Nebraska Disability Resources, Programs & Services

Nebraska is a state committed to supporting its residents with disabilities through various services and resources designed to enhance their quality of life. These services cover a wide range of needs, including healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the necessary support to thrive within their communities. The state’s disability services are guided by federal and state policies that aim to promote inclusivity and accessibility for all Nebraskans, regardless of their abilities.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2024, 371,122 adults in Nebraska have a disability. This is equal to 25% or 1 in 4 adults in Nebraska. These statistics highlight the importance of having robust and accessible services tailored to meet the diverse needs of the disability community across the state.

Nebraska’s approach to disability services is characterized by collaboration between state agencies, local governments, and community organizations. These entities work together to provide a comprehensive network of support, ranging from medical assistance and vocational rehabilitation to housing and transportation services. The goal is to ensure that all individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives, participate fully in their communities, and achieve their personal goals.

The following sections of this article will outline the various disability agencies and service organizations operating in Nebraska, providing an overview of the resources available to individuals with disabilities and their families. This information is intended to serve as a guide for those seeking assistance and to raise awareness about the services that contribute to making Nebraska a more inclusive state.

Nebraska VR provides vocational rehabilitation services to help individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment, offering personalized plans and resources.

Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska offers employment programs and services to support individuals with disabilities in gaining meaningful employment.

Heartland Workforce Solutions connects individuals with disabilities to job training, employment resources, and support services to enhance workforce participation.

The Arc of Nebraska advocates for and supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering employment services and other resources.

Center for People in Need provides employment assistance and job readiness programs for individuals with disabilities to help them achieve self-sufficiency.

Omaha Association of the Blind supports visually impaired individuals in Omaha by providing resources, including employment assistance.

Disability Rights Nebraska offers advocacy and support services, including assistance with employment rights and access to vocational programs.

Region V Services provides employment services, including job coaching and supported employment, for individuals with developmental disabilities in southeast Nebraska.

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals provides vocational rehabilitation services, including job training and placement support, for individuals recovering from injuries or managing disabilities.

League of Human Dignity offers independent living services, including housing assistance, to individuals with disabilities across Nebraska.

NorthEast Nebraska Advocacy Services (NENAS) provides advocacy and support, including assistance with independent living and housing for people with disabilities in Northeast Nebraska.

Panhandle Independent Living Services (PILS) offers independent living support, advocacy, and housing assistance for individuals with disabilities in the Panhandle region.

Disability Rights Nebraska advocates for the rights of people with disabilities, including assistance with housing and independent living services.

Center for Independent Living of Central Nebraska provides services to help people with disabilities live independently, including housing assistance and community support.

Blue Valley Community Action Partnership offers housing assistance and support services to individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve independent living.

Southwest Nebraska Community Action Partnership (SWNCAP) provides housing assistance and other supportive services to individuals with disabilities in Southwest Nebraska.

Accessible Space, Inc. offers affordable and accessible housing options for individuals with disabilities, promoting independent living throughout Nebraska.

Metro Area Continuum of Care for the Homeless (MACCH) collaborates with local agencies to provide housing assistance for individuals with disabilities at risk of homelessness.

Nebraska Housing Developers Association (NHDA) works to create affordable housing options and provides assistance to individuals with disabilities seeking independent living opportunities.

Nebraska Assistive Technology Partnership (ATP) provides assistive technology services, including evaluations, equipment loans, and training to help individuals with disabilities access the tools they need.

Easterseals Nebraska offers assistive technology services, including assessments, funding assistance, and device demonstrations, to support individuals with disabilities.

Munroe-Meyer Institute Assistive Technology Program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center provides assistive technology evaluations, device loans, and training to enhance the independence of individuals with disabilities.

EnTech (Enabling Technologies) provides assistive technology solutions and services, including customized devices and software, for individuals with disabilities in Nebraska.

Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska Assistive Technology Services offers a range of assistive technology services, including device loans and training, to help individuals with disabilities access technology.

League of Human Dignity provides assistive technology services, including equipment loans and assessments, to support independent living for individuals with disabilities.

PTI Nebraska offers resources and support for parents and families seeking assistive technology solutions for children with disabilities.

Center for Independent Living of Central Nebraska provides assistive technology services, including device loans and training, to help individuals with disabilities live independently.

