Special Needs Local Resource Directory
It is our hope that this directory helps you find some resources and community services that will support your family members with special needs. SEA200 does not have the ability to assess the competence of any of the following listings. It is up to each individual to question and investigate those listings that you are interested in using. Don forget to check for licensing, fees and health insurance acceptance as needed. SEA200 does not endorse any of the following. Any feedback is appreciated and kept confidential. Please contact us at SEA200.org.
Faith-based Resources
Alliance Clinical Associates 7 Blanchard Circle, Suite 201 Wheaton IL 60187 (630) 653-2300; www.allianceclinical.com. Mental health group practice treats children, teens, adults, and the aging with a faith-sensitive perspective. Psychiatrists, psychologists and masterfs-level therapists work collaboratively to address a wide spectrum of emotional and mental health problems.
Central DuPage Pastoral Counseling Center 507 Thornhill Drive Carol Stream IL 60188 (630) 752-9750; www.cdpcc.org. Nonprofit organization offers comprehensive counseling services for adults and children and children with special needs in an ecumenical, Christian setting.
Children of Hope Support Group Nondenominational support group; Catherine Anderson, (630) 260-7682 katand@sbcglobal.net
College Church 332 E. Seminary Ave. Wheaton IL 60187 (630) 668-0878; www.college-church.org/disability
College Church Stars Ministry for children and adults with developmental disabilities offers full inclusion in regular programs whenever possible, as well as special classrooms designed for their learning styles. Parent support groups and social events also are offered.
Jonathons Kids Glen Ellyn Evangelical Covenant Church 277 Hawthorne Glen Ellyn IL 60137 (630) 469-5405; www.gecovenant.org. Started by two moms in 1998, this parent support group meets approximately once a month, and sponsors family socials, speakers, and sibling groups. The group also offers assistance for children who need extra help on Sunday mornings, allowing the kids to be successfully integrated into the Sunday school environment while their parents worship with other adults.
St. Petronille Support Group for Parents with Special Needs 430 Glenwood Ave Glen Ellyn IL 60137 Adele Lessmeister, (630) 469-0404, ext. 2107; lessmeistera@stpetschurch.org
Wheaton Bible Church Wheaton IL 60187 (630) 260-1600; www.wheatonbible.org
Wheaton Evangelical Free Church 520 E. Roosevelt Road Wheaton IL 60187 Jonie Hosack, Parish Nurse, (630) 668-6490, ext. 113 (Voice); www.wefc.org. Sunday School Classes: Assistance is provided for those with special needs to be successfully integrated into the childrenfs and youth ministries. Support Groups: A support group for mothers of children with special needs meets every third Thursday of most months. For details, call Sharon Kettinger at (630) 665-9387.
Recreation and community
Special Needs Family Fun www.specialneedsfamilyfun.com This Web site offers an online community for families, parents, caregivers and professionals to meet online, including a chat room, bulletin board, newsletter and e-Group forum. This site also offers extensive general family topics ¨C all in one spot.
Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) 116 N. Schmale Road Carol Stream, IL 60188; Phone: (630) 681-0962; Fax: (630) 681-1262; www.wdsra.comThis association offers recreational programs, special events, and trips. Their inclusion coordinator will work with local park districts to set up an aide in a regular park district class for your child at no cost to you. They serve the communities of Carol Stream, Glen Ellyn, Naperville Roselle, Warrenville, West Chicago, Wheatonand Winfield. Online registration available.
Adult day services
Drop In Center ¨C Riverwalk Community Center 305 W. Jackson Ave. Naperville; (630) 681-0962 Western DuPage Special Recreation Association and National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer a drop-in center for adults with mental disabilities. It is a weekly program from 6 to 9 p.m. Participants gather for dinner and to participate in activities. Visiting artists come to teach a variety of art techniques. Contact WDSRA for more information.
Rec and Roll program Sportsman¡¯s Club, Naperville (630) 681-0962 Western DuPage Special Recreation Association program serves teens and adults 18 and older from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. You choose the number of days that fit your schedule and budget. This program was developed several years ago out of requests from the DuPage Transition Planning Council, among others, in an attempt to drive local communities into meeting the critically underserved needs of the adult population with developmental disabilities. It¡¯s expensive. This is a recreation-based program emphasizing service projects, music, field trips, current events, outdoor recreation, swimming, gardening, walking, community trips, arts and crafts, and games. Thursdays and Fridays are community trips requiring additional money. Participants must be able to function in a 1:4 staffing ratio and perform their own daily living skills. See the WDSRA program guide for current prices and registration information.
Amusement Parks
Six Flags Great America (and other amusement parks) If you bring a note from your doctor stating your child¡¯s disability, you can get a disability pass to bypass the long lines for rides at Six Flags Great America. Disability passes also are available at virtually all major amusement parks around the country.
Walt Disney World (407) 824-4321; Families of children with special needs can get a free Guest Assistance Card, which gives them special access to rides with little or no wait for six people in the party. To get the card, visit Guest Services at any park. It¡¯s wise to bring a letter from your doctor stating diagnosis just in case.
Art Therapy
Communication Clubhouse 2901 Finley Road, Suite 102 Downers Grove IL 60515 (630) 495-6800 Helping Hands Therapy, LLC 2777 Finley Road, Suite 27 Downers Grove IL 60515(630) 424-9100www.helpinghandstherapy.net Amy Kurtz, MOTR/L, provides occupational therapy services for children to ensure their success in both the home and school environment.
Adaptive Swimming
McDonald Corp. Lodge Pool, Oak Brook; (630) 420-4433; All therapy sessions are facilitated by a physical or occupational therapist. Call for information on their aquatic therapy program.
Rush-Copley Healthplex 1900 Ogden Ave. Aurora;(630) 978-6280; www.rushcopley.com Follow the link to the Rush Copley Healthplex or call for Adapt-a-Splash swim lessons for kids with special needs. Warm water pool. They have a 1:1 student-teacher ratio. Also ask membership office about Therapeutic Memberships -- monthly memberships offered for reduced registration and fees with caregivers allowed free entrance to pool if the swimmer requires assistance.
