Ohio Disability Resources, Programs & Services

Disability services in Ohio provide essential support and resources to individuals with disabilities, helping them to live more independent and fulfilling lives. Ohio has a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its residents, including healthcare, education, employment support, and community living assistance. These services are crucial in ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to opportunities and resources that enhance their quality of life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2024 2,791,694 adults in Ohio have a disability. This is equal to 31% or nearly 1 in 3 adults in Ohio. These statistics highlight the importance of robust and accessible disability services throughout the state. With a significant portion of the population experiencing disabilities, the demand for comprehensive support systems is substantial.

Disability services in Ohio encompass various areas, such as medical and therapeutic care, vocational training, assistive technology, and social services. Medical services include specialized healthcare and rehabilitation programs tailored to the specific needs of individuals with disabilities. Vocational training programs aim to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for meaningful employment, fostering economic independence.

Assistive technology is another critical component of disability services in Ohio. This includes devices and tools that help individuals with disabilities perform daily activities and improve their communication, mobility, and overall functionality. Social services provide support for community integration, offering resources like housing assistance, transportation, and social activities that promote inclusion and engagement.

To support individuals with disabilities, Ohio also focuses on education and advocacy. Educational programs ensure that children and adults with disabilities receive appropriate learning opportunities, while advocacy efforts aim to protect their rights and promote policies that improve their lives.

Disability agencies and service organizations are outlined below, providing detailed information on the various resources available to individuals with disabilities in Ohio. These organizations play a vital role in delivering services and support to enhance the well-being and independence of people with disabilities across the state.


Ohio Disability Employment Services

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities provides employment assistance, vocational rehabilitation, and support services for individuals with disabilities, helping them secure and maintain meaningful employment.

Ohio Means Jobs offers a variety of employment resources, including job search assistance, career counseling, and job training programs tailored for individuals with disabilities.

Easterseals Ohio provides workforce development services, including job training, placement, and support to help individuals with disabilities achieve their employment goals.

Goodwill Columbus offers employment services, job training programs, and support for individuals with disabilities, focusing on enhancing their skills and job readiness.

United Disability Services in Akron provides vocational services, job training, and employment support for individuals with disabilities, helping them to achieve independence and self-sufficiency.

The Arc of Ohio advocates for and provides support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including employment assistance and job training programs.

Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities offers employment support and resources for young adults transitioning from school to work, ensuring they have the necessary skills and opportunities for successful employment.


Ohio Independent Living Services

Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in Ohio provide essential services that support individuals with disabilities in leading independent lives by offering resources, advocacy, and skill development.

The Ability Center of Greater Toledo – 5605 Monroe Street, Sylvania, OH 43560 – (419) 885-5733

Access Center for Independent Living – 907 W. 5th Street, Ste 100, Dayton, OH 45402 – (937) 341-5202

Center for Independent Living Options (CILO) – 2368 Victory Parkway, Ste 501, Cincinnati, OH 45206 – (513) 241-2600

Independent Living Center of North Central Ohio – 2230 Village Mall Drive, Mansfield, OH 44906 – (419) 526-6770

Linking Employment, Abilities & Potential (LEAP) – 2545 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44113 – (216) 696-2716

Mid-Ohio Board for Independent Living Environment (MOBILE) – 1829 E. Long St, Columbus, OH 43203 – (614) 443-5936

Services for Independent Living – 800 Sharon Drive, Ste C, Westlake, OH 44145 – (216) 731-1529

Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL) – 418 South Broad Street, Lancaster, OH 43130 – (740) 689-1494


Ohio Rehabilitation Services

Buckeye Health Rehabilitation offers comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center provides a range of rehabilitation services, including inpatient and outpatient programs, tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities.

OhioHealth Rehabilitation Hospital offers specialized rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy for individuals with disabilities.

Akron Children’s Hospital provides pediatric rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy for children with disabilities.

Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation and Sports Therapy offers a comprehensive range of rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

University Hospitals Rehabilitation Services provides a variety of rehabilitation services, including inpatient and outpatient therapy programs, to support individuals with disabilities in their recovery and independence.

MetroHealth Rehabilitation Institute offers extensive rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, to help individuals with disabilities regain function and improve their quality of life.


Ohio Assistive Technology Services

Assistive Technology of Ohio provides a wide range of assistive technology services and devices to help individuals with disabilities enhance their independence and quality of life.

Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center offers assistive technology services, including hearing aids, communication devices, and other tools to support individuals with hearing and speech disabilities.

The Ohio State University Nisonger Center provides assistive technology assessments, training, and support services to individuals with disabilities to help them access and use the appropriate devices.

Western Reserve Independent Living Center offers assistive technology services, including device demonstrations, loans, and training, to support individuals with disabilities in their daily activities.

Tri-County Independent Living Center provides assistive technology services, including device lending, training, and support, to help individuals with disabilities increase their independence.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Assistive Technology Program offers a variety of assistive technology services and devices to support children with disabilities in their communication, mobility, and daily activities.

Ability Center of Greater Toledo Assistive Technology Services provides a range of assistive technology services, including device demonstrations, loans, and training, to help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence.


Ohio 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.

Ohio Division of Disability Determination is responsible for making disability decisions for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Ohio.

Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation provides insurance coverage to Ohio employers and employees for work-related injuries, diseases, and fatalities.

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services provides various financial assistance programs, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), to support individuals with disabilities.

Ohio Housing Finance Agency offers financial assistance programs for housing, including down payment assistance and mortgage options for individuals with disabilities.

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) provides financial assistance to help individuals with disabilities pay their heating and cooling bills.

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities offers financial assistance for vocational rehabilitation services, including training, education, and employment support for individuals with disabilities.

Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation provides financial assistance and compensation for individuals with disabilities resulting from workplace injuries or illnesses.

Ohio Educational Choice Scholarship Program offers financial assistance for educational expenses, including private school tuition, for students with disabilities.

County Veterans Service Offices provide financial assistance and support services to veterans with disabilities, including emergency financial aid and assistance with benefits applications.


Ohio Disability Transportation Services

Ohio Transit Partnership Program (OTP2) provides funding to support transportation services for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to reliable and accessible public transit options.

Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority (RTA) offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities, providing door-to-door transportation within the service area.

COTA Mainstream provides paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in the Columbus area, ensuring accessible and convenient transportation options.

METRO RTA offers METRO SCAT, a paratransit service for individuals with disabilities in the Akron area, providing door-to-door transportation.

Lake County Council on Aging offers transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, including medical appointment transportation and general transit services.

Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides Proline services, a paratransit option for individuals with disabilities in the Stark County area.

Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessible transportation within the Toledo area.

Butler County Regional Transit Authority (BCRTA) provides paratransit services for individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessible transportation options within Butler County.


Ohio Disability Childcare Services

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services offers the Child Care Assistance program, which includes provisions for children with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support.

YMCA of Central Ohio provides inclusive child care services for children with disabilities, offering specialized programs and support to meet their unique needs.

Easterseals Central and Southeast Ohio offers child care services specifically designed for children with disabilities, providing a supportive and inclusive environment.

The Autism Society of Central Ohio provides resources and referrals for child care services tailored to the needs of children with autism and other developmental disabilities.

United Rehabilitation Services of Greater Dayton offers inclusive child care programs for children with disabilities, focusing on early childhood education and development.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Child Care Center provides specialized child care services for children with disabilities, ensuring they receive the care and support they need.

Step By Step Academy offers child care services for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, providing a structured and supportive environment.


Ohio Disability Recreational Services

Adaptive Sports Program of Ohio offers a variety of recreational activities and sports programs for individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair basketball, sled hockey, and adaptive skiing.

Recreation Unlimited provides year-round recreational programs and camps for individuals with disabilities, focusing on outdoor activities, sports, and social events.

