This comprehensive online guide helps families make future plans for a family member with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

As autism awareness has grown dramatically in recent years, many young adults and adults have learned the signs and felt there may be a connection between their feelings and behaviors and the symptoms of autism.

“Is It Autism and If So, What Next? A Guide for Adults” was designed to help adults who suspect they may have autism, as well as those recently diagnosed with the disorder. This kit will provide an overview of autism to help you better understand the disorder and will hopefully clarify whether you should seek out a professional for a thorough evaluation.

Fun game that teaches about physics.

WayFinder 3 is an accessible Garmin or TomTom, and it helps people with intellectual disabilities to travel safely, whether by bus or on foot. The traveler simply taps on the picture of their desired destination and WayFinder 3 takes over from there.

If you believe this app would be effective for your family (or student) but find it is too costly, there are opportunities available for financial assistance, including your local Board of Developmental Disabilities. Contact our Helpdesk for more information.

An online book written specifically for adults who are newly diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. It covers several topics, including a definition of autism, how to learn to live with autism, what it means for their future, and how to self-advocate.

This book was written with assistance from the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD), The Arc, Autism Now!, and the Autistic Self advocacy Network (ASAN).

9th Planet produces engaging social skill modeling videos and ready-to-use teaching plans for ASD teens and young adults. Lessons use a story thread about a young man (Tad Shy) from the 9th Planet who is learning social skills on this planet.

Teaching plans include include role play, improvisation, social stories and student production activities. Lessons may be used in individual or small group formats.

A young man on the Spectrum is the key actor and editor on the videos. Topics include a wide range of social skills, including personal space, empathetic listening and recognizing false friends.

Videos are produced by a creative team of teaching, animation and production professionals.

The goal of the RideWise Program is to promote the independent travel of older adults and people with disabilities by providing free access to training and support. This guide was created to cover a wide range of topics related to travel using a fixed-route transportation system.

Read the guide here.

An inclusive community working to strengthen the individual and social needs of persons with all types of abilities. They offer assistance with leisure skills, employment skills and independent living support.

The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) published this guide. The Office of Special Education Programs (along with partners in the Rehabilitation Services Administration) has issued this guide to advance efforts in ensuring that all students and youth with disabilities are equipped with the skills and knowledge to be engaged in the 21st century workforce.

This transition guide addresses the following topics to facilitate a seamless transition from school to post-school activities:
Transition planning: opportunities and programs
Transition services and requirements, as authorized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Rehabilitation Act;
Education and employment options for students and youth with disabilities after leaving secondary school; Supporting decisions made by students and youth with disabilities.

This service is only available to students enrolled in Notre Dame College. In addition to traditional degree opportunities, the ASC offers a non-degree granting program that gives aid to future college success.

Non-residential center for independent living whose board and staff are comprised almost entirely of people with disabilities.

Offering advocacy, information and referral, independent living skills training, peer support, a recycled durable medical equipment program and assisting in transitioning individuals from institutional settings to community living.

Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida outside of Miami, Nova Southeastern University’s Access Plus Support Programs, designed for students with ASD, provides support to allow them to succeed on campus, academically and socially.

Behavioral and Educational Consulting across all settings
– BCBA Independent Supervision
– Individual consulting across settings (for those outside of Cuyahoga County or when not eligible for CCBDD Services)
– ADA Programming and positive supports for businesses

Helping others achieve life outcomes.

Services are not covered by insurance, however they will begin accepting CareSource as of December 27, 2017.

Ace Taxi is MEDICAID APPROVED and work with certified, compassionate drivers that are specifically trained to transport all riders from children to seniors with all types of physical, development and mental conditions.

The mission of the Achievement Centers for Children is to enable and empower children with disabilities and their families to grow, learn, play and prepare for lifelong achievement in society. The agency serves children from birth through adulthood, with a special focus on children from birth through age five.

Their unique, comprehensive service model weaves together education and autism services, therapy services and Intensive Therapy Clinic, and family support services to meet the needs of the entire family and provide the best outcomes.

Achievement Centers has a wide range of summer programs and camps for both children and adults, that range from residential camp (“overnight” camp) to day camps, sports and recreation programs, horseback therapeutic programs, and weekend respite camps. Visit their website for more information.

Customized social, recreational and educational activities in a unique outdoor environment at Camp Cheerful in Strongsville. Includes horsemanship activities, cooking, gardening and landscaping, exercise and sports, community activities, arts and crafts, and field trips.

Monday – Friday, 9 am – 3 pm, with an optional supervised social time from 3-5:00 pm.

In collaboration with the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

A school serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade on the West Side in Westlake, Ohio.

They are an alternative public school option, with many local school districts referring and transporting their students to the Achievement Centers. The curriculum is aligned with Ohio’s K-8 Academic Content Standards.

A six-week summer program to complete the 12-month educational and therapeutic focus is included in the yearly tuition.

In-home personal trainers servicing those enduring special needs and their families. All of the staff are certified and experienced with a few trainers having degrees as intervention specialists.

They work with individuals over the age of 18 in parts of Lake, Geauga, and Cuyahoga counties.

Adolescent Healthcare Transition assists youth, parents, physicians, and other providers in the transition and transfer of youth with special healthcare needs from pediatric to adult healthcare.

Several booklets, articles and checklists help guide adolescents and their parents to help work towards transition.

This web site has information and worksheets for adults on the autism spectrum, supporters, and healthcare providers. It focuses on primary healthcare, or healthcare with a regular doctor.

The resources on this site are meant to improve the healthcare of autistic adults. The resources on this site are meant to improve the healthcare of autistic adults. They were made by the Academic-Autistic Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education (AASPIRE) through a series of research studies funded by the National Institute of Mental Health.

This tool kit provides basic information on advocacy and negotiation skills. The information in this kit has been provided by experts in the field who have both professional and personal experience with advocacy and autism.

One-on-one sessions teach individuals of all ages to have an enthusiasm to learn and to help them become more successful students.

Individual instruction for all ages in reading, math, study skills, college and graduate test preparation, and kindergarten readiness classes.

Akron Rotary Camp offers several respite programs throughout the year as well as summer day and overnight camps. They serve ages 6-adulthood. The goals are to increase camper’s independence and self-esteem; develop social skills; and to further strengthen the family unit by providing a safe, fun and nurturing environment for individuals with disabilities.

Weekend respite– Campers arrive on Friday evening and stay through Sunday morning. Throughout the weekend campers enjoy traditional camp activities, as well as special seasonal ones.

Adult respite getaway weekend– These are structured like the weekend respite program, but with the adult camper in mind.

Day respite– These respite groups provide a chance for children with special needs an opportunity to interact with well trained staff and engage in fun and developmentally appropriate camp activities.

School’s out respite– Developed to provide families with a place to send their campers when they don’t have school during winter break. Campers of any age are welcome.

Summer overnight camp– Children and adults with disabilities learn new skills, develop friendships, and gain independence through this one week overnight experience. Ages 6-17

Summer day camps– Campers enjoy traditional camp activities, while spending each night at home. Various locations.

Sibling summer camp– For one week the siblings of campers, ages 6-17, get to spend a week at camp. Typically developing campers will leave camp with a new appreciation for their brother or sister, and also find more ways to help their sibling with the challenges they may face every day.

Visit the Rotary Camp website or search their Event Calendar for current dates and rates.

An integrated sports program for individuals with or without disabilities where everyone, regardless of ability, is encouraged to participate on the field of athletic competition. Sports include bowling, football, cross country, basketball, track & field, soccer, bocce and golf. ATC is a sanctioned Special Olympics organization. Funding may be available to cover the cost of participation.

Visit the All-Star Training Club website or search our Event Calendar for current program schedule.

The Access Pass is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. This is a lifetime pass that allows free admission to those with permanent disabilities to the National Parks system where there is an access charge. Documentation is required to obtain the pass. The pass is available to individuals ages 16 and above. (Children under the age of 16 are permitted into National Parks at no cost.)

Information on AAPD’s paid summer internships for college students with disabilities in political science and information technology. Interns work for national government representatives and departments.

In addition to seeing patients at this address, Dr. Amin also works with individuals through the Signature Health, (formerly Connections). Please see the Signature Health listing for further contact information.

Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and CareSource insurance plans.

Provides an easy-to-use way for a nonverbal person with autism and motor planning issues to communicate with those around him/her. It has two, large, color-coordinated buttons…one for yes, and one for no. Press either, and you will hear a voice read your selection.

It also has the ability to create custom button pages which will allow the user to place custom text and pictures on buttons, record custom audio to play when the custom buttons are selected, and save up to 30 custom button pairs.

Offers guardianship services to residents of Ohio, ages 18 and over, who have a disability.

Art Therapy is the creative expression that can give people valuable tools that give voice to their emotional experiences, move beyond personal boundaries toward understanding, and greater self esteem. This art process will provide self-discovery through creative work which may be liberating, as you are encouraged to create whatever comes to your mind and follow your own artistic and emotional instincts.

Technical skill is irrelevant; the value in art therapy comes not from a visually impressive finished product, but from the creative process and intent.

Art therapy sessions in a real art studio for ages 6+, art supplies included in all fees

Four locations available: Fairhill, MetroHealth Center, Rivers Edge and Ursuline College.

Financial aid available

ArtWorks encourages students both to excel in school and to aspire to higher education. It is an arts-based job training and college readiness program for Northeast Ohio’s 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students.

Students are enrolled as paid apprentices to train under the guidance of master teaching artists, who mentor them in an art form while teaching them 21st century skills. The apprenticeship experience allows students to develop time management, professional communication, problem solving, and critical thinking skills, which are transferable to any workplace or college. Students also participate in workshops that focus on financial literacy, resume writing, financial aid applications, and interview skills.

All apprentices will have the opportunity to perform and/or exhibit their work for the public, and will leave the program with a portfolio that can be used when applying to college.

Sessions are offered both during the school year and over summer break.

This program supports college students with ASD in reaching their full potential. Varying levels of academic, social and residential support are designed to aid students in meeting their personal and professional goals.

Services provided include meetings three times a week to assist with development of these skills, a required weekly four hours of study in the program’s building, group meetings every other week, one-on-one discussions with a mentor to help the student adjust to college, and help with seeking employment following graduation.

