Resources

Some resources that might be of help to you.

Ability Awareness

Check out http://imtyler.org This is a 12 minutes YouTube about a high school student and the help he has received to give him a better quality of life.

ABLE National Resource Center

The ABLE National Resource Center (ANRC) launched its website on March 1, 2016.  The ANRC website offers important information targeted toward potential beneficiaries and their families, ABLE program administrators, and financial institutions.
Information provided on the ANRC website will include:
  • State-by-state ABLE development statuses;
  • Side-by-side comparisons of ABLE program characteristics;
  • Informational ABLE videos;
  • Archived ABLE webinars;
  • Published ABLE-related research;
  • Summaries of ABLE-related policies, rules, and regulations;
  • Frequently asked questions (FAQs);
  • An online portal to submit ABLE-related questions;
  • and ABLE announcements.

To learn more visit the ANRC website https://www.ablenrc.org

Maryland ABLE

ABLE (Achieving a  Better Life Experience) makes it easier than ever to save money for all of your disability-related needs!

Want to learn more about Maryland ABLE? visit their website https://marylandABLE.org

Accessible Resources for Independence

Accessible Resources for Independence, Inc., (ARI) provides support and services to people with disabilities in Anne Arundel and Howard counties in Maryland. Accessible Resources for Independence is a center for independent living (CIL) that is consumer-controlled, community-based, cross-disability, and nonresidential.
Its mission is to maximize the independence of people with disabilities so they enjoy self-directed, productive lives. In carrying out their mission, ARI provides the resources, training, counseling and other assistance needed to enhance independence, productivity and quality of life, strengthen family support systems and assist people with disabilities in becoming integrated into the mainstream of life.
410-636-2274
https://www.arinow.org

ACTS

Lending home convalescent equipment for those in need at no cost. Serving St. Mary’s, Calvert and Charles Counties. 301-769-4100
http://www.acts-smc.org

Adaptive Clothing

Adaptations by Adrian. https://www.adaptationsbyadrian.com 760-744-3565

Land’s End https://www.landsend.com

Target https://www.target.com/c/kids-adaptive-clothing/-/N-1laue

Tommy Hilfiger https://usa.tommy.com/en/tommy-adaptive

Zappos https://www.zappos.com/e/adaptive

Adaptive Living Inc

Provides residential and community living support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
https://adaptiveliving.net/ 410 730 1289

Alice’s Dream Foundation is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit
The mission of Alice’s Dream Foundation is to provide families in need with durable medical equipment to provide greater independence and quality of life for their children.

At Alice’s Dream Foundation – we DREAM to allow families and children to achieve a better life for themselves.
For more information go to their website http://www.alicesdream.org or email them at alicesdreamfoundation@gmail.com

American Sign Language Classes

Did you know that you can take sign language classes on line? Check out this link from Gallaudet University https://www.gallaudet.edu/asl-connect
You can even start with basic ASL for Free https://www.gallaudet.edu/asl-connect/asl-for-free/asl-by-topic  
Or you can subscribe to their Youtube account to stay updated with upcoming ASL vocabulary videos!

American Society for Deaf Children

Has lots of useful information, resources and more options for sign langauge classes and even provides them for free to their members. https://deafchildren.org/

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Association

They accept power mobility equipment that is under 5 years old, in working order, and with working batteries.
Check out their website for other services. Tel: 301-978-9855 or 1-866-348-3257. https://www.ALS.org/dc.md.va.

Arc of Baltimore

Dedicated to providing advocacy and high quality, life-changing supports since 1949 in Baltimore City and Baltimore County, The Arc Baltimore supports more than 6,000 adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. https://www.thearcbaltimore.org/

Arc of Howard County

Funds programs, such as job training and respite care, to benefit developmentally disabled citizens of Howard County and their families. 410 730 0638
https://www.archoward.org

Assistive Technology (AT) Guide for Teams

The purpose of this packet is to guide teams through the assistive technology process. The Arc of  Baltimore’s Assistive Technology (AT) Department is there to support individuals and their teams in making AT decisions and acquiring needed services and devices to help people achieve their goals. Please consult with the AT Department for support as you work through this process.

