Health Condition and Disability-Specific Resources
Unique Sweets provides delicious treats and a safe space for people with autism and other disabilities to participate in life skills training. Team members participate in event planning, purchasing supplies, baking, decorating and packaging and receive a stipend to cover their expenses to get to the kitchen. Unique Sweets also hosts social events throughout the year to foster peer-relationships, social skills and community support.
Unique Sweets also offers:
- Life skills (virtual or in-person) peer-led cooking classes
- Social events and an annual Party With a Purpose
- Inclusive workshops, information sessions and social events with other organizations
- Referrals to other programs and services as needed
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) promotes a life of inclusion and provides resources for individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, their families and communities.
The UCP website has resources on topics including assistive technology, housing and home modification, travel and transportation, education, caregiving and more. You can also find UCP affiliates in the state of Illinois.
The United Spinal Association empowers and advocates for wheelchair users and people with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D) nationwide. The organization provides local chapters, disability resources, peer support, a manual wheelchair guide and app, a health equity checklist and toolkit and more. Its resources include:
- The United Spinal Association of Illinois
- Peer support groups and mentorship programs (in-person or virtual)
- Equipment or supply closet/loan program
- Regular social events and activities
- Individual grants to members
- The Disability Etiquette Guide to download and share
United Spinal Association Illinois Chapter
The United Spinal Association Illinois Chapter (USAIC) is a non-profit offering information and support resources for people paralyzed by trauma and medical conditions. It also serves family members and health care and related professionals serving the spinal cord injury community. USAIC is located in Palos Heights but provides information, events and educational programs statewide. Its programs include:
- Virtual and in person peer support groups
- The “Living with Spinal Cord Injury” program for health professionals and health science students
- “Injury Prevention” for school children, seniors and other groups featuring members’ experiences, and information on preventing injuries and falls
- Advocacy and more
Urban Autism Solutions (UAS) is a Chicago non-profit organization serving young adults with autism and other learning differences. Their person-centered programming focuses on building life skills, community integration, social interaction, an integrated community life, and social and vocational opportunities. UAS programs include:
- The West Side Transition Academy
- Growing Solutions Farm
- Life Lab
- Network 1212 social meet-ups and outings for young adults
Vaccine Information for Parents With Children With Disabilities
Vax for All provides vaccine information and other helpful tips for parents and caregivers of a child with autism and other disabilities. Resources on the website include:
- Stories, videos and other kid-friendly disability resources
- How vaccines work – explanations for children and adults
- A vaccine appointment scheduling tool
- Information about in-home vaccine appointments for children in Illinois
Parents may text HELLO to (260) VAX-4ALL / (260) 829-425 to find information or chat.
Para obtener información sobre cómo vacunar a su hijo, envíe un mensaje de texto con HOLA al (260) 829-4255.
For parents and teachers who wish to learn more about autism to better support children and families in the autism community, the Illinois Early Learning Project (IEL) provides “What is Autism?”
This question-and-answer style document includes information about the prevalence and defining characteristics of autism, community- and school-based supports and links to additional resources.
When Your Child Has a Heart Defect: Planning Ahead for Lifelong Heart Health
Children with congenital heart defects and disease (CHD) will need lifelong care from congenital heart experts. The Adult Congenital Heart Association provides this brochure to help parents of children born with CHDs support their child’s lifelong heart health.
Without Limits – Team Galaxy in St. Clair County
Without Limits – Team Galaxy provides an inclusive environment where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities and free, monthly social events at the Swansea Moose Lodge 1221. The organization provides outreach and advocacy to ensure that people with disabilities can live, work, learn and play in communities in and around St. Clair County. Membership is $50 a year. Financial assistance is available.
Participants can build skills and enjoy activities that include:
- Drama and theater activities
- Cheer team
- Dance classes and company ($5 per class)
- Special Olympics
- Special sports clinics
- Summer camps and more
YMCA Diverse Abilities Programs in Cass and Clay Counties
Diverse Abilities – YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties provides programs to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age or background, can thrive. Diverse Abilities offers an opportunity for individuals with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other special needs to participate in a wide range of classes and activities based on their needs and comfort level. Its programs include:
- Art
- Fitness
- Monthly social hours
- Swimming
