Resources
We envision a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has access to individualized support that empowers them to thrive. Our one-stop-shop model will foster a compassionate and equal community, inspiring hope. Through innovation and collaboration, we aim to create a world where the Exceptionally Able and their caregivers live with dignity and respect.
Catogories
MILITARY RESOURCES
Click HERE to view our Military Resources
​
HOUSING RESOURCES
Click HERE to view additional Housing Resources
​
MARYLAND GOVERNMENT RESOURCES
Department of Health
https://health.maryland.gov/Pages/Home.aspx
Department of Disabilities
https://mdod.maryland.gov/Pages/Home.aspx
Department of Education
https://www.marylandpublicschools.org/Pages/Default.aspx
FINANCIAL
Low Intensity Support Services (LISS)
https://health.maryland.gov/dda/Pages/liss.aspx
The Developmental Disabilities Administration's Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) Program serves children living at home with their family and adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities living in their own home in the community who are not receiving any support services from the DDA. The LISS program's goal is to ensure that children and adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities live happy, healthy, independent lives while being integrated into their communities across their lifespan.
Maryland's Autism Waiver
https://marylandpublicschools.org/programs/Pages/Special-Education/autismfactsheet.aspx
Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Waiver for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism Waiver)
The Autism Waiver (AW) is designed to provide community-based, long-term, person-centered therapeutic services and support to eligible children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to enable home and community living as an alternative to institutional care.
​
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Assistive Technology Loan Program
https://mdod.maryland.gov/Pages/Home.aspx
AT Low-interest Financial Loan Program
The Assistive Technology Loan Program helps Maryland residents with disabilities and their families qualify for low-interest loans to buy equipment that will help them live, work, and learn more independently. Loan amounts are generally from $500 to $70,000 with extended repayment terms and lenient lending parameters.
CAREGIVER CORNER
​
A Mothers Rest
https://www.amothersrest.org/respiteretreats
A Mother’s Rest is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation that coordinates therapeutic respite retreats for caregivers of loved ones with disabilities and chronic medical conditions. These 3-night retreats are held at B&Bs across the country and at their own year-round respite inns in Central Maryland and North Georgia. The retreats provide a chance for caregivers to rest, recharge, and connect with others who understand their experiences. #SLEEPMATTERS
Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Resource Guide
https://iddresourceguide.info/
The mission is to connect families affected by developmental disabilities with the resources they need to thrive. Your advertisement not only reaches a dedicated community or people who need your services but also supports a crucial cause. At the IDD Resource Guide, we understand that raising a child with special challenges or navigating life as an adult facing unique hurdles can be a complex and often overwhelming journey. We are here to be your guiding light, providing you with a comprehensive resource hub designed to make this path less daunting.
Jill’s House
https://jillshouse.org/about/our-organization/
Jill’s House is a Christian nonprofit organization that provides short-term, overnight respite care and family support services for families raising children, adolescents, and young adults with profound intellectual disabilities.Children stay at Jill's House locations in Vienna, VA, or at camps across the country, enjoying a safe, fun, and loving environment. Meanwhile, parents get much-needed rest and time to focus on themselves and their other children.
Parents Place of Maryland
https://www.ppmd.org/
The Parents’ Place of Maryland began in 1990 as a grass-roots effort of families, professionals, and community leaders determined to provide resources, support, and information to parents of children with disabilities and special health care needs. Our philosophy of “families helping families” reflects our commitment to supporting families of diverse backgrounds. Today, the Parents’ Place offers a variety of programs and services that continue to support families of children with disabilities and special health care needs. Serving as Maryland’s Parent Training and Information Center and Family-to-Family Health Information Center, Parents’ Place supports thousands of Maryland families each year. Parents’ Place, staffed primarily by parents who have faced these challenges, believes that experienced parents are a key source of knowledge and support to help other families become effective voices for their own children. Please continue to explore the website to learn more about our staff members, programs, services, and resources.