AT Guide for Teams.

Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training Center (AT3 Center)

The AT3 Center, a program of the Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP) is federally-funded to provide technical assistance to the Assistive Technology (AT) Act Grantees to assist them in increasing awareness, access, acquisition, and advocacy to AT devices and services for consumers with disabilities of all ages.  State and territory AT programs implement efforts to help people access the devices that can help them (e.g. through device demonstrations and short-term equipment loans) and acquire their own (e.g. through state financing or device reutilization). To find your state AT program, go to https://www.at3center.net/stateprogram

Athelas Institute

Provides vocational training and educational, rehabilitative and residential support for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
https://www.athelasinstitute.org    410 964 1241

Athletes Serving Athletes

They empowers individuals living with disabilities to train and compete in main stream running and triathlon events so they can experience the THRILL of crossing the finish line.
https://asa.run   

Baltimore City and Baltimore County Community Resources Directory

Community Resources 2022 is an annual directory developed and published by the Baltimore County Department of Aging (BCDA). Baltimore County Department of Aging has partnered with the Baltimore County Department of Planning/Commission on Disabilities as well as Baltimore City to create one regional resource directory for Baltimore residents. The directory’s content has been expanded to accommodate resources and services that range from adult day care to recreation and travel.
https://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/aging/publications/resources.html

Baltimore City Dept. of Recreation & Parks 

Baltimore City Dept of Recreation & Parks (Therapeutic Recreation division) provides a wide variety of recreational opportunities and services for individuals with disabilities in both specialized and inclusive environments.  Upcoming events and programs are listed on our webpage:
http://bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/therapeuticrecreation

Camp Inclusion

A fun, activity filled summer day camp specifically designed to build friendships between individuals with and without special needs.
Check out their website http://www.campinclusion.org, email info@campinclusion or call 443-398-8537 to learn more.

Center for Social Change

Provides residential programs and training for the developmentally disabled. 410 579 6789
https://www.centerforsocialchange.org

Center for Technology and Disability 

The Center on Technology and Disability (CTD) is funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). The Center is designed to increase the capacity of families and providers to advocate for, acquire, and implement effective assistive and instructional technology (AT/IT) practices, devices, and services.  Research-based technologies, used appropriately, have great potential to help infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities participate fully in daily routines; have increased access to the general educational curriculum; improve their functional outcomes and educational results; and meet college- and career-ready standards. Check out their website for more information https://www.ctdinstitute.org

Cerebral Palsy Group 

Cerebral Palsy Group is an online resource for anyone who has been affected by cerebral palsy, brain injuries, or birth injuries. They are dedicated to providing information, material, and resources that are available to both families and loved one’s who have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Check out their website https://cerebralpalsyguidance.com to learn more.

Cerebral Palsy Guidance 

This is a very comprehensive informational site on cerebral palsy and associated conditions, including autism, ADHD and more. Not only do they provide detailed medical information, but have hundreds of pages on lifestyle and sports. You can read more about the evolution of participation and inclusiveness in sports at an so much more at https://www.cerebralpalsyguidance.com/cerebral-palsy/living/sports

Connections Beyond Sight and Sound (CBSS)

Is a project designed to meet the unique needs of children and youth with both vision and hearing impairments.
• CBSS serves any parent, family member, or care provider of a child with dual sensory impairment age birth through 21 who lives in Maryland or DC, or any school personnel involved in providing service to such a child.
• CBSS plans activities and provides technical assistance and training based on student, family and service provider needs.
http://www.marylanddb.org Tel 310-405-0482

CRAB Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating 

CRAB provides sailing experiences and instruction to over 1,000 guests every year from its base of operations at Sandy Point State Park.  Thanks to the numerous CRAB volunteer Skippers, Crew, and Support Staff sailing programs are held every week through October and include Family Sail Sundays, Group Sails, Sailing Camps and Clinics, and Regattas.  Their mission is to bring the thrill, freedom, therapeutic value of sailing to people with disabilities, recovering veterans, and local youth from at-risk neighborhoods. Visit the CRAB website for more information.

