Resource & Agency Directory
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Family Resource Center for Disabilities and Special Needs
Charleston
Advocacy
The Family Resource Center (FRC) offers free access to a comprehensive catalog of resource materials. Items available for loan include books, audio and video cassette tapes, articles, journals, and a variety of training curricula. The Family Resource Center library contains topics related to specific disabilities, self-advocacy issues, current therapies, and special education. Many resources are available in Spanish and arrangements may be made to access materials through any Family Resource Center satellite branch.
Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
National
Advocacy
The Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is the largest coalition of national organizations working together to advocate for federal public policy that ensures the self-determination, independence, empowerment, integration and inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in all aspects of society.
National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
National
Advocacy
NACDD is the national association for the 56 Councils on Developmental Disabilities (DD Councils) across the United States and its territories. The DD Councils receive federal funding to support programs that promote self-determination, integration and inclusion for all people in the United States with developmental disabilities.
PACER Center
National
Advocacy
PACER Center enhances the quality of life and expands opportunities for children, youth, and young adults with all disabilities and their families so each person can reach his or her highest potential. PACER operates on the principles of parents helping parents, supporting families, promoting a safe environment for all children, and working in collaboration with others. With assistance to individual families, workshops, materials for parents and professionals, and leadership in securing a free and appropriate public education for all children, PACER's work affects and encourages families in Minnesota and across the nation.
Center for Disability Resources
South Carolina
Advocacy
Our mission is to enhance the well-being and quality of life of persons with disabilities and their families. We collaborate with persons with disabilities and their families to develop new knowledge and best practices, train leaders, and effect systems change.
LowCountry Voices for Special Needs
South Carolina
Advocacy
We are an advocacy organization devoted to people with lifelong disabilities in the state of South Carolina. Our focus is to ensure that people with disabilities have full access to their community and the necessary services to maintain a quality life experience. We are committed to educating,empowering and protecting the rights of these valuable citizens. Our goal is to raise awareness.
Protection & Advocacy for People with Disabilities, Inc.
South Carolina
Advocacy
Under annual priorities set by a volunteer Board of Directors, P&A investigates reports of abuse and neglect and advocates for disability rights in areas such as health care, education, employment and housing. P&A serves people of all ages and disabilities. P&A does not charge for its services. P&A does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, color, creed, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship, age, religion, sex or sexual orientation, veteran status or any other class protected by law in the provision of its programs or services. Pete Cantrell is P&A’s designated coordinator for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs
South Carolina
Advocacy
SCDDSN is the state agency that plans, develops, oversees and funds services for South Carolinians with severe, lifelong disabilities of intellectual disability, autism, traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury and conditions related to each of these four disabilities. Our mission is to assist people with disabilities and their families in meeting needs, pursuing possibilities and achieving life goals, and to minimize the occurrence and reduce the severity of disabilities through prevention.
South Carolina Speech Language Hearing Association
South Carolina
Advocacy
SCSHA is a professional and scholarly organization for speech-language pathologists and audiologists. Our goal is to meet the needs of our members and the individuals they serve by promoting and advocating of the highest quality services and professional standards, providing opportunities for professional growth and the exchange of knowledge, and educating the public about communication disorders and the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology.
South Carolina Assistive Technology
South Carolina
Assistive Technology
The South Carolina Assistive Technology Program (SCATP) uses technology devices and services to help people with disabilities live, work and learn more independently. We are federally funded and part of a national network of technology-related assistance programs that provide the devices that increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities. Our mission is to enhance the independence, productivity and quality of life for all South Carolinians.
Autism Science Foundation
National
Autism
The Autism Science Foundation’s mission is to support autism research by providing funding and other assistance to scientists and organizations conducting, facilitating, publicizing and disseminating autism research. The organization also provides information about autism to the general public and serves to increase awareness of autism spectrum disorders and the needs of individuals and families affected by autism.