To be accepted to the program, a student must have a diagnosis of high-functioning Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, or Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and should be able to provide supporting documentation.

Click here for their brochure.

Provides vocational skills training and employment by contracting with many local companies for light assembly and packaging work.

Offers a variety of school services for children with developmental disabilities from birth to 21, including Early Intervention, Preschool, and School Age services.

Adult Services include employment assistance,community support, supported living/waiver services, investigative support, family support and transportation services.

Asperger Experts is based out of Seattle, Washington and is a group that enlivens, empowers and educates people with Asperger’s, their families, and the communities in which they live. It is staffed by parents, people with Asperger’s, and professionals dedicated to serving and assisting others through sharing knowledge and building communities.

The core of their work focuses on planning, producing and distributing highly transformational courses, as well as creating and managing online communities for people with Asperger’s and their parents.

The group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month from 7 – 8:00 p.m. for folks 12 and up. Parents and or family members/friends may also attend the group.
Each week they explore a different social skills topic such as small talk and why it is important, reading vocal or body language cues for better communication, how to become an active listener and much more through using hand outs, role playing and discussion.
The group is free with free parking at the Quirk Cultural Center, 1201 Grant Avenue, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, 44223.

She can work with couples one on one as needed.

A non-profit group focused on helping parents and people with high functioning autism. Volunteers serve people in Summit, Stark, Portage, Wayne, Medina and parts of Cuyahoga counties. Parent support groups and adult support groups are available in Akron. The adult group also organizes social events.

Visit the ASPIES website or search our Event Calendar for upcoming meeting dates.

A day habilitation program for “adults with capabilities” in both the Toledo and Cleveland areas. Adults in the program have the opportunity to volunteer within the community, along with developing social relationships and learning new skills.

They also offer an after school program and personal home maker services.

A grass roots, consumer-controlled organization consisting of centers for independent living, their satellites and branch offices, statewide independent living councils, and other organizations working on issues of importance to people with disabilities living in rural America.

A vocational school in Lake County

The Autism Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC provides evaluations, referral coordination and support, and treatment options for young children suspected to have an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Online discussion forum that reports news and includes submitted personal experiences on how best to deal with the daily challenges of autism.

The Asperger Initiative at Mercyhurst (AIM) is designed for students who, while exhibiting superior intellectual ability, face challenges in executive functioning and social interactions. They offer academic support, social support and counseling support, as well as vocational support.

A resource website for individuals with autism and other disabilities. It covers home life, school and employment issues, all to help with self-advocacy.

This organization helps individuals on the autism spectrum with social groups and provides coaching for employment, independent living and other teen and adult related needs (ages 14+).

A monthly Asperger’s Adult Support group is available for adults with Asperger’s to socialize and discuss pertinent issues in their lives. Meetings are held at the Rocky River library and Beachwood library. The group also organizes occasional social events. They also host a monthly mindfulness event for individuals with autism. Each event will take place at a different location. Reservations are required to attend.

In addition, Autism Personal Coach offers a PARENT support group, dates and topics vary. Reservations are required to attend.

Visit the ASPIES website or search our Event Calendar for upcoming meeting dates.

Chapter of the Autism Society of America.

Offers support and information for families from diagnosis to adulthood through family support, seminars, community training and social opportunities for those affected with ASD. They also hold monthly parent support groups.

Offers a summer camp called S.T.A.R. (Students Together Achieving Respect), that serves all individuals with any type of disability. Camp is staffed with intervention specialists, a movement specialist and college interns. It blends academic, recreational and social skills lessons to promote individual camper growth. The camp is for individuals aged 3 to 22. Offers ESY opportunities as well.

The Autism Society of Ohio is a chapter of the national Autism Society and has it’s 501c3 non-profit status under the umbrella of the national Autism Society.

It is dedicated to improving the lives of all affected by autism in Ohio through information and referral, family support, advocacy, professional development, raising awareness and resource development.

The program provides access services for autistic students that can lead to successful academic outcomes while providing educational opportunities that increase self-knowledge in the areas of executive functioning, self-regulation, social interaction, self-advocacy and career preparation.

Program components include regular meetings with a peer mentor, a Career Prep class every academic period with other ASN students, meetings with parents each quarter per the student’s approval, campus awareness training, and events with other members of the program.

Support network website that offers information, a blog, social network opportunities and online support for women with autism and their families.

Autism2Work provides workforce training and employment opportunities for adults who have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum. The program primarily supports semi-skilled to high functioning individuals who are eager to enter a work environment that values their contributions and supports their needs.

They can help to remove the barriers a “Traditional Interview” can present and provide a ‘get to know’ experience emphasizing ability and skill. They also provide awareness training to other employers where individuals will be employed.

Website that offers a comprehensive guide for transitioning teens to adulthood.

Advocacy group that organizes an online community of adults and youths with autism.

A picture-based communication app developed for children who are nonverbal. Avaz grows with the child to develop literacy. It is the only app that tracks therapy sessions to help you measure the child’s progress.

Speech and language services are provided to families free of charge by student clinicians from BW’s communication sciences & disorders undergraduate major and speech-language pathology graduate program. Sessions are generally scheduled on a weekly basis and are offered year-round, including summer.

Diagnostic evaluation, speech & Language and hearing screenings are also available.

Students work under the supervision of licensed speech-language pathologists who are certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and licensed by the Ohio Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology.

Set in the inclusive university environment of Concordia University of Wisconsin, Bethesda College is a two-year program designed to meet the higher education needs of students with intellectual, developmental, and other complex disabilities. It gives students with disabilities the ability to experience the full range of college learning and life and provides a “blended” model of instruction centered on the intellectual, vocational, social, personal, and spiritual growth of students. Our goal is simple: to prepare students for independent adult living.

A recreation service company for adults with Developmental Disabilities (DD) that offers exciting trips to fun community locations, in hopes of bringing people with DD together for friendships and to set the stage for creating an active social life. Trips include meals, lodging, transportation, activity costs, 1:3 chaperone supervision, and a photo book mailed to you after the trip.

For adults with disabilities who are unable to travel, they offer a new Virtual Travel program called Virtual Tours Vacation Boxes. It allows anyone with a developmental disability to experience the thrills of traveling through the eyes of our tour guide, Bob. Your trip includes a thirty minute video, plus keepsakes and fun souvenirs from the city/cities you select.

Also known as Betty’s Farm, they offer:

Friday Night Fun & Social Living Club
These group sessions include hands-on activities for families and individuals to learn and develop social skills. Funding for is private pay or Medicaid waiver.

The Day Program serves individuals ages 18 and older who benefit from the structure and support offered in a habilitation and prevocational training model. The program offers many opportunities for developing social and vocational skills through community-based volunteering, creative arts, fiber arts, woodworking, horticulture, social skill development and janitorial job training activities.

Summer Enrichment Program
This up to 6 week program is individualized to meet the needs of Extended School Year funding while also providing the recreational experience of a traditional summer camp.

Adult Day Habilitation Program for Adults coordinates volunteer opportunities in the community for adults with autism spectrum disorders.

Day Programming
Arrays of services are offered for adults to meet the individual needs of each person including habilitation and pre-vocational activities. Services are offered Monday through Friday.

Alternative school program for ages 12 – 22, Summer Enrichment (Extended School Year plus summer camp activities), adult day program, and community living services. Applicants must be a resident of the state of Ohio and must have an autism diagnosis.

Waivers accepted.

Residential services, adult day programs, independent living services, affordable housing, and respite for adults over age 18 with autism. Applicants must be a resident of the state of Ohio.

They offer a Social Living Club with weekly activities that includes non-residents.

The Summer Enrichment Program has been serving adolescents with autism for 18 years on the 80-acre Bittersweet Farms campus in Whitehouse, Ohio. Participation in the program is also offered through our Pemberville and Lima locations.

Waivers accepted.

Veteran Blue Ribbon coach and advocate Sandy Ellis teaches the basics of boxing and some self defense skills. It is non-contact, but students will learn how to throw a punch, a jab, a right hand, uppercuts and hooks using special coaching mitts as targets. Boxing is great for self-confidence and is a great physical opportunity for those not comfortable with team sports. For teens and adults ages 15 and up.

The Bridges to Adelphi Program offers individualized comprehensive academic, social, and vocational services that are designed to make that transition easier.

An online interest form is available at bridges.adelphi.edu/inquire

Free membership website that is a program of Easter Seals Greater Houston. It provides information about and access to educational and therapeutic tools for mobile devices. The site provides caregivers and professionals with the best resources for choosing apps to enhance everyday life for people with disabilities.The site was created by parents and therapists who began using the iPad with children who have special needs.

Speech language pathologists and occupational therapists created an app review system for the site that focuses on skills rather than age, diagnosis or developmental level to help improve outcomes for a person with a disability.

Practices Family Medicine

Accepts Medicaid insurance

A week-long camp experience for adults 18+ with developmental disabilities. Held at Camp Wise in Chardon, Ohio, campers participate in traditional camp activities including boating, crafts, dancing, swimming and climbing.

Camp Cheerful offers residential co-ed sessions in a beautiful outdoor environment for children and adults ages 7 and older with and without special needs. Camp activities are designed to meet the individual interests and needs of campers of all abilities, and programs promote self-confidence, independence and friendship in a beautiful outdoor environment.

Overnight weekend camp for children and adults with autism and special needs. Activities include sports, campfires, dances, arts & crafts, recreation, and nature and sensory hikes. There is a 4:1 camper to staff ratio, and a nurse is available at camp 24 hours per day.

Respite weekends are offered one weekend every month, Sept. – May for individuals 7 years and older, including adults. Registration deadline for each weekend session is one week prior to the start date of that session.

A grant is available for self-pay families to offset a portion of the fees. Camp Cheerful is a waiver provider: IO, Level 1 and SELF Waivers are accepted.

Horsemanship sessions are tailored for children and adults with physical, mental and emotional strengths and limitations. This year-round program is taught by instructors certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship Int’l. in a heated arena. The sensory trail in the woods of Camp Cheerful was designed especially for riders with autism.

The use of the horse and equine-oriented activities are incorporated to achieve a variety of therapeutic goals, including cognitive, physical, emotional, social, educational and behavioral goals.

A variety of programs and exciting activities for all ages including persons with disabilities.

