Exceptional Family Magazine Winter/Spring 2023

ties through full integration and inclusion in the economic, political, social, cultural, and educational mainstream of United States society.

The Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities will create systemic change in the Commonwealth of Kentucky that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve full citizenship and inclusion in the community through advocacy, capacity building and systemic change. The CCDD will enable individuals with developmental disabilities to exercise self-determination, be independent, be productive, and be integrated and included in all facets of community life.

Letter From the CCDD Connect With Your Legislators

MMy name is David Allgood and I am the past chair and current nonprofit representative for the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Even before serving on the Council, I have been a long-time advocate for disability rights and education.

Forty years ago, I injured myself in a diving accident, which left me a quadriplegic and a power wheelchair user.

I started advocating for disability issues while attending the University of Kentucky, where I encountered accessibility problems as well as attitudinal barriers regarding people with disabilities.

David Allgood

policy goals with the public policy committee and the Public Policy Coordinator Justin Jeter. We have made numerous visits with legislators during the interim session to discuss these issues.

Connecting with your state representatives is one of the most important – as well as easiest – tasks that persons with disabilities and their families and friends can do.

Becoming a trusted and go-to resource for legislators is a simple and important

bills that they see during a General Assembly Session.

They appreciate constituents who can assist them with understanding how these bills impact Kentuckians with disabilities.

Unfortunately, this does not always mean that they will agree with you, but at least they know who you are. Perhaps you can educate and win them over on different issues of importance to you.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER

More than 25% of Kentuckians are persons with disabilities – the largest minority in the entire state. We must make legislators aware of this minority group and how legislative policy affects us. The right legislation can improve all of our lives.

CCDD Council members include people with developmental disabilities as well as family members and guardians of people with developmental disabilities. Council members are expected to attend quarterly meetings that last two to three days, and other events throughout the year.

A member serves a three-year term and is limited to two terms of service. If you are interested in becoming a member, fill out the governors application for boards and commissions at https://governor.ky.gov/services/ application-for-boards-and-commissions

I continued to advocate for disability issues after graduation and after moving back to my hometown of Louisville, where I currently work as the Director of Advocacy for the Center for Accessible Living.

This position requires me to spend time in Frankfort working with our legislators to introduce laws that would improve the lives of persons with disabilities or to educate and encourage them to vote against legislation that would have a negative impact.

On the CCDD Council, I work on our

action to take.

I recommend that you set up a meeting with your elected officials and share your personal experiences either good or bad and then offer to work with them to improve or correct these issues. Consequently, legislators will see you as a trustworthy person to whom they can turn when dealing with disability-related issues. Legislators can become overwhelmed with the hundreds and even thousands of

All people with disabilities would benefit from increased job opportunities; affordable, accessible public transportation; education opportunities; increased community services; accessible housing; and a myriad of other services.

Please try to use the Council’s resources to become involved in these meaningful causes, and know that we are always looking for advocates, volunteers and Council members.

I truly appreciate the friendships and opportunities that being a member of the Council have afforded me.

It is a privilege to work with fellow Council members and such a dedicated staff n

JOIN OUR TEAM

The Council consists of people like you. Members include people with developmental disabilities plus family members and guardians of people with developmental disabilities.

The mission of the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities is to create systemic change in Kentucky that empowers individuals to achieve full citizenship and inclusion in the community through education, capacity building and advocacy.

If you want to affect policy, influence legislators and advocate for change, the CCDD is the place for you. Call today to learn how you can make a difference.

(502) 564-7841

Meet the CCDD Staff

Carol Ann Tudor - Policy Analyst and Operations

Carol.Tudor@ky.gov | 502-782-8606

With the Council since 2005, Carol Ann serves as the main contact for inquiries, including submission of funding requests and requests for publications. She oversees office operations and provides administrative and clerical support. She coordinates meeting logistics and supports Council members in making meeting arrangements and reimbursement. She is staff to the Council Affairs Committee.

Tim Moore - Front Desk Manager

Tim.Moore@ky.gov | 502-564-7841

Tim has been with the Council since 2011. He serves as the front desk receptionist and also assists organizations in accessibility concerns by reviewing websites and documents. Tim completes special projects for staff and records meeting minutes when needed.

Reader Survey WINNER

Coordinator

Nicole.Maher@ky.gov | 502-782-8616

Nicole is the Council’s coordinator for Self Advocacy initiatives and compliance with the federal mandate on self-advocacy programming. She facilitates the Self-Advocacy work team to achieve the goals in the Five Year Plan. She has been with the Council for 5 years and has worked in the disability field for 17 years in a variety of capacities. Nicole has a daughter who has Down syndrome.

Justin.Jeter@ky.gov | 502-782-0696

Justin leads public policy efforts in advocating for disability-positive policies, services, programs, laws and regulations. He promotes the Council’s position on issues impacting children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Justin formerly worked as a Research Fellow at the Council of State Governments.

Vicki.Goins@ky.gov | 502-782-8604

Vicki first joined the Council in 1999, leaving in 2006 to work for the State Budget Office. She came back to the Council in 2018 and now serves as the Council’s Federal Financial Manager. Vicki manages contracts, tracks Council Budget and assures compliance with grant management regulations. She has worked in disabilities since 1993.

Jennifer Hicks - Program Director

Jennifer.Hicks@ky.gov | 502-782-8608

Jen manages federal planning and reporting, including the Five Year Plan, State Plan Amendments, annual Program Performance Report, and Annual Work Plans. She facilitates Council work teams to help them achieve the objectives in the Five Year Plan. Jen has been with the Council for 7 years. Before that she worked in the State ADA office and has over 10 years in the disability field. She holds the national professional certification ADA Coordinators.

Rachael Wall

The winner of a $250 cash prize in the latest Reader Survey contest for this magazine is Rachael Wall of Corbin.

Wall is the Adoptive Parent Liaison for Adoption Support Kentucky and a Kinship Family Peer Support Specialist for KY-Kins.

Both programs are funded by the University of Kentucky.

KY-Kins is a peer support program for Kinship caregivers to discuss concerns, receive emotional or logistical support, and connect with resources.

A single mother of five, Wall has adopted four children, two of whom have disabilities.

“In foster care and adoption, there is a higher percentage of children with disabilities so Exceptional Family Magazine is a great resource,” Wall said.

“The magazine’s spotlight on families in positive scenarios is important because people need to know that.

“They may be frustrated, feeling alone and don’t know what resources are available. Your magazine provides those resources.” n

Vicki Goins - Fiscal Manager

Justin Jeter - Public Policy Coordinator

Nicole Maher - Self-Advocacy

CCDD Council Welcomes Four New Members

Jake Cruz Darrell Mattingly

As a native of Guam, Jake Cruz is the first member of the CCDD who can speak and write Chamorro fluently.

He is proud of his native country, which became an American territory in 1950, and like his fellow countrymen, he is a U.S. citizen.

One of 12 children, Cruz, 50, has dealt with learning disabilities, ADD and a minor speech impairment his whole life.

He was educated in Guam and graduated with a high school diploma at the age of 34. As an advocate in Guam, he lobbied for employment for people with disabilities. Guam has laws similar to the Americans with Disabilities Act, passed in 1990.

Jake performed clerical work for most of his professional career until he moved to the U.S. in 2016, joining his older brother Brian in Lexington.

Brian encouraged Jake to move because supports for people with disabilities in America, Brian said, are better than in Guam.

Brian worked for the Lexington Housing Authority until he passed away in 2021. Jake now lives with his younger brother. Jake has volunteered for the American Red Cross and worked at a convenience store but is currently unemployed.

Jake joined the CCDD Council in 2022 and works on the public policy and advocacy committees. He admires the Council and its members, saying he has learned much since joining the organization.

“The Council is an awesome organization to work with in order to share ideas and bring people to common ground and try to move ideas out into the public,” he said.

“I hope more can be done to provide people with disabilities the transportation, employment and housing services they need so they can live and work independently.”

Jake is an optimistic person who encourages others to “take part in government, get to know your elected officials and encourage them to support people with disabilities.

“This is the only way we can move mountains together.” n

Darrell Mattingly of Lexington has a transportation problem. The 50-year-old UK graduate was born with cerebral palsy, which affects his mobility and his speech.

He spends most of his time in a wheelchair and he can be difficult to understand.

Computers have helped with communication. For transportation, he owns a van with wheelchair access but he can’t find reliable drivers. He must rely on a shared ride, door-to-door, public transportation service in Lexington.

In October, Lexington switched operation of the program to a private business and service declined dramatically, Mattingly said, with waits of up to 10 hours.

With no reliable transportation, Mattingly rides his wheelchair on city sidewalks for shopping and other errands. A trip to Kroger can take three hours.

“I’m proud to live independently but it’s not easy,” said Mattingly, who owns his own home.

Still, nothing can slow him down. He’s an avid UK basketball fan and an accomplished Adaptive Martial Arts participant, earning a third degree black belt.

Mattingly embraced computers in 1987 as a freshman in high school. Until then, he wrote longhand and his penmanship was difficult to read. Computers changed all that.

Mattingly graduated from UK with two B.S. degrees (computer science and mathematics) and worked at UK’s Dept. of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling from 1999-2007. Since 2007, he has been a webmaster and server administrator for UK’s Human Development Institute.

He also is a member of more than half-a-dozen advocacy boards, including the Council for Vocational Rehabilitation and the Independent Living Council.

In 2022, he was appointed to the CCDD Council and has been impressed.

“This group is very organized,” he said. “They know what they want to get done and they have a road map.”

His first task is to learn the dynamics of the Council.

“Then I’ll be able to set goals,” he said. “It’s always about getting the whole group to move forward.” n

Sharon Raymond Leigh Van Hooser

Sharon Raymond of Goshen, Ky., is the proud mother of three adult children: Zachary, 30, Jacob, 28, and Jessica, 23.

It is Jessica who has pointed Sharon’s life in a distinct direction.

Jessica has intellectual disabilities, including autism, ADHD and OCD, which have led to behavioral issues.

At school, Jessica attended a self-contained class. She does not read or write, and can’t focus long enough to enjoy TV or computer work.

Because of a lack of motor skills, Jessica needs help with self-care, including bathing, dressing, and brushing her hair and teeth. She constantly moves and talks non-stop.

She doesn’t always sleep through the night, and padlocks adorn the refrigerator, kitchen cabinets and all doors in the house.

When Jessica was 7, Sharon and her husband divorced. He gave up his parental rights to Jessica but not to his sons. He continued to see them but not her.

At 18, Jessica left high school because of uncontrollable behaviors. Sharon sought numerous options, including a group home, but Jessica was rejected nearly everywhere.

Sharon reluctantly settled on an institution to help her daughter with medication changes.

That arrangement lasted six months because Sharon hated the treatment her daughter received. Back at home, Jessica has a Supports for Community Living Waiver, which comes with caregivers for 16 hours a day.

Last year at 874K day at the General Assembly, Sharon told her story, denouncing institutionalization and advocating for 24-hour-a-day caregiver time for people like Jessica.

Sharon, a 60-year-old single mother and an ultrasound tech, was appointed to the CCDD Council a year ago, with the mission of advocating for families like hers.

“I know mothers in the same situation as me,” she said. “We are frustrated by how slow change comes.

“But it’s wonderful to be part of the CCDD. I am advocating against institutionalizing people. People like Jessica should remain in their home.

“If the SCL waiver provides money for 24-hour care in group homes and institutions, why can’t it provide the same money for people to remain in their home?” n

It seems like destiny that Leigh Van Hooser of Simpsonville would end up receiving a Governor’s appointment to the CCDD Council.

The 35-year-old paralegal and mother of two works as the executive assistant to the chief of staff and deputy chief of staff for Governor Andy Beshear.

Moreover, six years ago, when Van Hooser was pregnant with her daughter Henley, Leigh worked for Beshear. He was attorney general at the time.

Beshear has known Henley her whole life and has been supportive of Leigh and her husband Nick, who had their second child, Morris, at the end of December.

Henley has benign congenital hypotonia or low muscle tone. She didn’t walk until she was 2-and-a-half years old, and she didn’t have the strength to jump in the air with both feet until this year.

Henley also has Apraxia of speech, a neurological disorder where the brain knows what it wants to say but cannot properly plan and sequence the required speech sound movements.

Henley loves being a kindergartener at Heuser Hearing and Language Academy in Louisville. Neither of her disabilities has dimmed her personality.

“She is vivacious and a happy and energetic child with a larger-than-life personality,” Leigh said. “She is a social butterfly and her smile makes you feel good.”

Henley is also kind and giving. At Heuser, she is a mother hen to the younger children at the school.

Leigh is an avid advocate for Henley and was honored when Governor Beshear appointed her to the Council.

“I was thoroughly impressed,” she said about her first Council meeting in November. “I’ve learned a lot about resources and opportunities for children and adults like my daughter.”

Leigh is grateful that the Council was so welcoming, saying she has met kindred spirits.

“I’m passionate about education when it comes to the disability community,” she said. “I want to move our state forward in a positive way and help the Council in whatever way the group needs from me.” n

Coalition for the Rights of PARENTS WITH DISABILITIES

By Dave Matheis

Formed in 2021, the Coalition for the Rights of Parents with Disabilities (CRPD) advocates for legislation and state services that remove all discrimination and barriers to individuals with disabilities exercising their full rights to be parents.

The Coalition was the result of two factors.

First, the realization that Kentucky is still one of a handful of states that allows the removal of a child from a home solely on the basis of disability without any sort of functional analysis of the living situation.

Second, the publication in 2021 of a book I edited, “A Celebration of Family: Stories of Parents with Disabilities.”

It was published by the Center for Accessible Living and the Advocado Press. Several individuals decided to organize the Coalition after reading about the unfortunate experiences of some of the parents in the book.

The Coalition includes the Center for Accessible Living, the Human Development Institute at the University of Kentucky, the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities (CCDD), Protection and Advocacy, and many other advocacy groups and agencies.

To date, the Coalition has been working with the Kentucky Department for Community-Based Services to develop training for its staff on the topic of parents with disabilities.

That training should begin in a few months.

CRPD is also developing proposed legislation to protect the rights of parents with disabilities.

The catalyst for the group, the book, “A Celebration of Family: Stories of Parents

Group Works

To Make Sure That

People With Disabilities Have Full Parental Rights

with Disabilities,” contains the stories of 30 families.

In each family, one or both parents have disabilities: physical, mental, sensory, and/or intellectual.

The stories illustrate the infinite variety of the American family. Of the 30 families, 22 are from Kentucky. Eighteen of the 30 stories were the result of interviews with the parents.

Ten parents submitted written stories, and two stories were reprints from other sources.

The parent stories cover a variety of topics. Most stories concern having children through birth, but there are also stories about fostering and adopting. Four stories concern single parenthood.

A number of stories highlight the decision-making process to have children when the possibility exists of passing on an inheritable condition.

Some of the parents had children before they acquired a disability. They relate

how that acquired disability affected their family.

The stories contain humor, compassion and gratitude.

Many parents talk about facing individual discrimination and societal bias, and discuss legal and policy issues around parenting with a disability.

For instance, Donna Fox of Louisville, who has juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, is the mother of two adult children.

She tells the story of being reported to Child Protective Services by a complete stranger on the sole basis of seeing her out in public with her then 2-year-old, first-born son.

She also describes being strongly advised not to have children by medical professionals.

Carrissa Johnson of Murray, who has cerebral palsy, was also advised against having children by her doctor.

She faced repeated hurtful comments by another medical professional about her desire to be a mother.

Many of the mothers remember being

Above, Donna Fox with her two sons, Matthew and Brandon. Right: Carrissa Johnson with her husband, Ben and her son Will.

advised not to have children just because they had disabilities.