Western DuPage Special Recreation 116 N Schmale Road Carol Stream; (630) 681-0962; www.wdsra.com WDSRA provides swim lessons for special-needs children at a number of local area facilities.
YMCA All YMCAs offer adaptive swim lessons. Call your local YMCA aquatic director for more information.
Babysitting
Sitter City www.sittercity.com SitterCityhas at least 41 sitters in Illinois who are trained in taking care of children with disabilities. There are many more who can watch a child with an autism spectrum disorder but who do not have that specifically listed in their profile. When you sign up for this monthly service use the promo code AUTISM to receive $10 off your registration fee. A few of our members have used this service, put autism in their requirements and have received pretty fast replies from area sitters.
Also consider contacting your local college for posting requests for babysitting services.
Biking
Creative Mobility 2930 Campton Hills Road St. Charles, IL 60175(630) 587-8100 thebikerack.com; Adaptive bikes and more
Lose the Training Wheels/ Rainbow Trainers www.losethetrainingwheels.org Email: r-klein@uiuc.edu This organization was founded by Richard and Marjorie Klein. They have a great program offering five-day clinics designed to teach kids with special needs how to ride bikes. Their Web site offers sections for parents, bike therapy, facilitators, ¡°home remedies,¡± and bike camp locations and schedules.
BLAZE SPORTS The U.S. Disabled Athletes Fund, Inc. is a direct legacy of the 1996 Paralympic Games held in Atlanta, Georgia and is the parent organization from which BlazeSports America was formed. BlazeSports is a community-based sports program for individuals who have physical disabilities. The Blaze symbol is a phoenix, signifying the Paralympic athlete who overcomes great odds to achieve athletic excellence, and embodies theUSDAF as an enduring symbol of the Triumph of the Human Spirit. If you would like more information regarding BlazeSports Americaof Illinois/WDSRA, or are interested in joining a Blaze team, please contact Trent Thenhaus, Adapted Sports Coordinator at (630) 681-0962 ext. 114 or email at trentt@wdsra.com. Camps Comprehensive lists of camps can be obtained from
Family Resource Center (312) 939-3513, or from the American Camping Association. Discover Camp: A Booklet on Camps for Children with Disabilities www.ncpad.org/ The National Center on Accessibility, a partner of the National Centeron Physical Activity and Disability, has developed ¡°Discover Camp: Considerations for Sending your Child with a Disability to Camp for the First Time.¡± This booklet provides information for parents who are looking for the right camp for their child. The booklet features frequently asked questions on different types of camps (i.e., specialty, inclusive, day, and residential), facilities, camp staff, camper care, and programming. It includes additional suggestions on what to consider before heading to camp, as well as other resources. To obtain a copy, contact one of NCPAD¡¯s Information Specialists at (800) 900-8086 or ncpad@uic.edu. You can access a Web version of the booklet at www.ncpad.org/get/discover.
Easter Seals Rehabilitation Center Summer Camp AuroraIL; (630) 896-1961 Ray Graham Association Day Camp Elmhurst IL (630) 325-3857 Shady Oaks Residential Camps Lockport IL (708) 301-0816
Camps - day
Carol Stream/Warrenville/Wheaton/ Winfield Park District Camps are inclusive. If you need an aide for your child to attend these camps contact: Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) 116 N. Schmale Road Carol Stream, IL 60188; Phone: (630) 681-0962; Fax: (630) 681-1262; www.wdsra.com
Camp Craze Join us for an action packed summer! Camp Craze will be offered in three 3-week sessions. Join us for one or all three! Activities will include themed days, local mini-trips, swimming, crafts, games, music, and more. Please bring a sack lunch everyday. (AS) WHO: Children (ages 6-12) Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) 116 N. Schmale Road Carol Stream IL 60188 Phone: (630) 681-0962; Fax: (630) 681-1262; www.wdsra.com
Camp Discovery This camp is specifically designed for youths with a Learning Disability, Behavior Disorder, or Mental Health Challenge. This three day a week camp is action packed with adventure games, sports, crafts, swimming, and best of all¡ªfield trips! This camp will be run in cooperation with NEDSRA; what a great opportunity to make new friends. Each week Camp Discovery will make their way to forest preserves, explore different pools, and many other fun places around Northeast and Western DuPage Sign up today before it is too late! Transportation will be provided from WPDCC and/or WDSRA. WHO: Children & Teens with a Learning Disability, Behavior Disorder, or Mental Health Challenge (ages 6-18) Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) 116 N. Schmale Road Carol Stream, IL 60188; Phone: (630) 681-0962; Fax: (630) 681-1262; www.wdsra.com
Camp TIA Summer Camp TIA stands for Teens in Action. This camp is offered in Naperville Wheaton, and Carol Stream TIA will run Monday through Thursday in Naperville Carol Stream and Wheaton meet Monday through Friday. The camp activities are geared toward the active teenager and encourage group participation. Activities will include sports, crafts, games, swimming, community service work, and field trips. Participants will have input on weekly activities WHO: Teens & Adults (ages 13-21) Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) 116 N. Schmale Road Carol Stream IL 60188 Phone: (630) 681-0962; Fax: (630) 681-1262; www.wdsra.com
Camps - Illinois
Camp Red Leaf Jewish Council for Youth Services, 26710 W. Nippersink, Ingleside, IL 60041; (847) 740-5010; www.jcys.org Located on the grounds of Camp Henry Horner, Camp Red Leaf serves youth and adults with developmental disabilities, ranging in age from 9 to 90.