Christopher Discovery Overnight Camp — Available for as little as one week or up to the entire summer. Campers stay in ramped, dormitory style cabins segregated by gender.
direct contact: (330) 334-2900

SumFun Day Camp — A multi-week summer day program based on school calendar for children with special needs, ages 5 though 21 who qualify for services through their local county board of developmental disabilities.
direct contact: (330) 376-2267

Community Respite — Participants must be 13 years old to attend. Available Friday evening to Sunday morning, one weekend per month. While most participants stay for the entire weekend, participants are not required to stay for the entire weekend.

Shuttle services are provided at various locations in Summit County.

Medicaid, IO Waiver, Level 1 Waiver, Family Support Services, ESY, private pay and other options are available.

Courageous Community Services (Formerly known as Camp Courageous) serves children and adults with developmental disabilities, ages 15 and up. The residential camps begin Sunday afternoon and run through Friday morning. They provide a residential summer camp program that fosters socialization and independence, while allowing campers to experience the outdoors.

Weekend respite camps include all of the fun of a Residential Camp packed into a weekend. Campers arrive Friday afternoon and stay until Sunday morning. During the summer, campers are welcome to attend either Residential Camp before or after a Respite Weekend (or stay the whole 2 weeks).

They accept Individual Options,Level One or Self Waivers and private pay.

For kids, young adults and adults starting at age 7.
This is a Christian-based camp that offers 1 week sessions, each week catering to a different age range.
Cost of camp varies by week. Partial scholarships are available based on camper and family needs. The camp accepts SELF, IO and Homecare waivers.

See website for detailed camp schedule.

An educational, training and resource facility for children and young adults with autism and their families. It serves students ages kindergarten (age 5) through age 21. The focus is on academics, behavior, social skills, communication and language development, independent living, and pre-vocational and community skills.

Offers comprehensive, multidisciplinary care focusing on evidence based treatment, education, research and advocacy for children with the diagnosis of an ASD, from first diagnosis through age 22.

Services include:
Intensive Behavioral Intervention (ABA)
Behavioral Consultation
School Support Services
Asperger’s Counseling Services
Asperger’s Social Skills Groups
Parent Training

In addition there are therapy, diagnosis and counseling services available through other hospital departments.

Accepts all commercial insurance, waivers, Autism Scholarship, private pay, Medicaid and Medicare insurance.

They support children, adults, and families who face abuse, grief, neglect, trauma, and mental health challenges. Specialties include early childhood, trauma, ADHD, mood/anxiety disorders, co-occurring disorders, sexual behavior problems, and adult services.

Services include: Individual, group, family therapy, and services for younger children. Respite, case management, intensive home-based therapy, assessments for children, 24-hour emergency services for clients, F.I.R.S.T Program for older adolescents and young adults with early onset psychosis.

If a family member is in crisis, you can text the keyword “4HOPE” to 741741 and expect a reply from a trained Crisis Counselor within five minutes. The message is confidential, anonymous and secure.

Several locations available throughout Summit County.

This app creates daily schedules and waiting picture boards. It will help children complete daily routines (morning, day, & night), assist in understanding & controling their feelings and improve their waiting skills (taking turns and not interrupting). Appropriate both for use at home and at school, and it offers many ways to customize.

It includes an image library with 180 common images, each accompanied with audio. You can also add and record your own images.

Churchill Public Adjusters is offering students who have a loved one with autism or a student themselves that are faced with the effects of autism a $5,800 scholarship through their foundation. The deadline is December 29, 2018.

Students with high academic achievements must meet two essential categories:

1. A form of autism diagnosed either in your immediate family or yourself
2. Current enrollment or acceptance in a college or university for a post-graduate level or undergraduate level by the applicant

In addition to the above criteria, a 500 to 1000-word essay must be submitted. Topics are listed on their website link.

The KAP Circle of Support provides four major areas of assistance: private room, study tables mentoring and socials. The theoretical framework for KAP is Social Information Processing Theory and Executive Function Skill Development.

They provide educational, spiritual, pastoral, sacramental, catechetical, camps, social and recreational programs.

The mission is to assist people with cognitive and other developmental disabilities and physical disabilities to understand, develop and live out their lives as completely as possible within the Church and the larger community.

Camp Happiness is a summer program for children and young adults ages 5-21 with cognitive and other developmental disabilities, regardless of race, religion, culture or economic background.
They offer social and recreational activities, as well as skill enhancement. Participants also go swimming and on community field trips. Camp locations are in Parma and Wickliffe. Some financial assistance is available.

Their very popular Monthly Dance/Social offers persons of all abilities, ages 16 and over only, the opportunity to learn social skills and form friendships. Dances are held on the second Friday of the month, from 7-9pm. They take place at the OLA-St. Joseph Center, 2346 West 14th Street, in Cleveland. Entry for $3 dollars a person.
Call (216)334-2963 for more information, or visit their website.

Offers neuropsychological assessments and speech and language therapies for children and adults.

Satellite offices located in Lorain, South Euclid, and Broadview Heights. Westlake satellite office to open Fall, 2018.

Accepts Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance and private pay.

Use the branch search on the library’s main website to determine the branch closest to you and for their class schedules.

This organization is part of the National Jewish Council for Disabilities.
They offer programs for teens and young adults with disabilities on a monthly basis, including socializing at a local synagogue, weekend retreats and holiday parties.

Use the branch search on the library’s main website to determine the branch closest to you and for their class schedules.

Provides advocacy, mediation and legal assistance for people in Ohio who are working with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities’ Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR) or Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI) in pursuit of an employment goal.

One-on-one tutoring in the student’s home. All subjects available, from pre-K through adult. College test prep programs also available.

Locations available throughout the US and Canada.

Akron Contact:
Tammy Esmaili, (330) 722-7890
PO Box 582
Sharon Center, OH 44274
tesmaili@Clubztutoring.com

Join them for new support groups for autism parents and caregivers.
The evening group will meet on the first Wednesday evening of each month at 6:30pm at Panera in Austintown.
The morning group will meet on the third Thursday morning of each month at 9:30am at Crumbles Bakery in Youngstown.

The group will be led by Kesha Lampley, caregiver of a child on the autism spectrum.

Cogswell Hall houses and serves low income men and women struggling with mental illness, development and physical disabilities, substance abuse, and the effects of homelessness and trauma.

Residents pay 30% of their income toward rent and, by signing a lease, have the rights and responsibilities of any renter. Residents can make Cogswell Hall their home on a short term basis or permanently as it fits their needs.

A social group that offers classes several times a year for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Any individual eligible for Summit DD services can participate in College for Living classes. Course offerings are listed in a brochure that is distributed quarterly. Participants are able to register for multiple classes.

CIP is one of the most comprehensive programs in the world for assisting young adults on the autism spectrum and with learning differences to succeed in college, employment, and independent living. CIP’s mission is to inspire independence and expand the foundation on which young adults can build happy and productive lives.

They offer:
– Full Year programs
– Summer@CIP programs
– Mploy: job readiness programs
– Workbooks and resources for parents

For individuals ages 16 to 26. Some services may be covered by insurance or public assistance. Families are encouraged to check with their insurance companies and with public assistance agencies to understand what coverage may be available.

5 Locations across the USA :
– Lee, Massachusetts
– Brevard, Florida
– Bloomington, Indiana
– Berkeley, California
– Long Beach, California
International students are welcome!

CLE can support students with unique learning needs and help them with college, independent living, career development, academics, and social skills. There are several offices available nationwide, all located close to secondary learning institutions.

Database website that allows you to search for colleges by state, area of study, level of degree, cost, and several other factors. The site also offers statistics on individual schools for informational purposes.

This site was created by the US Department of Education.

The College Success Program for Students Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder provides targeted support, practical knowledge, and cultural awareness to students living with Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is designed to maximize students’ potential as they live and learn within a caring Christian community.

An online guide for college-bound students about finances and budgeting, as well as how to apply for grants.

Informational website that offers information specifically for students with special needs. It discusses a student’s rights, how to acquire scholarships, and preparing for college. It also offers advice for families on choosing the right school and the keys to a student’s success.

Provides the following:

– Comprehensive Speech-Language & Educational Services (Preschool through Adulthood)
– Diagnostic Evaluations for all ages
– Individual & Group Therapy
– Socialization & Literacy Book Clubs
– Assistive Technology
– College Success Planning
– Communication Based Behavioral Interventions
– Educational & Agency Consultations & Professional Training

The Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institution is looking for high-functioning individuals age 21 and over with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as healthy volunteers to participate in a research study. They are looking at how to improve communication and social skills by training people to imagine themselves participating in social tasks.

As a volunteer for the study, you will complete some questionnaires and tasks to get an idea of your baseline functioning, including some autism specific tests, EEGs, and MRI. These will be repeated after training to see if there was any change as a result of the training. Next, you will participate in six brain-training sessions at NASA Glenn Research Center. There, they have a room designed for virtual reality experiences that make you feel like you’re entirely surrounded/involved in the activities you’re watching (called the GRUVE lab). You can read about the GRUVE lab here.

During several training sessions, they will record your brain activity by placing a cap on your head that picks up brain waves (called an EEG). Your brain activity will also be evaluated before and after training using MRI, a completely painless imaging machine that lets them see how your brain is working while you’re performing certain tasks.

Adults with developmental delays can participate in a weekly Jewish program on Sunday mornings.

Practice serving Northwestern Ohio containing psychiatrists, counselors and social workers who have extensive experience in Child/ Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry.

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Note that this resource offers a therapy that is not evidence-based. Milestones only promotes evidence-based therapies, and we encourage anyone who is not familiar with what those therapies are to contact our Helpdesk.

The Comprehensive Care Program sees patients with a variety of chronic health problems, including developmental delays and intellectual disabilities. They cover all aspects of care, from basic physical exams to accessing community services. Each patient is assigned an RN Care Coordinator, who helps with coordinating appointments and helps the patient (and their family) find any resources they may need.

The MetroHealth Autism Assessment Clinic (MAAC) evaluates developmental and behavior concerns, including autism. People meet one-on-one with a comprehensive care physician who is board-certified in neurodevelopmental disabilities and behavioral pediatrics. The Behavior Assessment Clinic is typically held once a month.