DC FUND$

DC FUND$ is one of the services offered by The Assistive Technology Program for DC(ATPDC). It is a low-interest funding source for District of Columbia residents with disabilities and seniors to purchase assistive technology devices and services.  Many different items are considered assistive technology, including hearing aids, communication devices, computers, specialized software, home modifications and more. DC FUND$ offers a lower interest rates than a traditional bank.  Prior to accepting a loan application, they first provide valuable information about other potential funding resources as well as consumer credit education as necessary.
https://www.atpdc.org

Decoding Dyslexia Maryland

Is a parent-led, grassroots movement driven by families concerned about reading instruction and interventions for all students, including those with dyslexia, in Maryland. https://www.decodingdyslexiamd.org  

Disability Rights Maryland (formerly Maryland Disability Law Center)

DRM is Maryland’s designated Protection & Advocacy (P&A) agency and a member of the National Disability Rights Network. As such, DRM is part of a nationwide network of organizations working to advance the rights of people with disabilities. Congress established the P&A System in 1975 in response to squalid conditions in institutional facilities for people with disabilities. In creating and funding the P&As, Congress granted them unique statutory authority to conduct investigations of suspected abuse and neglect of individuals with disabilities in facilities. 800-233-7201 or 410-727-6352
https://www.disabilityrightsmd.org

Easterseals Camp Fairlee

Provides respite care to Maryland families and accessible recreation to children and adults with all types of disabilities through year-round programs including summer camp, respite weekends, and travel / vacation trips.  Camp Fairlee is best known for its traditional, overnight summer camp program that has 6 and 12 day sessions.   Activities include swimming, canoeing, horseback riding, wall climbing, zip line, ropes course, nature trails, arts/crafts and more.  Camp Fairlee was totally rebuilt in 2015 and has modern, climate controlled  facilities including a 12,000 square foot activity center for use in bad weather.  Located on the upper Eastern Shore near Chestertown, MD  Serving Maryland families since 1954. http://www.campfairlee.com   410-778-0566

Emergency Preparedness Toolkit

The Department of Disabilities, working with local jurisdictions and fellow State agencies, has released a comprehensive emergency manager’s toolkit which prioritizes planning for the needs of people with disabilities during preparedness, response, and recovery from a disaster or other emergency.  Planning for People with Disabilities and Others with Access and Functional Needs Toolkit was almost a two year process, but it is receiving national attention as a best practice for incorporating various support needs into one coordinated strategy.

Check out the online version Toolkit LINK

Emergency Respite Care
From the Maryland Department of Human Services, in partnership with The Elizabeth Cooney Personnel Agency, Inc., Elizabeth Cooney Personal Care, LLC:
Lifespan emergency respite services are now available. These services, funded by a grant from the Federal Administration for Community Living, provide assistance across the state for individuals with special needs, living in the community across the age and disability spectrum, in or out of their homes, in order to provide temporary relief for their families or informal caregivers.
Requests for respite will be accepted from informal family caregivers, agencies and organizations working with caregivers, recipients of care, and from the community. Requests for emergency respite may be made to the Elizabeth Cooney Personnel Agency, Inc., Elizabeth Cooney Personal Care, LLC by contacting Elizabeth Weglein, CEO, at 410.323.1700. The Elizabeth Cooney Agency has 24-hour availability.
For details, please see this information sheet.

Every Move Counts Clicks and Chats

Is a sensory based approach to communication and assistive technology for individuals with significant sensory motor differences developmental differences and autism. https://www.everymovecounts.net

Frederick County Special Education Partners for Success Resource Guide

Do not be fooled, even though this resource guide was developed by Susan Douoghue-Rick of Frederick County Partners for Success, there are many useful resources included regardless of where you live.
Frederick County Resources for Families

GiGi’s Playhouse Annapolis

Officially opened on February 3, 2018—making it the 35th GiGi’s Playhouse Down syndrome achievement center across North America and the first in the DC/MD/VA area.