Camp SOAR (Special Outdoor Adaptive Recreation)Sponsored by Children¡¯s Research Triangle, 180 N Michigan Ave., Suite 700, Chicago, IL; (312) 726-4011; E-mail: campsoar@cr-triangle.org. www.childstudy.org/camp_soar Camp SOARoffers children with autism, Down syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, cerebral palsy and many other disabilities the opportunity to participate in traditional outdoor and recreational activities. The camp promotes physical and emotional well-being for the children while also providing respite for parents. Champions Day Camp Sponsored by Boy Scouts of America Three Fires Council; Call Janice Ciolino at (630) 584-5290, ext. 100, or Andi Sherman at (630) 584-5290, ext. 212; www.threefirescouncil.orgOpen to boys and girls who have special needs and are developmentally between the ages of 5 and 12 and their siblings. The location changes each day, mostly in DuPage County
Touch of Nature Environmental Center Mail Code 6888, Southern Illinois University, 1206 Touch of Nature Road, Makanda, IL 62958; Phone: (618) 453-1121; Fax: (618) 453-1188The following camps are offered by Touch of Nature:
Dyna Camp is a six-day camping session designed for children with ADD, ADHD, or other behavioral concerns. The camp utilizes its natural surroundings to provide a positive atmosphere conducive to learning, inclusion, cooperation, and fun
Camp Shawnee is a six- or 12-day camping session designed for children with physical or cognitive disabilities. The camp¡¯s natural surroundings provide a positive atmosphere conducive to learning, inclusion, cooperation, and fun.
Spectrum Wilderness¡¯ highly challenging 30-day courses include extended wilderness expeditions designed to address and modify the behavior of at-risk youth between 13 and 18 years of age
Camps - Out-of-State Overnight
Bradford Woods Indiana University¡¯s Outdoor Center 5040 State Road67 North, Martinsville IN 46151 (765) 342-2915; www.bradwoods.org Bradford Woods offers the following camps: Camp Riley serves youths ages 8 to 18 with a variety of physical disabilities. All camps are overnight and sessions last either six or 13 days. There are six Camp Riley sessions available throughout the summer, each with a different focus and programmed with the needs of campers in mind. Financial assistance is available. For details or to request an application, contact the camp coordinator at campriley@RileyKids.org, (317) 634-4474, or (877) 867-4539. Visit www.rileykids.org¡ñCamp Hi-Lite is sponsored by the Down Syndrome Clinic at Riley Hospital for Children, The Riley Children¡¯s Foundation, and the Indiana Down Syndome Foundation. Camp Hi-Lite serves children and young adults ages 8 to 22 with Down syndrome. There is one session available. For more information, or to request an application, contact Kathy Lowe at (317) 274-4264 or klowe@iupui.edu.¡ñCamp About Face is sponsored by the Craniofacial Clinic at Riley Hospital for Children. Camp About Face serves youth ages 8 to 18 with craniofacial anomalies. Children in this camp come from all over the United States There is one session available. Contact Trish Severns or Carol Ritter at (317) 274-2489 or pseverns@iupui.edu.
Camp Buckskin Winter address: 8100 Wayzata Blvd Golden Valley MN 55426 Phone: (952) 930-3544; Fax: (952) 938-6996; E-mail: buckskin@spacestar.netSummer address: P.O. Box 389 Ely, MN 55731 (218) 365-2121 www.campbuckskin.com Helping youth with AD/HD, LD, Asperger¡¯s, and similar needs achieve success since 1959. Camp goals: changing attitudes and the attendant habits of behavior that hinder learning and prevent success; encouraging children to realize their potential; assisting children to take increased responsibility for themselves and become more self-reliant; Improving both academic and social skills; promoting the building and maintaining of peer relationships; and increasing the child¡¯s confidence and enhancing self-esteem.
Camp Courageous of Iowa P.O. Box 418, 12007 190th Street Monticello IA 52310-0418; (319) 465-5916; www.campcourageous.org A year-round recreational and respite care facility for individuals of all ages with disabilities.
Camp Friendship 10509 108th St. N Annandale MN 55302 (800) 450-8376; Educational, recreational and social opportunities for people of all ages with mental and physical developmental disabilities Camp Kodiak McKellar Ontario Canada(905) 569-7595 or (877) 569-7595; E-mail: info@campkodiak.com. www.campkodiak.comThis camp is for youth ages 6 to 18 with and without learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder and Asperger Syndrome. Campers come from Canada the U.S.and around the world. All camp activities are planned with a view to teaching skills, building confidence and improving self-esteem. Teaching is done by skilled instructors who break tasks down into manageable chunks and present them in a logical sequence. In this way we can be sure campers will be successful. Staff members acknowledge every accomplishment and never miss the opportunity to provide positive feedback and recognition. Athletic instructors de-emphasize competition, stress co-operation and sportsmanship and model appropriate attitudes and behavior. Club Kodiak Camp for Young Adults 19+,
McKellar Ontario Canada(905) 569-7595 or (877) 569-7595; E-mail: club@campkodiak.com.; www.campkodiak.com/club. Club Kodiak provides a safe and structured environment tailored to meet the needs of young adults 19 and over with and without learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder and Asperger Syndrome. This camp offers many of the same activities provided for younger campers, but there are more choices, less obvious supervision, more freedom and an integrated life skills program. There are subtle differences in the terminology used. For example, ¡°counselors¡± are replaced with ¡°advisers¡± and campers are referred to as ¡°guests¡±. Guests select most of their own activities.
Camp Nuhop 404 Hillcrest Drive Ashland, OH (419) 289-2227; www.campnuhop.org ¡°NEW HOPE¡± for all children from 6 to 18 with learning disabilities, behavior disorders (LD/BD) or attention deficit disorders (ADD). The camp program is not appropriate for children with severe mental retardation or physical disability.
Camp SOAR P.O. Box 388, Balsam, NC 28707; (828) 456-3435; www.soarnc.org; Success Oriented Achievement Realized features success-oriented, high adventure program for preteens, teens and adults with Learning Disabilities (LD) and Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (AD/HD). Emphasis is placed on developing self-confidence, social skills, problem-solving techniques, a willingness to attempt new challenges and the motivation that comes through successful goal orientation. Resident Camp - Travel Camp - Coed - Balsam, NC (WY, FL, CA)
Camps - family
Joni & Friends www.joniandfriends.org Five-day, Christian-based family retreats for those affected by disability. Various locations throughout United Statescheck for other dates and locations on Web site.
