Kentucky Disability Resources, Programs & Services

Disability employment services in Kentucky provide essential support to individuals with disabilities, helping them obtain and maintain meaningful employment. These services include job training, vocational rehabilitation, supported employment, and more, all aimed at fostering independence and economic security.

Kentucky Career Center offers comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services, including job placement, job coaching, and community rehabilitation programs to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving employment goals.

Path Forward of Kentucky provides supported employment services tailored to individual needs, including job search assistance, job coaching, and pre-employment transition services.

Human Development Institute at the University of Kentucky partners with the state to offer various employment initiatives, including the Community Work Transition Program and the Supported Employment Training Project, which help individuals with disabilities transition to and succeed in competitive employment.

Coalition for Workforce Diversity , based in Louisville, works with businesses and service providers to create integrated employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, focusing on matching candidates to job roles that suit their skills and interests.

These organizations are part of a broader network in Kentucky dedicated to supporting the employment aspirations of people with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the resources and training needed to thrive in the workforce.

Independent Living Services in Kentucky are designed to support individuals with disabilities in living independently and participating fully in their communities. These services offer various forms of assistance, including personal care, advocacy, and skill development.

Department for Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) oversees statewide programs aimed at promoting the dignity, well-being, and independence of Kentuckians with disabilities, providing resources through partnerships with community organizations.

Centers for Independent Living (CILs) are non-residential, community-based organizations that offer peer support, advocacy, and skills training to help individuals with disabilities achieve their independent living goals.

Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) is a governor-appointed council that collaborates with state agencies to develop and monitor a statewide plan for independent living services, ensuring that these services are accessible to all Kentuckians with disabilities.

These organizations provide essential resources and support to help individuals with disabilities lead independent and fulfilling lives within their communities.

Assistive Technology Services in Kentucky provide essential tools and support to help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence in their daily lives, whether at home, work, school, or in the community. These services include consultations, device demonstrations, and access to assistive technology equipment through various programs across the state.

KATS Network is the central organization for assistive technology in Kentucky, offering services such as a lending library, device demonstrations, and a reutilization program to ensure access to necessary technology for individuals with disabilities.

HDI Center for Assistive Technology Services (CATS) , part of the University of Kentucky, provides assistive technology demonstrations, device loans, and training to enhance the independence of individuals with disabilities throughout the Bluegrass region.

Appalachian Center for Assistive Technology , based at the University of Kentucky, serves eastern Kentucky with services including assistive technology demonstrations, a short-term loan program, and specialized training to improve access to assistive devices in underserved areas.

University of Kentucky Assistive Technology (UKAT) Project offers a systematic approach to delivering assistive technology services in schools, ensuring that students with disabilities have the tools they need to succeed in educational settings.

Kentucky Career Center provides assistive technology consultations, assessments, and training, helping individuals with disabilities to become more independent and successful in various aspects of life, including education and employment.

These organizations play a crucial role in making assistive technology accessible across Kentucky, empowering individuals with disabilities to live more independently.

Disability Financial Assistance Services in Kentucky provide vital support to individuals with disabilities, helping them manage the costs associated with living independently, healthcare, and other essential needs.

The Kentucky Department of Workers’ Claims administers the state’s workers’ compensation program, providing benefits to workers who are injured on the job, and can be reached at 1-800-554-860

Kentucky Department for Aging and Independent Living offers various financial assistance programs for elderly and disabled individuals, including help with in-home care and community-based services.

Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation (KATLC) provides low-interest loans to individuals with disabilities to purchase assistive technology that can help them live more independently.

Goodwill Industries of Kentucky provides financial counseling and assistance through their workforce development programs, aimed at helping individuals with disabilities achieve financial stability and independence.

Kentucky Housing Corporation offers rental assistance and homeownership programs tailored for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, to help them secure and maintain affordable housing.

Kentucky Transitions , part of the Money Follows the Person program, assists individuals with disabilities in transitioning from institutional settings to community-based living, including financial support for housing and other needs.

Center for Accessible Living provides financial assistance and resources for individuals with disabilities seeking to live independently, including help with housing, employment, and personal care services.

Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence (KCADV) offers financial empowerment services, including microloans and matched savings programs, specifically designed to help survivors of domestic violence, including those with disabilities, achieve financial independence.