All of their therapeutic, educational programs and tutoring are free and support all ages, from families with a prenatal diagnosis through adult individuals with Down syndrome. Their programs focus on a variety of skills, including gross and fine motor skills, literacy and math skills, social skills, and confidence–all with the goal of helping individuals with Down syndrome become their best selves.
https://gigisplayhouse.org/annapolis/about/

Guide to Accessible Travel 

https://www.spintheglobe.net is a great resource for information on travel and those places that are especially friendly to people traveling in wheelchairs etc.

Howard County Autism Society

Serves individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and their communities by providing information, support, and advocacy; by promoting awareness of autism that values the dignity and uniqueness of each individual; and by working to improve the quality of and access to services and to educational opportunities. http://www.howard-autism.org/ 410 290 3466

Howard County Early Beginnings

Part of Howard County public schools, this program is for children newborn to age 3 who have developmental delays, handicapping conditions or are at risk for delays.
https://www.hcpss.org/special-education/ 410 313 6600

Howard County Loan Closet. Resources for Aging in Place 

The Loan Closet is a Howard County clearinghouse of donated medical equipment for those who cannot afford these items or simply have a short-term need, as well as those who may no longer need their equipment. Residents should call ahead to check equipment availability and schedule an appointment with a specialist to donate or receive equipment. 410 313 0363. The time frame the equipment can be borrowed depends on the equipment and specific individual needs. For more information check out their website.
https://www.howardcountymd.gov/loancloset

Howard County Office on Aging and Independence

Principal agency that coordinates programs and services for adults with disabilities in Howard County. Specifically, the Office administers the Maryland Access Point of Howard County which helps with: Guidance with Assistance and Benefits, Referrals to Programs and Services and Plans for the Future. 410-313-1234 (voice/relay) https://www.marylandaccesspoint.info

Howard County’s Office of Transportation

Offers free fixed-route fares to individuals with disabilities and administers the Paratransit Program, which provides curb-to-curb service for individuals with disabilities who cannot use existing bus service. 1-800-270-9553

Howard County Therapeutic Recreation & Accommodation Services 

Their mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing community recreational and leisure opportunities and promoting lifelong skills. https://www.howardcountymd.gov/tr

Humanim 

Not-for-profit organization serving children, adolescents, adults and seniors with disabilities through many areas of human services, including mental health, workforce development services, vocational, neuro-rehabilitation, developmental disabilities and services for the deaf.
https://humanim.org 410 381 7171

Imagination Stage

Offers sensory friendly performance of the children’s classic, check out their upcoming shows.
http://imaginationstage.org/shows-tickets/accessibility/

iOS 12 Accessibility Switch Control – The Missing User Guide

On September 17th, 2018 Apple released iOS 12 for the iPhone and iPad. iOS 12 includes an accessibility feature called Switch Control, which gives individuals with motor impairments the ability to use almost any feature on an iOS device with an alternative access switch. Learn how to use Switch Control and about changes to it in our updated Switch Control – The Missing User Guide.

If you have apps that are critical to the daily use of your iOS device, please check to make sure that the app is compatible with iOS 12 before updating.

To view the guide iOS-12-Switch-Control-User-Guide

iOS 13 – iPad OS 13 Accessibility Switch Control – The Missing Users Guide

Now you can access your iPad and iPhone with a mouse! On September 19, 2019 Apple released iOS 13.

Anyone who upgrades to iOS 13 for iPhone or iPadOS for iPad will unlock the ability to use a USB or Bluetooth mouse with their device. Mouse support is HUGE for individuals with motor impairments and will provide a wide variety of new access options to the iPad and iPhone.