There are descriptions throughout the book of parents getting stares and even rude comments when they are with their children.

Jason Jones of Lexington, who was a quadriplegic at 16 following an athletic injury, wrote the powerful introduction to the book as well as his own story about his parenting adventure.

In the introduction, he briefly discusses the history of eugenics and of discrimination against people with disabilities becoming parents in this country.

He describes a number of recent incidents in which parents with disabilities have their children taken away shortly after birth.

This remains a common fear among some parents with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual disabilities.

Lindsay Brillheart of Cincinnati, who has Asperger’s syndrome, describes how she made sure she had a network of support before giving birth.

Several members of that network were at the hospital when her baby came in case medical staff tried to prevent her from taking her daughter home.

A mother in the book dealing with mental health issues expressed a fear of losing her children in a divorce settlement because of her disability.

The stories in the book represent only a fraction of what parents with disabilities experience.

As a result of these narratives, the CRPD was formed to protect the rights of all people who have the desire and the ability to raise children.

As Greg Willett, who has Becker’s Muscular Dystrophy, puts it in his story in the book, “I would tell people with disabilities thinking of becoming parents: don’t not do it out of fear.

“I have flaws as a parent. I can overreact to things. I have done some things wrong. But that has nothing to do with my disability.

“Having a disability should not preclude anyone from being a parent, and it won’t preclude anyone from being a good parent either.”

One question asked of the 18 parents interviewed for the book was what adaptations or assistive devices did they need to help them become effective parents.

Invariably, the first response was some form of “I think my child adapted to me more than I had to adapt to them.”

That not only shows the great adaptability of children, but that everyone’s “normal” is different.

“A Celebration of Family: Stories of Parents with Disabilities” is dedicated to Chastity Ross of Berea, a former chairperson of the CCDD Council and a wonderful person. Chastity was interviewed for the book in the middle of May in 2021. She died unex-

pectedly six weeks later.

Chastity, who was born with one arm, one leg shorter than the other and no femur bone in her left leg, was the mother of a boy and a girl.

In her story, she also talks about being strongly advised not to have children because of her disability, but she had no problem giving birth (by Caesarian section) and she raised two great kids.

As she says at the end of her story, “In the end, if you suck as a person, you are going to suck as a parent, whether you have a disability or not.

“If you are compassionate and caring and nurturing as a person, you will be like that as a parent, too.” n

Dave Matheis is a graduate of Bellarmine College (now University) in Louisville. He has worked in the disability field for nearly 46 years, 30 of them with the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. He currently consults with the Center for Accessible Living, also in Louisville.

He has two adult children and four grandchildren. The book that he edited, “A Celebration of Family: Stories of Parents with Disabilities,” is available through Amazon.

Above, Greg Willett with his son Tyler, daughters Amber, Haylee and Megan and wife Angel. Right, Jason Jones with wife Jessica and sons Micah and Bryce.

Edited by Dave Mathei

Melissa Marvel of Zoom Group has high hopes for DiscoverU

By John Lynch

Welcome to the launch year of DiscoverU Kentucky, a statewide, grass roots initiative directed by the Zoom Group in Louisville and supported by a one-year grant from the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities.

The project’s focus is to empower people with disabilities, 14 and older, to become independent, active members of their community through education, awareness and advocacy.

The goal, according to Melissa Marvel, President/CEO of Zoom Group, is to “unite the entire disability community so it can speak with one voice.”

“We want to increase the power of people with disabilities and effect change throughout the state,” she said.

“We want people with disabilities in leadership roles, and we want to create an environment where people with disabilities are valued.”

DiscoverU Kentucky will begin with an inaugural launch in three geographical regions of the state, followed by monthly meetings at different sites throughout the state.

Discover U Kentucky

Get Disability Community To Speak With

Each launch will include an in-person/hybrid town hall meeting, followed by Advocacy Program Workshops. The workshops will focus on regional disability issues, resources, leadership and peer mentor training.

These regional meetings, which began in October 2022, will culminate with a state-wide DiscoverU Kentucky Leadership Conference in June.

At the conference, advocates from each region will join to raise awareness of their community's needs, create strategies, and influence the direction of public policy at the state and federal levels.

“The goal is to create systemic change in Kentucky that empowers people to achieve a sense of belonging, full citizenship, and inclusion in the community,” Marvel said. She appreciates that DiscoverU’s goals are utopian and that creating awareness of the program is a challenge.

“Zoom Group has been around for 37 years, and still not enough people know who we are,” she said.

Zoom Group began as C.G.M. Services, followed by the name Louisville Diversified Services. In 2013, the organization rebranded to Zoom Group. The concept was to zoom in on a person’s needs.

“We are not virtual,” Marvel said. “We are real people with a real purpose, namely to provide individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities opportunities to pursue their goals and engage in their community.”

One Voice

Marvel, in her seventh year at Zoom, is a Certified Public Accountant who came to the disability world through the second of her two sons.

Luke, 22, was diagnosed at age 3 with refractory amblyopia, which can lead to blindness. Marvel was told that he would be developmentally delayed and never drive a car.

Mom used her networking skills to support Luke through school, and he now attends DePauw University and plans to attend law school. He also has a driver’s license.

Marvel has used those same networking skills to add partners to DiscoverU, including Katie Wolf Whaley, President of Kentucky APSE (Association of People Supporting Employment First.)

“We want to make sure people are aware of resources that exist,” said Whaley, who is chairperson of the Employment First Council. “We want people to know their rights and all the good that employment brings to their life.”

Kitty Zachery, the executive director of the Coalition for Work Force Diversity in Louisville, echoed those sentiments as reason for partnering with DiscoverU.

“It’s a wonderful idea, and we want to help provide opportunity for the advocacy role that DiscoverU will provide,” she said.

Zachery added that focusing on people 14 and older is a crucial part of the project.

“This is an important group that needs attention,” she said. “Working with them before they are 18 will better prepare them for self-advocacy as adults.”

Please see Page 15

GOAL OF STATEWIDE PROJECT:

By John Lynch

Do you know what makes a good case manager? Think of your favorite family member and you get the idea.

That’s the opinion of David Bruner and Mark Rothel, who both have case managers that they compare to loved ones.

“She’s like a sister to me,” said Mark Rothel, 57, about Lajean Crosby, 56, a case manager with New Vista in Lexington. Rothel has intellectual disabilities and developmental delays.

“She’s a loving, kind person, someone I can talk to about anything,” said Rothel, who has been with Crosby for six years.

For Bruner, 24, Jessica Frye, 42, of New Vista in Lexington, is also like a family member.

“She’s like my momma,” he said. “She’s there for me when I need her the most.”

That can be when Bruner needs help looking for a job or changing his living arrangement or when he needs emotional support.

Frye is always there for him. She has been

WHAT MAKES A GOOD CASE MANAGER? PATIENCE PERSISTENCE COMPASSION

his case manager for three years.

“I’m very happy with her as my case manager,” said Bruner, who has Tourette syndrome, seizures and intellectual delays.

“She’s easy to talk to and she’s a good advocator. She motivates me.”

The feeling is mutual for Crosby and Frye, both mothers of four who have a combined 38 years experience as case managers.

Frye has spent her 20-year career at New Vista, the past 11 as a supervisor as well as

Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, more can be done to include people with disabilities into society, according to Frye.

“They can do amazing things and they have the same dreams as anyone,” she said. “They want to work, get married, have kids. I want to help them achieve those goals.

“This is my life work. I have paperwork to do with my job as supervisor, but when I work with a client in the field, it instantly refocuses me. I know that this is my purpose.”

Working in this field also feels like a calling to Crosby, who took a circuitous path to social work.

a case manager.

She graduated from Kentucky Christian University with a degree in social work.

She intended to be a teacher but during a summer job at a camp, she connected with a camper with a disability and that “changed my mindset.”

Despite progress since the Americans with

After a few dissatisfying jobs after high school, she joined the Army reserves for six years, including two active years stateside during Desert Storm in 1990-91.

Crosby then earned a degree in social work from UK in 2005. It was during her training that she discovered she had a heart for people with disabilities.

Forget the stereotype of overwhelmed social workers on the verge of burnout. Crosby and Frye love their jobs.

Mark Rothel and his case manager Lajean Crosby

MARK W. LEACH: ‘He Fights Hard Cause He Cares Hard’

By John Lynch

It hasn’t taken long for Mark W. Leach, an attorney and Air Force veteran, to make an impact on the CCDD Council.

Appointed in 2020, Leach has established a reputation for at least two things: Running efficient committee meetings and being a formidable advocate for his daughter, Juliet, 18, and other people with disabilities.

Committee meetings that previously stretched past an hour, now sometimes end in 30 minutes with Leach at the helm.

“He is no-nonsense when it comes to committee meetings,” said David Allgood, a long-time member of the Council.

“But he is always respectful of others and everybody gets a chance to be heard. He just makes sure things run efficiently.”

As an advocate, Leach is experienced, knowledgeable and determined. That determination comes from a place of compassion, according to CCDD staff member Justin Jeter.

“I have learned a lot from him on how to advocate effectively,” Jeter said.

“Mark knows the importance of getting the details right. He’s formidable but that’s because he cares. He fights hard cause he cares hard.”

That compassion and determination start with his daughter.

Leach is a Bradley University graduate who received his law degree from Tulane University in 1998. He served as a Judge Advocate in the Air Force, and was deployed after 9/11.

After the Air Force, he practiced law at Stites & Harbison where he befriended Andy Beshear when the governor was a colleague at the law firm.

Leach now has his own law firm with specialties in healthcare law, public procurement and business litigation. He also has earned a master’s degree in bioethics from the University of Louisville.

He is the bioethics specialist for the National Center for Prenatal & Postnatal Down Syndrome Resources at UK’s Human Development Institute.

He also has served as a volunteer for several nonprofit organizations, including Kentucky Protection & Advocacy, and the Down Syndrome of Louisville. He was Board Chair of that group from 2011 to 2013.

He is a Trustee of the Down Syndrome Foundation that is devoted to providing education, support and health care to individuals with Down syndrome.

As a parent, Leach is fond of saying, my daughter, Juliet, 18, is endowed with Down syndrome and my son, James, 17, is endowed with curly blond hair.

Juliet is on track to graduate from Waggener High this year with a 3.2 GPA and a diploma, not a certificate.

Leach made sure that option was open to his daughter as early as the third grade when school administrators suggested in an IEP meeting that Juliet be tracked for a certificate. He objected, saying it was too soon to judge Juliet’s academic potential.

Mark W. Leach and his daughter Juliet Mark W. Leach and his daughter Juliet

The staff listened to him and Juliet performed well in school. At Meyzeek Middle School, Juliet struggled while learning in the lowest level of classes.

Her teachers called a meeting and told Leach that Juliet learned better with fewer distractions. So they moved her to the advanced placement group.

“I was gobsmacked. I bet I’m one of only a few parents in America that that has happened to,” he said.

“Our experience is the exception that proves the rule about IEP meetings.

“It does help that Juliet is a very hard-working student, and I’m sure it doesn’t hurt that her father is an

DiscoverU

Continued From Page 12

attorney.”

Juliet will graduate with an emphasis in allied health with the goal of working as a certified nurse assistant.

Meanwhile, she has worked for nearly two years at her neighborhood Kroger, a company known for hiring people with disabilities.

“I am thrilled that she works at Kroger,” Leach said.

“The grocery store is the hub of a community. Her working there demonstrates that people like her are part of everyone’s community.”

On the CCDD Council, Leach has worked closely with Jeter on public policy issues.

From their collaboration emerged a suggestion that all Council members meet at least once a year with their state representatives.

“The best outcome for those meetings is that legislators are reminded that their actions will affect individuals with developmental disabilities,” Leach said.

“It’s also important to let them know that there is a Council, required by law and funded by the federal government and that legislators should seek their counsel.

“It’s a constant requirement on our part to educate and make lawmakers aware of issues that affect people with disabilities.” n

Case Managers

Continued From Page 13

That’s where the Peer Mentor piece of DiscoverU comes into play. One of the first Peer Mentors is Matt Proffitt, a 34-year-old artist in Louisville.

Proffitt has Asperger’s syndrome but doesn’t consider it a disability. “It’s a blessing because I’m better at certain things than other people,” he said.

Proffitt is a 2008 graduate of Jeffersontown High. A year later, he completed a program in custodial maintenance at the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center near Paintsville.

After that, he moved back to Jefferson County, where he resides in an independent living apartment.

With DiscoverU, he started as a Peer Mentor last October, working with students with disabilities at Jeffersontown and Eastern high schools. He visits the schools on an alternating basis the second Tuesday of each month.

“I ask the students about their goals, and I tell them not to be afraid to chase their goals or go outside their comfort zones,” he said.

Proffitt learned that one student enrolled in cosmetology school after hearing his message.

“I know I have made a positive impact,” he said. “It made me feel 15 different kinds of proud and warm inside.

For more info, visit: https://p2p.onecause.com/discoveru_kentucky

“Everything that makes you feel great and is uplifting, I felt it.”

Not a bad result for the first year of the launch. n

“Before that, I didn’t know that the need existed,” she said.

“I saw that what these folks wanted was the same as everyone else and I wanted to be part of that.

“My clients are often overlooked by society. I’m fighting to keep my clients in the community where they can be seen.”

Forget the stereotype of overwhelmed social workers on the verge of burnout. Crosby and Frye love their jobs.

Maybe it’s because their clients say to them: “I love you.”

“I have never felt overwhelmed,” Crosby said. “I’ve always felt that this is where I’m supposed to be.

“Everyday, I’m as motivated as I was the day before.”

Frye rejects the idea that social work takes a special person.

“That’s not accurate,” she said. “Everyone can do this.

“Granted, there are many hoops you have to jump through for your clients, and you have to be persistent and resilient. But you just have to treat people with dignity and respect.”

It obviously works with her clients.

As Bruner said about Frye, “I couldn’t have another case manager that’s any better.” n

David Bruner and his case manager Jessica Frye

Resource List 2023

GENERAL

Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities

1024 Capital Center Dr., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-7841

The mission of the CCDD is to create systemic change in Kentucky that empowers individuals to achieve full citizenship and inclusion in the community through education, capacity building and advocacy.

CCDD is a dynamic mix of people with unique backgrounds and experiences. Members include 16 governor-appointed individuals with disabilities and family members of individuals with disabilities, as well as representatives from major state agencies that serve people with developmental disabilities. https://ccdd.ky.gov

The Arc of the United States

1825 K Street, NW, Suite 1200, Washington, DC, 20006 (800) 433-5255 / 202-534-3700 / info@thearc.org

The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. www.thearc.org

The Arc of Kentucky 706 East Main St., Suite A, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 875-5225 / (800) 281-1272 arcofky@arcofky.org

The Arc of Kentucky is the largest statewide community-

based volunteer organization advocating for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/ DD) and their families. The Arc works tirelessly to uphold the vision that every individual and family living with I/ DD in Kentucky has access to the information, advocacy and skills they need to support their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. www.arcofky.org

The Arc of Kentucky Chapters

Barren County: Allison Curasi / thebcarc@gmail.com

Central Kentucky: Alva M. Covington / (312) 502-8217

Floyd County/Prestonsburg: Deborah Hall (606) 268-0808

Lake Cumberland, Somerset: TBA

Logan County: Thomas Thompson / (270) 726-2218

Louisville Area: Serena Jacobs / (502) 939-8273

Northern Kentucky The Point: Judi Gerding (859) 491-9191

The Arc of Kentucky Self Empowerment Network: Selfempowerment@arcofky.org

Self Empowerment Network of Lake Cumberland: Donna Littrell / (606) 875-9847

Self Empowerment Network Different Abilities

South Central Kentucky: Renee Hathaway (270) 432-5938

Self Empowerment Network The Arc of Greater Louisville Area: Dale Arnett / (606) 224-0240

Best Buddies Kentucky

3044 Bardstown Road, Suite 1274, Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 536-7876

Best Buddies Kentucky, founded in 2009, is dedicated to establishing a volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

www.bestbuddies.org/kentucky

Best Point (Formerly Children’s Home of Cincinnati) 5050 Madison Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45227 (513) 272-2800

Best Point is a private, non-profit social service agency that improves the lives of children and their families through services in four areas: adoption, early childhood, education and mental health. Best Point serves children of all ages and their families, including adoptive children, new parents needing support and guidance, children with special education needs, and children with mental health diagnoses.

www.tchcincy.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters Organizations

For more than 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. As the nation’s largest donor and volunteer-supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through 18, in communities across the country. BBBS develops positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.