Your child doesn’t have to be a patient of the Comprehensive Care Program or a MetroHealth patient to use MAAC. You can just make an appointment, or you can get a referral from your child’s doctor. After you schedule your first appointment, a care coordinator will contact you.

There are Spanish-speaking professionals available. Hay profesionales de habla hispana disponibles.

A  Cleveland-area website  that fosters one-on-one friendships and relationships between disabled individuals, beginning at age 18.

In order to view the membership directory, one first has to contact Craig Matis, the website coordinator at:  matisc@netzero.com

Hattie Larlham’s Constant Companions program is expanding, growing from a day program with domestic pet care as part of social and practical skill development to a multi-faceted program, supporting an individual’s personal choices as a path toward independence. Types of activities include but are not limited to experiences such as:

• Health and wellness education via memberships to rec centers and gyms, participation in community exercise and cooking classes, and community wellness events
• Enrichment through arts and cultural attractions including local zoos, diverse museums, the Great Lakes Science Center, and music and theater performances
• Community trips to increase independence, such as grocery shopping, travel training, laundromats, computer classes, and trips to local eateries both to see behind the scenes and as customers

Tours are available at their newest facility in Mayfield Village by contacting the site manager Simone Wright Dotson at the contact information listed.

or simone.dotson@hattielarlham.org to be listed in contact information)

Serves individuals with developmental and other disabilities from age 10 through adult with day residential and day habilitation services with the main goal of self-empowering individuals.

Headquartered in Newark, Ohio, CSS currently operates in 17 counties throughout the state: Allen, Clark, Champaign, Cuyahoga, Franklin, Geauga, Lake, Licking, Madison, Mahoning, Medina, Montgomery, Stark, Summit, Trumbull, Tuscarawas and Wayne Counties.

They operate two adult day programs – the James Street Center in Newark and the HOPE Center in Tuscarawas County.

NEW PROGRAM: Community Stepping Stones Adult Day Services

Arts instruction and therapies inside local schools and on the Beck Center campus for individuals of all ages with disabilities. Sessions are offered on an individual, paired or group basis.

Limited financial aid is available.

Although the community knows the Board of DD best for adult activities centers and group homes, they offer a full range of services, from in-home early intervention programs for very young children and their families to leisure programs for seniors and specialized therapies (speech-language, occupational and physical), psychological services, support administration, family resources and respite care, supported living, vocational training, community employment, rehabilitation engineering and crisis intervention.

Listening Line- (216) 736-2652
Each Monday a new, short message is available that highlights topics of interest, such as Employment First, community integration, etc. We are hoping this new communication option helps share important information for those who may not have access to or prefer our website and/or print materials.

Use the branch search on the library’s main website to determine the branch closest to you and for their class schedules.

Dr. Davis enjoys working with children and adolescents who are socially awkward and struggling to be part of a peer group. She also supports adolescents and adults who are going through transitions in their lives that may be causing them worry or anxiety.

Dr. Davis does accept Medicaid.

The Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (DDBP) has programs for specific developmental needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders (The Kelly O’Leary Center). They also partner with sub-specialists in child psychiatry, child neurology, and pediatric gastroenterology to ensure children receive quality care in a coordinated manner, with specialists who have expertise in seeing children with different developmental profiles.

They offer evidence-based care for individuals from birth through transition to adulthood.

Diane Eden M.D. and Associates, Inc. is an independent behavioral health care group with mental health clinicians made up of independent contractors who provide evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral and psychiatric problems in an outpatient setting.

Tina Bulucea is trained as a clinical social worker and works with adults and geriatric-aged individuals. Her areas of specialization include depression and anxiety disorders.

Accepts private pay and many insurance carriers, including Medicare.

Clinical psychologist specializing in the cognitive-behavioral treatment of anxiety in children and adults. She focuses on providing evidence-based treatments to children, adolescents, adults, and families, with a specialization in anxiety disorders.

Drive Team offers driving lessons for teens aged 16-18 with a performance-based Driver Education program licensed by the state of Ohio. Students advance through each level of the 46-hour program at their own pace. They are required to demonstrate proficiency at each level before progressing to the next.

Adult students are evaluated on a case by case basis before enrollment.

Clients entering this program do a three-hour OT driving evaluation that consists of:

A clinical evaluation consisting of vision, visual perceptual skills, physical ability, reaction time and cognition.
An on-the-road assessment in an adapted vehicle

To be eligible for the evaluation you must…
Be 16 years of age or older
Have a valid driver’s license or temporary permit
Be seizure-free or have a physician’s authorization that the seizures are under medical control
Have a physician’s order for an Occupational Therapy Driving Evaluation

They provide driving evaluation services for drivers with acquired disabilities. They evaluate the ability of the physically or visually impaired driver to obtain a driver’s license and safely operate a vehicle, including those affected by stroke, brain injury and other conditions.

Provides organizing and time management techniques for parents, adolescents and young adults. Hands-on organizing and coaching consultations for managing possessions, papers and time.

Offerings include:
Therapy services, including speech/language therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and early intervention; child care for children 6 wks to 6 yrs; adult day programs; In-home respite care; and a Skills Development Center specifically for teens with autism to help them transition to adulthood.

Read this document for more information about Easter Seals’ services.

Offers include respite services; speech and language therapy; and in-home respite care. There are also summer camps for children with disabilities in Alliance and Ashtabula.

For children younger than 3, Easter Seals offers speech and language therapy.

Read this document for further information about Easter Seals’ services.

For nearly 50 years, Echoing Hills has supported thousands of families, friends, and neighbors through our outreach to people with disabilities.

Their programs align with their values: the right to choose, the dignity of each person, personal fulfillment in God’s plan and a relationship with Jesus Christ. They provide choice recreational, residential, vocational, travel and educational services throughout the State of Ohio and internationally.

They accept waivers, including the I/O, Level 1 and Ohio Home Care. Other options include County Board of Developmental Disabilities matching funds and private pay.

Assessment Services
Their assessments follow a collaborative model where clients and providers work closely together to determine the nature of the problem and how to assess it. We offer a wide array of evaluation and assessment services for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations currently offered may vary based on provider availability.

Autism Support Group
The autism support group is dedicated to offering support for individuals who are 18 or older and have high-functioning autism.

Counseling Services
Services are available for a variety of conditions and concerns.

Employment First is a national initiative that is a critical priority for the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). It is to invest in systems that result in increased community-based, integrated employment opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities. This priority reflects a framework for a systems change that is centered on the premise that all citizens, including individuals with significant disabilities, are capable of full participation in integrated employment and community life.

To learn more about federal resources and agendas please visit the U.S. Dept. of Labor website.

In Ohio, Employment First means giving every individual with a disability the opportunity to work in the community alongside non-disabled peers. Ohio task-force states that every person has abilities, skills and talents to enrich the community and people around us. We envision a time when every working-age adult with developmental disabilities has opportunity to explore their career options and seek jobs that fit their skills and interests.

To learn more about what Employment First looks like in Ohio visit the Ohio Employment First website.

Transition planning is crucial for successful employment post-high school. The Ohio Employment First Transition Task-force has created helpful materials to guide IEP teams and families in creating a comprehensive transition plan.

To see resources and documents visit the Ohio Employment First website.

Offers league programs that give athletes with special needs the chance to play right alongside their typically-functioning peers.  All players make the team and after a couple practice sessions, the games begin! Each season features 5+ games with high school or college basketball teams. Location and cost vary.

Visit the Empower Sports website or search our Event Calendar for current program dates.

A nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing employment among Americans with disabilities. The organization works with job seekers and employers ranging across all forms of business.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. It is also illegal to discriminate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit.

Most employers with at least 15 employees are covered by EEOC laws (20 employees in age discrimination cases). Most labor unions and employment agencies are also covered.

The laws apply to all types of work situations, including hiring, firing, promotions, harassment, training, wages, and benefits.

They help families find the best, safest, and most effective out-of-home placements for adolescents and young adults whose needs are not being met locally.

They can help families choose appropriate:
Therapeutic programs
Wilderness programs
Schools for students with learning disabilities
Drug and alcohol programs
Programs for young adults (drug and alcohol or transitional living)

They have no affiliations to any program and never accept commissions.

Additional location in Columbus:
130 Northwoods Blvd, Ste A
Columbus, OH 43235
Phone: 614-231-1957

Offers behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults and their families. Their services include applied behavioral analysis (ABA), adult behavioral health, children’s behavioral health, autism services and early childhood services.

Additionally, clinicians travel to homes, schools, foster homes, residential programs, child care programs, adult health settings and shelter programs.

The Ohio office also offers BCBA training and development opportunities.

They have 30 additional office locations throughout Pennsylvania.

Therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities are uniquely designed for people with cognitive, physical, emotional and social disabilities.

They offer a variety of programs including therapeutic riding, carriage driving, hippotherapy, instructor training, and barn and classroom programs. They also have Gaitway High School and a Summer Camp program (separate listings)

This downloadable guide is intended to help students with ASD become better prepared for college life and academics. This guide addresses challenges that are both universal and unique to college students with autism by providing information, guidance, and resources that address them. Finding Your Way offers practical advice from autism experts; powerful narratives from self-advocates; and relevant resource tools. It is intended to help readers anticipate and improve their academic and social situations by advocating for themselves.

Arts education, performance, and advocacy

She usually offers services out of her office, however, she is willing to do in-home services/assessments with additional fees for commuting and time.

Counselors work with individuals, couples and families, offering therapy and counseling.

Laura Vajdich, PCC,ATR,CTS is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio and a Registered Art Therapist, in addition to being a Certified Trauma Specialist with The National Institute of Trauma and Loss in Children. She specializes in autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, in addition to several other specialties.

Fit Mind accepts most independent insurance, including CareSource.

Food for Good Thought provides employment and transition services for individuals with autism. They have a college-based transition program, a gluten free bakery that employs people with autism, a massive summer program that services individuals with autism in high school and their employment services provides job-seeking help to those looking for employment in the community.

The majority of clients are ages 16-30 but they do serve clients that are upwards to 55-60 years old who are looking for employment in the community.

They take waivers provided to families by county funding, the Autism Scholarship and funding from the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.

Information on residential living models for people on the autism spectrum, as well as a list of successful agencies within most states, including Ohio.