Mouse support on iOS 13 and iPadOS is part of the operating system and does not require any special hardware outside of a USB adapter. To help you get up to speed on this new access option, the AbleNet team has put together a short video outlining mouse support for iPad and iPhone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alqDHkecm5I&feature=youtu.be

Check out this guide developed by Ablenet. OS_13_Switch_Control_User_Guide__English

iPad resources

5 Ways to Get a Free iPad for Your Special Needs Child …

JAN

The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is the leading source for free, expert and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. Working towards practical solutions that benefit both employer and employee. JAN helps people with disabilities enhance their employability, and shows employers how to capitalize on the value and talent that people with disabilities add to the workplace.
https://askjan.org 800 526 7234

Kennedy Center

Change things up with a sensory friendly opera or symphonic orchestra concert at the Kennedy Center!
http://www.kennedy-center.org/calendar/accessibility   You can find some great pre-visit materials that include social stories and sensory maps of some of their theaters

Kennedy Krieger Institute

Offers pediatric behavioral psychology services in an outpatient clinic for children ages 2 to 18. The clinic helps with sleep difficulties, tantrums, parent-child interaction for typically developing children and those with developmental delays and disabilities. 443 923 9200
Also offers Assistive Technology Services for all ages. 443 923 2600
For more services check out their website.
https://www.kennedykrieger.org

LDA Learning Disabilities Association of America 

Since 1963, LDA has provided support to people with learning disabilities, their parents, teachers and other professionals with cutting edge information on learning disabilities, practical solutions, and a comprehensive network of resources. These services make LDA the leading resource for information on learning disabilities. https://www.ldaamerica.org

Linwood Center 

Runs a school and provides residential services for children with emotional disorders, especially autism. Offers residential and employment services for adults with autism.
https://www.linwoodcenter.org 410 465 1352

LISS Funding 

The Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) program grants eligible applicants up to $2000 for identified services and items to support identified needs. The DDA distributes LISS funding twice during the fiscal year (July 1 – June 30), in two rounds. For more information click here

Lollipop Kids Foundation

Collects outgrown/no longer needed DME, refurbishes it, and matches it to a child in need. A licensed PT fits each piece of DME to the child, and trains parents and caregivers on proper usage. https://www.lollipopkidsfoundation.org

Contact equipment@lollipopkidsfoundation.org

Loyola Clinical Center for Speech-Language Pathology Services

Offers hearing, speech and language diagnosis/therapy.
https://www.loyola.edu/department/clinical-centers 410 617 1210

Makers Club 

Introduces Makers and Assistive Technology (AT) users and give these two communities the tools they need to collaborate. AT users and those who support them desperately need engineers and technologists to help them with everyday tasks. High School STEM and Robotics students, hobbyist & DIY electronics enthusiasts have the skills necessary to create innovative solutions today. To learn more go to http://ATMakers.org 

Maryland Access Point

Offers information about a wealth of community services. Searches can be made by county at https://www.marylandaccesspoint.info/consumer/connect.php

Maryland Assistive Technology Loan Program

The Assistive Technology Loan Program helps Maryland residents with disabilities and their families qualify for low-interest loans to buy equipment that will help them live, work, and learn more independently. Contact Tanya Goodman tanya.goodman1@maryland.gov 410-554-9244
https://www.mdtap.org

Maryland Assistive Technology Network (MATN) 

MATN provides up-to-date information on AT policies, practices, and devices. Visit often to learn about new advances in the field and professional development opportunities.
http://marylandlearninglinks.org/

Maryland Centers for Independent Living

Centers for Independent Living teach skills of independence, advocacy training and offer technology resources.  Each Center provides a mix of services dependent on community needs.  Please check for the center that works with your county and contact them for more information.

Maryland Coalition for Families 

Founded in 1999, MCF is a statewide nonprofit with staff in communities across Maryland. They provide free support, information and resources to Maryland families thanks to funding from federal, state and local agencies. They work with: Parents and caregivers of young people with mental issues,  Anyone who cares about someone with substance use issues or gambling issues. Tel: 410 730 8267 https://www.mdcoalition.org

Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education Inc. (MCIE)

MCIE is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to the inclusion of students with disabilities in their neighborhood schools.  They offer advocacy services for families and workshops on inclusive practices.  Check their website for upcoming events.
http://www.mcie.org

Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Prevention and Health Promotion Administration. 