Autism Society
National
Autism
Advocacy The Autism Society’s public policy and advocacy efforts have continually improved the lives of those affected by autism. At the national level, the Autism Society supports the needs of the millions of individuals impacted by autism in America and their family members. At the state level, the Autism Society helps state Autism Societies advancing advocacy efforts at the state level to advance the wellbeing of individuals and families impacted by autism. Each year, volunteers and staff from around the nation come to Washington, DC to meet with their national elected officials and to promote a responsive and accountable national legislative agenda to advance the quality of life of all diagnosed with autism. Education The Autism Society provides easy to understand, practical information related to the autism spectrum for a broad audience on a wide range of educational topics to empower people to more effectively advocate and obtain supports. We work to educate individuals with autism, their loved ones, professionals from multiple disciplines, and the public at large about autism and issues within the autism community in order to foster acceptance and appreciation of individuals on the autism spectrum as the valued members of our community that they are. Information & Referral Many parents say that their first call after receiving a diagnosis of autism is to the Autism Society, however it doesn’t end with that first call. We are here through all phases of one’s lifespan, empowering those affected by autism through a oneonone connection with our staff of trained Information and Referral specialists. Support Autism Society’s affiliates are your best source of information and support, and where the person in need is helped directly. Through support groups, help with understanding the services in the community or state, local and state advocacy, help to an individual and his/her family to navigate often complex and confusing service systems, and training to local and statewide organizations on being autism friendly and responsive, the local or state Autism Society affiliates thrive each and every day. Community The Autism Society’s vision is to increase the quality of life of everyone living with ASD by building autism friendly, inclusive communities. The Autism Society believes that individuals with autism deserve to live, work, play, socialize, learn and worship in the setting and manner of their own choosing.
Autistic Self Advocacy Network
National
Autism
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network seeks to advance the principles of the disability rights movement with regard to autism. ASAN believes that the goal of autism advocacy should be a world in which autistic people enjoy equal access, rights, and opportunities. We work to empower autistic people across the world to take control of our own lives and the future of our common community, and seek to organize the autistic community to ensure our voices are heard in the national conversation about us. Nothing About Us, Without Us!
Naplab
National
Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been diagnosed in around 2 million people in the United States. It is indeed a spectrum, and people with an ASD diagnosis can have wildly different issues and challenges.
However, around half of all children diagnosed with ASD also experience sleep issues. Typically, they have issues falling asleep and don’t experience restful sleep, which can cause their other issues to worsen. This is also true of adults with ASD
Organization for Autism Research
National
Autism
We strive to use science to address the social, educational, and treatment concerns of self-advocates, parents, autism professionals, and caregivers. The mission of “applying” research to answer questions of daily concern to those living with autism defines our goals and program objectives and shapes our budget.
The Asperger / Autism Network
National
Autism
AANE works with individuals, families, and professionals to help people with Asperger Syndrome or similar autism spectrum profiles build meaningful, connected lives. We do this by providing information, education, community, support, and advocacy--all in an atmosphere of validation and respect.
The Miracle Project
National
Autism
The Miracle Project is a fully inclusive theater, film and expressive arts program focused on building communication, self-esteem, job and social skills for individuals with autism and all abilities – speaking and non-speaking. Using groundbreaking and evidence-based methods developed by our founder, Elaine Hall, The Miracle Project focuses on the strengths and abilities inherent in each participant while developing a unique neurodiverse community.
Lowcountry Autism Foundation
South Carolina
Autism
We provide programs to support a family from the time they suspect their child may have autism, through the diagnosis and throughout their lives. Our programs are individualized and aimed to fill a gap in services. With a very small staff and a dedicated group of volunteers we have provided over half a million dollars in free autism services to over 1500 Lowcountry families. We are small, but mighty and all of our funds stay right here in the SC Lowcountry.
Brain Injury Association of South Carolina
South Carolina
Brain Injury
The Brain Injury Association of South Carolina is a nonprofit organization which was developed by persons with brain injury, their families, and concerned professionals in an effort to provide information and support to those who have experienced a brain injury. The BIASC is our state's chartered affiliate of the Brain Injury Association of America.
