, including discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), housing, and public accommodations. They provide self-help legal information, guides, and forms to assist users in navigating their legal challenges.
The Legal Advocacy Service (LAS) provides legal representation and advice to individuals with disabilities, focusing on mental health law. LAS attorneys assist with issues such as involuntary commitment, treatment refusal, and the confidentiality of mental health records. They offer services in various settings, including mental health facilities and community placements.
Equip for Equality is a statewide organization dedicated to advancing the rights of people with disabilities. They offer legal services addressing issues such as discrimination, abuse, neglect, special education, and community integration. Their work includes individual representation, systemic advocacy, and public policy efforts.
The Center for Disability and Elder Law (CDEL) provides free legal services to low-income seniors and people with disabilities in Cook County. CDEL focuses on issues related to financial and housing stability, estate planning, and adult guardianship. They aim to expand access to justice for marginalized individuals through direct legal assistance and advocacy.
Access Living offers pro bono legal services to individuals facing disability-related discrimination in areas such as housing, government services, and public accommodations. Their civil rights team also provides training on the ADA and the Fair Housing Act, and they conduct fair housing tests to uncover discriminatory practices.
These organizations collectively work to protect and enforce the legal rights of individuals with disabilities in Illinois, ensuring they have access to justice and necessary legal support.
Illinois Support Groups for People with Disabilities
Illinois offers several support groups for individuals with disabilities and their families, providing valuable resources, connections, and community support.
The Arc of Illinois offers a variety of support services and advocacy programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They connect individuals and families to resources, training, and events aimed at enhancing their quality of life and ensuring community participation.
The Family Support Network is part of The Arc of Illinois and focuses on uncovering resources, funding, and services to help people with developmental disabilities live fulfilling lives in their own homes. They provide education, support, and connection to families, empowering them to meet the needs of their family members with disabilities.
The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) is a coordinated network that offers a range of services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families. TAP provides support groups, resources, and training to help families navigate the challenges of autism and connect with others facing similar experiences.
The Family Resource Center on Disabilities (FRCD) serves families in the Chicago Metropolitan Area who have children with disabilities. FRCD offers support groups, training sessions, and resources to help parents advocate for their children’s educational and developmental needs.
The Illinois Life Span Program provides information on various disability support groups throughout the state. They offer resources for parents, siblings, and individuals with disabilities, connecting them to local and statewide support networks.
These organizations play a crucial role in providing support, resources, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities and their families in Illinois.
Illinois Disability Housing Assistance
Illinois offers a range of disability housing assistance programs to support individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining accessible and affordable housing. Here are some key resources available:
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) provides supportive housing, which combines affordable housing with supportive services to help individuals with disabilities live independently. The Section 811 Project-Based Rental Assistance Program is part of this initiative, offering rental assistance linked with voluntary support services for eligible individuals.
The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) offers several housing programs, including rental assistance and housing rehabilitation services. Their Long Term Operating Support Program provides rental assistance at select properties across the state, ensuring affordable housing for people with disabilities. Additionally, the Section 811 program supports eligible individuals by offering subsidized housing with supportive services.
The City of Chicago Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) provides various housing services aimed at enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. MOPD offers a Home Modification Program to make homes more accommodating and maintains an online housing locator to connect residents with accessible rental units.
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) administers programs that offer housing support, including rental assistance and accessibility modifications. These services are provided through local governments, community action agencies, and non-profit organizations to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to safe and affordable housing.
These programs collectively work to support the housing needs of individuals with disabilities in Illinois, providing essential resources and assistance to enhance their quality of life and independence.
Illinois Disability Education Services
Illinois offers a variety of disability education services aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities in achieving their educational goals. Here are some of the key services available:
The University of Illinois Disability Resources and Educational Services (DRES) provides comprehensive support for students with disabilities at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Services include academic accommodations, assistive technology, psychological and neuropsychological assessment, and accessible media services. DRES also offers specialized support for students with autism and coordinates career services and employer relations to help students transition from education to employment.
Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) offers educational services through its Disability and Rehabilitation programs. This includes support for students at three residential schools: Illinois School for the Deaf, Illinois School for the Visually Impaired, and Illinois Center for Rehabilitation and Education-Roosevelt. Additionally, IDHS provides early intervention services for children ages 0 to 3 with disabilities, helping them develop essential skills.
The Institute on Disability and Human Development (IDHD) at the University of Illinois Chicago is a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service. IDHD conducts interdisciplinary research, offers pre-service training, and provides clinical and community services. Their mission is to promote the independence and inclusion of people with disabilities through education, research, and community service.
Office of Accessibility and Accommodations at Eastern Illinois University supports students with documented disabilities by providing reasonable classroom accommodations, auxiliary aids, and support services. They work with students to determine individualized accommodations based on their specific needs, facilitating equal access to campus programs and services.
These organizations and programs play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Illinois have access to the educational resources and support they need to succeed.
Illinois Disability Healthcare Services
Illinois offers a variety of healthcare services designed specifically for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary medical support and assistance. Here are some of the key services available:
The Illinois Healthcare Portal for Persons with Disabilities provides information on various health benefits, including the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program. This program allows individuals with disabilities who are employed to pay a low monthly premium and receive full medical benefits, supporting their ability to work while maintaining necessary health coverage.
The Illinois Department of Public Health’s Disability and Health Program collaborates with the University of Illinois at Chicago to promote health, prevent chronic disease, improve emergency preparedness, and enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. The program focuses on integrating disability activities with chronic disease and women’s health programs, raising awareness about health-related disability issues, and increasing health promotion opportunities.
The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) serves as the state’s lead agency for disability services. DRS provides a range of healthcare-related services, including home services for individuals with severe disabilities, support for people who are blind or visually impaired, and mental health services through the Division of Mental Health. They also administer the Home Services Program (HSP), which helps individuals with disabilities remain in their homes by providing various supportive services.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Disability and Health Program also supports state efforts to improve the health of people with disabilities. This includes funding initiatives to monitor chronic disease prevalence, increase health promotion opportunities, and improve access to healthcare for individuals with disabilities.
These organizations and programs work collectively to provide comprehensive healthcare services, ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Illinois have access to the medical support they need to maintain their health and well-being.
Illinois Vocational Training for People with Disabilities
Illinois offers several vocational training programs specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. These programs aim to equip participants with the necessary skills to secure and maintain meaningful employment. Here are some notable services:
The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) provides a comprehensive Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program. This program assists individuals with disabilities in preparing for, obtaining, and maintaining quality competitive employment. Services include evaluation, career counseling, education, and job placement support. Specialized services are available for people who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, or hard of hearing.
JVS Chicago offers various vocational training and employment services, including job coaching, job placement, and career exploration for people with disabilities. Their programs focus on individualized career plans, enhancing job searching skills, and providing the necessary support to help individuals succeed in the workplace.
Working Together Chicago is a program under the Center for Independence through Conductive Education. It focuses on breaking down employment barriers for young adults with autism, learning disabilities, and developmental disabilities. They provide job development, short-term job coaching, and long-term mentoring to create paid employment opportunities throughout the Chicagoland area.
The Disabled Workers Trainee Program is a state initiative that offers vocational training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This program is designed to help participants gain work experience and develop skills that will enable them to secure permanent employment.
These programs and services are dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities in Illinois gain the skills and support they need to achieve successful and fulfilling careers.
Illinois Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities
Illinois provides a variety of mental health services specifically tailored for individuals with disabilities. Here are some key services available:
The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health (DMH) is responsible for ensuring access to public-funded mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults. Services include emergency mental health response, crisis residential programs, and recovery support services. DMH operates within five regions across the state, providing a network of 162 community mental health centers and 27 community hospitals with psychiatric units.
NAMI Illinois, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, offers support, education, and advocacy for individuals with mental health conditions and their families. They provide resources and support groups aimed at improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness, focusing on reducing stigma and promoting better access to mental health care.
