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
- 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
Maryland ABLE
Want to learn more about Maryland ABLE? visit their website
Accessible Equipment Exchange (“AEE”)
Is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the purpose of providing those who need special needs equipment with excess to equipment (free of charge) which has been dnated by others who no longer need the equipment.
https://www.aeeinc.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 Visit their Website
Achieving Independence
Provides disability support services to individuals in Maryland who have elected to Self-Direct their DDA waivered serivces. 667-352-8481 Visit their Website
ACTS
Lending home convalescent equipment for those in need at no cost. Serving St. Mary’s, Calvert and Charles Counties. 301-769-4100 Visit their Website
Adaptive Clothing
Adaptations by Adrian. Website | 760-744-3565
Adaptive Living Inc
Provides residential and community living support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Website | 410 730 1289
American Sign Language Classes
Did you know that you can take sign language classes on line? Check out this link from Gallaudet University
You can even start with basic ASL for Free: Learn More
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. Visit their Website
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. Visit their Website
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. Visit their Website
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 Visit their Website
Assistive Technology Navigator
This Assistive Technology page is a resource presented by MIH in conjunction with the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration. On Aug. 15, 2022, Maryland became a Technology First State through a proclamation signed by the Governor. This means the state is committed to empowering all Marylanders with disabilities to have access to technology that will help them live, work and play in their communities. Visit their Website
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 At3center.net
Athelas Institute
Provides vocational training and educational, rehabilitative and residential support for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Website | 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
Autism Society of Maryland
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. Website | 410 290 3466
They now have Resource Coordinators and offices in Howard, Montgomery and Anne Arundel counties. Their Spanish Language Resource Coordinator serves all three counties. This expansion and their new name builds on the important work they have been doing in the community for the past 30 years and enables them to connect to even more individuals and families on the Autism journey with the local resources and services they need. As AUSOM, we continue to partner with the local affiliate, the Autism Society Baltimore-Chesapeake, which serves Baltimore City and Baltimore County.
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.
Learn More
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
Visit their Website
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
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 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 CerebralPalsyGuidance.com
Chesapeake Therapeutic Riding (CTR)
Founded in 2003, CTR’s mission is “to deliver healing and learning to individuals and groups whose minds, bodies, and spirits will benefit from the transformative connection between people and horses.” From therapeutic riding lessons to programs designed for veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities, CTR is transforming lives through the power of the horse-human bond. Based in Street, Maryland.
https://ctrchanginglives.org/
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. Visit their website
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
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
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.
Every Move Counts Clicks and Chats
Frederick County Special Education Partners for Success Resource Guide
https://www.fcps.org/academics/special_education/partners_for_success/outside_family_resources
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. Learn More
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 Now Autism Society of Maryland
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.
410 313 6600 Learn More
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.
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) Visit their website
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. Click here
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. Learn More
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! 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.
Laughing at My Nightmare
Shane’s humorous and optimistic outlook on his condition has earned him a huge following on social media. His YouTube blog, called Squirmy and Grubs, receives hundreds of thousands of views. He has written a children’s book, a memoir, and recently published another memoir in his third book. His kindred spirit is driven by a bigger purpose reflected in his non-profit organization, Laughing at My Nightmare. He travels to schools and businesses across the country to teach methods for overcoming adversity and speak about how people can live happier lives. His organization also provides equipment grants to those living with muscular dystrophy. Visit their website
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.
Visit their website
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 $1,000 for identified services and items to support identified needs. The DDA distributes LISS funding through a random selection process. For more information click here
Loyola Clinical Center for Speech-Language Pathology Services
Offers hearing, speech and language diagnosis/therapy.
Website | 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 Maryland Access Point
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
Visit their website
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.
- For Anne Arundel & Howard Counties:
Accessible Resources for Independence, Inc.