No Label Defines Me
Lowcountry
Cerebral Palsy
I am committed to helping people create their “No Label Defines Me” Life. I believe we live in a world filled with labels, and the labels we wear determine the story we create around our value. The great thing about a label is it can be peeled away and replaced. My vision is to live in a world where we are walking around with labels we choose for ourselves that empower us. I create the “No Label Defines Me” mindset through my coaching; my podcast, No Label Live; my book, Empower Yourself: Awaken The B.E.A.S.T. Within; and my Beyond Basics course.
Cerebral Palsy Guidance
National
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy Guidance was created to provide answers and assistance to parents of children with cerebral palsy. Our goal is to reach as many members of the cerebral palsy community as possible, building up a network of support and providing necessary assistance.
Easterseals
National
Complementary Services
Among our services: early intervention, inclusive childcare, medical rehabilitation and autism services for young children and their families; job training and coaching, employment placement and transportation services for adults with disabilities, including veterans; adult day services and employment opportunities for older adults – in addition to a variety of additional services for people of all ages including mental health and recovery programs, assistive technology, camp and recreation, caregiving support including respite – and much more.
The Morgan Project
National
Complementary Services
Created in 2001, our mission is "to provide the tools for a therapeutic and fun experience to children, young adults and others with physical and developmental needs." We do this through our unique Quality of Life support programs, at Morgan's Place, and through volunteer outreach. Learn more about what we do and why we do it.
Best Buddies
National
Complementary Services
Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The Charleston Miracle League
Tri-County
Complementary Services
The Charleston Miracle League makes memories by providing a life-changing experience for children and adults with mental and physical challenges through a community supported baseball league. Our children and adults leagues play in a state-of-the-art complex built specifically for them.
Dating4Disabled
National
Dating
Dating4disabled is a online dating & social networking community specifically for singles with a disability. Meeting new people can sometimes be more difficult when you are dealing with a disability. So, whether you are interested in dating, making new friends, and more. Our site is here for you Use this site to find others dealing with various diseases, both physical and mental. Sign up now to enjoy many of our members to chat and to get to know new people.
Disabled Mate
National
Dating
We are YOUR home to find a loving match who will treat you with respect and love regardless of your disability. If you don't know where to start, we are here to help. Simply join Disabled Mate and find your soulmate.
If you are disabled, it doesn't mean you can't have a vivid love life; however, you might need to make few adjustments in order to make it as pleasurable as possible. If you have some reservations about dating, we encourage you to let go of your fears and step into our online community.
Special Bridge
National
Dating
Special Bridge is a family-owned and operated social community for people with disabilities. It was designed to set itself apart from mainstream dating websites and social networks that cannot meet the needs of this particular community. With an easy-to-use interface and a user group comprised of people with similar needs and ability levels, Special Bridge will help to foster long-lasting relationships.
Whispers4u
National
Dating
New Members Daily. We like to keep things fresh!
With hundreds of new singles joining every week with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Learning Difficulties, Spina Bifida, Amputations and Wheelchair Users, we are the premier online disabled dating site founded in 2002. But don't just take our word for it, read what some of our ex-singles say in our Disabled Dating Success Stories.
dateability app
National
Dating
Dateability is the only dating app designed for the disabled and chronically ill communities. People with disabilities and chronic illness often encounter ableism on other dating apps. We understand the unique circumstances that present when dating with a disability, which is why we created a safe and accepting space to create meaningful connections for people with physical, intellectual, and psychiatric disabilities.
We are dedicated to creating an inclusive dating app which means welcoming people of all genders and sexual orientations.
Dateability is available to use on iOS, Android, and web application (dateabilityapp.com) for North America.