Assistive Technology Partnership (ATP) Nebraska Equipment Loan Program offers a short-term equipment loan program, allowing individuals with disabilities to borrow assistive devices for evaluation or temporary use.

Disability Rights Nebraska Assistive Technology advocates for access to assistive technology and provides resources and support to ensure individuals with disabilities can obtain necessary devices.

Disability Transportation Services provide essential mobility options for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to reliable and accessible transportation.

Nebraska Association of Transportation Providers (NATP) supports public transportation options throughout Nebraska, focusing on accessible services for people with disabilities.

Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA) – MOBY provides curb-to-curb transportation services in Omaha for ADA-eligible residents who cannot use regular bus services due to disabilities.

Fillmore County Rural Transit offers transportation services for residents of Fillmore County, including scheduled trips to larger cities with 24-hour advance notice required.

Blue Rivers Public Transportation operates demand-response transportation services across multiple counties, prioritizing accessible transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

City of Lincoln StarTran Paratransit Services provides door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use regular bus services.

Region V Transportation Services – Lancaster County Public Transportation offers transportation in Lancaster County, including rural areas, with connections to larger cities like Lincoln.

Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Veteran Transportation Services provides transportation for veterans, including those with disabilities, between Lincoln and Omaha VA facilities.

Webster County Transportation Services offers transportation options for residents with disabilities in Webster County, ensuring they have access to necessary appointments and services.

Valley Ambulance Services Inc. provides medical transportation in Scotts Bluff County, including wheelchair-accessible options for individuals with disabilities.

Prince Of The Road in Buffalo County offers specialized transportation services, including for those with disabilities, ensuring access to community resources.

Disability Childcare Services in Nebraska offer specialized support and care for children with disabilities, ensuring they have access to appropriate developmental and educational opportunities.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Child Care Resources provides information and resources for families seeking specialized childcare services, including options for children with disabilities.

Nebraska ChildFind offers early identification and services for young children with disabilities, helping parents connect with appropriate childcare and educational resources.

PTI Nebraska provides resources and advocacy for families of children with disabilities, including assistance in finding appropriate childcare and educational services.

Nebraska Early Development Network coordinates early intervention services for children with disabilities from birth to age three, including support for finding suitable childcare options.

Nebraska Early Childhood Special Education Services offers resources and support for children with disabilities in early childhood programs, ensuring access to inclusive and supportive environments.

Head Start Collaboration Office – Nebraska supports programs that provide early education and childcare services to children with disabilities, focusing on school readiness and developmental support.

First Five Nebraska works to ensure that children, including those with disabilities, receive high-quality early childhood experiences, including access to appropriate childcare.

Nebraska’s Answers4Families is a support network offering information and resources for families of children with disabilities, including connections to childcare services.

Nebraska Child Care Referral Network helps families find licensed childcare providers, including those equipped to care for children with special needs.

Nebraska Go NAP SACC assists childcare providers in creating inclusive environments that support the health and development of children with disabilities.

Disability Recreational Services in Nebraska offer inclusive and accessible recreational activities that cater to individuals with various disabilities, promoting physical health, social interaction, and overall well-being.

Therapeutic Recreation of Nebraska (TRON) provides specialized recreational programs for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, including sensory swim hours, play groups, and adaptive leisure coaching.

Munroe-Meyer Institute Recreational Therapy Program offers a variety of recreational therapy services for children and adults with disabilities, focusing on activities that enhance physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission – Accessible Recreation provides accessible outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, camping, and trails, specifically designed for individuals with disabilities.

Special Olympics Nebraska offers year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Omaha Parks and Recreation Adaptive Sports provides adaptive sports and recreational programs for individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair basketball, adaptive swimming, and more.

League of Human Dignity – Recreational Services promotes independent living by offering recreational activities and social events tailored to the needs of people with disabilities.

UNMC Munroe-Meyer Institute Adaptive Sports Program provides adaptive sports opportunities for individuals of all ages with disabilities, including sports clinics, camps, and competitive teams.

Omaha Children’s Museum – Sensory Friendly Play offers sensory-friendly playtimes for children with sensory processing disorders, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive environment.

Nebraska Adaptive Sports provides adaptive sports and recreational opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities, including skiing, cycling, and kayaking.

Nebraska 4-H – Inclusive Programs ensures that all youth, including those with disabilities, can participate in 4-H activities, offering inclusive programs that cater to various needs and abilities.