Dr. Gen deals exclusively in orthodontics and has 2 office locations:

5827 Mayfield Rd.
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124

9964 Vail Drive
Twinsburg, OH 44087
direct phone: (330) 425-3573

This guide explains to people with disabilities how they can participate in research and training projects. It describes what research and training is and what a participant can do. It also provides examples of projects and of ways to address problems others have had when working on research and training.

Gliding Stars offers adaptive ice skating lessons and equipment for individuals of all ages. There are several chapters, including in Ohio:

Gliding Stars of Northeast Ohio
P.O. Box 53
400 Aurora Commons Circle
Aurora, OH 44224
contact: Melinda Bednarik, Co-Coordinator
phone: (440) 477-3839

Gliding Stars of Findlay, OH
P.O. Box 1561
Findlay, Ohio 45839
contact: Cindy Bregel
phone: (419) 423-4536

Gliding Stars of Toledo, OH
P.O. Box 751
Sylvania, Ohio 43560-0751
contact: Bill Himmel, Coordinator
phone: (419) 304-4324

Website that offers information for preparing for and succeeding in college for students with disabilities.

Dr. Golden’s specialty areas include Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders, autism, anger management and anxiety.

He sees children, adolescents and adults up to age 40. He is located at the Willoughby offices of Psychological & Behavioral Consultants (PsychBC).

Offerings include:
Speech and hearing therapy services, offered on a sliding-fee scale; employment skills training; vocational evaluations; transitional work services; and job coaching services.

Additional offices located in Cleveland, Carrollton, New Philadelphia and Wintersville.

The Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities (GCPD) serves as an advisory council for the Governor and General Assembly on statewide disability issues.

Associated with the Governor’s Council, the Youth Leadership Forum is a five day leadership training program for 11th and 12th grade high school students with disabilities. Student delegates will learn about choosing a career, history of disability as a culture, technology and resources, and self and systems advocacy.

Located in Allendale, Michigan, Grand Valley State University’s Office of Disability Support Resources (DSR) offers the Campus Links program, which matches ASD students with a peer mentor, usually an upperclassman, who will assist them in surviving the transition to college. The program is designed to offer students on the spectrum support in the classroom, in social interactions, and academics.

Dr Griffith is an ophthalmologist with a particular interest in taking care of both children and adults with developmental disabilities. He is happy to schedule visits for multiple family members in the same session. His areas of interest include pediatric ophthalmology, strabismus in children and adults, and cataract surgery.

Offers behavioral counseling along with a wide variety of counseling services. They are located on the west side of Cleveland.

Accepts most insurance plans, with the exception of Anthem, Summacare, Cigna and Medicare.

Additional office locations:
Ohio City Office
3000 Bridge Ave. Suite 4
Cleveland, OH

Rocky River Office
20525 Detroit Rd. Suite 5
Rocky River, OH

Guardianship takes away a person’s ability to make choices. Because the appointment of a guardian takes away a person’s ability to make decisions about his or her life, other options which place fewer restrictions on the person with a disability can be considered first.

This document identifies these less restrictive options and defines how they work.

A brief but comprehensive, nonlegalistic overview of guardianship in Ohio, especially for families who have a child with mental disabilities. Much of the information is also relevant concerning someone with mental illness or concerning someone who has lost competence as the result of an injury or the effects of aging.

Powered by the Notre Dame Academic Center, this tutoring program for high school or college students is available as a one-on-one tutoring program in a collegiate setting. The HAND program focuses on academic subjects and ACT/SAT tutoring only.

Over 37 professionals are available in a variety of subjects, and this program is appropriate for students with learning differences.

A flat fee of $1,125 gives students 4 hours of tutoring a week for a semester at the Notre Dame campus in South Euclid, OH.

Hattie Larlham is a nonprofit organization that provides medical, residential, recreational and work training services to 1,800 children and adults with developmental disabilities. The organization provides services to children and young adults at the Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities in Mantua, Ohio, and to adults at community-based homes throughout Ohio.

A team of medical professionals, including doctors, nurses and therapists tend to the complex health requirements of Hattie Larlham residents, whether they live at the Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities or in community-based homes throughout Northeast Ohio.

Other programs include:

The Hattie Larlham Toys and Technology Library is a free community library of toys and communication, mobility and learning devices adapted to meet the physical needs of children and young adults with developmental disabilities.

Foster care program for people with disabilities.

Summer camps through The Play Center at Hattie Larlham.

Offers residential services for adults with developmental disabilities with 24-hour medical support.

A tool kit for primary care providers, this website offers assistance with diagnosing common health ailments for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It offers health watch tables for several disabilities, including autism, as well as general advice for assisting this population.

Heartstring Melodies specializes in providing quality music therapy services to children and young adults in the Northwest Ohio area. They offer individual and group music therapy sessions, using music as the therapeutic medium.

There are summer camps available, in addition to therapy sessions.

Provides driver’s education and training for people with Asperger’s Syndrome.

Several locations throughout Northeast Ohio.

Provides residential services to non-ambulatory individuals with severe or profound mental retardation and multiple disabilities. They also accept individuals on trach and BIPAP support. Residents range in age from infancy to adults.

Adult Day Support Program
A full day program serving adults with disabilities with many activities in-house and field trips into the community. They offer two locations:
Euclid Location
22741 Shore Center Drive
Euclid, Ohio 44132
Contact:
Catherine Rush
216-432-48140 x 333
rushc@helpfoundationinc.org

Northfield Location
10333 Northfield Road
Northfield, Ohio 44067
Contact:
Catherine Rush
216-432-48140 x 333
rushc@helpfoundationinc.org

Vocational Habilitation
HELP U Shred, HELP U Crew, and HELP U Scan offer on the job training. Vocational opportunities are paid a competitive wage and help individuals prepare for independent community employment. The program is offered in Northfield and Euclid.
www.helpfoundationinc.org

Residential Services
HELP is home to 140 consumers at 26 sites across Cuyahoga, Lake and Summit Counties. The facilities range from group homes to semi-independent living depending on the needs of the individual. Work with HELP and your county board service and support administrator to get more information.
Summer Program
A continuing education program serves children with intense medical and behavioral needs throughout the summer months to reinforce skills learned during the academic year.

Dr. Holmes is a clinical psychologist who performs comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessments, behavioral checklists, and behavioral observations. She provides therapy and evaluations to clients throughout the lifespan, but she has an emphasis on children, adolescents and families.

Licensed audiologist, serving infant to adult and elderly.

Home Remedy provides an alternative for families who have found little relief from traditional therapies or are considering out of home placement. The treatment providers are Master’s level clinicians who are trained in evidence-based in-home therapy models.

The approach is an intensive, short-term, home-based therapeutic model that targets the specific challenges of individual families in the context of their home, school, and community.

Direct and immediate crisis support is also available.

Hopewell is a therapeutic community located on a 300-acre farm in Mesopotamia, Ohio (approximately 60 miles southeast of Cleveland).
They help adults (age 18 and older) who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression or other forms of mental illness.

This guide was created by MortgageLoan.com to help individuals living with disabilities and their family members in the process of buying a home of their own.

The International Center for Autism Research and Education is based at Case Western. Supporting the development of multi-center research programs at CWRU, Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, MetroHealth, and affiliated community resources, basic researchers and clinicians have united to form ICARE, garnering over $5 million dollars for new research into Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

InclusiveU is an initiative of the Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education, committed to individualized and inclusive higher educational opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is a comprehensive college experience for students with intellectual disabilities including individualized coursework, person-centered planning, professional internships, and social and extracurricular activities.

The Lawrence B. Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education is committed to individualized and inclusive higher educational opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Offers a comprehensive variety of residential and support services to more than 100 adult individuals residing in Portage County, Ohio, including intermediate care facilities, supported living and community living opportunities.

Quality residential services for individuals with developmental disabilities in either drop-in or 24-hour settings. They provide services for 5 counties in Ohio: Stark, Medina, Wayne, Tuscarawas, and Summit.

Second office information:
(330) 256-9938
1171 North Carpenter Rd.
Brunswick, OH 44212

A road map guide for families helping to guide transition-aged child towards their future living plans. A comprehensive guide that includes finding a home, support services and guardianship and advocacy.

Insight Learning and Wellness offers a Tae Kwon Do studio and numerous health and wellness services, including acupuncture, yoga and meditation. They provide holistic care services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.

They also offer confidential testing and therapy for children and adults with an integrative approach to treating ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum, anxiety and many other conditions. They have a psychological evaluation team that includes licensed school psychologists, a speech language pathologist and an occupational therapist.

Insight Learning and Wellness accepts Caresource insurance plans. Insight is an Autism Scholarship provider and a Jon Peterson Scholarship provider.

Note that this resource offers some therapies that are not evidence-based. Milestones only promotes evidence-based therapies, and we encourage anyone who is not familiar with what those therapies are to contact our Helpdesk.

GI pediatrics and women’s health

This guide includes strategies to help youth and their families access the full range of support available to prepare them for successful transition into integrated, competitive employment.

A treatment and training center specializing in assisting individuals with autism and their families. They offer the comprehensive assessment, treatment and education of children with autism spectrum disorder using “The S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Approach”.

Services include direct care, parent/professional training, consulting, mentorship and support.

Guide from the National Consortium on Leadership and Disability for Youth on getting and making the most of an internship.

This app’s design is based on peer-reviewed scientific research. It’s funded by the U.S. Department of Education. iPrompts is used by special educators and therapists in the treatment of children with autism. It allows users to design visually based daily schedules for their children. The app includes a timer and voice and video prompts.

Spanish and English versions of this popular book available. This guidebook is written to assist high school students and their families when considering college as a future option. The guidebook
contains basic information, tools, and resources to help students make informed decisions about whether or not college is for them.

Spanish download available here.

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Licensed psychologists working with children, adolescents and adults.

They offer the following services:
15 different social skills groups ages 6-26 (ongoing — join any time)
Alternative Education Program- Perspectives Academy
Advocacy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
In home services
Individual, group and family therapy
School Consultation
Testing

Also offers a weekly social club for ages 8-18. Parents can drop off and leave their child for 3 hours. Kids will be divided by age. Reservations preferred by calling the main number listed below.