The Illinois Mental Health Collaborative for Access and Choice works to improve access to mental health services for people with disabilities. They offer a variety of programs including the Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) for children and adolescents experiencing psychiatric emergencies. The collaborative also provides resources for families and mental health providers to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care.
Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) Behavioral Health Services offers community-based mental health services for individuals with disabilities. This includes crisis services, telepsychiatry, and various support programs designed to integrate behavioral health with physical health care, ensuring a holistic approach to treatment.
These organizations collectively provide essential mental health services and support for individuals with disabilities in Illinois, ensuring they have access to the care and resources needed to maintain their mental health and well-being.
Illinois Vision Services for People with Disabilities
Illinois offers a range of vision services to support individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the resources needed for their visual health and independence. Here are some notable services available:
The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) provides specialized services through the Bureau of Blind Services. These include vocational rehabilitation, independent living skills training, and assistive technology for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. They also offer the Business Enterprise Program, which provides business ownership opportunities for visually impaired entrepreneurs.
The Chicago Lighthouse offers comprehensive services for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, including low vision evaluations, adaptive technology training, and employment services. They aim to enhance the quality of life and promote independence through their various programs.
The Illinois Eye Institute provides clinical care, research, and education in the field of eye care. They offer low vision services, comprehensive eye exams, and specialized treatments for individuals with visual impairments.
The Spectrios Institute for Low Vision in Wheaton, IL, provides low vision rehabilitation services. They offer personalized programs that include vision evaluations, training in the use of low vision devices, and strategies to maximize remaining vision.
The University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary offers specialized eye care services, including comprehensive eye exams, treatment for eye diseases, and low vision rehabilitation services. Their goal is to provide advanced eye care and support for individuals with visual impairments.
These organizations are dedicated to supporting individuals with visual impairments in Illinois, providing them with the necessary tools and services to enhance their independence and quality of life.
Illinois Hearing Services for People with Disabilities
Illinois offers a variety of hearing services tailored for individuals with disabilities to support their hearing health and communication needs. Here are some of the key services available:
The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) provides comprehensive services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. These services include vocational rehabilitation, employment services, and independent living support. DRS helps individuals find jobs, get ready to work, and maintain employment by providing necessary accommodations and support.
The Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission (IDHHC) offers various programs and resources to ensure effective communication access for all deaf, hard of hearing, and DeafBlind individuals. They provide information and referral services, communication access real-time translation (CART) services, and support for obtaining assistive technology.
The Illinois Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program focuses on ensuring that all infants are screened for hearing loss no later than one month of age. They also ensure that infants who do not pass their hearing screening receive a diagnostic evaluation by three months of age and that those with hearing loss enroll in early intervention services by six months of age.
The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) in Chicago provides a range of services for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, including substance use prevention education, information and resources, and advocacy for accessibility and inclusion.
The Illinois School for the Deaf Outreach Program supports families, programs, and services for children who are deaf or hard of hearing throughout Illinois. They provide training, consultation, technical assistance, and support for cochlear implant users.
These organizations and programs work together to provide essential services, resources, and support for individuals with hearing disabilities in Illinois, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
Illinois Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities
Illinois offers a variety of speech and language services specifically designed to support individuals with disabilities. These services ensure that individuals receive the necessary support to improve their communication skills. Here are some notable services available:
The Illinois Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ISHA) provides resources and support for individuals with speech, language, and hearing disorders. ISHA promotes the prevention and treatment of communication disorders and supports professionals in the field through education and advocacy.
The Speech Accessibility Project at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a research initiative aimed at improving voice recognition technology for individuals with diverse speech patterns, including those with disabilities such as Parkinson’s disease, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy. The project collaborates with major tech companies to make speech recognition more inclusive.
The Center for Parent Information and Resources provides extensive information on speech and language impairments, including causes, incidence, and educational considerations. They offer guidance on how parents can access early intervention services and special education support for children with speech or language impairments.
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) offers assistive technology services to support students with disabilities, including those with speech and language impairments. ISBE ensures that students have access to the necessary tools and resources to succeed in their educational environments.
