Virginia Disability Resources, Programs & Services

Virginia offers a comprehensive array of disability services designed to support individuals with disabilities in leading fulfilling lives. The state is committed to ensuring that residents with disabilities have access to the resources and assistance they need to thrive in their communities. Services range from healthcare and employment support to educational resources and housing assistance, all tailored to meet the diverse needs of Virginia’s disability community.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2024, 1,901,551 adults in Virginia have a disability. This is equal to 29% or over 1 in 4 adults in Virginia. These numbers highlight the importance of robust and accessible services that can cater to a significant portion of the population. Virginia’s approach to disability services is rooted in the principles of inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are not only supported but also encouraged to achieve their full potential.

The state’s disability services are organized to address various aspects of daily living. For instance, healthcare services include specialized medical care, mental health support, and rehabilitation programs. Employment services focus on job training, placement, and workplace accommodations to help individuals with disabilities find and retain meaningful employment. Education services provide support from early childhood through higher education, ensuring that students with disabilities receive the necessary accommodations and modifications to succeed academically.

Additionally, housing assistance programs help individuals with disabilities find accessible and affordable housing options. Transportation services are also available to ensure that individuals can travel safely and efficiently. Virginia also offers a range of support services, including personal care assistance, assistive technology, and advocacy services, to help individuals navigate various systems and access the resources they need.

Disability agencies and service organizations in Virginia play a crucial role in delivering these services. They are dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and are outlined below.

The Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services offers employment services to individuals with disabilities, including job training, job placement, and support for retaining employment. They focus on helping individuals achieve their employment goals through personalized support.

The Virginia Career Works provides resources and services to help individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment. Their services include career counseling, job search assistance, and connections to employers who are committed to hiring individuals with disabilities.

Goodwill of Central and Coastal Virginia offers employment services, job training programs, and support for individuals with disabilities. Their mission is to help people achieve their fullest potential through the power of work.

Easterseals UCP North Carolina & Virginia provides a variety of employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job coaching, skills training, and support for finding and keeping a job. They are dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve independence through employment.

The Arc of Northern Virginia offers employment services and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their programs include job placement, job coaching, and advocacy to ensure that individuals with disabilities can succeed in the workforce.

Virginia Association of Community Rehabilitation Programs (vaACCSES) works to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities through advocacy, training, and support services. They collaborate with various organizations to promote inclusive employment practices.

Blue Ridge Independent Living Center provides employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job search assistance, resume writing, and interview preparation. They aim to empower individuals to achieve their employment goals.

Blue Ridge Independent Living Center offers various services to promote independent living for individuals with disabilities, including peer counseling, independent living skills training, and advocacy.

Independence Resource Center provides support services to help individuals with disabilities live independently. Their programs include advocacy, independent living skills training, and information and referral services.

Disability Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area offers independent living services, including peer counseling, skills training, advocacy, and information and referral services to individuals with disabilities.

Resources for Independent Living, Inc. assists individuals with disabilities in achieving and maintaining independent lives. Their services include independent living skills training, peer counseling, and advocacy.

New River Valley Disability Resource Center provides support and services to promote independent living for individuals with disabilities, including peer support, skills training, advocacy, and information and referral.

Valley Associates for Independent Living, Inc. (VAIL) offers various services to support independent living for people with disabilities, including advocacy, peer counseling, independent living skills training, and information and referral.

Project Mend-A-House provides home repairs and modifications to ensure safe and accessible housing for individuals with disabilities, promoting independent living in their own homes.

Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS) provides statewide services to increase access to and acquisition of assistive technology for individuals with disabilities, including assessments, training, and device loans.

The Assistive Technology Loan Fund Authority (ATLFA) offers low-interest loans to individuals with disabilities and their families to purchase assistive technology devices and services that improve their quality of life.

Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center offers assistive technology services as part of their comprehensive rehabilitation programs, including evaluations, training, and equipment recommendations to support individuals with disabilities.

Virginia Rehabilitative Services Administration provides access to assistive technology through their vocational rehabilitation programs, helping individuals with disabilities achieve their employment and independent living goals.

The F.R.E.E. Foundation provides recycled and refurbished mobility and assistive technology devices to individuals with disabilities who are in need, enhancing their independence and quality of life.

Old Dominion University’s Assistive Technology Center offers a range of assistive technology services, including assessments, training, and research, to support individuals with disabilities in accessing the tools they need for education and daily living.

VCU’s Center on Transition Innovations provides resources and support for assistive technology to help students with disabilities transition from school to adulthood, including access to devices and training on their use.

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.

The Virginia Disability Determination Services (DDS) is responsible for making decisions on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability claims for residents of Virginia.

The Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission (VWC) administers the state’s workers’ compensation program, ensuring that workers receive appropriate benefits and employers comply with their legal obligations.

Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) offers financial assistance programs to support individuals with disabilities in their employment and independent living goals. This includes vocational rehabilitation services and financial aid for assistive technology.

Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Social Services provides various financial assistance programs, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), which offers financial aid to families with dependent children and individuals with disabilities.

Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) offers financial assistance for housing, including down payment assistance grants, housing choice vouchers, and other programs to help individuals with disabilities secure affordable housing.

Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher Program provides financial assistance to family caregivers of individuals with disabilities, offering respite care funding to give caregivers a temporary break from their caregiving responsibilities.

The Arc of Virginia’s Family Involvement Fund offers financial assistance to families of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping cover costs related to conferences, training, and other support services.

Brain Injury Association of Virginia provides financial assistance through their Direct Services Fund, which helps individuals with brain injuries cover costs related to medical treatment, assistive technology, and other necessary services.

Project MEND offers financial assistance for medical equipment and assistive technology to individuals with disabilities, helping them access the tools they need for daily living and mobility.

Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) offers various disability transportation services, including paratransit services and specialized transportation programs to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

ACCESS Transportation Services provides specialized transportation services for individuals with disabilities in the Hampton Roads area, offering door-to-door service to ensure safe and reliable transportation.

Richmond Paratransit offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in the Richmond metropolitan area, providing curb-to-curb transportation for those who are unable to use regular public transit.

MetroAccess is a shared-ride, door-to-door paratransit service for individuals with disabilities in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including parts of Northern Virginia, providing transportation for those who cannot use the fixed-route transit system.

Fairfax County’s FASTRAN provides specialized transportation services for individuals with disabilities in Fairfax County, offering door-to-door service for medical appointments, employment, and other essential trips.

Loudoun County Transit ADA Paratransit offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in Loudoun County, providing curb-to-curb transportation for those who meet ADA eligibility requirements.

Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) Paratransit provides paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in the Charlottesville area, ensuring accessible transportation options for those who cannot use the regular bus service.

Harrisonburg Department of Public Transportation (HDPT) Paratransit offers door-to-door paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in Harrisonburg, ensuring accessible transportation for essential trips.

Child Care Aware of Virginia provides resources and referrals for families seeking child care services for children with disabilities, ensuring they find appropriate and supportive environments.

Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia offers early intervention services for young children with disabilities, including specialized child care support to meet the unique needs of each child.

Easterseals UCP North Carolina & Virginia provides inclusive child care programs and early childhood education services for children with disabilities, promoting development and social inclusion.

Child Development Resources (CDR) offers specialized child care services and early intervention programs for children with disabilities, supporting their development and learning in inclusive settings.

The Arc of Virginia provides support and resources for families seeking child care for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them find inclusive and accommodating child care options.

YMCA of Greater Richmond offers inclusive child care programs and camps for children with disabilities, ensuring they have access to supportive and engaging environments.

United Methodist Family Services (UMFS) provides specialized child care and educational services for children with disabilities, supporting their development and inclusion in various programs.

Central Virginia Health Services offers inclusive child care services for children with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support in a nurturing environment.

Sportable offers adaptive sports and recreational programs for individuals with physical and visual disabilities in the Richmond area, promoting health, fitness, and social inclusion.

Access Adventures provides outdoor recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including adaptive sports, camping, and nature-based activities, fostering independence and adventure.

Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation offers inclusive recreational programs and activities for individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility and participation in community events and sports.

Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership (GRAP) provides adaptive swimming programs and recreational activities for individuals with disabilities, promoting water safety, fitness, and enjoyment.

Camp Easterseals UCP offers summer camps and recreational programs for children and adults with disabilities, providing inclusive and supportive environments for outdoor fun and socialization.

Charlottesville Parks and Recreation provides adaptive recreational programs and activities for individuals with disabilities, including sports, fitness classes, and social events, fostering community engagement and physical well-being.

Virginia Association for Parks offers accessible recreational opportunities in state parks, including adaptive trails, fishing, and camping facilities, ensuring individuals with disabilities can enjoy the natural beauty of Virginia.

Richmond Flying Squirrels offers accessible recreational experiences for individuals with disabilities at their baseball games, ensuring inclusive participation in sporting events and community activities.

Virginia Autism Resource Center offers support groups for individuals with autism and their families, providing a space for sharing experiences, resources, and support.

Brain Injury Association of Virginia provides support groups for individuals with brain injuries and their families, offering peer support, resources, and advocacy to help navigate life after a brain injury.

NAMI Virginia (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers various support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their families, promoting recovery, support, and education.

Multiple Sclerosis Society Virginia-West Virginia Chapter offers support groups for individuals with multiple sclerosis and their families, providing a platform for mutual support and information sharing.