Community Action Kentucky provides various forms of financial assistance, including utility bill assistance and emergency services, to low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, across the state.

Legal Aid Network of Kentucky offers free legal services, including help with accessing disability benefits and other forms of financial assistance, for low-income individuals with disabilities.

Kentucky Office for Refugees provides targeted financial assistance and support services for refugees with disabilities, helping them integrate and achieve self-sufficiency.

Disability Transportation Services in Kentucky offer essential mobility solutions, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access medical appointments, community activities, and other daily needs. These services are crucial for promoting independence and integration into the community.

The 5310 Elderly Individuals and Individuals with Disabilities Program provides funding to meet the transportation needs of older adults and individuals with disabilities through partnerships with public and private nonprofit organizations.

Medical Transportation by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services covers medically necessary transportation for Medicaid members, including non-emergency services, to and from Medicaid-covered services.

Kentucky Public Transportation Providers offers various demand-response and intercity transit services designed to meet the transportation needs of elderly and disabled persons, as well as those requiring non-emergency medical transportation.

Ride A Wav is a new door-to-door transportation service in northern Kentucky, specifically designed for people with disabilities, offering reliable rides for both medical and personal outings.

Kentucky Paratransit Services , operated by the University of Kentucky, provides on-campus transportation for students with temporary or permanent mobility impairments, ensuring access to classes, jobs, and other campus activities.

These services provide essential support, ensuring that transportation is not a barrier to independence for individuals with disabilities across Kentucky.

Disability Childcare Services in Kentucky provide specialized support and care for children with disabilities, ensuring that they receive appropriate attention in a nurturing environment. These services are crucial for families needing reliable and supportive childcare options that cater to the unique needs of their children.

Child Care Aware of Kentucky , housed at the University of Kentucky’s Human Development Institute, offers resources and referrals to families seeking quality childcare, including options for children with disabilities.

Kentucky Early Childhood Standards , supported by the Kentucky Department of Education, provides guidelines and resources for early childhood educators and childcare providers to ensure inclusive practices that meet the developmental needs of all children, including those with disabilities.

Kentucky Special Parent Involvement Network (KY-SPIN) is a non-profit organization that offers training, information, and support to families with children who have disabilities, helping them navigate educational and childcare options.

Kentucky Hands & Voices supports families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing, providing resources, advocacy, and peer support, including guidance on finding appropriate childcare services.

FEMA Child Care Assistance offers financial assistance for childcare services to families impacted by disasters, including those with children who have disabilities, ensuring continued access to necessary care during challenging times.

These organizations are key resources in Kentucky, providing essential services and support to families with children who have disabilities, helping to ensure that these children receive the care and attention they need.

Disability Recreational Services in Kentucky offer accessible and inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in various activities, from outdoor adventures to community events. These services ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the physical, social, and emotional benefits of recreation.

Access Pass provides free, lifetime access to over 2,000 recreation sites across the U.S., including many in Kentucky, for individuals with permanent disabilities, offering discounts on activities like camping and guided tours.

Kentucky State Parks offers accessible campsites, trails, and recreational programs designed to ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully enjoy Kentucky’s natural beauty.

Wellness 4 KY Recreation Guide , provided by the University of Kentucky’s Human Development Institute, offers a comprehensive list of recreation opportunities across Kentucky, focusing on inclusivity for people with disabilities.

Center for Accessible Living provides resources and advocacy to ensure inclusive recreation opportunities are available throughout Kentucky, particularly for those with physical and developmental disabilities.

These organizations provide vital recreational services that help individuals with disabilities in Kentucky engage in enriching activities, promoting overall health and well-being.

Support groups for people with disabilities in Kentucky offer vital peer support, resources, and community connections to help individuals and their families navigate challenges, share experiences, and find strength together.

NAMI Kentucky provides various peer-led support groups and educational programs for individuals and families affected by mental illness, ensuring they have access to resources and community support.

HDI Health and Wellness Initiative , run by the University of Kentucky’s Human Development Institute, offers support groups and resources focused on health, wellness, and community integration for individuals with disabilities.

Autism Spectrum Disorders Support Groups provides specific support for families and individuals dealing with autism across various regions in Kentucky, offering a network of resources, meetings, and shared experiences.