Email: arinow@arinow.org
1406-B Crain Hwy South, Suite 206
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Phone: 443-713-3914
Fax: 443-713-3909
https://www.arinow.org
Facebook Page - For Caroline, Cecil, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, Worchester Counties:
Bay Area Center for Independent Living (BACIL)
Katherine Jones – Executive Director
Email: kjones@bayareacil.org
31516 Winterplace Parkway, Suite 100
Salisbury, MD 21804
Phone: 443-260-0822
Fax: 443-260-0833
https://www.bayareacil.org
Facebook Page - For Montgomery & Prince George’s Counties:
Independence Now, Inc.
Diane Palmer, Executive Director
Email:dpalmer@innow.org
12301 Old Columbia Pike, Suite 101
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Phone: 240-898-2183
Fax: 301-625-9777
https://www.innow.org
Facebook Page - For Allegany, Garrett & Washington Counties:
Resources for Independence, Inc.
Lori Magruder, Executive Director
Email: lmagruder@rficil.org
735 East Oldtown Rd
Cumberland, MD 21502
Phone: 301-784-1774
Fax: 301-784-1776
https://www.rficil.org
Facebook Page - For Calvert, Charles & St. Mary’s Counties:
Southern Maryland Center for Independent Living
Lidiya Belyovska, Executive Director
Email:LBelyovaska@smcil.org
38588 Brett Way, Suite 1
Mechanicsville, MD 20659
Fax: 301-884-6099
Phone: 301-884-4498
https://www.smcil.org
Facebook Page - For Carroll & Frederick Counties
The Freedom Center, Inc.
550 Highland St., Suite 150
Frederick, MD 21701
Phone: 301-846-7811
Fax: 301-846-9070
Email: advocate@thefreedomcenter-md.org
https://www.thefreedomcenter-md.org
Facebook Page - For Baltimore City, Baltimore & Harford Counties:
The Image Center of Maryland
Teara Winmond, Executive Director
Email:twinmond@imagemd.org
300 East. Joppa Road, Suite 312
Towson Maryland 21286
Phone: 410-982-6311
Fax: 410-372-4037
https://imagemd.org
Facebook Page
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 Visit their Website
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 Aging
They offer new and gently used durable medical equipment. Available to Maryland residents of all ages free of charge! 240-230-8000 dme.maryland.gov
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 go to:Click Here
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 Inclusive Housing
Maryland Inclusive Housing Corporation’s mission is to help people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) successfully access and maintain inclusive, affordable, and accessible housing of their choice by creating opportunities, identifying resources, connecting people and providing services. https://mih-inc.org/about/
Maryland Relay
Administered by Telecommunications Access of Maryland (TAM), this State agency provides equipment and services for Marylanders who have difficulty using a telephone and more. Maryland Relay is a free public service that allows people, unable to use a standard telephone, to both make and receive phone calls. You are responsible for paying your monthly telephone bill to your chosen service provider. Long distance rates may apply.
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)
To learn more about their equipment distribution program https://www.mat-apply.org/ and FAQ’s Learn More
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
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
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. Visit their website
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.
Visit their website
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
Ryan’s Place Foundation (formerly 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. Visit their website
Contact info@ryansplacefoundation.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 more 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
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
Spirit Club
They offer Personal/Partner Training, Public Group Classes, Private Group Classes and Virtual Fitness. Their trainers are dual certified to work with people with all abilities. Locations in Anne Arundel, Howard & Montgomery Counties. 301 933 3722 www.spirit-club.com
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. Learn More
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)
- DDA Overview
- Waiting List
- Coordinators of Community Services
- Person Centered Planning
The FRIENDS OF PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK is located at Patapsco Valley State Park, in Ellicott City.
This year they have offered adaptive fishing, kayaking, hiking and cycling with more options becoming available throughout the year. There is also an accessible playground for children.
These programs are only offered on particular dates through the spring and summer. We highly recommend signing up for an event as early as possible as spots are limited and can go fast.
If you are interested in learning more click Here and be directed to their website and accessible recreational options.
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/