Cheerleading Extreme All Starzz 2050 Mitchell Drive Oswego; (630) 554-5201; www.extremeallstarzz.com Offers a special-needs cheerleading class for all ages. IllinoisCheer Extreme (ICE) Athletics 123 Ambassador Drive Naperville(630) 428-4231; iceathletics.com ICE Athletics and Special Olympics Illinois will host a team of 10- to 25-year-olds. Athletes must have an updated Application for Participation on file with Special Olympics Illinois. Cub Scouts A Cub Scout unit for boys with special needs in first through fifth grades is entering its second year. Membership is composed of Scouts with and without special needs. Scouts with special needs have learning and developmental disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, auditory processing disorder, attachment disorder and dyslexia. The group meets from 6 to 7:15 p.m. on Wednesdays in Warrenville. Boys do not need to be residents of District 200 to join. Financial assistance is available to families experiencing economic hardship. For more information, call Paige Samdal at 393-0244. 4-H Will County
(815) 727-9296; 4-H Will County has been a wonderful experience. There are opportunities to practice public speech in a safe environment, projects to work on at your own speed, classes at the local extension office on many topics, recognition ribbons for individual accomplishments, opportunities to be involved in local and state fairs, and wonderful role models. Most people involved are volunteers and parents, and are very supportive and willing to help. Call the extension office to find a local club.
GOLF
Sunshine Course Three hole golf course for people with special needs and their families. Midwest Golf House 11855 Archer Avenue Lemont IL 60439 Alex Nolly Phone: 630-685-2351 E-mail: Gymnastics Gymquest 4995 Varsity Drive, Unit C, Lisle; (630) 969-1449; All Gymquests have noncompetitive tumbling and cheerleading classes for ages 6 to 17. www.gymquest.com Hockey Tomahawks Contact: Amy LaPoe; (630) 416-7686; E-mail: adpoe@wowway.com; www.usahockey.com/tomahawks Tomahawks Special Hockey is a program for people with developmental disabilities sponsored by the Amateur Hockey Association Illinois (AHAI). The program is for male and female athletes ages 5 to 44. Ice hockey (September -May) is played at The Edge Ice Arena in Bensenville Inline hockey practices (June and July) are played at the Sportsplex in Darien Horse Therapy Blazing Prairie Stars, Inc. 47W635 Beith Road Maple Park IL 60151 (630)365-5550; E-mail: BlazingPS@msn.com. BPS provides hippotherapy and equine-assisted growth, learning and enrichment programs to individuals and groups of all ages and abilities. Staff include physical, occupational, speech/language and music therapists, a master’s-level educator, a horse professional with a degree in equine sciences, and many dedicated volunteers. Please call Chris for more information.
Cowboy Dreams of Illinois NARHA Premier Accredited Center 112 Wool St. Barrington IL 60010 (847) 381-9323;
Equine Dreams Sandwich IL; (815) 498-924; E-mail: ride@equinedreams.org; www.equinedreams.org Friends for Therapeutic Equine Activities 28W051 Liberty St. Winfield, IL 60190(630) 588-8543; www.ftea.org Harnessing Hope 328 Tower Hill Drive St. Charles; (630) 208-5954; E-mail: info@harnessinghope.com; www.harnessinghope.com Ray Graham Association Hanson Riding Center, Petting Zoo and Accessible Playground;
NARHA Premier Accredited Center 15W431 59th St. Burr Ridge, IL 60521 (630) 325-5330; Cathy LeBeau; www.ray-graham.org Ready, Set, Ride 13056 S. 224th Ave. Plainfield IL 60544 (815) 439-3659; Robin Conway www.readysetride.org
Reins of Change 9N623 Kendall Road Elgin (847) 464-5177; E-mail: info@reinsofchange.com; www.reinsofchange.com
Karate, Martial Arts
Communication Clubhouse 2901 Finley Road, Suite 102 Downers Grove; (630) 495-6800 An occupational therapist and martial arts specialist (who is also the mother of an ASD child) provide an entertaining way to build coordination, focus and teamwork.Easter Seals DuPage and
Fox Valley Region Villa Park (630) 620-4433; dfvr.easterseals.com Martial arts therapy program designed for children ages 6 through 12. Uses concepts and activities from shotokan style karate to work toward strengthening, balance and flexibility.
Movies
Nova 8 Cinema 352 S. Route 59, Naperville; (630) 428-7671; Nova 8 lets Autism Community Connection hold special movie screenings of rated G and PG films for children with autism and their families. Movies are usually at 10 a.m. Nova 8 keeps the lights on during the previews and lowers the sound. See our Yahoo group and Web site for upcoming movie events. Nova 8 also has areas in the back of each theater that are good for kids who need to get up and pace. www.autismcommunityconnection.com
Museums, attractions
Cantigny Parkn1S151 Winfield Road Wheaton IL 60187 www.cantignypark.com Cantignyhas beautiful grounds and gardens, tanks to climb on and an impressive interactive military museum. (Can be scary for children under 6.) Also, Colonel McCormick’s home can be toured and there are fascinating facts about his life and his newspaper, the Chicago Tribune.
DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington St. Naperville, IL 60540 (630) 637-8000 Autism Family Day, or the Third Thursday, is a special time once a month allowing families of children with autism to enjoy the museum. Families are invited to come play from 5 to 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month. A resource table is available with community services. Regular admission prices apply.
Morton Arboretum 4100 Route 53, Lisle IL 60532-1293(630) 968-0074; www.mortonarb.org If you haven’t checked out the new Children’s Garden, put it on your list. Weekdays are much quieter than weekends and you can bring food in for a picnic or eat at the cafeteria.