These organizations and programs provide essential support to individuals with disabilities and their families, ensuring they have access to the help and community they need.

Disability Housing Assistance in Kentucky provides crucial support to individuals with disabilities, helping them secure affordable, accessible housing and maintain stable living conditions. These services range from rental assistance to homeownership programs and supportive housing tailored to meet the unique needs of people with disabilities.

Kentucky Housing Corporation offers a variety of housing programs including the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8), which provides rental assistance to low-income families, elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

Team Kentucky Homeowner Assistance Fund (HOAF) provides financial aid to homeowners who have experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19, including those with disabilities, helping them avoid foreclosure and maintain stable housing.

Goodwill Kentucky Housing Program assists individuals facing housing instability by providing temporary housing and resources to help them achieve self-sufficiency, with a focus on those who are unemployed or facing other barriers to stable housing.

HUD Homeownership Assistance Programs offer various resources, including down payment assistance and affordable housing options, specifically designed to help low-income individuals and those with disabilities secure homeownership.

These organizations play a vital role in supporting individuals with disabilities in Kentucky, ensuring they have access to safe, affordable housing and the resources necessary to maintain it.

Disability Education Services in Kentucky are designed to support students with disabilities at all educational levels, ensuring they receive appropriate accommodations and access to quality education. These services range from early childhood education to higher education and specialized transition programs.

Kentucky Department of Education – Special Education provides resources and support for students with disabilities, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and related services, to ensure they receive a free appropriate public education.

Kentucky Supported Higher Education Partnership (KSHEP) increases higher education opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing support and resources for inclusive higher education programs across the state.

Human Development Institute (HDI) at the University of Kentucky offers comprehensive resources and technical assistance for individuals with disabilities, including transition planning and support for accessing postsecondary education and employment.

These organizations play a critical role in ensuring that students with disabilities in Kentucky have access to the education and resources they need to succeed.

Disability Healthcare Services in Kentucky provide essential medical support, specialized care, and resources to individuals with disabilities to ensure they receive appropriate healthcare tailored to their needs. These services are critical for maintaining the health, well-being, and independence of people with disabilities.

Aging and Disability Resource Center offers information and referrals to various aging and disability programs and services, helping individuals navigate the healthcare system and access necessary care.

Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities administers mental health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability programs across Kentucky, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive comprehensive behavioral healthcare services.

Kentucky Career Center – Disability Services provides a range of vocational rehabilitation and healthcare services to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving independence and economic self-sufficiency.

Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet – Medical Services focuses on managing healthcare services and workers’ compensation claims, ensuring that individuals with work-related disabilities receive the medical care they need.

These organizations are pivotal in supporting the healthcare needs of individuals with disabilities in Kentucky, ensuring they have access to quality medical care and related services.

Vocational Training for People with Disabilities in Kentucky is essential in helping individuals achieve independence and integrate successfully into the workforce. These services offer tailored training programs, employment support, and other resources to ensure that people with disabilities can access suitable job opportunities.

Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center provides comprehensive vocational training programs, including job readiness, office technology, and life skills enhancement, helping individuals with disabilities prepare for competitive employment.

Kentucky Career Center – Disability Services offers a wide range of vocational rehabilitation services, including job training and placement, to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving independence and suitable employment.

Office of Vocational Rehabilitation works with Kentuckians with disabilities to provide vocational training and employment services, aiming to help them become integral parts of the workforce.

These organizations play a critical role in supporting individuals with disabilities in Kentucky by providing the vocational training and resources necessary for their professional development and economic independence.

Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities in Kentucky are vital for providing the necessary support to individuals with disabilities who also face mental health challenges. These services include counseling, crisis intervention, therapy, and community-based supports designed to help individuals manage their mental health while living independently.

Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities offers a comprehensive range of mental health services, including crisis intervention, treatment, and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Kentucky.

NAMI Kentucky provides advocacy, education, and support for individuals with mental health conditions and their families, focusing on improving mental health care and promoting recovery.

Merge – Human Development Institute (HDI) strengthens mental health services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through resources, training, and community-based programs.

KVC Kentucky Behavioral Health Services delivers evidence-based mental health services, including therapy and crisis intervention, to children and adults in their homes and communities, ensuring accessible care throughout the state.