Mark W. Leach and his daughter Juliet at Forrest Gump point in Monument Valley, Utah where Forrest decides to stop running and go home.

CCDD Hires New Executive Director

The Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities has hired a new executive director, Johnny Callebs, a person who seems ideally suited for the job.

Callebs has worked in the disability field for more than three decades, all in Kentucky.

For more than 20 of those years, he served as executive director of three different organizations: The Columbus Organization (20192022) and the Kentucky Assn. of Private Providers (2017-2019).

Before that, he worked for 16 years at Independent Opportunities, rising from site director to executive director.

He also worked at UK and for the Cabinet for Families and Children.

He graduated from EKU in 1988 and earned a master’s degree in

social work from UK in 1992. Through the years, he has worked with current Council members, and respects the CCDD’s work and its mission.

Callebs currently works at UK Healthcare. His official start date at the CCDD is April 1, and he is eager to begin his new job.

“Taking this job feels like coming home. They have a great team to work with,” he said.

“Everyone has been so kind during the interview process.

The CCDD feels like this is a good fit so I’m very excited to get started.” n

Edited by Dave Matheis with an Introduction by Jason Jones Dedicated

“A Celebration of Family: Stories of Parents with Disabilities” contains the stories of 30 families. In each family, one or both parents have disabilities: physical, mental, sensory, and/or intellectual.

The stories illustrate the infinite variety of families, which gives those families their strength and beauty. Like people, no two families are the same.

Johnny Callebs

Edited by Dave Mathei

Resource List 2023

Bluegrass

181 Lowry Lane, Suite 150, Lexington Ky., 40503 (859) 231-8181

www.bbbs-bluegrass.org

Greater Cincinnati

2400 Reading Road, Suite 148, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 (513) 421-4120

www.bigsforkids.org

Kentuckiana

1519 Gardiner Lane, Suite B, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (877) 588-2300 / (502) 587-0494

www.bbbsky.org

Tristate

1557 Winchester Ave., Suite 204, Ashland, Ky., 41105 (606) 329-8799 / www.bbbstristate.org

Impact Mentoring

1 South Main Street, Madisonville, Ky., 42431 (270) 821-0688

Committed to building strong, trusting and caring relationships that will have a positive impact and change the lives of those children who need it most through mentoring with an adult volunteer. www.Madisonvillebbbs.org

Bluegrass Care Navigators

1733 Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (855) 492-0812

Bluegrass Care Navigators (formerly Hospice of the Bluegrass) provides physical, emotional and spiritual care for adult and pediatric patients with life-limiting illness, and their families, at home, in nursing facilities and at Hospice Care Centers. Support and bereavement services extend to family members and anyone in the community experiencing grief. Bluegrass Care Navigators provides care in 32 central, northern and southeastern Kentucky counties. / www.bgcarenav.org

Brighton Center Inc.

741 Central Ave., Newport, Ky., 41071 (859) 491-8303

Brighton Center wraps a community of support around individuals and families by tackling the issues that prevent people from becoming self-sufficient, removing the barriers they face, and creating hope so that goals can be achieved and dreams realized. From modest beginnings in 1966, the Center has grown to provide a wide range of programs and services that include meeting basic needs, adult and early childhood education, workforce development, substance abuse recovery for women, affordable housing, financial education and counseling, youth services, and neighborhood based programs. www.brightoncenter.com

Build Inclusion, Inc.

P.O. Box 23030, Lexington, Ky., 40523 (859) 221-6689 / www.buildinclusion.org

Build Inclusion promotes intentional inclusion, access, and opportunities through community & family education, engagement, and most of all, meaningful, competitive employment. Build Inclusion facilitates success for individuals in transition to adulthood in preparing for and fully participating in this next stage of their lives. Clinical social work services are also available for the ID/DD population.

Center for Accessible Living

The Center for Accessible Living is an innovative leader in empowering all people to achieve their goal of independent living while involving the entire community.

Louisville Location

501 S. Second St., Suite 200, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 589-6620 / Toll Free (888) 813-8497 webinfo@calky.org / www.calky.org

Murray Location

1051 N. 16th St., Suite C, Murray, Ky., 42071 (270) 753-7676 / Toll Free (888) 261-6194 calmur@calky.org / www.calky.org

Bowling Green Location

1830 Destiny Lane, Suite 108, Bowling Green, Ky. 42104 (270) 599-0911 / www.calky.org

Christian Appalachian Project

485 Ponderosa Drive, P.O. Box 1768, Paintsville, Ky., 41240 / (866) 270-4227

CAP is a Kentucky-based, non-profit Christian organization committed to serving people in need in Appalachia by providing physical, spiritual and emotional support through a wide variety of programs and services. www.christianapp.org

Community Action Kentucky (CAK)

101 Burch Court, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (800) 456-3452 / (502) 875-5863

CAK is a statewide association representing and assisting the 23 community action agencies as they work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic success. / www.capky.org

Easter Seals

Cardinal Hill

2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 367-7217 / www.cardinalhill.org

Western Kentucky

1908 N. 14th St., Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 443-1200 / www.eswky.easterseals.com

Home of the Innocents

1100 E. Market St., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 596-1000 / info@homeoftheinnocents.org

Home of the Innocents is the region’s open arms to kids in crisis, providing therapeutic, loving care to children who are victims of abuse, abandonment and neglect. It’s also home to children who have autism and other behavioral health diagnoses; who are medically fragile; and families with exceptional needs. Open Arms Children’s Health is the Home’s health care facility offering pediatric medical, dental, hearing, vision and pharmacy. / www.homeoftheinnocents.org

Human Development Institute (HDI)

Kentucky’s University Center on Disability University of Kentucky

113 Mineral Industries Building, Lexington, Ky., 405060051 / (859) 257-4356

HDI’s mission is to advance efforts that build inclusive communities, address inequities, and improve the lives of all people who experience disability across the lifespan. HDI achieves its mission through leadership and community partnerships across Kentucky and the nation. Learn more at www.hdi.uky.edu

Independence Place, Inc.

2358 Nicholasville Road, Suite 180, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 266-2807

Independence Place is a non-profit, consumer-driven, non-residential Center for Independent Living, serving people with disabilities of all ages. The mission is to help people with disabilities achieve their potential for community inclusion by improving access and equal opportunity. / www.ipky.org

Independence Seekers Project

1244 South Third St., Suite 200, Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 509-9363

As a leader in disability advocacy, the Independence Seekers Project aims to challenge ableism and redefine community through a support network built by those with disabilities. Alongside peers and allies, ISP aspires to create a more inclusive community dedicated to interdependence. www.independenceseekersproject.org

KARRN (Kentucky Appalachian Rural Rehabilitation Network)

UK College of Health Sciences, 900 South Limestone, Lexington, Ky., 40536 (859) 323-1100/ phkitz1@uky.edu

A collaborative team composed of individuals impacted by neurological conditions, providers who serve them, members of communities in which they live, advocates, educators and researchers who investigate these conditions. / www.karrn.org

Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs

83-C Michael Davenport Blvd., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 226-2704 / erecktenwald@kasap.org

KASAP’s mission is to speak with a unified voice against sexual victimization. KASAP is funded in whole or in part with public funds. / www.kasap.org

Kentucky Partnership for Families and Children, Inc. 600 Teton Trail, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 875-1320 / (800) 369-0533

Melissa@kypartnership.org

KPFC’s vision is that all families raising youth and children affected by behavioral health challenges will achieve their fullest potential. KPFC’s mission is to empower families affected by behavioral health challenges to initiate personal and systems change. www.kypartnership.org

Kentucky Special Parent Involvement Network, Inc. (KY-Spin)

10301-B Deering Road, Louisville, Ky., 40272 (502) 937-6894 / (800) 525-7746

The mission is to link families and individuals with disabilities to valuable resources that will enable them to live productive, fulfilling lives. A project of KY-SPIN, Inc. is the KY-SPIN Parent Center PTI (Parent Training & Information Project), which is funded by the U.S. Dept. of Education. KY-SPIN Parent Center provides training, information and support for children and youth with all types of disabilities (birth through 26 years old), their parents, families and professionals.

www.kyspin.com

P rov i d i n g m e a ni n g f u l ex p e r i e n c e s a n d

op p o r t un i t i e s f o r i n d i v i dua l s w i t h

I n t e l le c t ua l a n d D evelop m e n t a l D i s a b il i t i e s .

A t N ew V is t a ou r g oa l

is t o he lp in dividua ls live

a n d pa r tic ip a t e in t h eir

co m mu ni t y. We pr o mot e

pe rso n - c e n t ere d c ar e,

pr ovidin g se r vic es t h a t

su p po r t a n in dividua l ’s

e mo tiona l, m e n t a l, a n d

p hysica l we ll- b ein g

We see t h e g ood a hea d .

Resource List 2023

Kentucky Youth Advocates

10200 Linn Station, Suite 310, Louisville, Ky., 40223

(502) 895-8167 / (888) 825-5592

KYA advocates for policies that give children the best possible opportunities for a brighter future and are making Kentucky the best place in America to be young. www.kyyouth.org

Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky

2265 Harrodsburg Road, Suite 200, Lexington, Ky., 40504

(859) 225-8879 / 1-800-CHILDREN

pcaky@pcaky.org

The mission of PCAK is to prevent the abuse and neglect of Kentucky’s children through advocacy, education, awareness and training. PCAK is helping to build a better Kentucky by shaping future leaders and their families to ensure Kentucky’s children grow up in safe, healthy environments. Being a parent can be tough. For FREE, confidential information and support, call the helpline at 1-800-CHILDREN. / www.pcaky.org

Public Library Home Delivery Service

Many of the state’s county public libraries offer home delivery service for those with physical limitations that prevent them from visiting. Below are libraries in the state’s most populous areas. Contact the public library in your county to inquire about services.

Boone County (Florence): (859) 342-2665 ext. 8108

www.bcpl.org/docs/library/we-deliver.pdf

Campbell County (Newport): (859) 572-5035 ext. 352

www.cc-pl.org/services/adult-outreach-services

Kenton County (Covington): (859) 962-4062

www.kentonlibrary.org/outreach/homebound

Laurel County Public Library (London): (606) 864-5759

www.Laurellibrary.org/services/outreach-services/ Lexington: (859) 231-5500

www.lexpublib.org/outreach

Louisville: (502) 574-1611

www.lfpl.org/bookstoyou.html

Warren County (Bowling Green): (270) 535-4886

https://warrenpl.org/using-the-library/

Daviess County (Owensboro) (270) 691-1886

www.dcplibrary.org/books-to-you

Paul Sawyier (Frankfort): (502) 352-2665

www.pspl.org/outreach-services

Hardin County (Elizabethtown): (270) 769-6337

www.hcpl.info/services.asp

Safe Kids Worldwide

1 Inventa Place, Sixth Floor West, Silver Spring, Md., 20910 / (202) 662-0600

Safe Kids is a program that brings together health and safety experts, educators, corporations, foundations, governments and volunteers to educate and protect families. Safe Kids is a global network of organizations

dedicated to preventing accidental injury. Efforts are needed because as many as 90% of accidental injuries can be prevented. / www.safekids.org

Fayette County Coalition

Kentucky Children’s Hospital, 800 Rose St., Lexington, Ky., 40536 / (859) 323-1153

www.safekids.org/coalition/safe-kids-fayette-county-ky

Kentucky Coalition

Kentucky Department of Health, 275 E. Main St., HS2W-A, Suite 242, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-2154 ext 4459

www.safekids.org/coalition/safe-kids-kentucky

Louisville and Jefferson County Coalition

Norton Children’s Hospital, 315 E. Broadway, Louisville, Ky., 40202 / (502) 629-7244

www.safekids.org/coalition/safe-kids-louisville

TASH Disability Advocacy Worldwide

1825 K Street NW, Suite 1250, Washington D.C., 20006 (202) 808-8148

An international association of people with disabilities, family members, other advocates and professionals working for a society in which inclusion of all people in all aspects of society is the norm. / www.tash.org

Kentucky Chapter Located in Louisville

Darrell Mattingly / (859) 373-8920

darrell.mattingly@uky.edu

www.tash.org/chapters/kentucky-tash/

Tourette Association of America

42-40 Bell Boulevard, Suite 507, Bayside, NY., 11361 888-4-TOURET / support@tourette.org

Tourette Association of America (formerly Tourette Syndrome Association) is the only national organization serving the community, and works to raise awareness, advance research, and provide ongoing support to patients and families impacted by Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. The TAA directs a network of 31 Chapters, 83 support groups and recognizes 18 Centers of Excellence across the country. / www.tsa-usa.org

Tourette Syndrome in the Bluegrass

Angela King / (270) 317-3046

www.facebook.com/tourettesyndromeinthebluegrass

Un Abrazo Amigo Parent Support Group Lexington / (859) 474 2722

Un Abrazo Amigo is a parent support group in Spanish for families of children and youth with special health care needs and serves families from Fayette and surrounding counties. The support group works on addressing language and cultural barriers to access to health care and social services, reducing caregiver stress and enhancing children’s health and well-being, and supporting families in becoming advocates for their children through education and mutual support.

United Way

Bluegrass

651 Perimeter Dr., Suite 510, Lexington, Ky., 40517 211 Information Line / (859) 233-4460

LiveUnited@uwbg.org / www.uwbg.org

Kentucky

P.O. Box 4653, Louisville, Ky., 40204 (502) 589-6897 / 211 Help Line / www.uwky.org

Metro 334 E. Broadway, P.O. Box 4488, Louisville, Ky., 40204 (502) 583-2821 / 211 Help Line The Cardwell House 316 Main St., Shelbyville, Ky., 40014 (502) 633-4484

Fights for the education, health, housing and financial stability of every person. / www.metrounitedway.org

WHAS Crusade for Children

520 West Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 582-7706

The WHAS Crusade for Children, established in 1954, raises money for agencies, schools and hospitals to better the lives of children with special needs. The Crusade Advisory Panel, an independent board of interdenominational ministers, decides how donations are distributed each year. / www.whascrusade.org

STATE RESOURCES

Brain Injury

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver

275 E. Main St. 6W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-5198 / (866) 878-2626

This program is designed to provide intensive services and support to adults with acquired brain injuries as they work to re-enter community life.

https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/abi.aspx/

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Trust Fund

275 E. Main St., 3E-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-6930 / toniaawells@ky.gov

This program offers flexible funding and support for people with traumatic brain injuries. The fund supports supplemental, community-based efforts to meet the special needs of individuals with brain injury. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/tbitrust.aspx

Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky

7321 N. La Grange Road, Suite 100, Louisville, Ky., 40222 / (502) 493-0609

Serves those affected by brain injury through advocacy, education, prevention, service and support. www.biak.us

Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Office for Children with Special Health Care Needs

The mission of the OCSHCN is to enhance the quality of life for Kentucky’s children with special health care needs through quality service, leadership, advocacy, education and collaboration. The OCSHCN’s vision is to be the visible leader in supporting the highest quality of life for Kentucky’s children with special health care needs and their families through collaboration and creation of a more accessible community based system of support. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/ccshcn/Pages/about.aspx

Regional Offices:

Central office / Louisville

310 Whittington Parkway, Suite 200, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 429-4430 / (800) 232-1160

Serving Bullitt, Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham,

If

MEET THE CCDD COUNCIL

COUNCIL MEMBERS AND THEIR HOMETOWNS

Casey Allen, Kevil

David Allgood, Louisville

Meagan Brannon, Germantown

Jacob Cruz, Lexington

Grant Grupton, Simpsonville

Paul Hitchcock, Morehead

Kelly Jones, Fort Thomas

Mark W. Leach, Louisville

Come Join Us!