Nebraska Family Support Network provides peer mentoring, education, and advocacy for children and families affected by mental, emotional, or behavioral health issues.

Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (BIA-NE) offers support groups and resources for individuals and families dealing with the effects of brain injuries, focusing on advocacy, education, and prevention.

Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska provides networking and support for families with children diagnosed with Down syndrome, offering resources and community connections.

Autism Society of Nebraska supports individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorders through advocacy, education, and community-building activities.

Mosaic advocates for people with intellectual disabilities, offering a range of support services including day programs, residential services, and community integration.

Answers4Families is an information and support network for families and professionals seeking assistance for family members with special needs across Nebraska.

Nebraska Resource and Referral System (NRRS) offers a statewide database to connect individuals with disabilities and their families to support groups and other necessary resources.

Nebraska Autism Spectrum Disorders Network provides training, support, and resources to Nebraska families and schools to better support children with autism spectrum disorders.

Muscular Dystrophy Association – Nebraska Chapter supports individuals and families affected by muscular dystrophy and related diseases, offering support groups and other resources.

Nebraska Brain Injury Advisory Council focuses on support, advocacy, and resources for individuals affected by brain injuries, providing virtual support groups and other services.

Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund (NAHTF) offers financial resources to increase the supply and improve the quality of affordable housing, with a focus on serving low-income individuals, including those with disabilities.

Disabled Persons and Family Support Program (DPFS) provides financial assistance for home modifications and other housing-related needs to help individuals with disabilities live independently.

Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders County offers various housing assistance services, including emergency rent and utility assistance, eviction prevention, and affordable housing development for individuals with disabilities.

Lincoln Housing Authority provides affordable housing options, including Section 8 rental assistance and supportive services for residents with disabilities in Lincoln.

Region 5 Housing Assistance Program offers housing vouchers and assistance to low-income, disabled, and homeless veterans in the Lincoln and York areas.

Nebraska Commission on Housing and Homelessness works on initiatives to address housing and homelessness issues, including those affecting individuals with disabilities.

Blue Valley Community Action Partnership provides emergency housing services, affordable housing programs, and referrals to other agencies for individuals with disabilities in multiple Nebraska counties.

HUD Nebraska – Public Housing Authorities offers affordable public housing and rental assistance programs for individuals with disabilities across Nebraska, managed by local housing authorities.

Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs Housing Assistance provides housing support, including HUD/VASH vouchers, for low-income, disabled, and homeless veterans and their families.

Central Nebraska Community Action Partnership – Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program offers comprehensive housing assistance, including rent and utility support, for very low-income veterans and their families who are at risk of homelessness.

Nebraska Department of Education Special Education provides resources and support to ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate educational services across the state, in line with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

University of Nebraska Omaha Disability Services offers a range of services to support students with disabilities, including academic accommodations, assistive technology, and advocacy.

Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) provides educational resources, advocacy, and communication access services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, including specialized education programs.

Get SET Nebraska is a collaboration between the Nebraska Center for Research on Children, Youth, Families, and Schools and the Nebraska Department of Education, focusing on enhancing special education services and support across the state.

Educational Service Unit (ESU) 13 provides specialized education services for students with disabilities, including professional development for educators and direct support for students in western Nebraska.

Nebraska VR – Pre-Employment Transition Services supports students with disabilities in planning for their future careers by offering job exploration, work-based learning experiences, and post-secondary education counseling.

Nebraska Center for the Education of Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired provides specialized educational services and resources for children who are blind or visually impaired, including assessments, instruction, and support services.

PTI Nebraska offers training, information, and support to parents of children with disabilities, helping them navigate the special education system and access appropriate services.

Lincoln Public Schools Special Education provides comprehensive special education services to students with disabilities, including individualized education programs (IEPs) and related services.

Omaha Public Schools Special Education supports students with disabilities by offering a wide range of services, including early intervention, special classes, and support for inclusion in general education settings.

Nebraska Division of Developmental Disabilities provides funding and oversight for Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, which include service coordination, eligibility determination, and monitoring for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Social Services for Aged and Disabled Adults (SSAD) offers services to help disabled adults maintain their independence, including in-home support, transportation, and personal care assistance.

Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) provides information, referral, and assistance in accessing community services and long-term care options for people with disabilities.

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) offers a range of Medicaid-funded services designed to support people with disabilities living in their homes or community settings rather than in institutional care.