My Health Care Notebook and Youth to Young Adult Care Notebook are now being offered for FREE. Keep all your loved one’s health information in one convenient, accessible & portable place. Available in USB drive, paper copy or by email. For more information call 410 767 6730.

Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council

The Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council (Council) is an independent, self-governing organization dedicated to advancing the inclusion of Marylanders with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life. The Council works in partnership with people with developmental disabilities and their families, as well as other individuals and organizations, to bring about lasting change. The Council develops a five year State Plan that establishes priorities and serves as a roadmap for accomplishing  goals.  https://www.md-council.org

Planning Now is a comprehensive, easy to use, futures and estate planning guide for families of children and adults with developmental disabilities. Future & estates planning includes envisioning a desired future for your child. Topics covered include financial and healthcare benefits, wills, trusts, tax considerations, financial planning, and others. For more information and access to a free copy of this guide go to: http://www.md-council.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Planning-Now-Flyer-in-English-Sept-2018.pdf

Maryland Disability Law Center (MDLC) now Disability Rights Maryland

Maryland Emergency Preparedness

Check out all these great resources to help you prepare for emergencies https://www.ready.gov/disability

Maryland Equipment Link

Is an online exchange of A.T. Equipment, this “classified ads” feature, connects people with available equipment.  You can advertise items for sale or giveaway and locate items you need.  The Equipment Link Program is designed to facilitate transactions between individuals; it is not for the sale or procurement of equipment by vendors or distributors. Tel: 1 800 832 4827 or 410 554 9230
http://www.equipmentlink.org

Maryland Relay

If you, or a loved one, have difficulty using a standard telephone, Maryland Relay makes it easy to place and received calls. Maryland Relay services are available free. You are responsible for paying your monthly telephone bill to your chosen service provider. Long distance rates may apply.
Get the telecommunications equipment needed to independently make and receive phone calls. The Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) program, a service of Maryland Relay, offers a wide variety of solutions and tools – from amplified phones to Braille TTY’s – to support day-to-day communications. The MAT program has a solution for virtually anyone who has difficulty using a standard telephone – they can even custom-create a solution for you. As of July 2020, now legally and operationally an agency of the Maryland Department of Disabilities.
Please visit https://www.mdrelay.org for more info or call 800-552-7724 or 410-767-6960 (Voice/TTY) or 443-453-5970 (video phone)

Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (MD-LBPD)

Provides free library services for people who are unable to read standard print because of a visual, physical, or reading disability. MD-LBPD offers books and magazines the way you want them: in braille or audio formats, mailed to your door for free, or instantly downloadable. Their talking-book players feature large buttons, braille letters beside the controls, a sleep timer, and built-in audio instructions. The BARD Mobile app allows users to quickly and easily download audiobooks directly to iOS and Android devices. To receive an application for service, call 410-230-2443,
email reference.desk@maryland.gov, or visit our website at https://www.lbpd.maryland.gov

Maryland Statewide Portable Ramp Access Project

Loans portable ramps of varying lengths and types, including threshold ramps (for small steps in and around a house) and portable ramps ranging from 4 to 12 feet. Marylanders can borrow a ramp for up to 120 days while additional home accessibility solutions are identified. Consumers return the ramp after their short-term need is met or once they have identified funding for a permanent structure, and the ramp is loaned out again to another individual.
The Maryland Department of Disabilities Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) is excited to announce that the Statewide Portable Ramp Access Project has expanded to include two additional locations operating portable ramp loans, Independence Now (Montgomery and Prince George’s) and IMAGE Center (Baltimore City, Baltimore County and Harford County). They join four existing sites, The Bay Area Center for Independent Living, Accessible Resources for Independence, Southern Maryland Center for Independent Living, and Resources for Independence. This brings the total to six Centers for Independent Living (CILs) serving residents across the state. To streamline the loan process, consumers can now contact the local CIL serving their area for immediate assistance without having to go through the MDTAP Central Office. The additional locations and streamlined process ensures that more portable ramps are available and consumers have more efficient access to the ramps they need.