(502) 564-7841 / www.CCDD.KY.gov

Owen, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble counties and statewide.

Barbourville

110 Johnson Lane, Barbourville, Ky., 40906

(606) 546-5109 / (800) 348-4279

Serving Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Laurel, Rockcastle, Knox and Whitley counties.

Bowling Green

2040 Louisville Road, Bowling Green, Ky., 42101

(270) 746-7816 / (800) 843-5877

Serving Allen, Barren, Butler, Christian, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, Todd and Warren counties.

Elizabethtown

580-B Westport Road, Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701

(270) 766-5370 / (800) 995-6982

Serving Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson and Washington counties.

Hazard

103 Town and Country Lane, Suite M, Hazard, Ky., 41701

(606) 435-6167 / (800) 378-3357

Darrell Mattingly, Lexington

Micah Peace, Louisville

Aisha Omar, Louisville

Sharon Raymond, Goshen

Mark Rothel, Lexington

Amy Smith, Frankfort

Regina Watts, Covington

Leigh Van Hooser, Simpsonville

Serving Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Owsley, Perry and Wolfe counties.

Lexington

333 Waller Ave., Suite 300, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 252-3170 / (800) 817-3874

Serving Anderson, Bourbon, Boone, Boyle, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Grant, Harrison, Jessamine, Kenton, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott, and Woodford counties.

Morehead

214 W. First St., Morehead, Ky., 40351 (606) 783-8610 / (800) 928-3049

Serving Bath, Boyd, Bracken, Campbell, Carter, Elliot, Fleming, Floyd, Greenup, Lawrence, Lewis, Magoffin, Mason, Menifee, Morgan, Montgomery, Pendleton, Robertson and Rowan counties.

Owensboro

1600 Breckenridge St., Suite 1200, Owensboro, Ky., 42303 / (270) 687-7038 / (877) 687-7038

Serving Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, Hopkins,

McLean, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Union and Webster counties. Paducah

The HIPP Building, 2855 Jackson St., Paducah, Ky., 42003 / (270) 443-3651 / (800) 443-3651

Serving Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken and Trigg counties.

Prestonsburg

5000 Ky. Route 321, Prestonsburg, Ky., 41653 (606) 889-1761 / (800) 594-7058

Serving Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin and Pike counties.

Somerset

Professional Plaza, 401 Bogle St., Suite 104, Somerset, Ky., 42503 / (606) 677-4120 / (800) 525-4279

Serving Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor and Wayne counties.

First Steps Point of Entry Services

you want to affect policy, influence legislators and advocate for change, the CCDD Council is the place for you. Call today to learn how you can make a difference!

Resource List 2023

312 Whittington Pkwy., Suite 020, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 429-1249 / (800) 442-0087

Serving Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, and Trimble counties.

Family to Family Health Information Centers

310 Whittington Parkway, Suite 200, Louisville, Ky., 40222 Sondra Gilbert / (502) 782-8781

Located at the offices of the Commission for Children with Special Health Care Needs, Family to Family HICs are family-run centers that assist families of children and youth with special health care needs and the professionals who serve them. The goal is to help keep children healthy by promoting regular medical care. F2F HICs help families make more informed choices by providing support, information, resources and training. F2F HICs promote access to community-based, self-directed services that are available to children with special needs. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/ccshcn/Pages/ftf.aspx

Hart-Supported Living Program

275 E. Main St., 3E-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-6930 / pcap.hsl@ky.gov

The Hart-Supported Living program provides funds for supports to help Kentuckians with disabilities live in their homes and communities and avoid institutionalization. Any Kentuckian with a disability as defined by the Americans with Disability Act can apply for Hart-Supported Living funds. / chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/hslp.aspx

Coordinators

Region 1: Angel Lawrence

P.O. Box 3759, Paducah, Ky., 42003 (502) 401-8650 / angel.lawrence@ky.gov

Counties: Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Christian, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves, Henderson, Hickman, Hopkins, Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken, McLean, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg, Union and Webster.

Region 2: Makalla Morrison

P.O. Box 2010, Bowling Green, Ky., 42102

(502) 229-5211 / makalla.morrison@ky.gov

Counties: Adair, Allen, Barren, Breckinridge, Butler, Cumberland, Daviess, Edmonson, Grayson, Green, Hancock, Hardin, Hart, Larue, Logan, Meade, Metcalf, Monroe, Nelson, Ohio, Simpson, Taylor and Warren.

Region 3: Amanda Coulter

P.O. Box 876, Lawrenceburg, Ky., 40342 (502) 229-2294 / AmandaM.Coulter@ky.gov

Counties: Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Casey, Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Gerrard, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Marion, Mercer, Montgomery, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Scott, Woodford.

Region 4: Susan Miller

P.O. Box 9531, Louisville, Ky., 40209 (502) 229-9716 / smiller@ky.gov

Counties: Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Owen, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble, Washington.

Region 5: Caryn Turvey

P.O. Box 1385, Ashland, Ky., 41105 (502) 229-6863 / caryn.turvey@ky.gov

Counties: Bath, Boone, Boyd, Bracken, Campbell, Carter, Fleming, Grant, Greenup, Harrison, Kenton, Lewis, Mason, Nichols, Pendleton, Robertson, Rowan.

Region 6: Angelia Forgey

P.O. Box 1907, Hyden, Ky., 41749 (502) 401-8654 / angelia.forgey@ky.gov

Counties: Bell, Breathitt, Clay, Elliot, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, McCreary, Menifee, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Wayne, Whitley, Wolfe.

Home and Community-Based Waiver (HCB)

275 E. Main St., 6W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-5560 / dmsweb@ky.gov

The HCB waiver is part of Kentucky’s 1915(c) HCBS Medicaid waiver program. HCB provides assistance to the elderly or to adults and children with disabilities to help them live in the community as independently as possible. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/hcb-waiver.aspx

Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corp.

Mayo-Underwood Building

500 Mero St., 1st Floor, SE, Frankfort Ky., 40601 (877) 675-0195

The Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation (KATLC) offers low interest loans for qualified applicants with disabilities for assistive technology. Notice December 2022: The KATLC will be going through a reorganization. As a part of this process, KATLC will be looking for a new lending partner. The Board of Directors anticipate this being a six to nine month process.

https://katlc.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Education & Workforce Development

500 Mero St., 4th floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-0372

Providing Kentuckians from all across the Commonwealth with the opportunity of transformational change through education and quality training so they can attain a meaningful career, support their families, break the cycle of poverty and prosper.

https://educationcabinet.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Children Insurance Program (K-CHIP) (877) 524-4718 / TTY/TDD: (877) KCHIP-19 (877) 524-4719

Hispanic Interpreter: (800) 662-5397

K-CHIP’s mission is to provide free health insurance to low income, uninsured children in Kentucky. The K-CHIP staff understands that access to health care is important and that preventive care is a large part of health care. kidshealth.ky.gov/Pages/index.aspx

Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence 111 Darby Shire Circle, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 209-5382

In addition to providing a safe, secure environment for victims/survivors and their children, programs now also offer a variety of support services to residents and non-residents, including legal/court advocacy, case management, safety planning, support groups, individual counseling, housing assistance, job search and children’s groups. / www.kcadv.org

Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing 632 Versailles Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 573-2604 / Videophone: (502) 416-0607

kcdhh@ky.org / www.kcdhh.ky.gov

Provide effective and efficient leadership, education, advocacy and programs to eliminate barriers and to meet the social, economic, educational, cultural, intellectual and health and human services needs of deaf and hard of hearing Kentuckians.

Kentucky Community Mental Health Centers

275 E. Main St., 6W-D, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 / (502) 564-6890

Publicly-funded community services are provided for Kentuckians who have problems with mental health, developmental and intellectual disabilities, or substance abuse, through Kentucky’s 14 regional Boards for Mental Health or Individuals with an Intellectual Disability (Regional MHID Boards). Regional MHID Boards are private, nonprofit organizations established by KRS Chapter 210 (see Related Links) which serve residents of a designated multicounty region. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dpo/bpb/Pages/cmhc.aspx

Regional Offices:

Adanta MH / MR Board

130 Southern School Road, Somerset, Ky., 42501 (606) 679-4782

Serving Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor, Wayne counties. www.adanta.org

Communicare, Inc.

107 Cranes Roost Ct., Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 (270) 765-2605

Serving Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington counties. www.communicare.org

Comprehend, Inc.

610 Elizaville Ave., Flemingsburg, Ky., 41041 (606) 849-2212

Serving Bracken, Fleming, Lewis, Mason, Robertson counties. / www.comprehendinc.org

Cumberland River Behavioral Health

1203 American Greeting Card Road, Corbin, Ky., 40702 (606) 528-7010

Serving Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, Rockcastle, Whitley counties. / www.crbhky.org

Four Rivers Behavioral Health

425 Broadway, Suite 201, Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 442-7121 / 24-hour Line (800) 592-3980

Serving Ballard, Calloway, Carlisle, Gallatin, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, McCracken,Marshall counties. www.4rbh.org

Ky. River Community Care

3830 Kentucky Highway 15-South, Jackson, Ky., 41339 (606) 666-7591

Serving Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Owsley, Perry, Wolfe counties. krccnet.com

Lifeskills

380 Suwanee Trail St., Bowling Green, Ky. 42103 (270) 901-5000

Serving Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, Warren counties. www.lifeskills.com

Mountain Comprehensive Care Center

104 S. Front Ave., Prestonsburg, Ky., 41653 (606) 886-8572

Serving Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin, Pike counties. www.mtcomp.org

New Vista

1351 Newtown Pike, Building 5, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (859) 253-1686 / (859) 272-7483

24-hour help line (800) 928-8000

Serving Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Garrard, Harrison, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott, Woodford counties. newvista.org

NorthKey Community Care

502 Farrell Drive, Covington, Ky., 41011 (859) 578-3200 / (877) 331-3292

Serving Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton counties. / www.northkey.org Pathways, Inc.

P.O. Box 790, 1212 Bath Ave., Ashland, Ky., 41101 (606) 329-8588

Serving Bath, Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Greenup, Lawrence, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Rowan counties. www.pathways-ky.org

Pennyroyal MH / MR Board

3999 Fort Campbell Blvd., Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 (270) 886-2205

Serving Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Lyon, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg counties. www.pennyroyalcenter.org

RiverValley Behavioral Health, Inc.

1100 Walnut St., Owensboro, Ky., 42302 (270) 689- 6500

Serving Davies, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, Webster counties. / www.rvbh.com

Seven Counties Services

10401 Linn Station Road, Suite 100, Louisville, Ky. 40223 / (502) 589-1100

Serving Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble counties. / www.sevencounties.org

Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities

275 E. Main St., 4W-F, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4527 / (502) 564-7700

The department oversees services in Kentucky to people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities, mental health and substance use disorders.

https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dbhdid/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Early Intervention System

275 E. Main St., HS2WC, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-3756

Kentucky Early Intervention System is a statewide early intervention system that provides services to children with developmental disabilities from birth to age 3 and their families. Kentucky Early Intervention System is Kentucky’s response to the federal Infant-Toddler Program. Kentucky Early Intervention System offers comprehensive services through a variety of community agencies and service disciplines and is administered by the Department for Public Health in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dmch/ecdb/Pages/keis.aspx

Regional Offices: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dmch/ecdb/fs/ POElistingforWebsite.pdf

Barren River District Point of Entry

P.O. Box 6499, 380 Suwannee Trail, Bowling Green, Ky., 42103 / (270) 901-5749 / (800) 643-6233

Counties served: Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, Warren

Big Sandy District Point of Entry

104 South Front Ave., Prestonsburg, Ky., 41653 (606) 886-4417 / (800) 230-6011

Counties served: Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin, Pike Buffalo Trace District Point of Entry 420 East 2nd St., Maysville, Ky., 41056

(606) 564-3919 / (800) 335-4249

Counties served: Bracken, Fleming, Lewis, Mason, Robertson

Cumberland Valley District Point of Entry

175 East Peachtree St., Corbin, Ky., 40701 (606) 523-0229 / (800) 509-9559

Counties served: Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, Rockcastle, Whitley.

FIVCO District Point of Entry

5850 U.S. 60, Box 11 Summit Plaza, Ashland, Ky., 41102 / (606) 929-9155 / (800) 650-1329

Counties served: Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Greenup, Lawrence Gateway District Point of Entry

P.O. Box 290, Owingsville, Ky., 40360 (606) 674-3204 / (800) 942-4358

Counties served: Bath, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Rowan Green River District Point of Entry

1501 Breckenridge St., Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (270) 852-2905 / (888) 686-1414

Counties served: Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, Webster

Kentuckiana District Point of Entry

312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 020, Louisville, Ky., 40222 / (502) 429-1249 / (800) 422-0087

Counties served: Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble

Kentucky River District Point of Entry

115 Rockwood Lane, Hazard, Ky., 41701 (606) 439-1325 / (800) 328-1767

Counties served: Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Owsley, Perry, Wolfe

Lake Cumberland District Point of Entry

259 Parkers Mill Road, Somerset, Ky., 42501 (606) 678-2821 / (800) 378-2821

Counties served: Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor, Wayne Lincoln Trail District Point of Entry

2935 Dolphin Drive, Suite 204, Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 (270) 737-5921 / (800) 678-1879

Counties served: Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington

New Vista District Point of Entry

1351 Newtown Pike, Building 5, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (859) 271-9448 / (800) 454-2764

Counties served: Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott, Woodford

Northern Kentucky District Point of Entry

NorthKey Community Care: 502 Farrell Drive, Covington, Ky., 41011 / (859) 578-3200

St. Elizabeth: Community Outreach Building

4900 Houston Road, Florence, Ky., 41042 (859) 655-1195

Counties served: Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton

Pennyrile District Point of Entry

400A Hammond Plaza, Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 (270) 886-5186 / (877) 473-7766

Counties served: Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Lyon, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg

Purchase District Point of Entry

425 Broadway, Suite 204, Paducah, Ky., 42001

Resource List 2023

(270) 442-6223 / (800) 648-6599

Counties served: Ballard, Carlisle, Calloway, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Marshall, McCracken.