Medically Handicapped Children’s Program (MHCP) provides financial assistance for diagnostic and medical treatment services to children with disabilities, helping them access necessary healthcare services.

Special Health Care Needs Program offers services to children with special health care needs, including those with disabilities, ensuring they receive comprehensive medical care and support.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Medicaid and Long-Term Care oversees a variety of healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including Medicaid eligibility, managed care, and home health services.

Beatrice State Developmental Center (BSDC) provides specialized healthcare services and residential care for individuals with severe developmental disabilities.

Heritage Health Managed Care integrates physical health, behavioral health, and pharmacy services into a single coordinated system for Medicaid beneficiaries, including those with disabilities.

Nebraska Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver offers specialized healthcare services and support for individuals with traumatic brain injuries, helping them manage their conditions and live independently.

Nebraska VR is a comprehensive employment program that helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain jobs. They provide individualized support, job training, and resources to assist individuals in achieving their career goals.

Autism Center of Nebraska offers vocational services and supported employment programs tailored to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. They focus on community inclusion and skill development through pre-vocational training.

Heartland Workforce Solutions partners with Nebraska VR and other organizations to offer vocational training, career counseling, and job placement services for individuals with disabilities, helping them enter or re-enter the workforce.

Beatrice State Developmental Center (BSDC) provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering both on-campus and community-based work opportunities.

Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska provides vocational training, job coaching, and placement services for individuals with disabilities, helping them gain skills and secure employment in their communities.

Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCBVI) offers vocational rehabilitation services, including job training and career counseling, specifically designed for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Dynamic Workforce Solutions offers training and job placement assistance to individuals with disabilities, focusing on developing the skills needed for competitive employment.

Mid Nebraska Individual Services provides vocational training and supported employment services for individuals with developmental disabilities, helping them achieve greater independence and integration into the workforce.

Region V Services offers job training and employment support for individuals with developmental disabilities, focusing on personalized plans to meet each individual’s vocational goals.

Equus Workforce Solutions collaborates with various organizations to provide comprehensive vocational training and job placement services for individuals with disabilities, aiming to increase employment opportunities and foster economic independence.

NAMI Nebraska provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals living with mental illness, including those with disabilities, through a variety of free programs and support groups.

Nebraska Division of Behavioral Health offers a statewide system of care for individuals with mental health and substance use disorders, including specialized services for people with disabilities.

Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska – Behavioral Health Services helps individuals in the recovery process by offering mental health services and support for creating a recovery plan, building skills, and achieving successful community living.

Mosaic provides mental health services alongside residential support, day services, and advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring comprehensive care.

Behavioral Health Region 5 offers public mental health services, including inpatient and outpatient care, specifically tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities in Southeast Nebraska.

Columbus Community Hospital – Wiggles & Giggles Therapy provides occupational, physical, and speech therapy services for children with disabilities, integrating mental health support as part of their holistic care approach.

Nebraska Mental Health Services provides a network of care offering crisis intervention, outpatient services, and community-based mental health programs for individuals with disabilities across the state.

East Central District Health Department offers community health programs including substance abuse prevention and mental health education, serving individuals with disabilities in central Nebraska.

VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System provides mental health services specifically tailored for veterans with disabilities, including those facing challenges related to mental health.

Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCBVI) offers a comprehensive range of services for Nebraskans with vision loss, including vocational rehabilitation, independent living skills training, and specialized programs for those with additional disabilities.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Vision and Eye Health provides resources and information to promote eye health and prevent vision loss, including access to specialized care and services for those with vision impairments.

UNMC Specialty Services at the University of Nebraska Medical Center offers specialized vision services for children with developmental disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate assessments and interventions.

CRCC Vision Therapy Services provides comprehensive therapy and support for children with vision impairments, helping them develop essential skills for daily living and education.

Nebraska Center for the Blind is part of NCBVI and offers intensive training programs for individuals with significant vision loss, focusing on building confidence and skills for independent living.

Disabled Persons and Family Support Program (DPFS) offers financial assistance for services and equipment, including those related to vision, to help individuals with disabilities maintain independence.

Lions Clubs of Nebraska provides vision screenings, eyeglasses, and support services to those with vision impairments, particularly in underserved communities.

Munroe-Meyer Institute provides interdisciplinary services, including vision care, for individuals with developmental disabilities, ensuring comprehensive healthcare support.