People On the Go Maryland
https://www.pogmd.org/
People On the Go Maryland is a group of advocates with intellectual and developmental challenges who use their voices to be heard and recognized.
Sibling Leadership Network
https://siblingleadership.org/
The purpose of the Sibling Leadership Network is to promote a broad network of siblings who share the experience of disability and people concerned with sibling issues by connecting them to social, emotional, governmental, and provisional supports across the lifespan enabling them to be effective advocates with their brother and sister, and to serve as change agents for themselves and their families. The mission is to provide siblings of individuals with disabilities the information, support, and tools to advocate with their brothers and sisters and to promote the issues important to them and their entire families.
Maryland Coalition of Families
Maryland Coalition of Families (MCF) is the first and only statewide nonprofit organization that offers family peer support to people and families who have a loved one experiencing mental health, substance use, or problem gambling challenges.
Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council
The Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council (Council) has been creating change to improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities since 1971. We focus on children, family, and adult issues. The Council is an independent state agency. We are led by people with developmental disabilities and family members of people with developmental disabilities.
THERAPEUTIC RESOURCES
Moco Movement Center
https://www.mocomc.com/
MOCO Movement Center is a fully inclusive pediatric therapy practice and athletic movement center. They offer movement classes for children and provide therapy services to support their function. They take physical, occupational and speech therapy out of the clinic and integrate it into real life activities to help your child achieve better functional outcomes.
RSC Outpatient Clinic
https://appointments.childrensnational.org
Children’s National Rehabilitation & Specialized Care Lanham offers easy access to family-centered therapy, assessments, and equipment for children from infancy to 21 years of age with complex health care needs.
Spirit Club
https://www.spirit-club.com/
To offer a universal design for fitness that empowers people of all abilities to exercise successfully in a socially integrated setting.
RARE CONDITIONS
Everylife Foundation
https://everylifefoundation.org/about-us/
The EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering the rare disease patient community to advocate for impactful, science-driven legislation and policy that advances the equitable development of and access to lifesaving diagnoses, treatments and cures.
Complex Medical Health Care Diagnosis
Maryland Parent 2 Parent:
https://thearcmd.org/programs/parent-to-parent-maryland/
Parent to Parent programs offer one-on-one support for families with children who have special health care needs, disabilities, or mental health concerns. Experienced parents provide emotional support and help families find resources. These programs are dedicated to understanding family needs and developing services accordingly.
NORD National Organization for Rare Disorders
https://rarediseases.org/
https://rarediseases.org/rare-disease-day/
NORD advances practical, meaningful, and enduring change so people with rare diseases can live their fullest and best lives. Every day, we elevate care, advance research, and drive policy in a purposeful and holistic manner to lift up the rare disease community.
PODCAST
Office of Special Needs Podcast Series
https://www.militaryonesource.mil/resources/podcasts/efmp/
The Defense Department Office of Military Community and Family Policy, Office of Special Needs produced the Office of Special Needs EFMP podcast to help military families learn about the Exceptional Family Member Program and other resources.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0P2h5oEtuyo21iUgh0xOee
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1607580330
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/42749473-e64f-4a36-80eb-9a769ee10923/office-of-special-needs-efmp-podcast
RECREATION
A Kid Again
https://akidagain.org/
Our purpose is to foster hope, happiness, and healing for children with life-threatening conditions and their families. The heart of our team is our dedicated volunteer network and generous donors who have enabled us to provide year-round Adventures that allow children with life-threatening conditions to feel like A Kid Again since 1995. Our commitment to families goes beyond our Adventures by providing comprehensive, practical support to help navigate the long-term impact of a life-threatening condition. The network of awesome families offers a safe place to share stories of strength and encouragement.
KEENKids
https://www.keengreaterdc.org/
Kids Enjoy Exercise Now of Greater DC and Baltimore
Empowers youth with disabilities and impact volunteer coaches through participation in free, non-competitive, one-on-one programs of physical activity and fun, supporting the overall health and well-being of all participants.