Kentucky IMPACT Program

275 E. Main St., 4W-G, Frankfort , Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4456

Kentucky IMPACT is a statewide program that coordinates services for children with severe emotional disabilities and their families. IMPACT serves children and youth of all ages.

https://dbhdid.ky.gov/dbh/kyimpact.aspx

The Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation

The Mayo-Underwood Building

500 Mero St.,4th floor NE, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4440 / (800) 372-7172

The Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) assists Kentuckians with disabilities to achieve suitable employment and independence. The organization recognizes and respects the contribution of all individuals as a necessary and vital part of a productive society. https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation

To find a Regional office, visit: https://kcc.ky.gov/Pages/Locations.aspx

Kentucky Transitions (Money Follows the Person Demonstration Grant)

275 East Main St., 6 W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-0330 / (877) 564-0330

Kentucky Transitions helps people move out of nursing facilities or institutions and into their own homes. The Department for Medicaid Services developed the program in 2008 with a Money Follows the Person demonstration grant from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Kentucky Transitions has helped more than 750 people leave institutional care. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/kytransitions.aspx

Medicaid Waiver Provider Directory

The Provider Directory is maintained by the Division of Developmental & Intellectual Disabilities. Contact information for provider agencies certified to provide SCL/Michelle P. Medicaid waiver services may be accessed in this interactive map. https://dbhdid.ky.gov/ProviderDirectory/ProviderDirectory.aspx

Division of Community Alternatives

Medicaid Waivers

275 E. Main St., 6W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (855) 459-6328 / (502) 564-1647

If you have a disability or are elderly, you may qualify for a 1915(c) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid waiver. These waivers provide the support you need to live as independently as possible. The Department for Medicaid Services (DMS) offers six waiver programs: ABI Acute and ABI Long-Term Care Waivers; Home and Community Based (HCB) Waiver; Model II Waiver (MIIW); Michelle P. Waiver; Supports for Community Living (SCL) Waiver; Kentucky Transitions. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/default.aspx

Career and Technical Education

300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4286

https://education.ky.gov/CTE/Pages/default.aspx

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is an essential component of the high school curriculum. It is a critical component in meeting the needs of students in academic achievement, career exploration, career preparation and leadership development.

Personal Care Attendant Program Department for Aging and Independent Living

275 E. Main St., 3E-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-6930 Ext 3477

The Personal Care Attendant Program helps severely physically disabled adults at risk of being institutionalized to live in their own homes and communities by subsidizing costs of personal attendant services. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/pcap.aspx

Social Security Administration

(800) 772-1213 / www.ssa.gov

Regional Offices: https://www.benefitsoffices.com/state/index. php?st=KY&page=1

Ashland

1405 Greenup Ave., Room 132, Ashland, Ky., 41101 (866) 269-3993

Bowling Green

2724 Chandler Drive, Bowling Green, Ky., 42104 (877) 801-0817

Campbellsville

101 Hiestand Farm Road, Campbellsville, Ky., 42718 (877) 828-1695

Corbin

159 Future Drive, Corbin, Ky., 40701 / (877) 405-0470

Danville

103 Belinda Blvd., Danville, Ky., 40422 / (877) 512-3850

Elizabethtown

591 Westport Road, Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 (866) 596-7123

Florence

7 Youell St., Florence, Ky., 41042 / (800) 772-1213

Frankfort

140 Flynn Ave., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 / (866) 964-1724

Harlan

189 Village Center, Harlan Ky., 40831 / (888) 590-2707

Hazard

122 Reynolds Lane, Hazard, Ky., 41701 (877) 405-0491

Henderson

2000 North Elm, Henderson Ky., 42420 (855) 628-1593

Hopkinsville

1650 Marie Drive, Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 (877) 405-7656

Jackson

850 KY-15 N., Jackson, Ky., 41339 / (866) 366-4920

Lexington

2241 Buena Vista Road, Lexington, Ky., 40505 (866) 530-7754

Louisville

10503 Timberwood Circle, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (888) 280-5851

Louisville

601 W. Broadway, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (866) 716-9671

Madisonville

4431 Hanson Road, Madisonville, Ky., 42431 (877) 626-9912

Mayfield

1526 Cuba Road, Mayfield, Ky., 42066 (866) 931-8366

Maysville

509 Market Place Drive, Maysville, Ky., 41056 (855) 807-8802

Middlesboro

10 S.E. Tech Dr., Middlesboro, Ky., 40965 (877) 619-2853

Owensboro

4532 Lucky Strike Loop, Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (866) 836-5834

Paducah

125 Brett Chase Road, Paducah, Ky., 42003 (866) 614-7905

Pikeville

333 Hambley Blvd., Pikeville, Ky., 41501 (888) 676-2942

Prestonsburg

1897 Ky. Route 321, Prestonsburg, Ky., 41653 (888) 450-4538

Richmond

1060 Gibson Bay Drive, Richmond, Ky., 40475 (866) 838-8945

Somerset 3975 U.S.-27, Somerset, Ky., 42501 / (877) 714-0375

ADOPTION AND FOSTERING

Adoption Support for Kentucky

UK College of Social Work, 619 Patterson Office Tower Lexington Ky., 40511 / (859) 257-6650 (888)-44-ASKKY / ask@uky.edu

Adoption Support for Kentucky (ASK) is an awardwinning program that utilizes innovative training modalities and inclusive support group practices to meet the needs of foster, adoptive, relative, and fictive-kin caregivers throughout the Commonwealth.

https://socialwork.uky.edu/centers-labs/training-resourcecenter/adoption-support-for-kentucky/

The Bair Foundation

2393 Alumni Drive, Suite 205, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 519-3273 / www.bair.org

Bair Foundation is a therapeutic Foster Care agency in the process of getting the certification for caring for medically complex children. Bair Foundation foster care families are specially trained to care for children with medical and behavioral needs. Bair Foundation provides trauma-informed care for all children, helping them face challenging behaviors, and provides them with stable environments while focusing on the child’s strengths.

Benchmark Family Services

Therapeutic Foster Care, Kentucky Administrative Office

160 Burt Road, Lexington, Ky., 40503

(859) 899-9515

Provides quality out-of-home placements for youth in need by working with referring agencies to guarantee the support, treatment and care they deserve. Serves children with emotional, mental and physical disabilities along with youth who have been severely neglected or abused. Therapeutic services include training of foster families. Benchmark Family Services has offices in Berea, Bowling Green, Columbia, Corbin, Elizabethtown, Florence, Hazard, Irvine, Lexington, London, Louisville, Madisonville, Morehead, Owensboro, Owenton, Prestonsburg and Somerset. / www.benchmarkfamilyservices.org

Best Point (Formerly Children’s Home of Cincinnati)

5050 Madison Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45227 (513) 272-2800 / (513) 808-9632

Best Point is a private, non-profit social service agency that improves the lives of children and their families through services in four areas: adoption, early childhood, education and mental health. Best Point serves children of all ages and their families, including adoptive children, new parents needing support and guidance, children with special education needs, and children with mental health diagnoses. / www.tchcincy.org

Kentucky Faces

275 East Main St., 3C-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-7043.

DCBS/Adoption Service

https://prd.webapps.chfs.ky.gov/kyfaces

Key Assets Kentucky

961 Beasley St., Suite 160 &170, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 226-5022

Key Assets provides support for specialized foster parents who care for children with developmental delays or autism. / www.keyassetskentucky.com

THE ARTS

Allegro Dance Project

(715) 252-6137 / info@allegrodanceproject.org

Based in Lexington, Allegro Dance Project is a non-profit contemporary dance company specializing in Inclusive dance outreach for children with Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other specific needs. www.allegrodanceproject.org

Arts for All Kentucky

601 College St., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 792-0023 / programs@artsforallky.org

Non-profit organization dedicated to providing inclusive arts and education programs for children, youth and adults with disabilities, in addition to professional development for artists and teachers in schools and communities statewide. Offers an under-served population equal opportunity to explore the arts in a way that is fully accessible. Through participatory involvement with trained professionals and volunteers, people with disabilities learn new creative and

social skills that open doors to new opportunities. www.artsforallky.org

Latitude Artist Community

740 National Ave., Suite 180, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 806-0195

Latitude is an art studio that serves all people, with an emphasis on those who are considered to have a disability. The multimodal activities, workshops and community outreach events form a framework that encourages us to recognize our own life’s narrative, and to then choose ways in which we may contribute to the well-being of our community. / www.latitude-arts.com

Lexington Children’s Theatre

418 W. Short St., Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 254-4546

LCT is committed to creating an environment where everyone feels welcome to enjoy the magic of theatre. Join LCT for sensory friendly performances that are designed to be a safe environment where young people with sensory sensitivities or disabilities, first-time theatre goers, young children, and their friends and family are free to speak, respond and move around the seating area in reaction to the story. ASL interpretation and audio description are also available. / www.lctonstage.org/tickets/access-at-lct/

The SHINE House

402 North Main St., Somerset, Ky., 42501 (606) 416-5380

The SHINE House is a non-profit community arts center whose goal is to provide instruction in a variety of visual arts forms in a creative educational space developed with inclusion in mind. / www.theshinehouse.com

Wildwood Music Therapy

2375 Professional Heights Dr., Suite 134C Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (270) 869-5165

Board-certified music therapists provide music therapy and adaptive music lesson services for all ages and abilities. Sessions celebrate strengths and help clients achieve their goals. / wildwoodmusictherapy.com

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center 5659 Main St., Thelma, Ky., 41260 (606) 788-7080 / emily.jackson@ky.gov

The mission of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center is that persons will achieve sustainable, competitive, integrated employment, maximize independence, and gain self-respect through the provision of comprehensive services. Consumers may live on campus in dormitory housing or can commute to the Perkins Center each day they are scheduled for classes and/or therapy.

https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/cdpvtc/Pages/ default.aspx

HDI Center for Assistive Technology Services (CATS) 2358 Nicholasville Road, Suite 180, Lexington, Ky.,

40503 / (859) 218-7979

CATS is a non-profit, grassroots organization that assists individuals who have disabilities, their families and service providers in connecting with various technologies and services that provide the gateway to greater independence, productivity and quality of life. CATS is a member of the Alliance for Technology Access, The Eastern Regional Center for the Kentucky Assistive Technology Service (KATS) Network.

https://hdi.uky.edu/hdicats / www.facebook.com/HDICATS

KATS Network Disability Solutions Through Technology Office of Vocational Rehabilitation

8020 Veterans Memorial Drive, Suite 100, Florence, Ky., 41042 / (800) 327-5287 / Info@katsnet.org

The Kentucky Assistive Technology Locator is a free service of the KATS Network that connects Kentuckians to the AT devices they need to live independently. By registering for an account, you can borrow devices to try, find used devices for free or low-cost, sell used devices, give away devices or place want ads for devices you need. www.katsnet.org

KATS Project CARAT (800) 327-5287

A program of KATS, CARAT enables under-served individuals with disabilities in the Appalachian region of Kentucky by collecting, refurbishing and redistributing assistive technology and durable medical equipment through a collaborative network of partners. The goal of Project CARAT is to make Assistive Technology and Durable Medical Equipment more accessible to those who need it in rural Kentucky. In order to make this happen, Project CARAT is partnering with agencies across the state. To request equipment or for donation information, call the ProjectCARAT Hotline at (800) 327-5287. https://www.katsnet.org/services/at-reuse/

Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corp. Mayo-Underwood Building

500 Mero St., 1st Floor NE, Frankfort Ky., 40601 (877) 675-0195

The Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation (KATLC) offers low interest loans for qualified applicants with disabilities for assistive technology. Notice:

December 2022: The Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation will be going through a reorganization. As a part of this process, KATLC will be looking for a new lending partner. The Board of Directors anticipate this being a six to nine month process. / www.katlc.ky.gov

Ky. Department of Education

Exceptional Children and Early Learning

300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4970 / gretta.hylton@education.ky.gov

The Office of Special Education and Early Learning (OSEEL) works to improve educational outcomes for diverse and early learners through training and coaching for local district staff and teachers, technical assistance, guidance and policy documents, and providing supports for students and their families.

www.education.ky.gov/specialed/Pages/default.aspx

Resource List 2023

Redwood Assistive Technology Center (Easter Seals)

71 Orphanage Road, Ft. Mitchell, Ky., 41017 (859) 331-0880 / www.redwoodnky.org

Western Kentucky Assistive Technology Center

Wendell Foster’s Campus 815 Triplett St., Owensboro, Ky., 42302 / (270) 683-4517 / https://wendellfoster.org

AUTISM

Autism Society of the Bluegrass

P. O. Box 24212, Lexington, Ky., 40524-2412

Established in 1991 and a chapter of the Autism Society of America, ASBG is an all-volunteer group of families, caregivers and self-advocates. The mission is to provide community, education, advocacy and support to those impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder. ASBG hosts monthly meetings with speakers on a wide variety of topics related to autism. It also operates a discussion board and is active on social media. Everyone, including individuals, families, educators, therapists and healthcare providers, are welcome to participate. www.asbg.org / www.youtube.com/user/autismsocietybg www.facebook.com/Autism-Society-of-theBluegrass-122689954438582/

Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati

P.O. Box 75, Milford, Ohio, 45150 (513) 561-2300 / info@autismcincy.org

ASGC works to promote awareness and education about autism. ASGC provides information packets, support groups for families and individuals, newsletters and public speakers. / www.autismcincy.org

Autism Society of Kentuckiana

P.O. Box 21895, Louisville, Ky., 40221-0895

Rebecca Thompson, Kentucky Resident Contact (502) 263-5708 / info@ask-lou.org www.ask-lou.org

Autistic Self Advocacy Network

P.O. Box 66122, Washington, D.C., 20035 info@autisticadvocacy.org

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network seeks to advance the principles of the disability rights movement with regard to autism. / https://autisticadvocacy.org

Capital Area Autism Parents (CAAP) (502) 330-5223 / capitalareaautism@gmail.com

Established in 2013, Capital Area Autism Parents is a support group for parents, caregivers, autistic selfadvocates, and neurodivergent voices. Support group members will find resources, information, opportunities, and friendships. CAAP hosts meetings with speakers and events to bring awareness and education to the Central Kentucky community. CAAP values individuality and the uniqueness of every journey. CAAP believes no one should walk this journey alone and support is essential for every individual. / www.facebook.com/groups/CAAP2

Child & Adolescent Psychological Evaluations

Matt Lowry, LPP

120 Sears Ave., Suite 202, St. Matthews, Ky., 40207 (502) 265-6790

Families for Effective Autism Treatment

1100 E. Market St., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 774-0797

Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Louisville is a non-profit organization that actively supports and funds autism programs for the entire family.

www.featoflouisville.org

Hopebridge

Provides a full range of professional services in one location for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental delays.