Club Horizons
Tri-County
Day Program
Our company focuses on special need individuals who may need some extra care during the day. We understand that caring for a loved one can take a toll on family members, which is why we provide adult day services that can give you a much-needed break in addition to benefits for your loved one. At Club Horizons, we are an adult day program that offers daily support and allows your loved one to return home in the evening. We take the time to understand exactly what it is that your loved one needs. We then develop a regimen that offers an array of activities to stimulate mental and physical well-being. But most of all, we work to enhance your loved one’s self-esteem and help them maintain their sense of independence.
Osprey Village
Lowcountry
Day Programs & Related Services
OSPREY Village
is a South Carolina non-profit corporation founded in July 2008 by advocates championing a better way to provide resources to empower adults with developmental disabilities.
Osprey Village has created a person-centered service model which will be the basis for the development of an inclusive residential "neighborhood with a purpose." Residents with a variety of needs will have access to individualized services such as life skills training and employment assistance as well as recreation and social opportunities in a safe and attractive setting with an array of living options. The village will be open to anyone who would like to live in a "neighbor helping neighbor" village that elevates all people in a spirit of equality, respect, and opportunity.
SOS Care
Lowcountry
Day Programs & Related Services
We are a 501(c)3 non-profit direct service provider that empowers those with autism and intellectual disabilities to thrive on their own. We offer a range of programs, camps, activities and classes that teach the life and social skills one needs to live independently as possible.
Hands on Health South Carolina
South Carolina
Directory
The purpose of Hands on Health-SC is to give the people of South Carolina a place to go to learn about health and wellness. South Carolina has some important health problems. These include diabetes, heart disease, cancer, asthma, stroke, and suicide. If you or someone you care for is facing one of these problems, Hands on Health-SC can help you find out about it.
Down Syndrome Association of the Lowcountry
Lowcountry
Down Syndrome
The Down Syndrome Association of the Lowcountry, established by a group of parents in the 1990s, is a volunteer driven organization created for local families. We wish to see our children and adults with Down syndrome live fulfilling, empowered lives and strive to meet the individual needs of each family. Our mission is simply: To provide support to new parents Enrich lives through art, athletic and educational opportunities and events To increase community awareness of Down Syndrome To enhance employment opportunities for people with Down Syndrome, and To improve education for students with Down Syndrome.
Children & Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
National
Dyslexia
In working towards our mission, the behavior of the CHADD staff and volunteer leadership is determined by the following core values: Integrity Respectful, open communication Quality of our work product and productivity in our work effort, to assure sustained customer satisfaction Flexibility and teamwork A demonstrated commitment to diversity in all its forms Dedicated to fulfilling CHADD’s mission with passion and enthusiasm
Charleston County School District
Charleston County
Education
The CCSD Department of Exceptional Children designs, delivers, and implements enhanced systems of supports that meet the unique needs of students with disabilities to ensure that all students have the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to be college and career-ready, independent, productive citizens.
Pattinson's Academy
Charleston County
Education
Pattison’s Academy is an education and rehabilitation academy providing comprehensive, year-round programs to support children with disabilities and their families. Our collaborative model integrates therapy and education to create a unique, individualized and intensive learning environment for every child that enters our doors.
Dorchester County Board of Disabilities & Special Needs
Dorchester County
Education
The Dorchester County Board of Disabilities and Special Needs develops, coordinates and operates services and programs for persons with intellectual disabilities, autism, and head and spinal cord injuries in Dorchester County. The Dorchester County Board of Disabilities is a non-profit, quasi-governmental agency governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the Governor of South Carolina upon recommendation of Dorchester County Council.
Dorchester School District Two
Dorchester County
Education
MISSION: Dorchester School District Two leading the way, every student, every day, through relationships, rigor, and relevance. VISION: Dorchester School District Two desires to be recognized as a “World Class ” school district, expecting each student to achieve at his/her optimum level in all areas, and providing all members of our district family with an environment that permits them to do their personal best.
STRIVE Worldwide
National
Education
We at PSL Services/STRIVE are committed to being part of the community and assisting people with emotional and intellectual disabilities to live with dignity and respect as active members of our community. At PSL Services/STRIVE we work with the individuals who have selected us to support them in the life they have chosen.