Music and Music therapy
Music therapists plan, organize, and direct music activities that will produce behavior changes in persons who have mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. Most music therapists have undergraduate degrees in music, education, music therapy, psychology, or special education. In addition, completion of an approved music therapy program is a requirement in many school systems.
Beth Zielinski, MTBC, DT Community Therapy Services, 40W310 LaFox Road Suite1A, St. Charles IL 60175 (630) 444-0077; www.commtx.com
Creative Exchange Music Therapy 1527 Westchester Blvd., Suite 1S Westchester; (708) 345-6100 www.creativeexchangemusic.comCommunication Clubhouse 2901 Finley Road, Suite 102 Downers Grove, IL 60515(630) 495-6800
Michelynn Hassert (630) 418-0634; E-mail: pianistic_inspiration@yahoo.com; www.pianistic-inspiration.com Affordable, inspiring private piano lessons offered in a downtown Clarendon Hills studio to individuals with autism.
KinderMusik To find a class near you, visit www.kindermusik.com
Gwen Marzano (630) 863-4936; Music therapist who works with Giant Steps, Little Friends and the Rainbow Center Will provide private piano instruction in your home.
Noteable Notes Piano Studio Wheaton(630) 260-9544 Teacher has experience with special-needs children.
Stepping Stones Giant Steps, 8320 S. Madison Burr Ridge; (630) 455-5730
Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) 116 N. Schmale Road Carol Stream, IL 60188; Phone: (630) 681-0962; Fax: (630) 681-1262; www.wdsra.com WDSRA has individual voice, piano and guitar lessons. Other instruments considered. Contact Becca Bogenschutz.
Wheaton College Community School of the Arts (630) 752-5567; www.wheaton.edu/csa Special-needs children are invited to join one of two new music programs at Wheaton College’s Community School of the Arts. The programs offer children with mild to profound physical and cognitive challenges a music education with individualized attention and activities tailored to meet each student’s need. An early childhood music class will allow 4- to 6-year-olds with a parent or caregiver to participate in a musical experience of rhythm, songs and movement that facilitate cognitive learning and life-skill attainment. Private piano lessons will be available for children ages 7 to 12. Call for class schedule.
Photographers
Dinah Kotthoff Photography Downers Grove (630) 776-8736 www.dinahphoto.com Dinah works at Little Friends Center for Autism and is familiar with the needs of those on the autism spectrum. Her portraits reflect a natural style that will bring out the unique characteristics of your family and child.
Randall Studio Bolingbrook (630) 226-5596 www.randallstudio.com The Randalls have experience taking photos of children with special needs. They are really wonderful with the kids. Extended family is welcome for different “break out” photos of grandparents and grandkids, siblings, etc. They have an inside studio and also take photos along the Riverwalk on nice days.Play Therapy DuPage-West Cook Lekotek Center 1590 S. Fairfield Ave Lombard IL 60148
Rock Climbing
Indoor Summits 1707 Quincy Ave., Naperville; (630) 357-3633; 9,000-square-foot public gym open seven days a week; private 3,700-square-foot gym available for parties. Beginner to advanced instruction offered.
Vertical Endeavors 28141 Diehl Road Warrenville; (630) 836-0122; verticalendeavors.com; Offers family nights every month.
Sailing
Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Program Burnham Harbor Chicago, IL (312) 747-7684 or (312) 747-0737; Classroom and on-water instruction to the disabled community; racing clinic; two-hour leisure cruises.
Scholarship programs
Easter Seals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region Contact: Gwen Upshaw, (630) 282-2039 Easter Seals DuPage applies for grants and other funding for scholarships throughout the year. Their ability to offer scholarship opportunities is contingent on the timing and magnitude of specific grants received and on any restrictions an individual donor may define. Call for a standard application form to be completed by a prospective applicant family. Completed basic applications will be maintained on file in their finance office for the period May 1 through April 30 of each year. New applications must be filed by May 1 each year, and current applications must be on file to be eligible for new scholarship opportunities.
Service Dogs 4 Paws for Ability Xenia OH; (937) 374-0385
Working Class Dogs McHenry, (815) 759-3962; E-mail: workingclassdog@aol.com
Just looking for a companion for your child, rather than a service dog? Try these shelters:
Naperville Humane Society 1620 W. Diehl RoadnNaperville; (630) 420-8989; www.napervillehumanesociety.org
A.D.O.P.T. 420 Industrial Drive Naperville; (630) 355-2299; www.adoptpetshelter.org
SibShops
SibShops are classes for the siblings of children with special needs. It is a chance for children to talk about their feelings and have fun with others in similar family situations.
AdultSibsNet Adults Sibs Net is a listserv for Illinois adult brothers and sisters of a sibling with a disability. http://groups.yahoo. com/group/AdultSibsNet/
Communication Clubhouse 2901 Finley Road, Suite 102nDowners Grove; (630) 495-6800; Siblings R Special 2 program
Community Support Services 9021 Ogden Ave Brookfield; Contact: Tara Kosieniak, SibShop Coordinator, (708) 354-4547, ext. 128; www.communitysupportservices.org
Miracles in Progress Contact: Susan Watson, (708) 531-1616; E-mail: susan@miraclesinprogress.net; www.miraclesinprogress.org
Oakhill Wellness and Counseling Center 1112 S. Washington St., Suite 112 Naperville; (630) 717-9858; Provides sibling support groups for children who have a brother or sister with a disability.
Sign language
Signing Smart of NapervilleFasTrac Kids, 24117 103rd St. Naperville; (630) 355-8555; www.signingsmartofnaperville.com For hearing infants and toddlers; Signing Smart classes created by ASL certified developmental psychologists to help your toddler communicate with you.
Soccer
Illinois Tops Soccer (630) 305-8332; www.illinoistopsoccer.org Batavia Naperville, Oswego and Wheaton special-needs soccer clubs.