Lexington: 1300 E. New Circle Road, Suite 150, Lexington, Ky. 40505 / (859) 685-1019

Louisville East: 215 South Hurstbourne Parkway, Suite 213, Louisville, Ky., 40222 / (502) 353-2074 Louisville South: 175 Market Place Drive, Suite A, Louisville, Ky.,40229 / (502) 251-7002 Bowling Green: 2427 Russellville Road, Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 936-7472

Edgewood: 2904 Foltz Drive, Edgewood, Ky., 41017 (859) 795-3000

www.hopebridge.com

The Kelly Autism Program Western Kentucky University Clinical Education Complex, 104 Alumni Ave., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 745-4232 cec@wku.edu

The Kelly Autism Program offers educational support through Individual Education Plan assistance, classroom adaptations and tutoring, community involvement through active participation in community activities, social and leisure activities, job coaching, and parent support.

www.wku.edu/kellyautismprogram

Ky. Autism Training Center at Kosair Charities University of Louisville

1405 E. Burnett Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 852-4631 / (800) 334-8635 ext. 852-4631 katc @ louisville.edu

www.louisville.edu/education/kyautismtraining

Kentuckiana Autistic Spectrum Alliance (KASA)

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network is a national organization of autistic people advocating for the rights of autistic people. / kyautisticalliance@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/KASALouisville/

PACT: Police Autism Community Training

PACT is a non-profit program aimed at educating and raising autism awareness within Kentucky’s law enforcement departments. PACT seeks to increase awareness and knowledge through a classroom session focused on improving miscommunication among law enforcement officials and individuals with autism.

www.pactautism.com

CAMPS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Special Populations Division

Kummer Little Recreation Center, 333 College St., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 393-3265

cameron.levis@bgky.org

Programs and services offered provide all individuals, regardless of their ability level, opportunities for recreation and leisure. People with and without disabilities participate side by side in an inclusive environment. Activities include Bowling Green Special Olympics (softball, basketball, flag football, bowling, cheerleading, swimming, and track and field), adapted sports (wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis and goal ball), and social gatherings (holiday parties, movie nights, dances and more).

www.bgky.org/bgpr/special-populations

Maysville Initiatives, Inc. Camp Discovery

33 W. Second St., 3rd Floor, Maysville, Ky., 41056 (606) 301-8338 / dsugarbaker@maysvilleinitiatives.com

A free, summer-long day camp for children aged 5-12 at Beechwood Park in Maysville. Swimming, field trips and supervised activities. The camp is open to children with disabilities. / maysvilleinitiatives.com/camp-discovery/

Camp Hendon

1640 Lyndon Farm Court, Suite 108, Louisville, Ky., 40223 / (502) 272-2370 / info@camphendon.org

Camp Hendon is an all-volunteer camp for children (ages 8-17) with Type I diabetes. The camp provides two separate week-long residential camping sessions to empower children to take control of their journey with diabetes. / www.camphendon.org

Cassidy’s Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy

6075 Clinton Road, Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 554-4040

Cassidy’s Cause is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide individuals living with disabilities the opportunity to grow and develop through therapeutic, educational and recreational activities, while on a horse. www.cassidyscause.org

The Center for Courageous Kids

1501 Burnley Road, Scottsville, Ky., 42164 (270) 618-2900 / info@courageouskids.org

The Center for Courageous Kids (CCK) is a medical camp where children with disabilities or life-threatening illnesses will experience what a real camp is like, in a setting that is physically safe and medically sound. The camp offers children who are typically watching rather than participating the opportunity to fully engage in camp activities that focus on their abilities. Illness specific summer camps for children (7-15) and illness specific family weekend retreats, free of charge. / www.courageouskids.org

Central Kentucky Riding for Hope

4185 Walt Robertson Drive inside the Kentucky Horse

Park, Lexington, Ky., 40583

(859) 231-7066 / pat@ckrh.org

Operated at the Kentucky Horse Park

Under the guidance of trained teachers, volunteers and medical personnel, disabilities are challenged and new abilities are created. The program has proved successful in helping people with disabilities develop self-esteem, confidence, coordination and a sense of achievement while learning horsemanship and track riding principles. www.ckrh.org

Dream Riders of Kentucky Inc.

4705 Winkler Road, Philpot, Ky., 42366 (270) 613-0079 / dreamridersofkentucky@gmail.com

The mission of Dream Riders is to provide individuals with physical, cognitive, social, and/or emotional needs an opportunity to experience the joy of riding and the therapeutic value of horses. / www.dreamridersofky.org

Easter Seals Adaptive Recreation

2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 367-7217 / cindy.jacobelli@cardinalhill.org

Promotes healthy and active lifestyles for people with physical disabilities through education, exposure to adaptive equipment and adaptive recreation experiences in the community. www.cardinalhill.org/programs/adaptive-recreation

Kamp KESSA

758 Beechridge Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 376-4367

A non-profit resident camp serving populations who are at-risk and have special needs. Kamp KESSA provides adventure education and treatment programs utilizing horses and the wilderness. / www.cedarfire.net

Josephine Sculpture Park

3355 Lawrenceburg Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 352-7082 / info@josephinesculpturepark.org

Interact with nearly 70 works of art as you explore 30 acres of walking paths through native meadows. The Park partners with schools and organizations to provide arts and nature programming to individuals with a disability. The Park is committed to making park grounds accessible for those with physical disabilities, and golf carts are available for those who need mobility assistance. (Please call or email before your visit to reserve). https://josephinesculpturepark.org

Legacy All Sports

261 Ruccio Way, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 977-8862

Carousel Kidz is a program to meet your child’s special needs with one-on-one gymnastics lessons. http://legacyallsports.com/about-us/

Lex. Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Recreation

200 E. Main St., Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 425-2255

Therapeutic Recreation programs provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy activities through recreation, leisure and play, and to showcase their talents and abilities. Programs are designed to enhance the overall health, wellness and social needs of individuals with

disabilities. A variety of recreation and sport opportunities are available such as adult fitness, adaptive aquatics, archery, Miracle League Baseball, cooking, summer camps, drama, hand drumming, art, day-trip outings, overnight excursions, bowling, horsemanship, dance class, special events, Zumba, yoga and more. www.lexingtonky.gov/tr

Louisville Parks and Recreation Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation

1300 Heafer Road, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 456-8148

Offers adaptive sports and recreation for people in Jefferson and outlying counties. Programs include the state’s only Paralympics Sports Club, plus health and wellness classes such as nutrition, yoga, and exercise and strength training classes. Sports offerings include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, bocce ball, pickle ball and wheelchair pickle ball, archery, adaptive golf, goal ball and beep baseball for people with low or no vision. Clinics are offered in track & field, wheelchair lacrosse, sled hockey and more. Louisville is also home to the state wheelchair basketball team, Louisville Spokes & Spires. https://louisvilleky.gov/government/parks/berrytownrecreation-center-adaptive-and-inclusive-recreation

LYSA’s TOPSoccer Program

Masterson Station Park

3051 Leestown Road, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (859) 223-5632

TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a community-based soccer program designed to meet the needs of athletes with physical, developmental, and/or intellectual disabilities. Player participation and development are key elements of the program. TOPSoccer is designed to improve the overall fitness, self-esteem and social skills of your athlete. / www.lysa.org/topsoccer

Special Olympics Kentucky

105 Lakeview Court, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 695-8222 / soky@soky.org

Special Olympics is the world’s largest program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. / www.soky.org

Toyota Bluegrass Miracle League

Central Lexington YMCA

239 East High St., Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 367-7515

A baseball program for youth and adults with special needs. The leagues play on a specially designed field located at Shillito Park in Lexington. The all-accessible field is the only one of its kind in Kentucky with leagues in both spring and fall.

www.facebook.com/pages/category/Disability-Service/ Toyota-Bluegrass-Miracle-League-59145356197

DOWN SYNDROME

Down Syndrome Association of Central Kentucky 2265 Harrodsburg Road, Suite 370, Lexington, Ky.,

40504 / (859)

494-7809

DSACK exists to celebrate the Down syndrome community, support individuals with Down syndrome and their families, educate the Central Kentucky community and assist in local and national research efforts. DSACK celebrates that all people are beautiful, capable and loved. Serves Central and Eastern Kentucky.

www.dsack.org

Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati 4623 Wesley Ave., Suite A, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45212 (513) 761-5400

By providing families with support, inspiration and information, the Association helps individuals with Down syndrome achieve their maximum potential. Including individuals with Down syndrome in neighborhood schools, community activities and the business world benefits individuals and their respective communities.

www.dsagc.com

Down Syndrome Association of the Heartland

P.O. Box 6402, Elizabethtown, Ky., 42702-6402 (270) 312-1540 / info@dsheartland.org

This organization offers support to individuals with Down syndrome, as well as their families, friends, caregivers, teachers and coworkers. Plus, this organization strives to educate the public-at-large about Down syndrome. It is the desire of Down Syndrome Association of the Heartland for every individual who has been touched by Down syndrome, regardless of age, to have access to support and services that would aid each individual in reaching his or her individual potential. www.dsheartland.org

Green River Area Down Syndrome Association

Owensboro and surrounding area

P.O. Box 2031, Owensboro, Ky., 42302 (270) 993-2192 / info@gradsa.org

GRADSA’s mission is to enable families enriched with Down syndrome connection to share resources, build friendships, and advocate together for the future of individuals with Down syndrome. / www.gradsa.org

Down Syndrome of Louisville

5001 South Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40291 (502) 495 5088

Down Syndrome of Louisville is a non-profit organization founded in 1977 whose mission is to improve the lives of persons with Down syndrome and their families by providing support, information, education, and advocating for their rights and concerns, enabling individuals to reach their full potential. / https://dsoflou.org

Down Syndrome Association of South Central Ky. 522 State St., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 796-5002 / info@dssky.org / www.dssky.org

Down Syndrome Association of Western Kentucky

P.O. Box 7366, Paducah, Ky., 42002-7366 (270) 559-9026 / upsandowns@dsawk.com

DSAWK promotes public awareness and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome by providing information, resources and support in the community. Generally,

Resource List 2023

meetings are on the third Monday of the month at the Heartland Worship Center in Paducah. / www.dsawk.com

National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC)

30 Mansell Court, Suite 108, Roswell, Georgia, 30076 (770) 604-9500 / info@ndsccenter.org

The NDSC provides up-to-date information on topics of interest to people with Down syndrome, family members, friends, professionals and interested others. The Center works to promote the availability of and accessibility to a full range of opportunities and/or resources that meet individual and family needs. / www.ndsccenter.org

National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS)

1155 15th Street NW, Suite 540, Washington, D.C., 20005 / (800) 221-4602 / info@ndss.org

The mission of the National Down Syndrome Society is to be the national advocate for the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. / www.ndss.org

EDUCATION

The Council for Exceptional Children

3100 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 600, Arlington, Va., 22201 (888) 232-7733

The largest international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, students with disabilities, and/or the gifted. CEC is known as the source for information, resources, and professional development for special educators. / www.cec.sped.org

EKU Center for Student Accessibility

521 Lancaster Ave., Whitlock Building, Room 361 CPO 66, Richmond, Ky., 40475 (859) 622-2933 / accessibility@eku.edu

Provides equal access to University resources, coursework, programs and activities by serving qualified individuals, and advocating for equal access for all individuals who qualify. / www.accessibility.eku.edu

Kentucky Department of Education: Special Education Services

300 Sower Blvd., 4th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4970 / veronica.sullivan@education.ky.gov

This site includes information on all aspects of special education programs in public schools. We welcome your comments and suggestions. If you need further assistance with finding information on special education programs in Kentucky’s public schools, please contact us. www.education.ky.gov/specialed/excep/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky PTA

148 Consumer Lane, Frankfort Ky., 40601 or P.O. Box 654, Frankfort, Ky., 40602-0654 (502) 226-6607 / support@kypta.org / www.kypta.org

Kentucky State Department of Education

300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-3141 education.ky.gov

Ky. State University Office of Disability Services

400 E. Main St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 Hathaway Hall Office, Suite 107 (502) 597-6041 / phillip.clay@kysu.edu

The vision of the Office of Disability Services is to provide equal access and opportunities throughout the campus to individuals who have a disability, for academic and social success.

www.kysu.edu/academics/disability-svcs/index.php

Maysville Community and Technical College

Office of Disability Support Services

1755 US Hwy. 68, Maysville, Ky., 41056 (606) 759-7141

MCTC assures equal access through services and accommodations for students with disabilities. https://maysville.kctcs.edu/about/student-life/studentsupport-services/accessibility-services.aspx

Morehead State University Disability Service

Adron Doran University Center, Suite 202, Morehead, Ky., 40351 / (606) 783-5188 m.litton@moreheadstate.edu

This office ensures that the university’s programs, activities, services and the campus itself are accessible to all students and visitors. moreheadstate.edu/student-support/disability-services/

Northern Kentucky University Office of Disability Services

Louie B. Nunn Dr., Student Union, Suite 303 Highland Heights, Ky., 41099 (859) 572-5282 / osa@nku.edu

NKU provides learner-centered assistance and resources to students with disabilities in their transition to Northern Kentucky University. / inside.nku.edu/disability.html

Family Resource and Youth Centers

Cabinet for Health and Family Services

275 E. Main St., 3C-G, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4986 / mysti.white@ky.gov

Nearly all public schools in the state have Parent Resource Centers, which are divided into 11 Regions. The mission is to remove nonacademic barriers to learning as a means to enhance student academic success. The Centers are also places where families of children with special needs can receive parent-to-parent counseling on special education issues and concerns. Families are welcome to visit and preview materials from the lending library, which has many books, videotapes and periodicals related to disability. The staff can connect parents to resources and support groups and also help with online research. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dfrcvs/dfrysc/Pages/regions.aspx

Regional Offices:

Region 1: Program Manager William Owen (270) 339-2192 / william.owen@ky.gov

Counties Served: Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Christian, Crittenden, Graves, Fulton, Hickman, Hopkins, Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg. Plus: Dawson Springs Independent, Fulton Independent, Mayfield Independent, Murray Independent, Paducah Independent.

Region 2: Program Manager Heather McCarty (270) 285-2553 / heather.mccarty@ky.gov

Counties Served: Butler, Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, Logan, McLean, Ohio, Simpson, Union, Warren, Webster

Region 3A: Program Manager Naela Imanyara (502) 271-7720 / naela.imanyara@ky.gov

Region 3B: Program Manager Andrea Pike-Goff (502) 564-4986/ andrea.pikegoff@ky.gov

County Served: Jefferson

Region 4: Program Manager Betty Pennington (859) 227-8206 / betty.pennington@ky.gov

Counties Served: Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Kenton, Oldham, Owen, Shelby, Trimble

Region 5: Program Manager Paul Cookendorfer (859) 230-2104 / paul.cookendorfer@ky.gov

Counties Served: Anderson, Bourbon, Clark, Franklin, Grant, Harrison, Jessamine, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Pendleton, Scott, Woodford

Region 6: Program Manager Maggie Myers (859) 200-7777 / maggie.myers@ky.gov

Counties Served: Bullitt, Boyle, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Garrard, Lincoln, Marion, McCreary, Nelson, Pulaski, Russell, Spencer, Taylor, Washington, Wayne

Region 7: Program Manager Doug Jones (606) 207-4287 / wdouglas.jones@ky.gov

Counties Served: Bath, Boyd, Bracken, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Greenup, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Martin, Mason, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Robertson, Rowan

Region 8: Program Manager Teresa Combs (606) 272-7031 / teresa.combs@ky.gov

Counties Served: Breathitt, Floyd, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Wolfe

Region 9: Program Manager Russell Jones (606) 545-2110 / russell.jones@ky.gov

Counties Served: Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, Rockcastle, Whitley

Region 10: Program Manager Lisa McKenzie (859) 661-9629 / lisa.mckenzie@ky.gov

County Served: Fayette

Region 11: Program Manager Sherrie Baughn Martin / (270) 505-6533 / sherrie.martin@ky.gov

Counties Served: Adair, Allen, Barren, Breckinridge, Edmonson, Grayson, Green, Hardin, Hart, Larue, Meade, Metcalfe, Monroe.