Spina Bifida Association of the Mid-Atlantic Region offers support groups for individuals with spina bifida and their families, fostering community, support, and resources for managing the condition.

Down Syndrome Association of Greater Richmond provides support groups for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, offering resources, advocacy, and social connections.

Virginia Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (VAAPVI) offers support groups for families of children with visual impairments, providing resources, advocacy, and peer support.

United Spinal Association Virginia Chapter offers support groups for individuals with spinal cord injuries and disorders, promoting peer support, advocacy, and resources for living with spinal cord injuries.

Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) provides a range of housing assistance programs, including rental assistance and accessible home modification grants for individuals with disabilities to ensure safe and affordable housing.

Accessible Housing Resources, Inc. offers housing assistance and resources for individuals with disabilities, including accessible housing listings, home modification assistance, and advocacy for fair housing practices.

Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) provides various programs to assist individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining affordable housing, including the Housing Choice Voucher program and supportive housing initiatives.

Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity offers housing assistance and home modification services for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that homes are accessible and safe.

Project HOME (Housing Opportunities Made Equal) provides housing assistance and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, helping them find accessible and affordable housing and ensuring fair housing practices.

Arlington County Housing Choice Voucher Program offers rental assistance for individuals with disabilities through the Housing Choice Voucher program, ensuring they have access to affordable and accessible housing options.

The Arc of Northern Virginia provides housing assistance and resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them find and maintain accessible and supportive housing.

Community Residences, Inc. offers supportive housing and residential services for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing options.

Virginia Department of Education’s Special Education Services provides resources and support for students with disabilities, including individualized education programs (IEPs), specialized instruction, and related services to ensure access to a free and appropriate public education.

Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) offers training, information, and support to parents of children with disabilities, helping them navigate the special education system and advocate for their children’s educational needs.

Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind (VSDB) provides specialized education services for students with hearing and vision impairments, offering a comprehensive educational program tailored to their unique needs.

The Arc of Virginia’s Special Education Advocacy supports families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing resources, advocacy, and assistance in securing appropriate educational services and accommodations.

Old Dominion University (ODU) Special Education Program offers educational services and resources for students with disabilities, including teacher preparation programs, research, and community outreach to support inclusive education.

George Mason University (GMU) Special Education Programs provides comprehensive educational services, including degree programs, research, and support services for students with disabilities, promoting inclusive practices and effective teaching strategies.

James Madison University (JMU) Special Education Services offers educational services and support for students with disabilities, including specialized instruction, research, and teacher preparation programs focused on inclusive education.

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Center for Family Involvement provides support and resources for families of children with disabilities, including educational advocacy, training, and information to help navigate the special education system.

Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) provides healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including mental health services, developmental services, and substance abuse treatment programs.

Virginia Health Care Foundation offers programs to increase access to healthcare for uninsured and underserved Virginians, including those with disabilities, through partnerships with clinics and healthcare providers.

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Health System provides specialized healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including rehabilitation, pediatric services, and chronic disease management.

UVA Health offers comprehensive healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including specialized medical care, rehabilitation, and support services through the University of Virginia’s healthcare system.

Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU provides specialized healthcare services for children with disabilities, including medical care, rehabilitation, and developmental services.

Sentara Healthcare offers a range of healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including medical care, rehabilitation, and support services across its network of hospitals and clinics.

Carilion Clinic provides healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including primary care, specialized medical care, and rehabilitation services in the Western Virginia region.

Bon Secours Health System offers comprehensive healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including medical care, rehabilitation, and chronic disease management across its facilities.

Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) provides vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, including job readiness training, skills development, and supported employment services.

Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center (WWRC) offers comprehensive vocational training and rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, including career assessment, job training, and support services.

Goodwill of Central and Coastal Virginia offers vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, including job skills training, career coaching, and employment placement services.

Easterseals UCP North Carolina & Virginia provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job coaching, skills training, and supported employment.

Virginia Career Works offers vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job search assistance, training programs, and support services.

The Choice Group provides vocational training and supported employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job coaching, skills training, and career development support.

Community Alternatives, Inc. offers vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job readiness training, skills development, and supported employment.

Chesterfield Employment Services provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job skills training, career coaching, and supported employment.

Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) offers a range of mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including community-based mental health support, crisis intervention, and outpatient services.

NAMI Virginia (National Alliance on Mental Illness) provides support groups, educational programs, and advocacy for individuals with mental health conditions and their families, promoting recovery and mental wellness.

Region Ten Community Services Board offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, case management, crisis intervention, and psychiatric services in the Charlottesville area.

Richmond Behavioral Health Authority (RBHA) provides comprehensive mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including outpatient therapy, crisis stabilization, and community support services in the Richmond area.

Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including emergency services, outpatient therapy, and case management in the Fairfax area.

Arlington County Behavioral Healthcare provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and psychiatric services in Arlington County.

Horizon Behavioral Health offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including counseling, crisis intervention, and community support services in the Lynchburg and surrounding areas.

Henrico Area Mental Health & Developmental Services provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including outpatient therapy, case management, and crisis services in Henrico County.

Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) provides a wide range of vision services for individuals with disabilities, including vocational rehabilitation, independent living skills training, and adaptive technology services.

Lions Club of Virginia offers vision services, including eye exams, eyeglasses, and support for individuals with visual impairments through various community programs and initiatives.

The Hadley School for the Blind provides distance education and learning resources for individuals with visual impairments, helping them develop skills for independent living and personal enrichment.

Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic offers vision health services, including screenings, education, and resources to prevent blindness and preserve sight for individuals with visual impairments.

The Center for the Visually Impaired provides comprehensive services for individuals with visual impairments, including orientation and mobility training, adaptive technology, and low vision services.

EyeCare America offers free eye exams and medical care for individuals with visual impairments through volunteer ophthalmologists across Virginia.

Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired (VRCBVI) provides specialized training and rehabilitation services for individuals with visual impairments, including orientation and mobility, braille instruction, and independent living skills.

Blind Veterans Association offers support and vision rehabilitation services to veterans with visual impairments, including adaptive technology training, orientation and mobility, and peer support programs.

Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (VDDHH) provides a range of services for individuals with hearing impairments, including communication access, technology assistance, and advocacy.

Virginia Hearing Aid Loan Bank offers hearing aid loans for children under the age of 18, providing access to hearing aids for families who may not be able to afford them.

Hearing Loss Association of America – Virginia Chapters provides support, advocacy, and resources for individuals with hearing impairments, including information on hearing aids, cochlear implants, and communication strategies.

Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind (VSDB) offers educational and support services for students with hearing impairments, including specialized instruction, audiology services, and communication support.

Auditory Verbal Center of Virginia provides auditory-verbal therapy and support services for individuals with hearing impairments, focusing on developing listening and spoken language skills.

Virginia Relay offers telecommunications services for individuals with hearing impairments, including text relay, video relay, and captioned telephone services, ensuring accessible communication.

Children’s Hearing and Speech Center at Children’s National Hospital provides comprehensive hearing services for children with hearing impairments, including audiology evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and speech therapy.

Hearing Health Foundation supports individuals with hearing impairments through research, advocacy, and educational resources, focusing on improving hearing health and access to hearing services.

Virginia Department of Education’s Speech-Language Services offers speech-language pathology services within public schools, providing assessments, therapy, and support for students with speech and language impairments.

Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU provides comprehensive speech and language services for children with disabilities, including evaluations, individual therapy, and group therapy sessions.

University of Virginia (UVA) Speech-Language-Hearing Center offers a range of speech and language services for individuals with disabilities, including diagnostics, therapy, and specialized programs.

Old Dominion University Speech and Hearing Clinic provides speech and language services, including evaluations, individualized therapy, and group therapy for individuals with speech and language disorders.

The Faison Center offers speech and language services for individuals with autism and related disabilities, providing assessments, therapy, and support to improve communication skills.

Speech and Language Center of Northern Virginia provides speech and language therapy services for individuals with disabilities, including evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and specialized therapy programs.

Communication Therapy Center offers speech and language services, including evaluations, therapy, and support for individuals with speech and language disorders, focusing on improving communication skills.

Hampton Roads Speech and Hearing Center provides speech and language services for individuals with disabilities, including diagnostic evaluations, therapy, and specialized programs to enhance communication abilities.

Virginia Autism Resource Center provides a variety of services for individuals with autism, including resources, training, and support for families and professionals.

The Faison Center offers comprehensive autism services, including early intervention, educational programs, behavioral therapy, and residential services for individuals with autism.

Blue Ridge Autism and Achievement Center (BRAAC) provides educational and therapeutic services for children with autism, focusing on individualized education plans and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.

Autism Society of Northern Virginia (ASNV) offers support, advocacy, and resources for individuals with autism and their families, including support groups, workshops, and community events.

Commonwealth Autism provides services and support for individuals with autism, including diagnosis, therapy, educational support, and professional training programs.

The Autism Center of Virginia (TACV) offers diagnostic services, therapy, and support for individuals with autism, as well as resources and training for families and professionals.

Virginia Institute of Autism (VIA) provides a range of services for individuals with autism, including early intervention, school-based programs, outpatient services, and adult services.

Richmond Autism Integration Network (RAIN) offers social skills groups, recreational activities, and support services for individuals with autism, focusing on community integration and social development.