Social clubs
Circle of Friends This club meets once a month. Each program is planned so that you will have a great time while establishing lasting friendships, building self-esteem, and gaining social independence. A schedule of activities will be mailed a week before the first outing and some activities may require extra money. Transportation is provided from the Girl Scout Cabin in WheatonThere are two sections of this program because it is so popular. Please register for only one section. (BB) WHO: Children & Teens (ages 10-16) Western DuPage Special Recreation 116 N Schmale Road Carol Stream; (630) 681-0962; www.wdsra.com
The Place To BeCalling all teens! This fun Friday night social club is just for you. We will do an exciting activity every week; some will require you to bring extra money. A detailed schedule of activities will be mailed a week before the first outing. Please note that participants and staff will be meeting at the location of the activity in the Wheatonor Napervilleareas. WHO: Teens (ages 12-21) Western DuPage Special Recreation 116 N Schmale Road Carol Stream; (630) 681-0962; www.wdsra.com
Day schools
You must be referred by the school district for these day schools. Upon approval, the tuition will be paid through the school district.
Clare Woods Academy Bartlett Learning Center (630) 289-4221; www.blcinc.org Serves children with multiple handicaps, LD, BD, and mental impairments
Bridge High School (630) 964-1722; www.littlefriendsinc.org/bridge.asp Through Little Friends, serves students ages 14 to 21.
Center for Independence Through Conductive Education Countryside, IL; (708) 588-0833; www.Center-for-Independence.org An intensive group approach to educating children with cerebral palsy to maximize functional independence. Fine and gross motor therapy and functional daily living skills for children with cerebral palsy up to age 14.
Easter Seals Therapeutic Day Schools chicago.easterseals.com; For children ages 3 to 21; Chicago contact: Wendy Murphy, (312) 432-1751; E-mail: wmurphy@eastersealschicago.org; Tinley Park contact: Karen Eisenbart, (708) 802-9050; E-mail: keisenbart@eastersealschicago.org
Elim Christian Services Palos Heights (708) 389-0555; www.elimcs.org
Giant Steps 8320 S. Madison St. Burr Ridge, IL 60527-6215 (630) 455-5730; www.giantstepsillinois.org Founded in 1997, the Giant Steps Illinois day school provides comprehensive education and therapy support to children whose needs cannot be met in traditional school settings. Giant Steps Illinois is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education to serve students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) ages 4-18.
Helping Hand School for Children with Autism Countryside; (708) 352-3580; For children ages 3 to 21; www.hhrehab.org/ childsvcs/autism-school.php
JCB Therapeutic Day School and Yeshiva Joy Faith Knapp Children’s Center, Chicago Ede Snyder, assistant principal, (773) 467-3900; E-mail: therapeuticdayschool@jcbchicago.org; www.jcfs.org
Krejci Academy Little Friends Program, 619 E. Franklin Ave. Naperville; (630) 355-6870; www.littlefriendsinc.org/krejci.asp Therapeutic day school for children ages 3 to 21 who have severe developmental, emotional or behavioral disabilities including autism.
Life Skills Training Center for Children with Autism Through Little Friends; (630) 281-1850; www.littlefriendsinc.org/grouphome.asp Two-year residential training program for children ages 5 to 10.
Mansion High School Through Little Friends; (630) 357-1226 www.littlefriendsinc.org/mansion.asp Serves students in ninth through 12th grades
Marklund Day School 230 E Pine St. Roselle; (630) 307-1882;marklund.org; Marklund Developmental Training at Mill Creek, 1S450 Wyatt Drive Geneva; (630) 593-5500 Special education program assisting students ages 3 to 21 years. The Early Intervention Program serves to identify and treat infants and toddlers from birth to 36 months. Open to Marklund residents and local community members.
Philip J. Rock Center 818 DuPage Blvd Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Phone: (630) 790-2474 and (800) 771-1158; Fax: (630) 790-4893; TTY: (800) 771-1232; Serves infants to 21-year-olds who are deaf and/or blind.
Summit Center 799 S. McLean Blvd. Elgin; (847) 488-9207; www.summitinc.org Summit Center has a program for children ages 3 to 8 with ASD and related developmental disabilities. Daily activities are designed to meet the needs of the individual student and to develop his or her strengths. The program consists of five-hour days, five days a week, which enables students to receive instruction and therapies in the same setting, and maintain their routine.
Trinity Services 11600 Francis Road Mokena; (708) 479-0028; E-mail: sritchey@trinity- services.org; www.trinity-services.orgThe school serves children ages 3 through 21 whom the mainstream school system is unable to serve. The school serves more than 35 persons with disabilities from a wide area including LaSalle, Grundy, Cook, DeKalb, Will and Kendall counties.
Residential living
Center for Independent Futures Evanston (847) 475-0364; www.independentfutures.com Network of products, services and resources to assist families and their young person with a disabilities plan and support new ways of living independently within their own communities. They provide a Transition Planning Institute and consulting services for families, educators, agency personnel and health-care professionals. Private agency, fee for services, initial free consultation.
DuPage Center for Independent Living 739 Roosevelt Road, Building 8, Suite 109, Glen Ellyn; (630) 469-2300; www.glen-ellyn.com/dcil Provides advocacy and services to persons with disabilities in DuPage County
Family Support Network (309) 693-8981; www.familysupportnetwork.org Their mission is to eliminate the waiting lists for the state’s Family Assistance and Home Based Support Services Programs.
Illinois Independent Living Center and Katharine Manor Community1141 Iroquois Ave., Naperville; (630) 357-0077; Nonprofit housing development centers organized to expand permanent housing and support services to promote independent living for persons with physical disabilities. Katharine Manor Community in Naperville is a condominium community designed for singles, couples and families with special needs who seek a barrier-free living environment.
Ray Graham Association for People with Disabilitiies 2801 Finley Road Downers Grove; (630) 620-2222; www.ray-graham.org Serves more than 2,300 children and adults at 30 locations across DuPage and Cook counties, providing developmental, recreational, residential, respite and vocational services.