Outlook Nebraska is dedicated to empowering the visually impaired by offering employment opportunities, adaptive technology training, and community engagement activities.

Vision Resource Coalition works to connect individuals with vision impairments to the resources and services they need, including support groups, rehabilitation, and assistive technology.

Hearing Services for People with Disabilities provide crucial support to ensure that individuals with hearing impairments can access the resources and technology they need to communicate effectively and lead fulfilling lives.

Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) offers a wide range of services, including advocacy, education, and access to assistive devices, to support Nebraskans who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of Hearing.

Educational Service Unit 9 provides specialized educational services for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, including direct instruction, consultation, and support for communication in educational settings.

CRCC Omaha offers comprehensive services for children with hearing impairments, focusing on maximizing their potential and fostering development through specialized therapies and family support.

Nebraska Regional Programs for Deaf or Hard of Hearing coordinates services across the state to support students with hearing impairments, ensuring they have access to necessary educational resources and accommodations.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services – University of Nebraska at Omaha provides resources and support for students with hearing disabilities, including access to assistive technology and academic accommodations.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Hearing Aid Banks offers refurbished hearing aids to those who need them but cannot afford to purchase new devices.

Nebraska Hands & Voices is a parent-led organization that supports families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing, offering resources, advocacy, and community connections.

Hearing Loss Association of America – Omaha Chapter provides support and resources for individuals with hearing loss, including education on the latest hearing technologies and advocacy for accessibility.

Metro Omaha Deaf Community (MODC) fosters community engagement and support for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, offering social, educational, and advocacy programs.

Communication Services for the Deaf (CSD) offers nationwide support services, including interpreting and technology assistance, to enhance communication and accessibility for the deaf and hard of hearing in Nebraska.

Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities are essential for helping individuals develop communication skills and overcome speech or language challenges. These services provide assessments, therapy, and support tailored to the unique needs of people with disabilities.

The Barkley Speech Language and Hearing Clinic at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers comprehensive services for individuals with speech, language, and hearing impairments, including specialized programs for people with disabilities.

Nebraska Early Development Network provides early intervention services, including speech and language therapy, for children with disabilities from birth to age three, helping them develop critical communication skills.

Munroe-Meyer Institute at the University of Nebraska Medical Center provides speech and language therapy as part of its wide range of services for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

CRCC Omaha offers speech therapy services for children with receptive and expressive language impairments, providing family-centered care to foster communication development.

ESU 9 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services provides specialized speech and language services for students with hearing impairments, ensuring they have access to effective communication support in educational settings.

PTI Nebraska offers training and resources for parents to support their children with disabilities, including those with speech and language needs, ensuring they receive appropriate educational services.

Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) offers services to support communication for individuals who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of Hearing, including access to speech therapy and other communication aids.

People First of Nebraska empowers individuals with disabilities, including those with speech and language needs, to advocate for themselves and improve their communication skills.

Nebraska Transition College supports individuals with learning differences, including speech and language challenges, through community-based learning and vocational training programs.

Learning Lab for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities at the University of Nebraska provides resources and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities, including speech and language services to enhance communication abilities.

Autism Services in Nebraska offer a wide range of support, from early intervention and therapy to vocational training and residential care, tailored to meet the needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The Autism Center of Nebraska provides comprehensive services including residential care, vocational training, and community inclusion programs for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

The Autism Society of Nebraska offers resources, advocacy, and support to individuals and families affected by autism, aiming to connect them with the services they need to thrive.

The Nebraska Autism Spectrum Disorders Network supports educators and families by providing resources, training, and information to enhance the educational outcomes of children with autism.

Autism Action Partnership focuses on creating opportunities for individuals with autism through vocational services, residential support, and community integration.

Autism Family Network is dedicated to providing support, resources, and advocacy for families affected by autism, including organizing community events and educational programs.

The Nebraska Department of Education offers guidance and resources for educators working with students on the autism spectrum, ensuring compliance with state and federal special education laws.

PTI Nebraska provides training and resources for parents of children with autism, helping them navigate the education system and advocate for their child’s needs.

Munroe-Meyer Institute offers specialized therapeutic services for children and adults with autism, focusing on behavior, communication, and social skills development.

The Nebraska Early Development Network provides early intervention services for young children with autism, helping them develop critical skills during their formative years.

Holland Children’s Movement advocates for policies and programs that support children with disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum, ensuring access to essential services and resources.