National Developmental Disabilities Organizations
Stark County has great local resources for parents and caregivers of children with developmental disabilities. But there are also national developmental disabilities organizations every parent should know about. These organizations keep advocates connected and offer helpful resources to support children at home, at school and in their communities.
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
AAIDD advocates for the quality of life for those with developmental disabilities by promoting policies, research and universal human rights. Visit the the AAIDD website.
Americans with Disabilities Act
The ADA is an equal opportunity law for people with disabilities that prohibits discrimination against them and guarantees they have the same opportunities as everyone else to participate in the mainstream of American life. Find information on the ADA and how to file a complaint on their website.
The Arc
The Arc advocates for and serves those with developmental disabilities and their families so they can be fully engaged in their communities. Learn more about The Arc or find a chapter in Ohio.
The Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
This coalition of national organizations advocates for federal public policy that ensures the independence and inclusion of those with disabilities in all aspects of society. Learn more on the CCD website.
Easterseals
Easterseals provide resources and high-quality services for children and adults with developmental disabilities, such as autism. Visit their website.
Family Voices
This national organization provides families the resources and support they need to make informed decisions, advocate for improved policies and build partnerships with professionals. They serve as a trusted resource on health care. Learn more on their website.
Federation for Children with Special Needs
The Federation believes that disabilities provide children with unique perspectives and abilities that contribute to the well-being of their communities. Find information, support and assistance for parents, professional partners and communities on the FCSN website.
Friendship Circle International
Operated by its local Chabad Lubavitch Center, each independent Friendship Circle brings together teen volunteers and children with special needs for fun and friendship. Learn more on the Friendship Circle website.
Goodwill Industries International
Goodwill helps people with disabilities acquire the skills and training they need to find employment. They offer financial coaching, education programs, community services, transportation and a variety of other services. Learn more on their website.
National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD)
NACDD is made of 56 Councils on Developmental Disabilities throughout the United States and its territories. The organization advocates for the national public policy agenda and funding for the DD Councils in Congress. Visit the NACDD website.
Parents Helping Parents
PHP helps children with developmental disabilities and their parents through support groups, crisis support, community services, special education services, early intervention and assistive technology services. Most of the PHP staff are parents of children with special needs. Learn more about Parents Helping Parents.
Special Needs Alliance
This national organization is made of attorneys who are dedicated to law relating to disabilities and public benefits. SNA connects people with disabilities, their families and advisors to local attorneys who focus on disability law. Learn more on the Special Needs Alliance website.
Special Olympics
Special Olympics promotes inclusion and community for those with disabilities through year-round sports training and athletic competitions. Visit their website for more information.
Autism Society of America
Through a network of national and local affiliates, the Autism Society of America offers advocacy, education, information, support and community for individuals and families with autism. Learn more on their website.
National Down Syndrome Society
As the leading human rights organization for individuals with Down syndrome, NDSS offers support to people with this developmental disability, their families and communities and educates the general public. Learn more about NDSS.
National Fragile X Foundation
This foundation supports families affected by Fragile X and facilitates research for treatments and a cure. They also strive to increase public and professional awareness of Fragile X. Learn more on the National Fragile X Foundation website.
United Cerebral Palsy
UCP works with its 64 affiliates to positively impact those with disabilities through family support, employment resources, financial assistance and more. Learn about UCP on their website.