Seguin Services3100 S Central Ave., Cicero; (708) 222-4836; www.seguin.org; Seguin’s Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILA) offers people with disabilities the opportunity to live in a home-like setting while receiving individualized care. Seguin’s Community Supported Living Arrangements (CSLA) offers adults with developmental disabilities services and supports in their own homes.
West Suburban Association for the Retarded Lombard (630)629-5212; Provides work, sheltered employment and residential programming.
Respite providers,
In Home Support 72D
Coach Care Center 7S721 S. Route 53, Naperville (630) 271-9155; Private duty nursing, medical day care, overnight camps, transitional care, respite retreats and Sibshops
Community Support Services, Inc. Brookfield (708) 354-4547; E-mail: css@communitysupportservices.org www.communitysupportservices.org In Home Support 72D: They need to work with Service Inc. for eligibility and DHS funding approval.
Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitative Services 2901 Finley Ave., Suite 109 Downers Grove; (630) 495-0500; Families can register for respite and 72D.
Little Friends 140 N. Wright St. Naperville; (630) 355-0061; www.littlefriendsinc.org/inhome.asp Respite: They do not need to work with Service Inc. to obtain eligibility and DHS funding approval. They can contact agency for intake. In Home Support 72D: They need to work with Service Inc. for eligibility and DHS funding approval.
National Respite Locator www.respitelocator.org
PACT, Inc. 555 E Butterfield Road, Suite 301 Lombard; (630) 970-9600; The DuPage PAS Agency through which families can register for respite and 72D.
Ray Graham Association Intake Coordinator, (630) 628-7173; www.ray-graham.org This voucher program reimburses you up to $7/hour or 120 hours/year. Families hire their own workers. There are no income restrictions, but you need a diagnosis of developmental disability (autism or PDD qualify). DuPage families are given priority, but residents of adjacent counties may apply.
Toilet Training
Booty Camp Wendy Sweeney, RN, West Chicago (630) 762-9612; www.bootycampmom.com Potty train your child in a day. Note: This information came from a special needs advertising directory; is not specific to disabilities.
Little Friends Center for Autism 140 N. Wright St. Naperville; (630) 305-6039; www.littlefriendsinc.org/lfca.asp
Tutoring
Discovery Educational Center 17W697 F Roosevelt Road Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 (630) 424-0833 www.discoveryedcenter.com
Educational Services of Glen Ellyn 364 Pennsylvania Ave. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 (630) 469-1479
Jill Russo, M.Ed, Educational Therapist (630) 769-1342; www.jreducate.com; E-mail:j.russo@jreducate.com Has a masters in reading and learning disabilities. She schedules her students in May. Tutors in her home near Ogden and I-355. She has training in Orton Gillingham methodologies, multi-sensory teacher, multiple intelligences and is a TESA instructor.
VISIONS Math and Reading Club for Children with Autism and other Learning Disabilities Naperville Contact: Janel (630) 898-0600 (has an adult son on the autism spectrum); Will accommodate children who are nonverbal and children who can or cannot write. Ages 4 to 12, but older students are welcome. An array of learning materials are available including math, reading comprehension and grammar skills workbooks for children who cannot write. Cover basic math, reading and everyday English grammar skills.
Vocational, career training
AbilityLinks.org www.abilitylinks.org
The Arc of Illinois www.thearcofil.org
Career Opportunities for Students with Disabilities www.cosdonline.org
Colorburst Screenprinting Downers Grove (630) 852-6824; www.littlefriendsinc.org/aboutcb.asp This division of Little Friends provides screenprinting, embroidery and promotional items. Colorburst provides employment for adults with disabilities, while also generating revenue for Little Friends.
DisabilityWorks www.disabilityworks.org
DiversityWorld www.diversityworld.com
Donka, Inc. 400 N. County Farm Road Wheaton, IL 60187 (630) 665-8169; www.donkainc.org Dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities through computer training.
Elmhurst College Life Skills Academy 190 Prospect Ave. Elmhurst, IL 60126 (630) 617-3752
Family Support Network of Illinois www.familysupportnetwork.org
Harry’s Buttons New Lenox; www.harrysbuttons.com A button, key chain making company. Read the link to learn about Harry’s story and his promotional products business.
Illinois Employment and Training Center 837 S. Westmore/Meyers Road Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 495-4345, ext. 211; TTY: (630) 495-4374; Fax: (630) 495-4345 www.illinoisskillsmatch.com They provide employment guidance, training and placement services to Illinois job seekers.
Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services www.dhs.state.il.us
National Alliance for Secondary Education and Transition www.allianceforfullparticipation.org
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition www.ncset.org
National Organization on Disability www.nod.org
Parents Alliance Employment Project 2525 Cabot Drive, Suite 302 Lisle, IL 60532 (630) 955-2079; www.parents-alliance.org Provides employment services to individuals with disabilities in DuPage County
Resources for Retarded and Autistic Families Elmhurst; (630)279-2441; They provide developmental training, work training, job coaching and supported employment.
RSA Region V CRP-RCEP at the University of Illinois www.ed.uiuc.edu/illinoisrcep/
Seguin Services 3100 S. Central Ave. Cicero; (708) 222-4836; www.seguin.org/adults_cea.htm Seguin offers job development services, on-the-job training, basic work skill development and skill maintenance for adults with developmental disabilities. Once employed by a business, each person is assigned a job coach. Seguin also has opened the Seguin Auto Marketplace and Seguin Works Gift Center to provide employment opportunities for those with developmental disabilities.
Supported Employment Associates P.O. Box 4714; Wheaton IL 60189 (630) 653-5662; www.seassociates.org
Trinity Services E-mail: info@trinity-services.org; www.trinity-services.org Trinity Services has a number of support businesses that provide employment, training and experience to the individuals Trinity serves.
Vocational Alliance (708) 354-5730, ext. 320; (630) 747-9610; www.ladse.org Business-led project that builds bridges for students with disabilities to move from school to employment in the adult world.