Special Needs Homeschooling

A blog written by a mother with children with special needs, the author provides resources she has found helpful in homeschooling her children. www.specialneedshomeschooling.com

University of Kentucky Disability Resource Center 725 Rose St., Multidisciplinary Science Building Suite 407, Lexington, Ky., 40536 (859) 257-2754 / drc@uky.edu

The DRC provides services to the University community so students with disabilities have an equal opportunity to fully participate in all aspects of University life.

www.uky.edu/DisabilityResourceCenter

University of Louisville Disability Resource Center 119 Stevenson Hall, Louisville, Ky., 40292 (502) 852-6938 / askdrc@louisville.edu

In recognition of disability as an important part of the diversity of the community, the DRC fosters an inclusive campus climate through education, service, collaboration,

and outreach to the University of Louisville community. www.louisville.edu/disability

Western Kentucky University

Student Accessibility Resource Center

1906 College Heights Blvd., Suite 21052 Downing Student Union, First Floor, 1074 Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 745-5004 / sarc.connect@wku.edu

The goal of the SARC is to ensure that all students with disabilities are provided access to all facets of the Western Kentucky University experience; to facilitate and coordinate support services and programs that enable students with disabilities to maximize their educational potential; and to increase awareness among all members of the University so that students with disabilities are able to achieve academic success based on their abilities, not their disabilities. / www.wku.edu/sarc

EPILEPSY

Epilepsy Council of Greater Cincinnati 895 Central Ave., Suite 550, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 (513) 721-2905 / (877) 804-2241 eao@epilepsy-ohio.org / www.epilepsy-ohio.org

Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana Kosair Charities Centre, 982 Eastern Parkway Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 637-4440 / (866) 275-1078 / www.efky.org

LEARNING DIFFERENCES

Dyslexia Association of the Pennyrile 538A Noel Ave., Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 (270) 885-5804 / www.hopkinsvilledyslexia.com

The International Dyslexia Assn. – Ky. Branch P.O. Box 22006, Louisville., Ky., 40252 (502) 276-5153 / kentuckybranchida@gmail.com ky.dyslexiaida.org

LD Online

The world’s leading website on learning disabilities and ADHD. / www.ldonline.org

Learning Disabilities Association of Kentucky

2210 Goldsmith Lane, Suite 118, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 473-1256

This comprehensive mental health professional program includes the “co-morbid” disorders often found with individuals with learning disabilities, including anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, anger control/ bipolar disorder and ADHD. / www.LDAofky.org

Ohio Valley Branch of the International Dyslexia Association

OVBIDAtutorline@yahoo.com

A non-profit, scientific and educational organization dedicated to the study and treatment of dyslexia. This Branch was formed to increase public awareness of dyslexia in the Southern Ohio, Southeast Indiana, Kentucky and Huntington, West Virginia areas. ohv.dyslexiaida.org

Progressive Educational Program, Inc.

Cress Certified

212 Venture Way, Somerset, Ky., 42503 (606) 677-2514

contact@progressiveeducationalprogram.com

Dyslexia Tester. Specializing in tutoring children with Dyslexia. / www.progressiveeducationalprogram.com

Wilson Pediatric Therapy & Learning

424 Lewis Hargett Circle, Suite B 100, Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 475-4305

Working with children with dyslexia and other learning differences. / www.wilsonpediatric.com

LEGAL & FUTURE’S PLANNING

Children’s Law Center

Covington Office: 1002 Russell St., Covington, Ky., 41011 (859) 431-3313 / info@childrenslawky.org

Lexington Office: c/o Imani Family Life Center

215 W. Short St., Suite 205, Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 253-3353 / info@childrenslawky.org

Provides free legal services for children with educational disabilities, and performs research and policy work, training and education in this area. / www.childrenslawky.org

Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children

Kentucky CASA Network, 1640 Lyndon Farm Court, Suite 108, Louisville, Ky., 40223 / (502) 238-2154

CASA volunteers are everyday citizens appointed by judges to advocate for the safety and well-being of abused and neglected children. Last year in Kentucky, more than 800 CASA volunteers advocated for the best interest of nearly 3,000 children in Kentucky. CASA has 20 offices throughout the state. To locate one in your area, visit the web site below. / www.kentuckycasanetwork.org

David A. Morris

Financial Planner & Chartered Special Needs Consultant

2086 Cream Ridge Road, Junction City, Ky., 40440 David.morris@tfaconnect.com / (859) 516-1024

Financial strategies for families with children with special needs.

ElderLaw Lexington

McClelland & Associates, PLLC, 1795 Alysheba Way, Suite 2102, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 543-0061

Specializing in aspects of elder law and special needs planning.

www.elderlawlexington.com

Kentucky Division of Protection and Permanency

275 E. Main St., 3E-A, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-6852

If you believe a child is being abused, neglected or is dependent, call the Protection and Permanency office in your county or the Toll Free Child Protection Hot Line. (877) KYSAFE1 or (877) 597-2331. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dcbs/dpp/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Office of Victims Advocacy

1024 Capital Center Drive, Suite 200 Frankfort, Ky., 40601 / (502) 696-5312

The Office of Victims Advocacy works to ensure crime victims are treated with respect and dignity as their case proceeds through the criminal justice system. https://ag.ky.gov/about/Office-Divisions/OVA/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Protection & Advocacy

5 Millcreek Park, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (800) 372-2988 / (502) 564-2967

The mission is to protect and promote the rights of Kentuckians with disabilities through legally based individual and systemic advocacy and education. Staff includes professional advocates and attorneys. / www.kypa.net

Life Plan of Kentucky, Inc.

230 Lexington Green Circle, Suite 120 Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 523-2323

Life Plan is a pooled special needs trust serving people with disabilities and their families in Kentucky who have countable resources in excess of $2,000 and need to maintain their eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid. People can open an account with Life Plan where the funds can be professionally managed, and then requests can be made for expenses that improve the quality of the person’s life. Life Plan provides Trustee services for both individuals with disabilities as well as family members who wish to plan for the future.

www.lifeplanofky.org

Nick Wallace, Financial Planner

Northwestern Mutual 330 E. Main St., Suite, 300, Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 302-1223 / Nick.Wallace@nm.com

Provides financial planning, life insurance, investments for special needs families to fund special needs trusts and retirement.

www.northwesternmutual.com/financial/advisor/nick-wallace

MEDICAL AND THERAPY SERVICE PROVIDERS

Associates in Pediatric Therapy

Louisville Area: (502) 633-1007

Lexington Area: (859) 279-0252

Indiana Area: (812) 407-4440

Bowling Green Area: (270) 807-0335

APT’s unique appeal is that it offers a family approach

Resource List 2023

with multiple pediatric services including Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Developmental Intervention and Audiology to the patient and family in a team approach. APT strives to provide therapy in a variety of locations that are appealing to the patient and family. www.kidtherapy.org

Blue Sprig Pediatrics

Lexington Autism Therapy Center

1035 Strader Drive, Suite 150, Lexington, Ky., 40505 (859) 899-9200

Georgetown Autism Therapy Center

104 Market Path, Georgetown, Ky., 40324 (502) 632-6241

Techniques and procedures are guided by the science of Applied Behavior Analysis by Board Certified Behavior Analysts. / bluesprigautism.com

Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky

7321 New La Grange Road, Suite 100 Louisville, Ky., 40222 / (502) 493-0609

BIAK is committed to serving those affected by brain injury through advocacy, education, prevention, outreach, service and support. / www.biak.us

Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital

2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 254-5701

https://encompasshealth.com/cardinalhillrehab

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Center for Infants and Children with Special Needs

3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229 (513) 636-4200 / TTY (800) 344-2462

www.cincinnatichildrens.org/patients/child/special-needs/ getting-started/about

Early Intervention & Consultation Services, LLC

Leitchfield: 635 S. Main St., Leitchfield, Ky., 42754 (270) 287-0656

Vine Grove: 298 Medley Court, Vine Grove (270) 352-1133

Owensboro: 722 Harvard Drive, Owensboro, Ky., 42301 (270) 240-1842

EICS, founded in 2010, is a pediatric therapy clinic that offers Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, ABA/Applied Behavior Analysis (for those with autism). EICS also offers mental health counseling and case management. EICS has a licensed psychological associate who provides evaluations for different diagnoses such as autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities and behavioral disorders, etc. EICS also offers Michelle P. Waiver services such as Positive Behavior Supports and Community Living Supports. Please call the location nearest you for more information regarding the services offered at that clinic. www.eicsky.com

Early Periodic Screening Diagnostic and Treatment Special Services (EPSDT)

Dept. of Medicaid Services, Children’s Health Services

275 E. Main St., 6C-C, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (800) 635-2570 / TTY (800) 775-0296

(502) 229-0875

The EPSDT Screening Program provides routine

physicals or well child check-ups for Medicaid eligible children at certain specified ages. EPSDT can also provide speech/language, physical and/or occupation therapy, and specialized durable medical equipment for children who qualify and need those services. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dpqo/dcmb/Pages/ epsdtspecialservices.aspx

Easter Seals Cardinal Hill

2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 367-7217

Promotes healthy and active lifestyles for people with physical disabilities through education, exposure to adaptive equipment and adaptive recreation experiences in the community.

https://cardinalhill.org/about/easter-seals/

Edelson and Associates, PSC

7511 New La Grange Road, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 423-1151

230 Lexington Green Circle, Suite 420, Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 287-0760

Neuropsychological, ADHD, learning disability, autism and psychological disorder evaluations. www.edelsonandassociates.info

Frazier Rehab Institute

UofL Health, 200 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, Ky., 40202 / (502) 582-7400 / (502) 587-4011

Known for world-class care in comprehensive acute rehab, Frazier Rehab Institute provides extensive therapy across a number of specialties for inpatient and outpatient rehab needs.

https://uoflhealth.org/locations/frazier-rehabilitation-institute/

HealthPoint Family Care

1401 Madison Ave., Covington, Ky., 41011 (859) 655-6100

HealthPoint Family Care’s vision is a community where everyone has access to quality, affordable health care. The mission is to be the best provider of health services through compassion and innovation. www.healthpointfc.org/location/covington

Heartfelt Solutions

2831 S. Hurstbourne Parkway, Suite A Louisville, Ky., 40220 / (502) 915-8343

Dedicated to improving the quality of life and increasing independence for individuals by providing effective person-centered and evidence-based health services. Those services include adult day training, community living supports, respite, person-centered coaching, supported employment, community access and ABA Therapy for individuals with autism. / www.hfssupportservices.com

Horn and Associates in Rehabilitation

2412 Greatstone Point, Lexington, Ky., 40504 4127 Todds Road, Lexington, Ky. 40509 (859) 224-4081

HRA offers assessments and intervention from a multidisciplinary team, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, psychology, developmental intervention, social work and case management. HRA provides independent evaluation and

intervention services.

www.horntherapy.com

Kentucky Children’s Hospital

University of Kentucky, 1000 S. Limestone St., Lexington, Ky., 40536 / (859) 257-1000 / (800) 333-8874

Established in 1957, UK HealthCare consists of the medical, nursing, health sciences, public health, dental and pharmacy patient care activities of the University of Kentucky, and in several off-site locations.

https://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/kentucky-childrens-hospital

Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies

982 Eastern Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 635-6397

9810 Bluegrass Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 584-9781

Since 1959, the Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies has been helping children with special needs. Each week the Center sees more than 300 children facing challenges such as autism, Down syndrome, spina bifida and cerebral palsy. / www.kidscenterky.org

The Kidz Club

1101 Herr Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 210-5538 / info@thekidzclub.com

Bowling Green: 1347 Kentucky Hwy. 185, Suite 2, Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 746-0333

Erlanger: 527 Watson Road, Erlanger, Ky., 41018 (859) 727-0800

Lexington: 2200 Regency Road, Lexington Ky., 40503 (859) 224-0799

Louisville: 7140 Preston Highway, Louisville, Ky., 40219 (502) 368-9318

Louisville: 225 N. 25th St., Louisville, Ky., 40212 (502) 365-2426

Louisville: 1517 Gagel Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40216 (502) 409-5316

The Kidz Club is a prescribed pediatric extended care facility that provides skilled nursing care in a daycare setting for children who are medically fragile. Kidz Club children range from having highly complex medical conditions to kids who simply need to be monitored or have medication delivered. The Kidz Club provides educational enrichment, therapy follow-through, field trips and activities in a fun social setting. Transportation can be provided. Medicaid and private insurance accepted. There are no costs to children or their family. / www.thekidzclub.com

The Kid SpOt Center (Pediatric Therapy)

Campbellsville: 50 Gene Cash Road, Campbellsville, Ky., 42718 / (270) 465-7768

Elizabethtown: 107 Financial Dr., Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 /(270) 763-8225

Bowling Green: 980 Morgantown Road, Bowling Green, Ky., 42104 / (270) 495-1312

Somerset: 200 Tower Circle, Somerset, Ky., 42503 (606) 416-5139

Grayson: 308 Horton Street, Suite B, Grayson, Ky., 41143 / (270) 283-3845

Louisville: 10019 Forest Green Blvd., Louisville, Ky., 40223 / (502) 893-1380

The Kid SpOt Center provides supports to families of children with disabilities. Services include Speech Therapy,

Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Positive Behavior

Supports, ABA, Mental Health Counseling, Community Living Supports, Social Skills, Targeted Case Management, Medication Management and Neuropsychology Evaluations. / www.thekidspotcenter.com

Kraska & Associates, Inc.

437 Lewis Hargett Circle, Suite 120, Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 219-0956

Private practice providing occupational and speech therapy services. Family-centered approach. Areas of specialty include sensory integration, sensory processing disorder, fine motor/handwriting, dyspraxia, autism, Asperger’s, articulation, phonological disorders and reading programs. / www.kraskaandassociates.com

Marshall Pediatric Therapy

Lexington: 3450 Richmond Road, Suite 130 Lexington, Ky., 40509 / (859) 327-3033

Nicholasville: 109 Wind Haven Drive, Suite 100, Nicholasville, Ky., 40356 / (859) 224-2273

Georgetown: 117 East Jefferson, Georgetown, Ky., 40324 / (502) 316-6180

Richmond: 1013 Center Dr., Richmond, Ky., 40475 (859) 444-5330

Offers occupational and speech therapy for Lexington and surrounding counties. The practice accepts EPSDT, most private insurance plans, participates with Kentucky First Steps, and offers payment plans and provides needbased scholarships from birth to age 21. https://marshallpediatrictherapy.com

Multiple Sclerosis Society

Indiana-Kentucky-Tennessee Chapter

214 Overlook Circle, Suite 153 Brentwood, Tenn., 37027 / (800) 344-4867 https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/TNS

NorthKey Community Care

Multiple locations in Northern Kentucky (859) 578-3200 / (877) 331-3292

NorthKey is paving the way to a community that is healthy in mind and spirit in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas with a comprehensive continuum of mental health, developmental disability and substance abuse care. www.northkey.org/services/developmental-disabilities-services

UofL Department of Pediatrics

571 S. Floyd St., Suite 432, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 852-8600

Provides center-based and outreach diagnostic evaluations and treatment to infants and children with, or at risk for, developmental disabilities, autism, organic behavior disorders (ADHD) and learning disabilities. Serves children and adolescents with developmental disabilities and/or feeding disorders. Comprehensive care of children with inborn errors of metabolism is provided through medical and dietary management and enzyme infusion. https://louisville.edu/medicine/departments/pediatrics/ divisions/developmental-behavioral-genetics

Norton Children’s Development Center

411 E. Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 588-0850

Norton Children’s Development Center, affiliated with the UofL School of Medicine, provides pediatric developmental-behavioral care for children with a wide range of developmental and behavioral conditions. Services include multidisciplinary evaluations for diagnosing complex disorders of behavior and development; feeding therapy; neuropsychological evaluations; behavior therapy with parent coaching; and medication management. https://nortonchildrens.com/services/developmentalbehavioral-pediatrics/

Norton Children’s Hospital

231 E. Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40402 (502) 629-6000

Norton Children’s Hospital is a 253-bed teaching facility and serves as a referral center for central and western Kentucky and southern Indiana. The hospital is also the primary pediatric teaching hospital for the University of Louisville health sciences program. Each year there are approximately 8,000 admissions, 50,000 Emergency Department visits and 10,500 outpatient clinic visits. nortonchildrens.com/location/hospitals/norton-childrens-hospital

Passport Health Plan

5100 Commerce Crossings Drive, Louisville, Ky., 40229 (800) 578-0603 / TDD (800) 691-5566

Passport Health Plan is a Medicaid managed care plan that has been coordinating health services to qualified members since 1997. Passport is community-based and provider-sponsored, and the only non-profit Medicaid health plan available to members in Kentucky. The mission is to “improve the health and quality of life of our members,” which Passport follows every day through exceptional customer service, a large provider network, and case and disease management programs.

www.molinahealthcare.com/members/ky/en-us/Pages/ home.aspx

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass

1300 Sports Center Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 268-0757

This charity exists to create and support programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and to strengthen families by keeping them together in times of medical need. / www.rmhclexington.com

Shriners Hospitals for Children

110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, Ky., 40508 (859) 266-2101

Shriners Hospitals for Children has a mission to provide the highest quality care to children with orthopedic or neuromusculoskeletal disorders and diseases within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment. / www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/lexington

SKY Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Mandy Ashley, DMD, MsEd, MS 234 Natchez Trace Ave., Bowling Green, Ky., 42103 (270) 715-5437

Dentistry for children and teens with special needs. www.skypediatricdentistry.com

Square One Specialists in Child and Adolescent Development

Resource List 2023

6440 Dutchmans Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 896-2606 / info@squareonemd.com

Comprehensive medical, psychological, psychiatric, educational, and speech-language evaluations are offered to help understand differences that impact children’s and adolescents’ development, behaviors and emotions. www.squareonemd.com

M ENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS

360 Mental Health Services

1517 Nicholasville Rd., Suite 302, Lexington, Ky., 40515 (859) 948-9471 / tim@360mentalhealth.com

Dr. Tim Houchin is one of only approximately 200 physicians triple-board certified in child/adolescent psychiatry, general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry. He believes in a holistic, 360-degree approach to evaluating and treating both children and adults. www.360mentalhealth.com

Build Inclusion, Inc.