Note that this resource offers some therapies that are not evidence-based. Milestones only promotes evidence-based therapies, and we encourage anyone who is not familiar with what those therapies are to contact our Helpdesk.

Additional Mentor location: 7200 Center Rd Suite 204, 44060

Insurance is accepted: Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, Cleveland Clinic EHP, Humana, Medical Mutual, Sumacare, United Behavioral Health, Oscar. Autism and Jon Peterson scholarship provider.

Offers disabled and at-risk youth volunteer service, vocational activities and social enrichment opportunities.

Serves ages 14 – 26

JFS can help adults in need by coordinating services, managing finances, providing direction, reassurance, and actively monitoring progress. When necessary, JFS can assume further responsibility through conservatorship guardianship, Power of Attorney, and as trustee.

JFS has a job bank where social workers can identify interests and assist in job-seeking efforts, as well as an emergency financial assistance program.

JFSA is guided by traditional Jewish values of communal responsibility and social justice. They offer several programs to assist teens and adults with disabilities with residential services, employment services, community inclusion, and family advocacy.

The Horvitz YouthAbility program offers volunteering and job training opportunities for disabled and at-risk youth and young adults.

Vocational Rehabilitation Services help people prepare for employment based on their skills and interests.
Adult Day Program offers group and individual day respite activities.

Ascentia provides comprehensive integrated services for individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities and serious mental illness. Includes the following services:

Community Support Services
Family Advocacy & Support Services
Clinical & Therapeutic Services
Residential Services
Supportive Employment Services
Community Integration & Wellness
Adult Day Support
Horvitz YouthAbility Program
Planned Lifetime Assistance Network (PLAN)

Campers will experience the real workplace in a variety of settings including the Two Café and Boutique, the Two gardens, local restaurants, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and car dealerships. This summer camp program that will be focusing on the following job-related skills:
Resume writing
Interviewing skills
Dressing for success
Networking
Communication skills
Customer service
Retail selling
Workplace ethics and behavior
Self-Awareness lessons
Self-Advocacy lessons
Self-Regulation lessons

An online guide to help direct individuals looking for community employment in the state of Ohio. There are downloadable tools that assist in defining the applicant’s skill set, as well as a tutorial on the job seeking process.

For more information about Employment First, a program through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities visit their website.

Specializes in family medicine for teens and adults beginning at age 14. She is familiar with autism and has special medical interest in adolescents, women’s health and preventative care.

Provides a state-of-the-art diagnostic program, treatment services and support services, in addition to parent education, group therapy and training programs that enhance the lives of individuals with ASD and their families. Note that some appointments may require a physician referral.

Diagnostic Services — a comprehensive multidisciplinary diagnostic battery that follows the Autism Speaks- Autism Treatment Network diagnostic protocol

Medical Collaborative Care — on-going follow-up care by Developmental/Behavioral Pediatricians, Nurse Practitioners, and Child Psychiatrists

Therapeutic Programming Session — children can undergo a Therapeutic Programming Session with a speech therapist, occupational therapist, and psychologist, all of whom have expertise in autism spectrum disorders.

Therapy Services — staff provides individual and group therapy models in the areas of speech therapy, occupational therapy and behavior therapy

Early Intensive Behavior Intervention — The Center offers intensive programming based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for preschool-aged children with ASD.

The Kelly Autism Program offers educational support through Individual Education Plan assistance, classroom adaptations and tutoring, community involvement through active participation in community activities, social and leisure activities, job coaching, and parent support. They support clients ages 6 to adult.

KAP offers programs for Elementary, Middle and High School students. They also offer a college support program through WKU.

This is a private pay service, with some financial assistance available.

Family medical practice, including adults.

Accepts Medicaid insurance.

Provides services in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry

Can provide diagnosis and assessment of communication disorders. Can also assist and diagnose people with hearing impairments. Does not diagnose autism spectrum disorders.

They are now offering a 7-week social skills program for 10-14 year olds called Boundaries Social Skills Group. This group will focus on identifying the difference between a friend and an acquaintance. Participants will learn to identify the characteristics of each relationship level and the types of behavior appropriate for that relationship. Sessions for Spring, 2018 will be held on Wednesdays at 5:30. Call to register.

Accepts Medicaid insurance.

This school has a program to aid students with special needs in college success, in addition to the traditional college experience. This special program is a non-degree granting program. In order to apply, the student needs to be enrolled in the college.

An Experiential Learning Program is also available, which includes Individual or Group Services, Self- Advocacy Training, and participation in the KSU Autism Diversity Program. For more information about this particular program, contact Lisa Audet at laudet@kent.edu.

Founded and led by youth with disabilities, KASA focuses on developing leadership in adolescents with disabilities and educating communities about disability awareness.

Offers many services for children and young adults (ages 18 months – 22 yrs.) with a multitude of neurological and psychological diagnoses, including treatment services and intervention with an emphasis on prevention, behavior management and positive behavioral supports.

New programs include an autism diagnostic clinic (with a guarantee of 4-week scheduled appointments) ;
A new adult services division called Link Up offering a day program, which will accept the medicaid waivers;
KidsLink Connect — an insurance-based intensive ABA home and/or center programming

All professionals are experts in behavioral intervention.

These therapists have experience working with children and adolescents with autism: Michele DePolo; Richard Cowan

Individual and family therapy services for teens with social deficiencies related to autism is offered. Counseling services for a variety of other issues, including women’s issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and self-esteem and bullying issues are offered for individuals ages 10 and up.

Assessments and counseling services available to help support children, teens, and adults.

She provides mental health therapy services to Westlake, Avon, Avon Lake, Bay Village, Rocky River, North Ridgeville, and the greater West Cleveland area.

Specialties include treating children and adolescents, providing assessments, moderate to severe mental health issues, spiritual and relationship concerns, and strength-based counseling. Jacob has also worked with families and partners of those suffering from a variety of issues. He is accomplished at assisting others gain coping skills, symptom and behavior management, and system navigation.

His treatment experience has covered an array of presenting problems including anger management, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, domestic and sexual abuse (both victims and perpetrators), personality disorders, developmental disorders, autism, and spiritual issues.

Koinonia offers residential services, day programs, and employment services for adults with disabilities in Northeast Ohio.

They offer 21 licensed group homes, over 50 supported living arrangements, transportation services, and shared living options all provided in safe and healthy settings. Koinonia provides services in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, and Summit Counties.

Koinonia Enterprises offers individuals career services that include a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on the individual’s path to employment from self-discovery of skills and talents to career exploration to future career advancements.

Koinonia is supported through Medicaid, funding from the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities, private pay and donations.

Supports individuals over the age of 18 who are eligible for services provided by the Hamilton County (Ohio) Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. They have training programs for independence, apartments, commuinity-supported living assistance and home ownership programs.

Offers speech and language services for both children and adults using evidence-based assessment and treatment methods.

Performs speech and social skills evaluations.

This college and post-secondary institute offers innovative learning programs with students with cognitive disabilities.

In addition to traditional four-year and two-year college degree programs, this school offers a program aiding in college success. In order to apply for this special program, the student needs to be enrolled in the college.

Legal Aid’s mission is to secure justice and resolve fundamental problems for those who are low income and vulnerable by providing high quality legal services and working for systemic solutions.

Legal Aid has four offices in Ohio and serves clients in Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake and Lorain counties.

Legal Aid offers intake lines in many other languages besides English:
Spanish dial: 216-586-3190
Arabic dial: 216-586-3191
Mandarin dial: 216-586-3192
French dial: 216-586-3193
Vietnamese dial: 216-586-3194
Russian dial: 216-586-3195
Swahili dial: 216-586-3196
Any other language dial: 888-817-3777

A free AAC talker app for Android which supports communication in all areas of life and therefore providing a voice to everyone.
Suitable for:
• autism symptoms and Asperger syndrome
• aphasia
• speech apraxia
• articulation/phonological disorder
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
• Cerebral palsy
• Down syndrome

Liberty provides individuals with the opportunity to spend frequent time in the community, have a wide range of socialization activities, various exercise options, enhance their life and educational skills, as well as have choices in their daily activities and the option to earn a paycheck.

Additional West Side facility:
5125 W 140th, Brook Park, Ohio 44142
(216) 716-8201

Occupational therapists design programs to help patients achieve maximum independence in their daily activities.

Vocational Rehabilitation Services – designed to help individuals develop reasonable expectations of employment based on their individual strengths and limitations. Vocational counselors identify these factors through various tests, which assess the person’s readiness for work.

Several locations available throughout the Cleveland area.

Lifeworks is a nonprofit organization committed to ensuring that adults with autism have more independent and enriched lives by providing opportunities to learn, engage socially, and participate in meaningful work.

Originally developed by Bellefaire JCB, Lifeworks was launched in 2013. The agency was created to extend both the reach and scope of specialized Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) services offered by Bellefaire’s Monarch Center for Autism, beyond what had previously been reserved for school-aged youths, to an adult population. Rooted in the Monarch Model, Lifeworks’ services embody the same philosophy and standards found in the other Monarch settings.

A dynamic interdisciplinary team comprised of behaviorists, educators, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, nurses and college-degreed direct care professionals collaborate to provide specialized support and training for adults with ASD. Lifeworks affects positive change in adults with autism at home, at work and in the community.

This program offers vocational training, behavioral programming, adaptive daily living skills and community inclusion for adults. There will also be recreation and leisure opportunities, as well as available related therapy services.

Kidslink has services for a multitude of neurological and psychological diagnoses, including treatment services and intervention with an emphasis on prevention, behavior management and positive behavioral supports.

Kidslink is a Medicaid Waiver Provider.

Provides information, education, training, employment, and independent-living services to adults ages 18+ with disabilities. Also offers community-based evening and weekend activities.

A self-pay option has been developed for benefits services, including applications for Social Security and Medicaid, as well as Benefits Analysis, a process whereby individuals can understand the impact of employment on their eligibility for public benefits.

Services are available in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, and Medina counties.

Provides opportunities for adults with emotional, physical and developmental disabilities and their families to take full advantage of nearly all of The Mandel JCC programs and services. They also offer personal training for people with disabilities.

Visit the Mandel JCC website for current program schedule.

Equine-assisted therapeutic and riding program serving children and adults with special needs. Classes start with children age 5.