The Chicago Speech Therapy provides pediatric speech therapy services tailored to meet the needs of children with speech and language disorders. They offer in-home and clinic-based therapy sessions, focusing on individual goals and using evidence-based practices to enhance communication skills.
Speech and Language Connection offers comprehensive speech and language therapy services for children and adults. Their services include evaluations, individualized therapy plans, and group therapy sessions designed to improve communication abilities in various settings.
The Northwestern University Center for Audiology, Speech, Language, and Learning offers comprehensive services for individuals with speech, language, and hearing impairments. Their clinic provides evaluations, individualized therapy, and group therapy sessions for children and adults, using evidence-based practices and the latest research in the field.
Dynamic Lynks offers integrated therapy services, including speech and language therapy, for children with disabilities. Their programs focus on improving communication, social skills, and overall development through a combination of speech therapy, music therapy, and other therapeutic interventions.
Milestones Therapy Center provides speech and language therapy for children with developmental delays and disabilities. They offer personalized therapy plans that address the specific needs of each child, focusing on enhancing communication skills and supporting overall development.
These organizations and programs are dedicated to supporting individuals with speech and language impairments in Illinois, ensuring they have access to high-quality services that enhance their communication abilities and overall quality of life. For more detailed information on these services and how to access them, visiting the respective websites is recommended.
Illinois Autism Services
Illinois offers a variety of autism services designed to support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. Here are some notable services available:
The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) operates a network of 19 centers across the state. TAP provides a range of services including autism screening and diagnostics, behavioral therapy, individual therapy, group interventions, social skills training, and support groups. Their goal is to offer evidence-based interventions tailored to the unique needs of each child.
The Illinois Center for Autism (ICA) is a community-based organization that provides educational and therapeutic services to individuals with ASD from early childhood through adulthood. ICA offers school programs, family support services, adult services, and community integration programs to help individuals achieve their highest level of independence.
The Autism Professional Learning & Universal Support Project (A+) at Illinois State University focuses on supporting schools in implementing evidence-based practices to improve outcomes for students with autism. A+ provides professional learning and coaching to school districts, as well as a resource library with materials for educators and families.
Little Friends, Inc. offers a comprehensive array of services for children and adults with autism, including diagnostic evaluations, behavioral health services, educational programs, vocational training, and residential services. Based in Naperville, Little Friends operates multiple programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families.
These organizations are dedicated to providing high-quality services and support for individuals with autism in Illinois, helping them achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
Illinois Early Intervention Services
Illinois offers several early intervention services to support children with developmental delays or disabilities from birth to age three. These services are designed to help children achieve their developmental milestones through various supports and therapies. Here are some key early intervention services available:
Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Early Intervention Program: This program provides developmental evaluations and services for infants and toddlers with delays in movement, learning, social interactions, behavior, and self-help skills. The services are customized through an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) and include family involvement and support.
Illinois Cares for Kids: This program offers a comprehensive range of early intervention services, including service coordination, evaluations, and individualized family service plans. The goal is to support the developmental needs of young children and provide resources and guidance to their families.
Early Intervention Training Program (EITP): Funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services, EITP provides training opportunities for early intervention professionals to ensure they are equipped with the best practices and latest knowledge in the field. This program supports the development of a responsive and regionalized early intervention system.
Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse: This resource center identifies and collects research-based information and best practices for early intervention. It provides families with access to valuable resources, including developmental milestones, guides for parents, and information on available services.
University of Illinois Early Intervention Extended Services: This service allows eligible families to extend early intervention services past the child’s third birthday. This extension helps ensure that children continue to receive necessary support as they transition to preschool services.
Illinois Department of Early Childhood: This new state agency aims to streamline and improve access to early childhood services, including early intervention, by coordinating programs and resources across different state agencies to better serve families with young children.
These services collectively ensure that young children in Illinois with developmental delays or disabilities receive the early support they need to thrive. For more detailed information, families can visit the respective websites or contact their local Child and Family Connections office.