Resources
Some resources that might be of help to you.
Ability Awareness
Check out www.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 www.ablenrc.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 our 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
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
www.acts-smc.org
Adaptive Clothing
Adaptations by Adrian. 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.
www.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 www.alicesdream.org or email them at alicesdreamfoundation@gmail.com
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. www.ALSinfo.org
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
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 Baltimore’s Assistive Technology (AT) Department is here 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. Any form mentioned in the Guide can be accessed in the Appendix below.
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/
Athelas Institute
Provides vocational training and educational, rehabilitative and residential support for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
www.athelasinstitute.org 410 964 1241
Athletes Serving Athletes
Athletes Serving Athletes 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.
www.AthletesServingAthletes.org
Baltimore City and Baltimore County Community Resources Directory
Community Resources 2019 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 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
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 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.
www.CBSS.UMD.EDU 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.
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. 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 us unique statutory authority to conduct investigations of suspected abuse and neglect of individuals with disabilities in facilities. 800-233-7201 or 410-727-6352
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. 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
Every Move Counts Clicks and Chats
A sensory based approach to communication and assistive technology for individuals with significant sensory motor differences developmental differences and autism. 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. Our 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/
Grants for Assistive Technology
This informative Grants for assistive technology list of possible grants was developed by Maryland Department of Disabilities.
Guide to Accessible Travel
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, a program for children newborn to age 3 who have developmental delays, handicapping conditions or are at risk for delays.
www.hcpss.org/special-education/early-intervention 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.
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) 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
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.
www.humanim.com 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.
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 in the link below that include social stories and sensory maps of some of their theaters.
http://www.kennedy-center.org/Pages/accessibility/sensory
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.
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. 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.
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. www.lollipopkidsfoundation.org
Contact equipment@
Loyola Clinical Center for Speech-Language Pathology Services
Offers hearing, speech and language diagnosis/therapy.
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 ATMakers.org
- Want to learn more about Maryland ABLE?
- Would you like a speaker for your event?
- Would you like a webinar for your agency or organization?
Contact Chelsea Hayman at 443-769-1057 or CHayman@marylandable.org to request a presentation or webinar on Maryland ABLE.
To learn more visit their website https://marylandABLE.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 tgoodman@mdtap.org 410-554-9244
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.
- For Anne Arundel & Howard Counties:
Accessible Resources for Independence, Inc.
Katie Collins-Ihrke, Executive Director
Email: kihrke@arinow.org
1406-B Crain Hwy South, Suite 206
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Phone: 443-713-3914
Fax: 443-713-3909
www.arinow.org
https://www.facebook.com/AccessibleResourcesforIndependence/ - 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
909 Progress Circle, Suite 300
Salisbury, MD 21804
Phone: 443-260-0822
Fax: 443-260-0833
www.bayareacil.org
https://www.facebook.com/BayAreaCIL/ - For Montgomery & Prince George’s Counties:
Independence Now, Inc.
Sarah Sorensen, Executive Director
Email:ssorensen@innow.org
12301 Old Columbia Pike, Suite 101
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Phone: 240-898-2183
Fax: 301-625-9777
www.innow.org
https://www.facebook.com/InNowOrg/?rf=161719140522454 - 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
www.rficil.org
https://www.facebook.com/Resources-for-Independence-inc-211242995554679/ - 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
www.smcil.org
https://www.facebook.com/SMCIL-1666139436962807/ - For Carroll & Frederick Counties
The Freedom Center, Inc.
550 Highland St., Suite 150
Frederick, MD 21701
Phone: 301-846-7811
Fax: 301-846-9070
www.thefreedomcenter-md.org
https://www.facebook.com/The-Freedom-Center-390196474380232/ - For Baltimore City, Baltimore & Harford Counties:
The Image Center of Maryland
Michael Bullis, Executive Director
Email:mbullis@imagemd.org
300 East. Joppa Road, Suite 312
Towson Maryland 21286
Phone: 410-982-6311
Fax: 410-372-4037
www.imagemd.org
https://www.facebook.com/theimagecenter/
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 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. 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
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 – we 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 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 Physically Handicapped (MD-LBPH)
Provides free library services for people who are unable to read standard print because of a visual, physical, or reading disability. MD-LBPH offers books and magazines the way you want them: in braille or audio formats, mailed to your door for free, or instantly downloadable. Our 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 www.lbph.maryland.gov
Maryland Statewide Portable Ramp Access Project
For more information on the Statewide Portable Ramp Access Project, visit us online.
Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP)
The Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) is a program run by the Maryland Department of Disabilities. Our 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 Markland at lori.markland@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
www.mdworks.com
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 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. 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.
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. We receive our referrals from the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and work with you as you pursue eligibility determination. We provide services to those on the Waiting List or Resource Coordination and Community Pathways Waiver enrollment. Tel: 301 429 9300 or go to www.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. www.scanningwizard.com
Self-Directed Advocacy Network of Maryland (SDAN)
Is a support and advocacy resource for the nearly 1000 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 www.shared-horizons.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
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 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
www.somdhc.org
Taking the Lead, Inc
Uses an 80-acre working dog and horse training facility to give clients the skills to live more independently and success in their community and workplace. 443 690 1176 www.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 will be delivering 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 www.communicationmatrix.org to learn more.
The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)
- DDA Overview
- Waiting List
- Coordinators of Community Services
- Person Centered Planning
The Gallagher Group LLC
We provide evaluations/supports/therapy in the area of: Speech/Language Assessments and Services for Children and Adults, with specialization in apraxia, oral and written language development, and Augmentative Communication. Assistive Technology Consultation/Assessment in the area of speech and language skill development, articulation, language, voice, pragmatic skills, or access to augmentative communication and the use of various speech generating devices. We support families through the school district IEP meetings via reports, consultation, and/or attendance at the school district IEP meetings. Assistive Technology Consultations are focused on the individual needs in areas related to independence at home and in the community.
www.drbjg.org
The Therapeutic & Recreational Riding Center
Provides physical and occupational therapy on horseback to treat a wide range of disabilities. 410 489 5100
www.trrcmd.org
Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusion Services
Offers integrated sports and arts programs, social groups, summer campus and community outings for those with mental and physical disabilities. 410 313 4628
Unified Community Connections
Unified Community Connections’ Assistive Technology Center provides Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT) assessments, therapy and training. Our 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 www.unified.org
V-LINC
Beginning in 2019, V-LINC will be joining 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. They also anticipate hosting at least three bike clinics in 2019 as they streamline and broaden this important V-LINC outreach initiative.
The Mary Salkever Inclusive Summer Camp has served children with and without disabilities in Baltimore since the 1990s. Through the merger, camp services will broaden their reach by joining with several non-profit organizations in the area to host the Youth Leadership Forum held each summer at Towson University. The Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is a unique career leadership training program for high school juniors and seniors with disabilities. By serving as delegates from their communities, young people with disabilities cultivate leadership, citizenship, and advocacy skills. The addition of the Mary Salkever Summer Camp will provide needed access to technology training and resources required to succeed in today’s climate. YLF will incorporate these services by unveiling The Tamara Salkever Technology Program as part of the summer intensive beginning in 2019. The program is renamed for Mary Salkever’s daughter who is an advocate with disabilities and the inspiration for the original summer camp program. 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
www.waystationinc.org