Dr. Marcotty is a pediatric physician, but will see adults with a strabismus.

This service is only available to students enrolled in Marshall University. Admission to The College Program does not guarantee admission to Marshall University, as applications to the university and to the college support program are separate processes.

Prospective students who follow the application process as detailed on the website will be considered for The College Program. Those applicants who do meet the requirements—and who have documentation that suggests The College Program may be a good fit for their specific needs—may be invited to campus for a face-to-face interview. Based upon that interview and the information gathered from the application process, some prospective students will be invited into The College Program at Marshall University.

Two players challenge each other by solving math equations

A variety of adaptive programs for all ages and ability levels, with activities ranging from book clubs to league sports. Schedule changes seasonally, cost and location vary between programs. No financial aid available.

Visit the Mayfield Village Recreation website or search our Event Calendar for current program schedule.

Adaptive music lessons and therapy in your home. Fee is based on travel costs, in addition to lessons.

This program operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. and will provide a therapeutic learning environment that helps each participant develop skills, achieve personal goals & grow socially.

Medina Creative Housing owns and manages sixteen single family homes in the community in which individuals with disabilities live in a congregate setting.

It also offers other programs, including a Life Skills Training Program which works on skill development including social skills during holiday weeks when school is not in session. A PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horseback Riding) Program with group and individual lessons Monday through Saturday is also available, along with a Resident Enrichment Program in which all of the individuals engage in nightly social activities.

Medina Creative Housing has four affiliate organizations: Medina Creative Accessibility, Medina Creative Living, Inc., Medina Creative Living II and Medina Creative Living III. These organizations provide supportive services and supportive housing to individuals with disabilities.

A division of Medina Creative Housing, Medina Creative Transitions is a residential and commuter post-secondary college program for individuals with disabilities. They offer academic supports, independent living skills training and career skill training through partnerships with Cuyahoga Community College and Lorain County Community College.

Programs are offered during the traditional school year and as a summer program.

Read this brochure for further information about their 2018 summer program.

Professionals specializing in the assessment and treatment of children with Autism Spectrum Conditions, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Depression, behavioral concerns, developmental issues, and chronic medical problems.

Early Identification of Autism Clinic — they will evaluate children under the age of 3 years (36 months) for a potential autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The multidisciplinary team includes a clinical psychologist and a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who can accurately and efficiently assess your child and provide recommendations for growth. Families can expect to complete information gathering/prework by phone or video conference and meet for a single, 3-to-4-hour evaluation appointment. The appointment concludes with diagnostic feedback and families will receive a brief report that day with diagnosis (if applicable), recommendations, and guidance that can be used to seek necessary interventions. A detailed report will be mailed within two weeks.

Teen/adult Services — they offer an executive functioning clinic and a teen emotional regulation clinic.

Dr. Heather Dukes-Murray specializes in the assessment and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning differences, and complex clinical presentations. She is the Clinic Director of the Early Identification of Autism Clinic at Meghan Barlow & Associates and works with individuals from toddler-hood to adulthood.

Social skills groups are available for a variety of ages.

Evaluations are required for most services.

Private pay only.

Melatonin is a common medicine your doctor or healthcare provider may suggest to help improve sleep. This tool kit is designed to provide parents with information about melatonin and to help parents decide if trying melatonin is right for their child.

Yoga, Yoga Therapy, and Meditation practices for people of all ages on the spectrum. Services at studio cost $60/month, with classes meeting once a week.

Students with special needs can live and study in the same place, away from home.The school allows students to live in four-person, two-bedroom suites, each with its own bathroom, and supervisory staff on duty 24/7. Meals are included in the tuition.

Programs in Automotive Technology, Cabinetmaking/Millwork, CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant), Culinary Arts, Custodial Services, Electronics/Manufacturing, Graphic Communications, Grounds Maintenance/Landscaping, Machine Technology, Office Automation, Pharmacy Technician, Retail Marketing and Weatherization are offered.

The goal of this program is to attract talent and build an inclusive approach to support individuals on the autism spectrum that will contribute to the way Microsoft works as a company in building and servicing their products.

The Hiring Program is a multiple-day hands on academy that focuses on workability, team projects and skills assessment. The event gives candidates an opportunity to showcase their unique talents and meet hiring managers and teams while learning about Microsoft as an employer of choice.

A center for Independent Living directed by persons with disabilities. They assist older adults and persons with disabilities to move from long-term services and support systems to home and community-based settings.

Milestones Autism Resources improves the lives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by educating, coaching, and connecting the autism community of Northeast Ohio with evidence-based information.

Milestones focuses on educating and providing life-long, effective strategies for success at school, home, the community, and the workplace. Through the transformative power of education, Milestones is actively assisting parents, professionals, and individuals with autism on their journey and improving their outcomes.

Core services and programs:
· Annual Autism Conference with workshop track designated for parents, family members, and caregivers
· One-on-one consultations at any age, stage, and ability
· Free autism Helpdesk, open 24/7
· Vetted Online Resource Center

If you are interested in a consultation, please fill out an intake form and someone will contact you.

Offers a wide array of programs and services for people with autism and their families, including:

Preschool and Day School for children and adolescents
Transitional education program
Residential treatment for children, adolescents and adults
Summer and extended school year programs
The Soap Shop (a business that offers vocational experience for individuals with autism)
VizZle (visual language technology)
An online autism resource center developed in partnership with the Women’s General Hospital Fund of the Cleveland Foundation.

Therapies available to assist with community reintegration and activities of daily living through occupational therapy
.
A prescription is needed from the individual’s doctor in order to receive insurance coverage. The prescription should indicate diagnosis and evaluate and treat, occupational therapy and physical therapy

People on the autism spectrum may not only have difficulty understanding how other people emote. They may have difficulty understanding their own emotions, too. Mood Meter is specifically designed to help people get in touch with their emotions. You use it to gauge your feelings each day or at regular intervals throughout the day. Look back and identify any patterns and grow your emotional vocabulary.

Music therapy at their facility, at home or in the community, facilitated by Board Certified Music Therapists. Therapy sessions can be one-on-one or in a small group setting, and is available for all ages and disabilities.

MTEC also provides music enrichment classes to daycares, preschools and kindergarten classrooms.

Provides music therapy services to assist clients in reaching their fullest potential through music. Music Therapy Services, LLC provides person-centered, integrative, and strength-based approaches to address the needs of the whole person, and strives to promote the field of music therapy through advocacy, research, and education.

Therapists are available to provide services on site at area agencies, such as schools, day programs, hospitals, and care centers. Therapists may provide direct services to agency consumers or consult with agency staff to implement music therapy strategies.

My Choice offers career and community exploration, assessments, career planning and individual employment supports for adults with disabilities. They serve individuals throughout the Cleveland area.

They accept I/O and Level 1 Waivers, and they can also accept private pay, if it is needed.

A website/mobile app that can teach children the rewards of earning money for chores and jobs determined by parents. The site can link to bank savings accounts for savings, and amazon.com for spending, once the child has earned the appropriate number of points.

Mental health and substance abuse services to individuals of all ages. The staff is a multi-disciplinary team with additional training in a variety of different areas, including ADHD, OCD, depression, and social anxiety. They are open 7 days a week.

They have weekly group meetings for teens (13-17) on life skills, and a social skills group for children aged 9-12.

NLA is a preferred mental health and chemical dependency provider for most insurance plans, managed care, and employee assistance programs (EAPs).

Additional locations:
Aurora: 199 S. Chillicothe Road, Suite 206, Aurora, OH
Cleveland Heights: 2460 Fairmount Blvd, Suite 211, Cleveland Hts, OH

NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

They are an association of hundreds of local affiliates, state organizations and volunteers who work in your community to raise awareness and provide support and education that was not previously available to those in need.

They have several local chapters throughout Ohio. Check their website for local branch offices.

A first-of-its-kind resource written by autistic adults for autistic college students exploring the various aspects of the higher education experience.

The soul of Near West Theatre is belief in the healing, transformative power of the theatrical arts. The personal and communal growth possible when participating in an acting, singing, dancing ensemble is most fully realized with both skilled leadership and loving collaboration. Their mission is to build loving relationships and engages diverse people in strengthening their sense of identity, passion, and purpose, individually and in community, through transformational theatre arts experiences.

Individuals with mobility challenges, hearing impairments, and other disabilities finally have access to programming and activities, whether as actors or audience members, since moving to their new, ADA-compliant facility in the Gordon Square Arts District.

For more information about Near West Theatre and their accessible programming, visit their website.

Provides treatment and care to makes ages 10-21 and are qualified providers for Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia. Only males ages 10-21 are accepted.

Individuals must have a mental health and/or an intellectual disabilities diagnosis.

New Avenues’ programs are currently serving over 700 individuals, ages 3-100 years in Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Summit counties. The individuals served include those with disabilities and chronic health conditions such as developmental disabilities, mental illness, autism, cerebral palsy, brain injury, and Down syndrome.

Services offered include Residential Services, Supported Living/Community Services, Vocational Services, Day Services, Senior Services and Children’s Programs (summer camp and recreational program).

They have a satellite office in Ashtabula:
2125 West Prospect Road, Ashtabula, Ohio 44004
(440) 964-2264

The Special Education’s Newspaper for beginning readers and special needs students. Every US school week, students can connect with the world through concise symbol-supported news articles, puzzles, games and recipes.

The newspaper is designed for teaching and expanding literacy skills, from basic awareness of symbols and print to reading fluently with comprehension.

Dr. O’Shea’s areas of interest include adolescent gynecology, alternatives to hysterectomy, and minimally invasive surgery.

OCALI’s webcasts on transition to adulthood, including videos on government benefits, employment and post-secondary information.

Includes guides, webcasts, workshops and information on services throughout the autism journey, from diagnosis to adulthood.

A comprehensive multimedia lending library that is free and open to anyone who registers.

​The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (ODD) is committed to improving the quality of life for Ohioans with developmental disabilities and their families. Offering support across the lifespan of people with developmental disabilities, the department oversees a statewide system of supportive services that focus on assuring health and safety, supporting access to community participation, and increasing opportunities for meaningful employment.

Website offering state laws and information pertaining to youth with disabilities pursuing vocational and career-technical training.

