We want to help families and individuals with special needs find the resources that sometimes seem hard to track down. The information below may help you find information for your family members or friends with disabilities. Check back periodically for new information.
If you have a resource you would like to share, please contact Michelle Ford at 816.360.3304 or MichelleFord@KansasCityYMCA.org.
Autism Speaks of Kansas City
The goal of Autism Speaks is to change the future for all who struggle with autism spectrum disorders. Autism Speaks is dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure for autism; to raising public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and to bringing hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder. Autism Speaks aims to bring the autism community together as one strong voice to urge the government and private sector to listen to our concerns and take action to address this urgent global health crisis. www.autismspeaks.org
Autism Society of America-Heartland
If you are looking for others who are travelling the same path as you, or for an opportunity to change the lives of others by sharing your time and talent, or if you are just looking for a place to relax...the Autism Society of America-Heartland may be that place. Consider this website as your personal key to unlock the door to a wonderful and unique world called Autism. www.asaheartland.org
Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City
The Down Syndrome Guild (DSG) provides several programs and services to families who have a loved one with Down syndrome and the professionals who serve the Down syndrome community. Some of our programs and services include complimentary copies of expectant parent packets and a new parent basket, which includes traditional baby gifts, award winning new parent magazine, baby with Down syndrome book and additional resource materials; Quarterly Support Breakfast; local community groups; Connections Newsletter; 24-hour phone information line; educational seminars and workshops; and referrals to service providers as requested. DSG strives to be the number one resource on Down syndrome and support positive attitudes toward people with Down syndrome. www.kcdsg.org
Families Together, Inc.
Families Together, Inc., is dedicated to a society that includes all values and all people. Their mission is to encourage, educate and empower families that have a child or youth with disabilities. Families Together, Inc. was founded in 1982 as an opportunity for families to come together and meet other families who were navigating the special education and disability services maze. Today, four regional centers are available, offering individual assistance and training opportunities through the Parent Training and Information Center and Family to Family Health Information Center. In addition to many programs, the Parent-to-Parent program matches one parent with another who has experienced the same disability events. If you need help navigating the special education or health systems or just need to talk to someone who understands the small victories and struggles, Families Together is here to serve you. www.familiestogetherinc.org
Missouri Parents Act
The mission of this organization is to ensure that all children with special needs receive an education that allows them to achieve their personal goals. Parents of children with disabilities face challenges every day that other parents don't have. It is often difficult to navigate the maze of special services and create a plan that will help children achieve successful outcomes through education. But how do we reach these goals? How do we know what choices to make for and with our children? Missouri Parents Act can help answer your questions. www.ptimpact.org
National Sports Center For the Disabled
The National Sports Center for the Disabled - Kansas City (NSCD-KC) provides high quality sports and outdoor recreation programs for individuals with disabilities in the community. We are able to accommodate almost any challenge”physical, cognitive, emotional or behavioral. Join the NSCD-KC for ongoing programs such as golf, canoeing or cycling, or enjoy a sports camp or family fun night. www.nscd.org/programs/kansascity.htm