Walgreens Walgreens (corporate office in Deerfield) is building new distribution facilities in Connecticut and South Carolina with one third of the workforce at each location made up of disabled employees working with team members. “We’re doing this because it’s the right thing to do,” said Randy Lewis, Senior Vice President of Distribution and Logistics. Randy Lewis’ son is autistic. www.walgreens.com/about/press/ othernews/011706.jsp Arc of IL article on Walgreens.
We Grow Dreams Greenhouse and Garden Center 1055 W. Washington St., West Chicago (630) 293-0100; www.wegrowdreams.orgA private, parent-owned and operated vocational-training enterprise. A small staff of professional growers operates this wholesale and retail garden center alongside parents and their teen or adult children with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders. Parents pay a monthly fee to help cover operational costs of the greenhouse; and in return have a safe and supportive place to help their loved ones practice appropriate workplace social and communication skills while engaged in hands-on learning of the many facets of the horticulture field. This model was developed by a small group of parents whose children with special needs had graduated from the public schools and who wanted community-integrated jobs training or employment opportunities that were not available through current state-funded programs in Illinois Help support this community-integrated model of vocational by purchasing flowers and gifts from their wholesale and retail garden center open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
Illinois State Board of Education There are four Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) (www.isbe.state.il.us) initiatives under the Illinois Statewide Technical Assistance Center (ISTAC) that provide training and technical assistance to schools in Illinois :● The Illinois Autism/PDD Training and Technical Assistance Project (IATTAP) ● Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Network ● Project CHOICES ● Parent and Educator Partnership
Illinois autism/pdd Training and Technical Assistance Project IATTAP Lombard State Office 1590 S. Fairfield Ave. Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 889-7398; Fax: (630) 620-9473; Kathy Gould, project director, E-mail: gouldkl@comcast.net www.illinoisautismproject.org IATTAP focuses on educating and supporting children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and their families. The project is operated under a grant to the School Association for Special Education in DuPage County (SASED).
Its major goals are to:
1) Build local capacity to establish and implement effective educational supports and services in the least restrictive environment for children with ASD.
2) Promote a proactive approach to working with individuals with ASD and their families.
3) Help children with ASD remain with their families in their welcome communities and become productive.
4) Increase the percentage of students on the autism spectrum who are educated in the general education classroom.
5) Increase the effective and meaningful involvement of parents in their children’s education.
Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Network Illinois PBIS Network N. LaGrange Road, Suite 4 LaGrange Park, Illinois 60526 Phone: (708) 482-4860 Fax: (708) 482-4875; DuPage region contacts: Ayn Farmer, alm40@sbcglobal.net; Sue Gasber, sgasber@aol.com; www.pbisillinois.org Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a proactive systems approach for creating and maintaining safe and effective learning environments in schools, and ensuring that all students have the social-emotional skills needed to ensure their success at school and beyond. The mission of the Illinois PBIS Network is to build skills and capacity of PBIS district and school-based leadership teams through training, coaching and technical assistance. The focus is assisting schools in developing structures for teaching expected behaviors and social skills, creating student behavioral and academic support systems, and applying data-based decision-making to discipline, academics and social-emotional learning at the school, district, regional and state levels. The Illinois PBIS Network promotes family and community involvement at all levels of implementation. Federal education requirements contained in the NCLB Act and IDEA 2004 are embedded in the PBIS process. PBIS integrates state school improvement initiatives including Systems of Support, Standards Aligned Curriculum, and Response to Intervention to assist schools in meeting Illinois educational goals and mandates.
Its major goals are to:
1) Increase consistent use of positive teaching and reinforcement strategies among all school staff at schoolwide, classroom and individual student levels.
2)Reduce use of reactive discipline measures in schools (i.e., office discipline referrals, detentions, suspensions, expulsions) for all students.
3) Increase data-based decision-making about behavior and academic instruction and reinforcement across all school settings.
PROJECT CHOICES www.projectchoices.org Project CHOICES is a “least restrictive environment” initiative funded by the Illinois State Board of Education. There are two components to the project: CHOICES, which supports school-age children; and Early CHOICES, which supports preschool-age children. The purpose of CHOICES/Early CHOICES is to increase the capacities of school districts and educational personnel to educate and provide support and services to children and youth with disabilities in the preschool, school, and community environments in which they would participate if not identified as having a disability.
Parent and Educator Partnership www.pepartnership.org The Illinois State Board of Education initiated the Parent Mentor Project to increase partnerships with educational stakeholders, which include parents of preschool and school-age children. ISBE has a priority to support communication and improve the delivery of training to parents of students with disabilities. The Parent Mentor Project provides training and information to parents and educators at each local grant site. Funds for the Parent Mentor Project are provided by the Illinois State Board of Education and 100 percent of the funds are from federal sources. Deb Durrbeck, Parent Mentor Phone: (630) 682-2484; Fax: (630) 682-2289; Deb and her husband have three children; two of which have IEPs. They are now in middle school and high school. She has experienced many phases of the special education journey from early intervention all the way to high school. Deb is co-founder and immediate past president of Special Education Alliance 200. She is currently serving as board adviser. The Parent Mentor Project is an initiative between School District 200 and SEA200.
Driving
Marianjoy’s Rehabilitative Drivers Education program in Wheatonprovides assessments and driver training to people with disabilities, including Asperger Syndrome and related disabilities. A physician’s referral is required. A person’s ability to drive will greatly increase his or her ability to access social opportunities over the course of his or her lifetime. www.marianjoy.org
Secretary of State’s Office - Handicapped Parking Placards (217) 782-2709; www.cyberdriveillinois.com Children with ASD qualify for handicapped parking under “neurological condition” on the application. You need to have your child’s physician approve and sign off on the form. Once you get a Handicapped Placard, you may wonder how you ever navigated the community without it. Click on services for motorists and then look for Persons with Disabilities Plates or Placards. You also can call Springfield and request a form. Remember, you can only use the placard with your child in the car. You will be ticketed if you abuse it and your placard can be taken away.