The Miracle League of Central Ohio offers baseball programs for children and adults with disabilities, providing an inclusive and accessible environment for recreational sports.

Camp Courageous offers a range of recreational activities and camping experiences for individuals with disabilities, including swimming, arts and crafts, and nature programs.

Columbus Recreation and Parks Therapeutic Recreation provides inclusive recreational programs and activities for individuals with disabilities, including adaptive sports, fitness classes, and social events.

Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board offers recreational services and activities for individuals with disabilities, including community outings, sports programs, and leisure activities.

Special Olympics Ohio provides year-round sports training and competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities, promoting physical fitness and social inclusion through recreational activities.

May We Help offers custom adaptive equipment and recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to participate in a variety of leisure activities and sports.


Ohio Disability Rights & Legal Services

Disability Rights Ohio provides legal advocacy and assistance for individuals with disabilities, including issues related to discrimination, accessibility, and rights protection.

Ohio Legal Rights Service offers legal services and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, focusing on protecting their rights and ensuring equal access to services and opportunities.

Legal Aid Society of Columbus provides free legal assistance to individuals with disabilities on matters such as housing, public benefits, and education.

Advocates for Basic Legal Equality (ABLE) offers legal services to individuals with disabilities in areas including discrimination, housing, and access to public services.

Community Legal Aid Services provides legal assistance and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, focusing on civil legal issues such as housing, benefits, and consumer rights.

Legal Aid Society of Cleveland offers legal services for individuals with disabilities, addressing issues like discrimination, access to healthcare, and social security benefits.

Pro Seniors provides legal assistance to older adults with disabilities, focusing on issues such as long-term care, elder abuse, and access to public benefits.

Miami Valley Fair Housing Center offers legal advocacy and assistance for individuals with disabilities facing housing discrimination and accessibility issues.


Ohio Support Groups for People with Disabilities

NAMI Ohio offers support groups for individuals with mental health disabilities and their families, providing a space for sharing experiences and resources.

The Arc of Ohio provides support groups for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, offering peer support and advocacy resources.

Multiple Sclerosis Society Ohio offers support groups for individuals living with multiple sclerosis, providing a community for sharing experiences and mutual support.

Autism Society of Central Ohio provides support groups for individuals with autism and their families, offering a space to connect, share resources, and support each other.

United Spinal Association Northeast Ohio Chapter offers support groups for individuals with spinal cord injuries and disorders, providing peer support and resources.

Parkinson’s Foundation Ohio provides support groups for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their families, offering education, resources, and community support.

Brain Injury Association of Ohio offers support groups for individuals with brain injuries and their families, providing a network for sharing experiences and support.

Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio provides support groups for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, offering peer support, resources, and community events.


Ohio Disability Housing Assistance

Ohio Housing Finance Agency provides various housing assistance programs for individuals with disabilities, including affordable housing options and down payment assistance.

Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO) offers housing assistance programs and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, focusing on preventing homelessness and ensuring access to safe, affordable housing.

National Church Residences provides affordable housing options and supportive services for individuals with disabilities, helping them to live independently in their communities.

Housing Assistance Programs by The Ability Center offers housing assistance and home modification services for individuals with disabilities to improve accessibility and independence in their homes.

Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority provides housing assistance and supportive services for individuals with disabilities, including affordable housing options and rental assistance programs.

Miami Valley Fair Housing Center offers housing assistance and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, addressing issues related to housing discrimination and accessibility.

Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority provides housing assistance programs and supportive services for individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to affordable and accessible housing options.


Ohio Disability Education Services

Ohio Department of Education offers special education services and resources for students with disabilities, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and support for parents and educators.

Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (OCECD) provides training, resources, and advocacy to ensure that children with disabilities receive appropriate educational services and support.

State Support Team Region 1 offers support and resources for families and educators of students with disabilities, including professional development and assistance with IEPs.