For more information on the Statewide Portable Ramp Access Project, visit them online.

Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP)
The Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) is a program run by the Maryland Department of Disabilities. Their mission is to enhance the lives of all Marylanders with disabilities, older Marylanders, and their families by helping support access to assistive technology (AT) devices through AT demonstrations, device loans, trainings, and financing. http://www.mdtap.org

MDTAP AT Library Tours. Would you like to see some of the newest AT on the market?
Would you like to talk with an assistive technology specialist to learn more?
Schedule a customized tour of the AT library to learn about how AT can best help you, your friends, your family or your clients!

To schedule a tour, contact Lori Berrong at lori.berrong@maryland.gov or 410-554-9477 Check out the virtual tour of the library.

Maryland Works 

Promotes economic and workforce development strategies to include individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment. 410 381 8660
https://mdworks.com 

Medical Travel Assistance Program

This program may be used to cover transportation, meals, lodging, and parking for medical care that requires out of state/long distance travel. The program is intended for families who would benefit from assistance to cover the cost for travel to receive medical care.
https://www.chargesyndrome.org/for-families/family-assistance-program/medical-travel-assistance-program-2/

Muscular Dystrophy Association

They accept power mobility equipment that is under 5 years old, in working order and with working batteries. Check out their website for other information. Tel: 1-888-484-7072 http://www.mda.org

NAMI

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.
To contact the Howard County office call 410-772-9300 or go to their website to see all the programs they offer. https://www.namihowardcounty.org

Pathfinders for Autism

Pathfinders for Autism works to support and improve the lives of individuals affected by autism through expansive, individualized programming, and by providing resources, training, information and activities free of charge.
https://www.pathfindersforautism.org

Quality Indicators in Assistive Technology (QIAT) 

The QIAT Consortium is a nationwide grassroots group that includes hundreds of individuals who provide input into the ongoing process of identifying, disseminating, and implementing a set of widely-applicable Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services in School Settings that can be used as a tool to support students.
http://qiat.org

Resource Connections Inc.

Works with you to secure the services you need to assist you live the life you choose. They receive their referrals from the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and work with you as you pursue eligibility determination. They provide services to those on the Waiting List or Resource Coordination and Community Pathways Waiver enrollment. Tel: 301 429 9300 or go to https://resconnect.org

Scanning Wizard

Helps scanning users set up their switch and scanning software to maximize communication rate. The wizard guides you through a series of carefully designed tasks and generates individually-tailored recommendations to meet your needs. https://scanningwizard.com

Self-Directed Advocacy Network of Maryland (SDAN)

Is a support and advocacy resource for people self-directing their services through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). SDAN welcomes all community members who have an interest in fostering the self-directed services option and works to connect people who are currently self-directing to the community around them.
For mow information visit their website http://marylandsds.org/

Shared Horizons Inc., 

The Wesley Vinner Memorial Trust is a pooled special needs trust administered by Shared Horizons, Inc., a nonprofit organization in Washington, D.C. If you have a disability and earn, inherit, or receive a lump sum of money over the $2,000 SSI limit or the State’s Medicaid limit, you can create an account within the Wesley Vinner Memorial Trust.

In addition to being a pooled special needs trust, they sponsor a charitable fund. The fund makes awards to individuals with disabilities and organizations that service people with disabilities. These awards are intended to help those in need of assistance securing goods and services they may not be able to afford otherwise. The charitable fund application can be accessed through the website https://www.shared-horizons.org

Shared Support Maryland Inc.,

Shared Support Maryland, Inc. assists people in developing and maintaining the self-direction of their services and supports, fosters and grows community connections and relationships, and values the ambitions and goals of the people they support by joining in their pursuits and sharing in their successes. In doing so we inspire systemic change. https://www.sharedsupportmd.org

Sheppard Pratt at Ellicott City 

A private nonprofit health system that offers mental health care for adults, adolescents and people with co-occuring disorders. 443 364 5500
https://www.sheppardpratt.org

Single Switch Performance Test SSPT

Is software to facilitate measurement of the ability to activate a single switch. SSPT software measures the average time required to activate or release the switch (following visual and/or audio prompts) and also can measure the speed of repetitive activation. To get a free download go to https://aacinstitute.org and click on the store tab and scroll down.