Kids in Action Children’s National
https://www.childrensnational.org/hsc/rehabilitation-specialized-care/community-and-rec-therapy/kids-in-action
Kids in Action is an adaptive sports and social activities program for children and young adults with disabilities and their siblings. All kids should have the chance to play sports and be a part of activities with others their own age. We adapt our sports, social, and health-based activities and focus on each child's goals and strengths.
Morgan's Wonderland
https://morganswonderland.org/
The One and Only Ultra-Accessible™ Theme Park To provide a fun, clean, and beautiful environment free of physical and economic barriers that all individuals can come to and enjoy regardless of age or ability.
So Kids Soar
https://www.sokidssoar.org/
(Formerly Dream for Kids DC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides life-changing programs that empower youth with physical and developmental disabilities to Strive, Own, Achieve and Realize their potential.
Special Olympics, Maryland Special Olympics
https://www.somd.org/area-programs/
Whether you want to compete as an Athlete or Unified Teammate, coach one of our teams, or volunteer in your local community. Area Programs, led by Area Management Team Volunteers, offer various sports and programs throughout the year. Connect with the program most convenient to you to register as an Athlete, Volunteer, or Unified Teammate and to sign up for programs!
ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT
Adaptive Bikes
Bikes@ViennaNorthern Virginia's recumbent, trike & folding bike headquarters.
Email: info@bikesatvienna.com
Lancaster Recumbent
https://lancasterrecumbent.com/
As the only stocking recumbent bike shop within 90 miles of Lancaster, Lancaster Recumbent offers a complete range of models and styles, a wide selection of accessories, complete maintenance service as well as specialty builds for special needs.
Lancaster Recumbent
103 West Market Street
Marietta, PA 17547
717-553-5834
Adaptive Mall
https://www.adaptivemall.com/aboutus
Our services at the Adaptivemall.com® help families find the best equipment to support their children at their highest functioning level. We have created an experience for you that makes equipment selection a positive one. Our primary goal is to empower you with resources that allow you and your child’s primary caregivers to make the best decisions to meet your child’s unique needs.
Assistive Technology Reuse & Access Coordinator for the Maryland Department of Disabilities Assistive Technology Program (MDTAP)
https://mdod.maryland.gov/mdtap/Pages/MDTAP-Home.aspx
MDTAP hosts a small 3D printing lab, utilized to fabricate an array of low-tech assistive technology devices which Marylanders with disabilities can request to receive free of charge.
Inclusive Playground Framework
https://www.md-council.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MDDC_InclusivePlaygroundsInMaryland.pdf
Maryland Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use
https://aging.maryland.gov/Pages/DMEArticle1.aspx
The Maryland Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use program, implemented by the Maryland Department of Aging, has improved the quality of life and independence of thousands of Maryland residents by providing durable medical equipment (DME) - including wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, shower benches, and much more - free to those in need, regardless of disability, age, or income level.
ProCare Medical
https://www.procare-medical.com/
ProCare Medical has been a trusted name in the healthcare industry since 2012. As a leading medical supplier of lift, transfer, and bathing equipment in the mid-Atlantic region, we bring innovative solutions to safeguard both caregivers and patients.
Rehabilitation Equipment Services (REP)
https://www.rep-inc.com/
Washington D.C.'s Home Medical Equipment Provider
Specializing in Pediatric Products, Services, Rentals & Repairs. Since 1989, Rehab Equipment Professionals has been providing all of Virginia with trusted home medical solutions. As the area's leading supplier of wheelchairs, we're here to match you or your loved one with the right medical solutions. We provide products and services for people of all ages, sizes, and mobility levels. Learn more about our solutions online and stop in anytime. Our team is ready to help you or your loved one along the path to health, happiness, and independence.