SC Head Start Association
South Carolina
Education
Head Start is a free program for young children from low-income families. Children who participate take part in fun activities which help develop educational and social skills. They also receive nutritious meals, health care, and play in a supervised setting. Our programs strive to deliver quality services to children and their families. Head Start helps all children succeed.
SC Program For Infant/Toddler Care
South Carolina
Education
The SCPITC promotes responsive, relationship-based approach to infant/toddler care. The positions advocated by the South Carolina PITC are based in sound child development and family support research, theory and practice. The SCPITC is adapted from the Program for Infant/Toddler Care in California at the WestEd Center for Child and Family Studies which is recognized nationally and internationally for their effective training strategies emphasizing an approach that encourages self-reflection and builds on the strengths of individual programs and teachers.
Charis Academy
Tri-County
Education
The Charis Academy mission is to provide an exceptional, multi-sensory, academic environment that is student centered, family focused, and resource rich. Charis is designed to meet the specific educational needs of the different learner including but, not limited to, children living with Mild Autism, ADHD, or other similar educational challenges.
Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion
National
Employment
The Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN) is a free resource that helps employers tap the benefits of disability diversity by educating public- and private-sector organizations on ways to build inclusive workplace cultures. EARN offers information and resources to empower individuals and organizations to become leaders in the employment and advancement of people with disabilities.
Job Accommodation Network
National
Employment
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. Working toward 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.
NCWD/Youth
National
Employment
The National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth (NCWD/Youth) assists state and local workforce development systems to better serve all youth, including youth with disabilities and other disconnected youth. The NCWD/Youth, created in 2001, is composed of partners with expertise in education, youth development, disability, employment, workforce development and family issues. Funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), NCWD/Youth is managed by the Institute for Educational Leadership in Washington, D.C. NCWD/Youth offers a range of technical assistance services to state and local workforce investment boards, youth councils and other workforce development system youth programs.
PEAT
National
Employment
The Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT) is a multi-faceted initiative to foster collaboration and action around accessible technology in the workplace. Guided by a consortium of policy and technology leaders, PEAT works to help employers, IT companies, and others to understand why it pays to build and buy accessible technology, and how to do so. PEAT is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP).
South Carolina Works
South Carolina
Employment
Through the SC Works center, the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, the S.C. Department of Social Services, the Commission of the Blind, Adult Education, and the S.C. Department of Vocational Rehabilitation leverage the state’s workforce system by providing services such as career guidance, job referrals, and testing and training to meet the needs of jobseekers, employers and those looking to further their careers.
Resume & Employment Guide for People with Disabilities from Resume Builder
National
Employment
According to the Social Security Administration, there are over 8 million disabled workers in the United States. These workers often face challenges such as stereotyping, discrimination, and a lack of accomodations. Thankfully, there are a variety of legal protections and employment resources available that help people with disabilities overcome these challenges and advance their careers.
Below, we’ll go over best practices for resume writing, laws that protect you from discrimination, and several other topics that you should know about as a disabled worker.
South Carolina Advocates for Epilepsy
South Carolina
Epilepsy
South Carolina Advocates For Epilepsy devotes its energy to passionately advocating for members of the epilepsy community. Vital components to improving the quality of life for all epilepsy patients include our commitment to raising the level of awareness in our state, removing the stigma often associated with seizures and epilepsy, teaching seizure first-aid throughout our communities and providing educational opportunities and social activities to all our members.
BACB
National
Evidence-Based Practices
Behavior analysis is the science of behavior, with a history extending back to the early 20th century. Its guiding philosophy is behaviorism, which is based on the premise that attempts to improve the human condition through behavior change (e.g., education, behavioral health treatment) will be most effective if behavior itself is the primary focus.
Five Fish Foundation
Lowcountry
Financial
Five Fish Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to individuals with an intellectual disability and their families for approved therapies, programs, and products that promote their Support, Care, Acceptance, Life Quality, and Education in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties, South Carolina
Jenny Phillips