Special Olympics Howard County 

Conducts a training and competitive sports program for children and adults with intellectual and related developmental disabilities. 410 740 0500
https://somdhc.org

Taking the Lead, Inc

Uses an 80-acre working dog and horse training facility to help clients learn the skills to live more independently and successfully in their community and workplace. 443 690 1176 https://takingthelead.org

The Advocacy Supports Unit of the Developmental Disabilities Administration

Their mission is to provide supports to people in DDA Services to understand and navigate the DDA system, receive services and choose a meaningful life for oneself. The Advocacy Supports Team deliver supports in a professional and thoughtful manner, at the control of the person requesting assistance.
https://dda.health.maryland.gov/Pages/Self-Advocacy%20Specialist.aspx

The Buddy Project 

Dedicated to Providing Technology, Training and Advocacy to the Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled. Recycle your electronics with them.  https://www.thebuddyproject.org/

The Communication Matrix

Is a free assessment tool created to help families and professionals easily understand the communication status, progress, and unique needs of anyone functioning at the early stages of communication or using forms of communication other than speaking or writing. Go to https://www.communicationmatrix.org to learn more.

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)

The DDA partners with people with developmental disabilities to provide support and resources to live fulfilling lives. The DDA is the primary State agency that funds community-based services and supports for people with developmental disabilities. Understanding key aspects of the DDA service system, including rules, rights, processes, and timelines is essential to accessing the supports an individual needs and wants. https://health.maryland.gov/dda/Pages/home.aspx
To ensure that availability, the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, Disability Rights Maryland, and the Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities worked together to produce four informational sheets on specific topics related to the DDA and its services:
  • DDA Overview
  • Waiting List
  • Coordinators of Community Services
  • Person Centered Planning
Together, they provide a primer on the DDA service system for people with developmental disabilities, families, advocates, school system personnel, and others who want to understand and use those services.
The informational sheets are available in English, Chinese and Spanish. You can download them from the Council’s Publications page.

The Therapeutic & Recreational Riding Center

Provides physical and occupational therapy on horseback to treat a wide range of disabilities. 410 489 5100 https://www.trrcmd.org

Unified Community Connections

Unified Community Connections’ Assistive Technology Center provides Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT) assessments, therapy and training. Their AAC and AT inventory allows for hands-on trials with various software and hardware devices. The Center is staffed with a speech-language pathologist who can assist with obtaining funding for AAC devices through your health insurance. For more information, please contact Angela Strauch Lane at 443-449-2580 or astrauch@unified.org      https://unified.org/ 

V-LINC

In 2019, V-LINC joined forces with Baltimore based non-profit, the IMAGE Center for People with Disabilities. Results of the merger will bring V-LINC services under the management of the IMAGE Center to more effectively and completely support the needs of those with disabilities in the central Maryland area.  This move will allow them to  effectively continue their programs while impacting even more members of the community with their custom assistive technology program, school partnerships, and technology education services.

Both programs will house their administrative offices and show-case technology solutions at the IMAGE Center headquarters in Towson. Custom assistive technology services will expand under the IMAGE Center and will revert to the original name, the VME Custom Assistive Technology Program.  Angela Tyler will continue her role as Volunteer Services Manager and remain the primary contact for clients, schools, and volunteer services. http://www.imagemd.org

Way Station

Operates an outpatient mental health clinic and offers community employment, residential rehabilitation and supported housing programs for people with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities and substance abuses addictions. 410 740 1901 https://www.sheppardpratt.org/way-station/