La Rabida Children Hospital: (https://larabida.org/)

Overview: La Rabida Children’s Hospital mission is simple: they are dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of life for each of their patients with complex conditions, disabilities, and chronic illness. The path to completing this mission, however, is often complicated. Patients regularly require extensive care coordination or assistance in managing lifelong conditions.

Easterseals Metropolitan Chicago: (https://www.easterseals.com/chicago/)

Overview:  Easterseals provides a range of services for individuals with disabilities and their families, including early intervention, therapy, and employment services.

Access Living: (https://www.accessliving.org/)

Overview: Access Living is a center for independent living that offers various programs and services to support people with disabilities, including advocacy, housing assistance, and community engagement.

Family Resource Center on Disabilities (FRCD): (https://frcd.org/)

Overview: FRCD offers support, information, and training for families of children with disabilities, including educational advocacy services.

Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) – Chicago Satellite Office: (https://www.iltech.org/)

Overview: IATP provides assistive technology resources and services to enhance the independence of individuals with disabilities.

Thresholds: (https://www.thresholds.org/)

Overview: Thresholds provide mental health services, including support for individuals with mental illnesses and their families.

Chicago Park District – Special Recreation: (https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/)

Overview: The Chicago Park District offers special recreation programs and events for individuals with disabilities, providing recreational opportunities and social engagement.

Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS): (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fss.html)

Overview: DFSS provides a variety of social services, and their website may have information on programs and resources for caregivers.

Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS): (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/)

Overview: IDHS provides a wide range of social services, including programs for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. Services cover areas such as healthcare, mental health, and economic assistance.

Social Security Administration (SSA): The United States Social Security Administration | SSA

Overview: The Social Security Administration (SSA) is a U.S. government agency that manages and administers social insurance programs. The primary focus is on providing financial support to eligible individuals and their families.

GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago: https://gigisplayhouse.org/chicago/

Overview: GiGi’s Playhouse is a nonprofit organization that provides free educational, therapeutic, and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages. Their programs focus on literacy, math, fine and gross motor skills, social skills, and job training. GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago offers a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals with Down syndrome can learn, grow, and achieve their potential.

National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS): https://www.nads.org/

Overview: The National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) is a nonprofit organization that provides support, information, and resources to individuals with Down syndrome and their families. NADS offers parent support groups, educational workshops, social events, and advocacy efforts to promote the rights and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome. They also provide resources for healthcare professionals, educators, and community members to increase awareness and understanding of Down syndrome.

Access Living: (https://www.accessliving.org/)

Overview: Access Living is a leading organization dedicated to supporting people with disabilities. They offer a variety of services, including independent living skills training, peer support, advocacy, and assistance with transitioning out of nursing homes. They also provide resources on housing, employment, and education for individuals with disabilities.

The Arc of Illinois: (https://www.thearcofil.org/)

Overview: The Arc of Illinois advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They offer support through family training, individual advocacy, and public policy initiatives. The Arc of Illinois also provides resources and information on various topics such as early intervention, special education, and community living.

Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD): (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/mopd.html)

Overview: The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities in Chicago provides a range of services to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. Their services include employment training and placement, housing assistance, and information on accessible transportation. MOPD also works on policy development and enforcement of disability rights laws.

UIC Division of Specialized Care for Children: Home – UIC Specialized Care for Children

Overview: The UIC Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) provides care coordination and financial assistance to children with special health care needs across Illinois. They help families access medical services, equipment, and resources to improve their children’s quality of life. DSCC works closely with families, healthcare providers, and schools to develop and manage comprehensive care plans.

Greater Chicago Food Depository: (https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org)

Overview: The Greater Chicago Food Depository is a nonprofit organization that provides food assistance to people in need across Cook County. They partner with a network of food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters to distribute food. They also help, such as helping people apply for SNAP (food stamps).

The Salvation Army Metropolitan Division: (https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/metro)

Overview: The Salvation Army offers a range of services, including emergency assistance with food, shelter, and utilities. They provide housing services, disaster relief, and programs that assist with rent, utility bills, and other basic needs. They also distribute diapers through their Family Services program.

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago: (https://www.catholiccharities.net)

Overview: Catholic Charities provides extensive support services, including emergency food assistance, rental and utility assistance, diaper distribution, and housing programs for individuals and families facing homelessness. They also operate shelters and transitional housing programs.

The Housing Authority of Cook County (HACC): (https://thehacc.org)

Overview: HACC provides affordable housing options and rental assistance programs for low-income residents of Cook County. They offer public housing, Section 8 vouchers, and supportive services to help residents maintain stable housing.