Parent Resources

State and Federal Resources

• Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
• Department of Developmental Services
• Department of Children and Families
• Department of Mental Health
• Department of Public Health
• Disabled Persons Protection Commission
• Division of Medical Assistance
• Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
• Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation and Recreation: Universal Access Program
• Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
• Supplemental Security Income Program

State and Federal Resources

• Institute for Human Centered Design Promotes accessibility and universal design.
• The Arc of Massachusetts Each local Arc is an independent organization and offers a variety of direct services.
• Center for Health Policy and Research UMass Medical School - Publishes "Disability Issues," a free newsletter.
• Disability Resources on the Internet Links to Massachusetts resources.
• Easter Seals Provides information and services for rehabilitation, child care, summer camps, recreation and job training.
• Family TIES of Massachusetts Offers regional information and support network by and for families of children with special needs.
• Federation of Children with Special Needs Provides support and resources for families and professionals regarding educational issues for children.
• Health Care for All Advocates making health care a right for all individuals. Helps parent problem-solve insurance issues.
• Institute for Community Inclusion Supports the rights of children and adults with disabilities to work and recreate, and examines local and state policies.
• The New England ADA Center Provides information, guidance and training on the Americans with Disabilities Act to individuals, businesses, and government at the local, state and regional levels. Have questions? Call their 1-800 number.
• Parent-Professional Advocacy League Provides support, education and advocacy for issues related to children's mental health needs.
• Partners for Youth with Disabilities Arranges mentors for young people with disabilities and sponsors educational, art and recreation programs.

State and Federal Resources

• Access Recreation Boston One calendar for over thirty accessible recreation organizations in eastern Massachusetts and beyond. Search by age, disability, activity type and more.
• AccesSport America Inspires higher function and fitness for children and adults of all disabilities through high challenge sports.
• Fun and Friends Connection A forum to access resources on the web.
• Piers Park sailing
• Sibshops Offers information about the experiences of siblings of children with special needs and how to help siblings in a group format.
• Specialized Housing, Inc. Works with families to create and manage housing support options for adult children with special needs.
• Toward Independent Living and Learning (TILL) Offers respite, family support, personal care assistance, supportive living options, information and referral.
• Waypoint Adventure Adventures for people of all ages and abilities.