Four Rivers Behavioral Health offers a range of mental health services, including crisis support, residential care, and day training programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

These organizations are key providers of mental health services in Kentucky, working to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the support they need to maintain their mental well-being.

Vision Services for People with Disabilities in Kentucky provide crucial resources and support to individuals with visual impairments, helping them achieve greater independence, access educational opportunities, and improve their quality of life. These services include vocational training, assistive technology, and specialized education programs.

Blind Services Division – Kentucky Career Center offers a wide range of services, including vocational rehabilitation, independent living programs, and orientation and mobility training to support individuals with visual disabilities in achieving employment and independence.

Kentucky School for the Blind (KSB) provides comprehensive educational services to students who are blind or visually impaired, including access to assistive technology and specialized instruction from birth to age 21.

Kentucky Department of Education – Resources for Visual Impairment supports professionals and families of students with visual impairments by offering resources, guidance, and support to ensure that students receive the appropriate educational accommodations.

Kentucky Council of the Blind is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the needs of individuals with visual impairments, providing information on accessible technology, guide dogs, and other resources to help individuals lead full, independent lives.

DeafBlind Services – Kentucky Career Center provides specialized services for individuals who are both deaf and blind, including assistive technology, job placement, and personal futures planning to enhance their independence.

These organizations are key providers of vision services in Kentucky, working to ensure that individuals with visual impairments have the tools and support they need to thrive.

Hearing Services for People with Disabilities in Kentucky offer crucial support, including access to assistive technology, communication training, and specialized education programs, ensuring that individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can lead independent and fulfilling lives.

Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) provides advocacy, educational resources, and access to assistive devices for Kentuckians who are deaf or hard of hearing, supporting their communication needs and enhancing their quality of life.

Heuser Hearing Institute offers comprehensive hearing healthcare services, including audiology, speech-language services, and early intervention programs, particularly through their statewide “KY HEARS” initiative to improve access to hearing care across Kentucky.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services – Kentucky Career Center provides vocational rehabilitation and specialized training programs tailored to individuals with hearing loss, helping them achieve employment and independence.

Kentucky School for the Deaf (KSD) delivers educational services to students who are deaf or hard of hearing from birth to age 21, focusing on providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

These organizations are integral to supporting individuals with hearing disabilities in Kentucky, ensuring they have the resources and services needed to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities in Kentucky offer essential support to individuals who face challenges in communication, helping them develop the skills necessary for effective interaction and participation in various aspects of life. These services include evaluations, therapy, and interventions tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

University of Kentucky Communication Sciences and Disorders provides specialized speech-language pathology services, including interventions for individuals with severe developmental disabilities, focusing on improving communication abilities and enhancing quality of life.

The Hearing & Speech Center offers comprehensive speech-language pathology services for infants, children, and adults, including diagnostic assessments and individualized therapy to address a variety of speech and language disorders.

St. Claire HealthCare provides speech therapy services across the lifespan, addressing communication issues related to developmental delays, injuries, or other health conditions, and focusing on improving patients’ quality of life.

Greater Louisville Education Cooperative (GLEC) supports students with speech or language impairments by providing special education services and resources designed to enhance their communication skills and educational outcomes.

These organizations are integral in delivering speech and language services in Kentucky, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the support they need to communicate effectively and live independently.

Autism Services in Kentucky provide essential support to individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, offering a wide range of resources, including diagnostic services, therapy, education, and community support programs. These services are designed to enhance the quality of life and promote independence for individuals with autism.

Kentucky Autism Training Center provides comprehensive training and resources for families, educators, and professionals working with individuals on the autism spectrum, focusing on evidence-based practices and support throughout all stages of life.

Norton Children’s Autism Center offers multidisciplinary, family-centered care for children with autism, including diagnostic services, therapy, and support to help children and families achieve their goals.

Kentucky Office of Autism coordinates statewide efforts to improve the system of care for individuals with autism, providing resources, training, and support to families and caregivers.

Autism Society of Kentuckiana (ASK) is a nonprofit organization that offers support, resources, and education to families affected by autism in Greater Louisville and Southern Indiana through monthly meetings, workshops, and social events.

These organizations play a vital role in supporting the autism community in Kentucky, ensuring that individuals and families have access to the resources they need.