Triaid – Adaptive Bikes
https://mdod.maryland.gov/Pages/Home.aspx
TRIAID is a family owned and operated company located in Maryland for over 30 years. The company began when the owner and founder of the company who is an enthusiastic cyclist and an engineer was approached by a local charity organization and was asked to assist them in designing a hand cycle for children with Spina Bifida, he embraced the challenge and created the first hand cycle designed specifically for children, thus was born TRIAID (Tricycle Aids to Mobility). From the very beginning we have always built our cycles by hand and have designed them around the rider, after all everyone is different, that is why our tricycles can be customized to the needs of each rider.​
PRODUCTS
Firefly
https://www.fireflyfriends.com/us/about-us
The Firefly range of portable postural support products are all about participation. They are clinically sound, practical, fun products that help children with additional needs take part in everyday life. They have been extensively trialed to ensure that they give children the postural support that they need. Some of our products are also used to aid early intervention therapy. Explore our range of products for children aged approximately 1-16.
Did you know that in most cases, Firefly products can be funded by insurance in your State?
PROGRAMS
Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint
https://endseclusion.org/
The AASR social media platforms are intended to support a community that is interested in impacting positive change related to the use of restraint and seclusion in schools and supporting our mission, vision, and values. We recognize that our community is diverse and includes: parents, teachers, related professionals, administrators, self-advocates, attorneys, professional advocates, and others. We recognize that members of our community have been impacted and traumatized by the use of restraint and seclusion and want to be supportive. We want our social media platforms to be a safe place for our community.
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)
https://test-health.maryland.gov/talbotcounty/Pages/CYSHCN.aspx
The Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program is a joint federal/state and local program which has been in operation in Maryland since 1937. The Talbot County Health Department’s CYSHCN Program provides a range of services designed to address needs that are otherwise unmet. The program is staffed by a full time Registered Nurse.Anyone from birth through their 21st year with a disability, chronic illness or health related, educational or behavioral problem is eligible.
Dani Plan
The Dani Plan is a centralized hub to organize and consolidate all information needed to care for an individual with special needs.The Dani Plan is a secure, user-friendly online tool that organizes your loved one’s information in one place, protected by data encryption and two-factor authentication. Designed with your loved one’s needs in mind, it helps you stay ready for anything.
Disability Rights Maryland
https://disabilityrightsmd.org/
Disability Rights Maryland (DRM), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is Maryland’s designated Protection & Advocacy agency (formerly known as “Maryland Disability Law Center”). DRM is federally mandated to advance the civil rights of people with disabilities. We provide free legal services to Marylanders of any age with all types of disabilities (developmental, intellectual, psychiatric, physical, sensory, learning, traumatic brain injury), who live in facilities, in the community or who are homeless.
Epilepsy Foundation Maryland
https://www.epilepsy.com/local/maryland
The Epilepsy Foundation Maryland provides programs and services that support people and families impacted by epilepsy. With the strength of a national organization and network of epilepsy experts, EFM provides national scope and local impact.
Erin’s Star
https://www.erinsstar.org/
Erin’s Star is a non-profit organization serving the Southern Maryland area. It began in honor of Erin Bean, with a goal of raising autism awareness and drowning prevention.
Help Starts with 211
https://www.211.org/
211 is the most comprehensive source of information about local resources and services in the country.
Little Lobbyist
https://littlelobbyists.org/
Little Lobbyists seek to protect and expand the rights of children who have complex medical needs and disabilities through advocacy, education, and outreach.
Maryland ABLE
https://www.marylandable.org/
Assists individuals with disabilities save money and pay for qualified disability-related expenses without jeopardizing state or federal means-tested benefits such as SSI or Medicaid.
Maryland ABLE User Guide
https://www.md-council.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Accessible-MD-ABLE-User-Guide.pdf
Maryland Cerebral Palsy Resources
https://www.mycerebralpalsychild.org
MyCerebralPalsyChild.org is a valuable resource where parents can learn more about cerebral palsy-its history, causes, symptoms, treatments and prognosis.