This website provides individuals, families and professionals with the information needed to create opportunities for all individuals with developmental disabilities to work within the community.

You can submit an event related to employment, request a speaker for their event, or simply email us. Information on state policy, best practices, resources, taskforce updates and an event calendar is available to anyone who visits the website.

Use this website as a master contact list for libraries within the state of Ohio. The list is organized by county and city.
At your local library, there are opportunities for classes and social opportunities for people of all ages.

Referral and informational services are offered.

Search engine that can find rental properties available within Ohio, including properties that offer accessibility features and subsidized units. Searches can be done based on number of bedrooms, location, and cost of rent.

The Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services are two of the contributors to the site.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), working with OhioMeansJobs.com, has unveiled OhioMeansAccessibility.com to help job seekers with disabilities post resumes, search for jobs and more.

After posting a resume at OhioMeansJobs.com, job seekers with disabilities can indicate whether they would like to be referred to employers specifically looking to hire individuals with disabilities. For employers, the site offers information about hiring incentives, workplace accommodations, employment law, and engaging a qualified and diverse workforce.

The program is in conjunction with National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Formally known as Employment Connection.

Serves youth aged 14 through 21 with skill assessment and job skill training.

A comprehensive training and employment research site, available to match jobs with potential applicants. There are multiple resources relating to job training, career planning, and budget planning.

This website was designed and intended to be the one-stop site for Ohioans for college access information. There is also information about adult non-degree and vocational programs throughout the state.

There are individualized interactive, search and on-going communication components. A registered user can have long-time planning, guidance, and communication as she/he pursues secondary educational planning.

An educational initiative for transition youth ages 14 -24 who live with ASD.

This six-week series meets on Sundays from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Classes will be led by education specialists and will provide opportunities for participants to build social skills, interact with peers, and discover recreational and leisure activities.

Online guide for individuals with disabilites that discusses what to look for in an online college education.

A financial aid and scholarship guide for students with disabilities interested in online education.

There are numerous scholarship options listed for students with disabilities that range from national financial aid opportunities to local opportunities within the United States and Canada.

Vocational Assistance helps individuals with disabilities find a job and be more independent. This involves deciding if a person is eligible, setting an employment goal, putting the goal into a plan, and getting the job services and training needed to get a job. Job coaching and other employment services may also be involved.

Formally known as Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC), Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities is the State of Ohio agency that partners with Ohioans with disabilities to achieve quality employment and independence. We are also charged with making determinations on Social Security disability.

They have an online tool that allows staff and vocational rehabilitation (VR) participants to research available providers in their area. Searches can be targeted by a specific VR service, or by county, city, address, provider type (i.e. Employment First) or provider name. The OOD Community Rehabilitation Program (CRP) Scorecards will also be part of this new tool.

A variety of adaptive programs for all ages and ability levels, with activities ranging from woodworking to musical theater. Schedule changes seasonally, cost and location vary between programs.

Their programming also includes online workshops for parents of children with disabilities.

Visit the Orange Village Recreation website or search our Event Calendar for current program schedule.

The Center for Autism Services and Transition (CAST), located at OSU Internal Medicine & Pediatrics at Hilliard, provides adult care for patients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and support for those who are transitioning from pediatric to adult care.

Accepts Medicaid insurance.

Accepts Medicaid, Medicare and CareSource

Psychologists, psychiatrists and therapists, some of whom specialize in working with people with developmental disabilities.

Accepts Medicare and CareSource insurance plans.

Christina Ren, LISW is a team member who specializes in autism spectrum disorders.
Carol Gee, PhD has specialized training in evaluation and long-term therapy for autistic spectrum disorders and bipolar disorder.

Passion Works Studio strives to inspire and liberate the human spirit, enhance quality of life, and strengthen communities through the arts. Their mission is to provide a creative and inclusive atmosphere in which artists with and without disabilities thrive.

Must be between the ages 22 – 34

Our Lady of the Wayside’s Pathways Program offers day services for adults with developmental disabilities with a focus on community integration for participants through a variety of activities and programs. It provides more dedicated supervision and assistant than traditional day program or workshop settings.

With a goal of enhancing daily living skills, developing social connections and cultivating self-confidence and individual interests, The Wayside’s Pathways Day Program is ideal for individuals who enjoy interaction with peers and the community at large.

The program is available in four (4) locations – Westlake, Valley View, Garfield Heights and Mentor.

In addition, Our Lady of the Wayside’s Pathways Program also offers a full menu of on-site learning opportunities in the areas of health and fitness, personal care, music participation, and “Math at the Path” classes – what some fondly call “Wayside University”.

The Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital for Rehabilitation offers an Adaptive Aquatic Therapy Program for both inpatient and outpatient therapeutic needs.

Children may take advantage of the pool as an extension of their physical and occupational therapy goals or through learn-to-swim programs, in which recreational therapists, specially trained in adaptive techniques, work one-on-one with children to maximize their functional independence in the pool. The 30-minute sessions run every other week for 8 weeks and you must pre-register.

Call (216) 444.5437 with questions about the program.
Please note that The Cleveland Clinic no longer accepts Caresource as a form of insurance.

A local chapter of the nationwide self-advocacy group that gives individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities training to build skills in decision-making so they can advocate for themselves.

Meetings are held on the third Monday of the month (except January and February). All meetings are held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

To register, please call The Arc (216)736-8395, and be sure to leave your name, address and telephone number.

An organization for individuals with developmental disabilities that teaches self-advocacy and leadership skills.

A mobile barbering service who will travel up to 20 miles from Bedford Heights in Northeast Ohio to perform services. They will style hair for individuals with autism from age 5 to adult.

By utilizing an intake form that is completed by the parent prior to service, they can be prepared with the child’s likes/dislikes and sensitivities. They explain the process and will utilize the parent/guardian to assist with refocusing during the haircut if the child is experiencing anxiety.

Barbering services are not covered by insurance, but are reasonably priced.

PLAN is a membership organization for individuals with mental illness, cognitive disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Social activities are offered, in addition to vocational opportunities, life planning support and family advocacy with access to social workers.

Cuyahoga County

This guide is designed to help explore the different opportunities and learning environments after leaving high school.

Works with children and adolescents ages 2-adult. She will service clients throughout Northeast Ohio. Services offered include school consulting, ABA consulting and therapy, academic and behavior intervention, parent training, and workshops.

A Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship provider. Accepts Medicaid insurance and CareSource.

A university professor gives his account of what the college experience was like for him as a young person with Asperger’s.

A program designed to help students with ASD transition to college. Students, upon being accepted into the program, are assigned a designated Learning Specialist, and additional support comes from academic advisors, tutors, Career Services, Counseling Services, employers, and campus activity leaders. Project CASE also helps students explore internship opportunities within their major, and creating a career plan.

A Hands-On training for and by people with disabilities that is designed to provice the tools to be a good self advocate, connect with others in advocacy and gain leadership skills and experience.

Proloquo2Go is an app specifically designed for people who are nonverbal. It promotes language development and allows people to communicate through the use of pictures. It’s designed not only for children with autism, but their families, therapists, and educators. It presents users with images they’re most likely to use and has a level-based system for basic to advanced vocabularies.

PsychBC is a team of psychiatrists, advanced practice nurses and psychologists, clinical counselors and social workers serving children, adolescents, adults and families in 10 locations throughout Ohio and northern Kentucky.

The following is a list of psychologists that specialize in autism and are in Cleveland-area offices:
Kimberly Bell, PhD
Steve Bell, PhD, LPCC, IAMFC
Nicholas Eilbeck, MD
James Elek, LISW-S
Leah Fellenstein, LPCC
Philip Fischer, MD
Jason Friedman, PsyD
Kurt Jensen, PsyD
Nicholette Leanza, MEd, LPCC-S
Amy Lumadue, LPCC
Amnon Shai, PhD
Peggy Sue Smith, MEd, LPCC

They accept most Medicaid-managed care plans, including United Healthcare. It is recommended that families w/ a Medicaid-managed care plan contact them to see if their specific plan is accepted.

Additional Location in Willoughby:
4212 State Route 306 (Chillicothe Road)
Suite 100, Willoughby, OH
Phone number listed below.

LEAP sponsors a recreation program that offers social, recreational, and athletic opportunities for people with developmental disabilities ages 18 and older. Called Quantum LEAP, the program is open to residents of eastern Cuyahoga County. Activities take place at various locations on Cleveland’s east side.

Visit the Quantum LEAP website or search our Event Calendar for current program schedule.

The Raiders on the Autism Spectrum Excelling (RASE) program assists students on the spectrum as they transition from high school to college. Currently, the RASE program consists of a therapeutic support group and a transition coach program.

Their mission is to transform emergency communication and are dedicated to harnessing cutting edge technology to change the outcomes of millions of emergencies across the United States and globally through specialized apps and related technology. The platform can be used by anyone, including people with disabilities, and is available for use internationally.

ONE-TOUCH-911
Sends your precise location and key info to 9-1-1 with one touch, lets you text 9-1-1, and notifies emergency contacts automatically.

FAMILY CONNECT
Lets you see real-time location of loved ones, check in with them, and even call 9-1-1 on their behalf.

INTERNATIONAL
One touch emergency calling in 250+ countries and jurisdictions worldwide, keeping you safe wherever you travel.

STUDENT CONNECT
Empower students and staff to proactively check in when they have arrived at their destination and request loved ones to check in if they are concerned they need help or are in an unexpected place.

Individual and group recreation and aquatic therapy services for children and adults with special needs. Programs are structured based on one-on-one and group assessments, followed by individual treatment plans.

Group recreation and aquatic therapy services are held at the Mandel JCC in Beachwood, OH.
Aquatic therapy and group programming services are held at Gemini Center in Fairview Park, OH.

Classes change regularly, please call them or visit their website for the most updated information.

Residential and day camps for children and adults beginning at age 8. Year-round respite camps that promote self-confidence, self-esteem and promoting positive human relations, attitudes and behaviors.

Welcoming Christian church services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their friends, family and other supports.

Services are held in two different locations in the Cleveland Area:
1st Saturday of each month, 5:30pm:
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church — Hudson

3rd Saturday of each month, 5:30 pm:
First United Methodist Church – Cuyahoga Falls

Overall Program Brochure