Summit Educational Service Center provides special education services and support for students with disabilities, including assessments, therapies, and individualized instruction.

School for Autistically Impaired Learners (SAIL) offers specialized education programs and support for students with autism, focusing on individualized instruction and development.

Ohio State School for the Blind provides specialized education services for students who are blind or visually impaired, including academic programs and life skills training.

Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) offers resources and support for the education of students with autism and low-incidence disabilities, including professional development and family support.

Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities provides educational services and support for children with developmental disabilities, including early intervention and school-age programs.


Ohio Disability Healthcare Services

OhioHealth provides comprehensive healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including specialized medical care, rehabilitation, and support services.

Cleveland Clinic offers a wide range of healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including specialized clinics, therapy, and support programs.

University Hospitals provides healthcare services tailored to individuals with disabilities, including specialized medical care, rehabilitation, and therapy services.

Akron Children’s Hospital offers healthcare services for children with disabilities, including specialized medical care, therapy, and support programs.

MetroHealth provides healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including specialized medical care, rehabilitation, and support services.

Nationwide Children’s Hospital offers comprehensive healthcare services for children with disabilities, including specialized medical care, therapy, and support programs.

Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center provides specialized healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including medical care, rehabilitation, and support services.

Dayton Children’s Hospital offers healthcare services for children with disabilities, including specialized medical care, therapy, and support programs.


Ohio Vocational Training for People with Disabilities

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities offers vocational training programs and services to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment.

Goodwill Industries of Central Ohio provides vocational training and job placement services for individuals with disabilities, focusing on skill development and employment readiness.

Ohio Association of Adult Services (OAAS) offers vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, helping them to develop job skills and achieve employment goals.

Easterseals Central and Southeast Ohio provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job skills training and support.

Triad Deaf Services offers vocational training programs specifically for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, focusing on employment readiness and job placement.

Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with visual impairments, including job skills training and support.

Center for Vocational Alternatives offers vocational training programs for individuals with mental health disabilities, focusing on employment readiness and job placement.

The Ohio State University Nisonger Center provides vocational training and support services for individuals with developmental disabilities, helping them to prepare for and secure employment.


Ohio Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities

NAMI Ohio provides mental health services and support for individuals with disabilities, including peer support groups, educational programs, and advocacy.

Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services offers a range of mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including counseling, crisis intervention, and treatment programs.

The Nord Center provides comprehensive mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, case management, and crisis services.

Coleman Professional Services offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including counseling, psychiatric care, and crisis intervention.

Community Support Services provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, case management, and rehabilitation programs.

OhioGuidestone offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including counseling, psychiatric care, and support services.

Centers for Families and Children provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, case management, and crisis intervention.

Netcare Access offers mental health crisis services for individuals with disabilities, including emergency assessment, intervention, and stabilization.


Ohio Vision Services for People with Disabilities

Ohio State University Havener Eye Institute provides comprehensive vision services for individuals with disabilities, including eye exams, treatments, and rehabilitation programs.

Cleveland Sight Center offers a wide range of vision services for individuals with disabilities, including low vision evaluations, mobility training, and assistive technology.

Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides vision services for individuals with disabilities, including low vision rehabilitation, mobility training, and assistive technology.

Prevent Blindness Ohio offers vision screenings, eye health education, and resources for individuals with disabilities to help prevent and manage vision problems.

Vision Services at Akron Children’s Hospital provides specialized vision care for children with disabilities, including eye exams, treatments, and vision therapy.

Vision and Vocational Services offers vision rehabilitation and vocational services for individuals with visual impairments, including training and job placement support.

Dayton VA Medical Center provides vision services for veterans with disabilities, including eye exams, treatments, and rehabilitation programs.

Miami Valley Vision Rehabilitation offers vision rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, including low vision evaluations, mobility training, and assistive technology.


Ohio Hearing Services for People with Disabilities

Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center provides comprehensive hearing services for individuals with disabilities, including hearing evaluations, hearing aids, and cochlear implants.

Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center offers a range of hearing services for individuals with disabilities, including hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, and speech therapy.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Hearing Clinic provides specialized hearing services for children with disabilities, including diagnostic evaluations, hearing aids, and cochlear implants.

Ohio School for the Deaf offers educational and support services for children with hearing disabilities, including audiology services, speech therapy, and assistive technology.

University Hospitals Ear, Nose & Throat Institute provides hearing services for individuals with disabilities, including hearing evaluations, hearing aids, and cochlear implant programs.

Akron Children’s Hospital Audiology offers comprehensive hearing services for children with disabilities, including diagnostic evaluations, hearing aids, and auditory processing disorder treatment.

Hearing Speech + Deaf Center provides hearing services for individuals with disabilities, including hearing tests, hearing aids, and communication support services.

Dayton Children’s Hospital Audiology offers hearing services for children with disabilities, including hearing evaluations, hearing aids, and auditory processing disorder treatment.


Ohio Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities

Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Speech-Language Pathology provides comprehensive speech and language services for individuals with disabilities, including evaluation, therapy, and communication support.

Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center offers a wide range of speech and language services for individuals with disabilities, including speech therapy, language development, and communication devices.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Speech Pathology provides specialized speech and language services for children with disabilities, including assessment, therapy, and support for communication disorders.

Akron Children’s Hospital Speech Therapy offers speech and language services for children with disabilities, including evaluations, therapy, and treatment for various speech and language disorders.

University Hospitals Speech-Language Pathology provides speech and language services for individuals with disabilities, including diagnostic evaluations, therapy, and rehabilitation programs.

Dayton Children’s Hospital Speech Therapy offers comprehensive speech and language services for children with disabilities, including assessment, therapy, and support for communication challenges.

Central Ohio Speech and Hearing provides speech and language services for individuals with disabilities, including speech therapy, language development, and augmentative communication.

Miami Valley Speech and Hearing offers speech and language services for individuals with disabilities, including evaluations, therapy, and communication support services.


Ohio Autism Services

Autism Society of Central Ohio provides support, advocacy, and resources for individuals with autism and their families, including educational programs and community events.

Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) offers a wide range of services for individuals with autism, including professional development, family support, and access to resources and information.

Step By Step Academy provides specialized education and therapy services for children with autism, focusing on individualized instruction and behavioral support.

Autism Services at Nationwide Children’s Hospital offers comprehensive diagnostic, therapeutic, and support services for children with autism and their families.

Cleveland Clinic Children’s Center for Autism provides a variety of services for individuals with autism, including assessment, therapy, and support for social and communication skills development.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics offers a range of services for children with autism, including diagnostic evaluations, therapy, and family support programs.

Autism Services at Akron Children’s Hospital provides diagnostic, therapeutic, and support services for children with autism, including early intervention and behavioral therapy.

Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers offers comprehensive therapy services for children with autism, including applied behavior analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy.


Ohio Early Intervention Services

Ohio Early Intervention provides statewide services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities, including developmental screenings, family support, and individualized intervention plans.

Help Me Grow Ohio offers early intervention services for children from birth to age three with developmental delays or disabilities, including home visits, developmental screenings, and family support.

Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities Early Childhood Education provides early intervention services, including assessments, individualized therapy, and family support for young children with developmental delays or disabilities.

Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board Early Intervention offers early intervention services for children with developmental delays or disabilities, including developmental assessments, therapy services, and family support.

Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities Early Intervention provides early intervention services, including evaluations, individualized family service plans, and developmental therapies for young children with disabilities.

Stark County Early Intervention Services offers early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities, including assessments, therapy, and family support.

Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services Early Intervention provides early intervention services, including developmental assessments, therapy, and support for families of young children with disabilities.

Lucas County Early Intervention offers early intervention services for children with developmental delays or disabilities, including developmental screenings, therapy services, and family support.


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