My Turn Program in Montgomery County
https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS-Program/Program.aspx?id=ADS/ADSMyTurnPgm-p233.html
The My Turn Program provides resources and education information to assist families/caregivers who are caring for children diagnosed with an intellectual or developmental disability according to DDA eligibility guidelines. Provides short-term/limited financial assistance for services and products such as recreational activities, camps, and limited medical supplies.
Pathfinders for Autism
https://pathfindersforautism.org/
Safety resources: https://pathfindersforautism.org/resources/safety/
xMinds
https://xminds.org/
xMinds - the Partnership for Extraordinary Minds is a resource organization for parents and educators who want to improve education for autistic students in Montgomery County, MD
EMPLOYMENT
​
Public Notice for Individuals With Disabilities and Individuals with Targeted Disabilities:
https://www.usajobs.gov/job/721195600
ADVOCACY LINKS
Community Advocates 4 You, Inc.
https://advocates4you.org/
A 501c3 nonprofit providing advocacy, training and person-centered support for individuals with disabilities.
Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education
MCIE is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting schools and school systems on their journey to create inclusive school communities where all children and youth feel a sense of belonging and have equitable educational opportunities that result in high levels of academic success.
The Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint (AASR)
https://endseclusion.org/
The Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint (AASR) was formed to raise awareness about the use of aversive discipline practices, including restraint, seclusion, suspension, expulsion, and corporal punishment.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Advocasay (Partners in Policymaking Graduate)
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084748428194
@advocasay • Instagram photos and videos
Makom
https://www.makomlife.org/about/
https://www.makomlife.org/program/most/
Supports and empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve the quality of life to which they aspire. Job coaching, transitioning youth and community activities.
Maryland Community Connection (MCC)
https://marylandcommunityconnection.org/
Maryland Community Connection (MCC) is a 501(c)(3), Non-Profit Organization that provides social, economic, and independent living services to adults with developmental disabilities in the state of Maryland.
Supporting Employment Equality and Community (SEEC)
https://www.seeconline.org/
SEEC is a progressive nonprofit agency that provides support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live lives of their choosing. It offers community-based, person-directed services focused on work, relationships, recreation, and personal development. Guided by a team of business and disability professionals, SEEC collaborates with Maryland agencies to influence policies and expand staff development opportunities statewide.
MEDICAL SUPPLIES
AtHome Medline
https://athome.medline.com/en/
Medline is a Medicare and Medicaid participating supplier in some states. It also contracts with certain commercial insurance plans. The medical equipment and supplies sold through this website may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid or your commercial insurance plan.
Vitality Medical
https://www.vitalitymedical.com/
VitalityMedical.com has been a preferred online supplier of medical supplies to consumers, hospitals, healthcare facilities, medical professionals, businesses and government agencies. Vitality Medical was founded in January 2000 by a licensed Registered Nurse with the purpose of providing quality medical supplies and health and wellness products to improve the lives of our customers and to support their personal independence.
ADAPTIVE CLOTHING
Billy Footwear
https://billyfootwear.com/
Billy Footwear is a brand known for its innovative and inclusive design that caters to individuals with disabilities. The brand promotes independence and empowerment for users.
Cat & Jack Adaptive Clothing
Cat & Jack : Kids’ Adaptive Clothing : Target
City Threads - Sensory Friendly
Sensory Friendly - City Threads USA
JCPenney Adaptive Clothing
Adaptive Clothing Shop | Adaptive Accessories | JCPenney
Kohl’s Adaptive Clothing
Adaptive Clothes For Kids: Adaptive Clothing for Kids | Kohl's (kohls.com)
Magnetic Me Adaptive Clothing
Magnetic Me | The Absolute Easiest Way To Dress
No Limbits
We're a team of disabled designers bringing to life products we wish existed earlier. Fashion that lets us live comfortably, confidently, and independently. We know that adaptive fashion needs to be just that: fashion. So join us on our journey to making fashion accessible.
