Education
Think College https://thinkcollege.net/
Think College provides resources, technical assistance and training related to college options for students with intellectual disabilities, and manages the only national listing of college programs for students with intellectual disability in the United States.
NAMI Mental Health in College https://www.nami.org/kids-teens-and-young-adults/young-adults/mental-health-in-college/
This transition can be intimidating, especially if other people in your family have not attended college; if you’re a member of a community that has been traditionally marginalized or underrepresented at your school; or if you are a returning student or a student-veteran. Many students work to help cover the cost of attendance, and some have family responsibilities to manage in addition to their coursework. Trying to manage these demands can be difficult.
College
Independent Living
Understanding Puns
PUNS is a statewide database the IDHS Division of Developmental Disabilities uses to identify individuals with developmental disabilities that may need home and community-based waiver services now or in the future.
Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living https://incil.org/
Centers for Independent Living (CILs) are local, non-profit, disability-led organizations that empower people with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in society. They provide core services including advocacy, peer support, training, and transition assistance, run by at least 51% people with disabilities
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) https://www.thearcofil.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/DDD-HBS-slide-presentation-August-2021-Medley.pdf
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers allow Medicaid to fund long-term care services for individuals in their own homes or communities instead of institutions. These programs offer tailored support—such as personal care, home health aides, and respite—for seniors and people with disabilities, with services varying by state and specific waiver program.
Employment
Division of Rehabilitation Services https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29736.
DHS's Division of Rehabilitation Services is the state's lead agency serving individuals with disabilities. DRS works in partnership with people with disabilities and their families to assist them in making informed choices to achieve full community participation through employment, education, and independent living opportunities.
WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act)
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is the federal funding source for Career Link's resources and services. The WIOA program is designed to strengthen and improve our nation’s public workforce system. Its goal is to help American youth and people with significant barriers to employment get high-quality jobs and careers, as well as funding for training. WIOA also assists employers with hiring and keeping skilled workers.