Zappos Adaptive Clothing
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE DEALERSHIPS
Jerry’s Motor Cars, Inc of Baltimore
Koons Ford Lincoln of Annapolis Inc
MobilityWorks
https://www.mobilityworks.com/locations/wheelchair-vans-for-sale-in-beltsville-maryland/
SUMMER CAMPS
Camp Accomplish
Camp Accomplish is an incredible summer camp open to youth aged 5-18. They proudly serve campers with and without disabilities and chronic health conditions while promoting fun, safety, challenge, and friendship for everyone.
Camp Inclusion
Camp Inclusion, a traditional summer day camp for students of all abilities in Howard County.
Camp PALS, Baltimore
https://www.palsprograms.org/baltimore
PALS mission is to create inclusive camp experiences for people with and without Down syndrome. Our volunteer-led programs change attitudes, transform lives, and inspire a world of belonging.
PALS Baltimore is an accredited program by the American Camp Association.
HOUSING
Independence Now
Independence Now is a nonprofit organization designed, governed and staffed by people with disabilities.We are part of a nationwide network of Centers for Independent Living, and serve as a resource and advocacy center that promotes independent living and equal access for people of all ages with all types of disabilities residing in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties.
​
Living Arrangements for the Developmentally Disabled (LADD)
LADD provides the dignity of adulthood through housing, health and wellness, day programs, employment, and advocacy.
Main Street
https://mainstreetconnect.org/
Main Street’s mission is to create dynamic opportunities through affordable, inclusive housing and community engagement so people of all abilities can live their best lives.
Maryland Inclusive Housing
Maryland Inclusive Housing Corporation’s mission is to help people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) successfully access and maintain inclusive, affordable, and accessible housing of their choice by creating opportunities, identifying resources, connecting people, and providing services.
BARBER/BEAUTY SERVICE:
Uniquely in Place
https://www.uniquelyinplace.com/
Uniquely in Place (UIP) is a salon and barbershop designed specifically for individuals with autism, ADHD, sensory sensitivities and other behavioral challenges and their families.
POST SECONDARY EDUCATION
Montgomery College - GTP
Graduate Transition Program | Montgomery College, Maryland
The Graduate Transition Program (GTP) at Montgomery College on the Rockville Campus, is a custom-tailored and learning community program that offers students a unique postsecondary opportunity to further their formal education.
THINKCOLLEGE
Think College Inclusive Higher Education Network
Think College Inclusive Higher Education Network is a national technical assistance and dissemination center focused on expanding and improving inclusive higher education for students with intellectual disability. It is a project of Think College, based at the Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts Boston.
​
UMD TERPS EXCEED
Maryland HUB (ihehub-umd.org)
The Maryland Hub for Inclusive Higher Education was established at the University of Maryland College Park, Center for Transition and Career Innovation (CTCI) through funding from the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council in March of 2020.
ADVOCACY HISTORY AND CULTURE
Film: Crip Camp (Netflix)
Book: (and video clip) Fearlessly Different by Mickey Rowe
https://mickeyrowe.com/fearlesslydifferent
(Community Stories) Monique Duell (PiP graduate)
http://www.imjusmo.com/monique-duell.html#/
TEDtalk: I'm not your inspiration, thank you very much | Stella Young
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8K9Gg164Bsw&t=11s
Stella Young is a comedian and journalist who happens to go about her day in a wheelchair — a fact that doesn't, she'd like to make clear, automatically turn her into a noble inspiration to all humanity. In this very funny talk, Young breaks down society's habit of turning disabled people into "inspiration p*rn."
MISC (Calendars/Reports)
​
(Calendar) Empowering Partners
https://thearcmd.org/empowering-partners/
​
2024 Maryland Legislative Wrap-Up Report
https://www.thearcmd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024-Legislative-Wrap-Up.pdf
Special Education State Advisory Committee (SESAC) https://marylandpublicschools.org/programs/Pages/Special-Education/sesac/index.aspx
Empowering Exceptional People
We are your One-Stop-Shop dedicated to supporting Exceptionally Able children and their caregivers.