P.O. Box 23030, Lexington, Ky., 40523 (859) 221-6689

Build Inclusion promotes intentional inclusion, access, and opportunities through community & family education, engagement, and most of all, meaningful, competitive employment. Build Inclusion facilitates success for individuals in transition to adulthood in preparing for and fully participating in this next stage of their lives. Clinical social work services are also available for the ID/DD population. / www.buildinclusion.org

Children and Family Counseling Associates

100 S. Main St., Harrodsburg, Ky., 40330 (859) 733-9241

Additional offices in Lexington, Danville, Richmond, and Stanford

Children and Family Counseling Associates has been serving adults, children, schools, and families in Central Kentucky for more than 20 years. CAFCA provides a wide variety of mental health services, including individual and group therapy, psychological evaluations and assessments, EMDR therapy, after-school programs, adult day training, case management and more. / www.cafcainc.com

Louisville ADHD / Dr. F. Allen Walker

11405 Park Road, Suite 220, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 384-ADHD (2343) / www.louisvilleadhd.com

Mental Health America

MHA is the nation’s leading community-based non-profit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans. The work is driven by a commitment to promote mental health as a critical part of overall wellness, including prevention services for all; early identification and intervention for those at risk; integrated care, services and supports for those who need it; with recovery as the goal.

Resource List 2023

Regional Offices:

Mental Health America of Kentucky

1588 Leestown Road, Suite 130 #279, Lexington Ky., 40511 / (859) 684-7778 / mhaky@mhaky.org

www.mhaky.org

Mental Health America of Northern Kentucky & Southwest Ohio

1002 Monmouth, Newport, Kentucky 41071 (859) 431-1077 / www.mhanky.org

NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. / www.nami.org

NAMI Kentucky

201 Mechanic St., Suite 219, Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 225-6264 / www.namiky.org

Regional Offices:

Ashland

Dinah Adamson: (606) 782-3261

Philip Bloomer: (606) 371-7123

Carol Murilleo: (606) 356-3181

Jeanne Nolan: (606) 615-4068

Charity Ward: (513) 713-4430

Bourborville

Daniel Essek: (606) 545-2019

Steven Hoeck: (606) 282-3793

Bowling Green

Rebecca Coursey: (270) 772-2779

Buffalo Trace

Sharon Darnell: (606) 584-2716

Dinah Adamson: (606) 782-3261

Butler County

Christy Havens: (270) 999-0633

Deborah Weed & Larry Gregory: (270) 796-2606

Cumberland River

Melony Cunningham: (859) 225-6264

Danville

Kristina Deyo: (859) 608-1728

Susan Rogers: (512) 669-3089

Floyd County

Winnie Hall: (606) 791-3307

Gallatin County

Autsin McQuistion: (513) 706-7093

Green River

Jasmine Cox: (270) 283-2034

Hazard

Nicole Smith: (606) 233-4372

Mary Prater: (606) 253-8039

Heartland

Melony Cunningham: (859) 225-6264

Hopkinsville

Melony Cunningham: (859) 225-6264

Jackson County

Olivia Hays: (606) 344-6090

Jordan Hays: (606) 975-3677

Steven Hoeck: (606) 282-3793

Daniel Esseck: (606) 545-2019

Jessamine County

Venkat Sudharshan: (859) 913-1047

Amberosya King: (859) 272-7891

Lexington

Dr. Fareesh Kanga: (859) 229-7128

Phill Gunning: (859) 272-7891

Julie Caudill: (859) 245-4442

London

Shelia Anglin-Stone: (606) 878-8776

Lila Sweet: (606) 401-7410

Steven Hoeck: (606) 231-6817

Daniel Esseck: (606) 545-2019 / (606) 282-3793

Louisville

Steward Bridgeman: (502) 588-2008

Nancy Brooks: nancy.brooks@namilouisville.org

Rhonda Blandford: (502) 457-6132

Madison County

Myranda McClure: (859) 986-6301

Madisonville

Melony Cunningham: (859) 225-6264

Mayfield

Nicole Champion: (270) 970-7223

Brenda Benson: (270) 748-6133

Montgomery County

Veronica Crump: (859) 398-3710

Morehead

Carol Mauriello: (606) 356-9194

Mountain Region

Mary Prater: (606) 319-3115

Murray

Brenda Benson: (270) 748-6133

Northern Kentucky

Susan Faris: (859) 308-9212

Mitch Haralson: (859) 392-1730

Owensboro

Mindi Peay: (270) 702-6076

Vanessa Roff: (502) 415-3586

Paducah

Jana Wilson: (270) 816-2671

Phyllis Nunn: (270) 519-3414

Nicole Champion: (270) 970-3641

Rachel McCary: (270) 205-0602

Grant McCary: (270) 727-1643

Pike County

Nathan Coleman: (606) 210-0187

Beverly Jones: (270) 635-1492

Jessica Rambo: (276) 614-4522

Scott County

Suzanne Fryman: (859) 221-6879

Nikki Rothwell: (859) 319-9757

Ellen Suter: (859) 200-6642

Somerset

Lisa Hays: (859) 878-6474

Steven Hoeck: (606) 282-3793

Daniel Esseck: (606) 545-2019

Union County

Melony Cunningham: (859) 225-6264

Winchester

Brenda Harrington: (859) 749-3702

Wolfe County

Ghedra Dunn: (606) 362-4962

Mary Prater: (606) 253-8039

NAMI University Locations:

Eastern Kentucky University

Megan Thomas: (606) 922-4285

Steven Hoeck: (606) 282-3793

Daniel Esseck: (606) 545-2019

Kentucky State University

Anthony Passarette: (631) 252-2850

Steven Hoeck: (606) 282-3793

Daniel Esseck: (606) 545-2019

University of Kentucky

Julie Neace: (859) 323-8487

Western Kentucky University

Jana Wilson: (270) 816-2670

New Vista

Regional Office: 1351 Newtown Pike, Lexington, Ky., 40511 / (859) 253-1686 / (859) 272-7483

24-hour help line (800) 928-8000

New Vista serves children and adults in 17 Central Kentucky counties through mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental disability and primary care services. Individuals and families receive services at the location nearest to them. New Vista has four anchor centers providing a full range of services in Boyle, Fayette, Madison and Scott Counties. The anchor centers are surrounded by satellite offices in neighboring counties. www.newvista.org

MISCELLANEOUS

Alter UR Ego

P.O. Box 56, Farmers, Ky., 40319 / hello@alterurego.co

Adaptable clothing for people in wheelchairs to be fashionable and functional. For kids, teens and plus sizes. www.alterurego.co

NuMotion

Bowling Green

1960 Louisville Road, Suite 3A, Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 904-4934

Lexington 973 Beasley St., Suite 110, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 225-3624

Louisville

11380 Bluegrass Parkway, Jeffersontown, Ky., 40299 (502) 266-9061

With a strong local focus, NuMotion aims to be the most responsive and innovative complex wheelchair company with which to do business. / www.numotion.com

Superior Van & Mobility

761 E. New Circle Road, Lexington, Ky., 40505 (859) 253-1832

1506 Lakeshore Court, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 447-8267

Superior Van & Mobility provides mobility solutions for the consumer and commercial transportation industry. Member of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association and a participant in NMEDAs Quality Assurance Program, which is recognition reserved for the highest quality mobility dealers. / www.superiorvan.com SCHOOLS

Academy for Individual Excellence

3101 Bluebird Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40299

(502) 267-6187 / awroblewski@Aiexcellence.com www.aiexcellence.com

Child Development Center of the Bluegrass

290 Alumni Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 218-2322

Five-Star rated preschool for children with and without disabilities. Services provided include assessment, evaluations, and speech, physical and occupational therapy. www.cdcbg.org

Christian Academy of Louisville/Providence School

700 S. English Station Road, Louisville, Ky., 40245 (502) 244-3225 ext 1020

Mindy Crawford: (502) 244-3225 ext. 1020

CAL/Providence School serves children preschool through 8th grade with Down syndrome within an inclusive environment to promote language, social and spiritual goals. Students also receive small-group instruction to address individual goals. Curriculum and structure are designed to promote spiritual, cognitive, adaptive, language, motor and self-help skills. A Family Service Plan/ IFSP is written with each family specific to the needs of their child. The school works in relationship with Down Syndrome of Louisville. The school is adding a new grade each school year. Providence will serve K-12 by the 2025-2026 school year.

www.caschools.us/down-syndrome-providence-school

The dePaul School

1925 Duker Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 459-6131

Teaching students with learning differences how to learn, how to become independent, and how to become successful. / www.depaulschool.org

Growing Together Preschool, Inc.

599 Lima Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40511

(859) 255-4056

Has offered nurturing early child care and education services to children with and without disabilities and other special needs in an inclusive environment since 1982. Additional services include developmental screenings and assessment; behavior consultations; and physical, occupational and speech therapy. Teachers have experience working with children of varying abilities and advantages, and integrating recommended therapeutic practices into the classroom. GTP is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, rated 5 STARS through KY ALL STARS, and offers a Kentucky Proud farm to preschool menu. www.gtplex.org

The Kidz Club

1101 Herr Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40222

(502) 210-5538 / info@thekidzclub.com

Bowling Green: 1347 Ky. Hwy. 185, Suite 2 Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 746-0333

Erlanger: 527 Watson Road, Erlanger, Ky., 41018

(859) 727-0800

Lexington: 2200 Regency Road, Lexington Ky., 40503 (859) 224-0799

Louisville: 1517 Gagel Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40216 (502) 409-5316

Louisville: 225 N. 25th St., Louisville, Ky., 40212 (502) 365-2426

Louisville: 7140 Preston Highway, Louisville, Ky., 40219 (502) 368-9318

The Kidz Club is a prescribed pediatric extended care facility that provides skilled nursing care in a day care setting for children who are medically fragile. Kidz Club children range from having highly complex medical conditions to kids that simply need to be monitored or have medication delivered. The Kidz Club provides educational enrichment, therapy follow-through, field trips and activities in a fun, social setting. Transportation can be provided. Medicaid and private insurance accepted. There are no costs to the child or their family.

www.thekidzclub.com

KORE Academy

Tates Creek Christian Church

3150 Tates Creek Road, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 971-7129

School for children with learning differences for grades K-12. / www.koreacademy.org

Langsford Learning Acceleration Centers

9402 Towne Square Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45242 (513) 531-7400 / jeff@langsfordcenter.com

2520 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 473-7000

The Langsford difference – what separates the program from traditional “tutoring” programs – is that at Langsford professionals determine and address the underlying learning processes that cause learning difficulties. Langsford helps people of all ages who are doing well in school but exerting disproportional effort, as well as those who have been considered learning disabled or dyslexic. www.langsfordcenter.com

The Lexington School’s The Learning Center

1050 Lane Allen Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 278-0501 / shinard@thelexingtonschool.org

The Learning Center provides a unique and essential service to children with language-based differences by offering an alternative to traditional classrooms. By creating a teaching environment that eliminates the major obstacles to learning, students are able to close the gap between achievement and their potential. Teacher-student ratios of 1:4 allow for individualized instruction in the core areas of greatest need. In addition, low student-teacher ratios will be maintained in other subjects such as science, social studies, computer skills, specials and social skills. www.thelexingtonschool.org/the-learning-center

Meredith-Dunn School

3023 Melbourne Avenue, Louisville, Ky., 40220 (502) 456-5819 / dcrowe@meredithdunnschool.org

Serving families in the Louisville Metro area for over 50 years. Offering prescriptive, multi-sensory instruction for children with learning differences.

www.meredithdunnschool.org

The Provisions School & Family Counseling Center

301 Harvard Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 396-0644

The Provision School is a faith-based, non-profit,

therapeutic learning environment that encompasses the benefits of counseling services and individualized education for students of varying needs and abilities.

www.theprovision.org

Sproutlings Pediatric Day Care & Preschool

Kosair Charities Center

3701 Frankfort Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40041

Located on the Masonic Homes Kentucky campus (502) 753-8222

Sproutlings is a dual-licensed program and has spaces for medically fragile children and children in traditional day care or preschool. Staffed by Registered Nurses, Certified Nursing Assistants, teachers and teacher aides, and caring for a wide variety of medical conditions. Medicaid and private insurance are accepted.

www.SproutlingsDayCare.com

Stewart Home School

4200 Lawrenceburg Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 227-4821

Discover a residential school that offers lifelong learning, a postsecondary experience, the opportunity to attain a GED, vocational training and countless social and recreational activities among friends from all around the world.

www.stewarthome.com

Summit Academy of Louisville

11508 Main St., Louisville, Ky., 40243 (502) 244-7090 / dstrothman@summit-academy.org

Summit Academy is an independent, non-profit K-12 school in Louisville. Summit Academy provides a transformative educational experience for students who learn differently by cultivating each student’s academic, social and emotional success in a vibrant and compassionate environment. Summit provides a place where each student’s learning challenges are understood and met using a whole child approach; a place where the school celebrates and develops children’s strengths, as well as addressing their area of difficulty. It’s a safe place where each young learner is treated and educated as an individual – in an atmosphere of caring and respect that allows students to succeed.

www.summit-academy.org

SERVICE DOGS

Paws With Purpose

P.O. Box 5458, Louisville, Ky., 40255 (502) 689-0804 / Info@PawsWithPurpose.org

pawswithpurpose.org

Wildcat Service Dogs University of Kentucky 210 E. High St., P.O. Box 612, Lexington, Ky., 40507 wildcatservicedogs@gmail.com

https://uky.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/ wildcatservicedogs

Resource List 2023

SERVICE PROVIDERS (COMMUNITY AND RESIDENTIAL)

For a complete list of Service Providers licensed in Kentucky please see: https://providerdirectory.dbhdid.ky.gov/

BrightSpring Health Services

805 N. Whittington Pkwy, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (800) 866-0860 / (502) 394-2100

Provider of comprehensive home and communitybased health services to complex populations in need of specialized care. www.brightspringhealth.com

Cedar Lake

9505 Williamsburg Plaza, Suite 200 Louisville, Ky., 40222 / (502) 495-4946

Cedar Lake is committed to providing the highest quality of services to the people it supports. To demonstrate its commitment to the development of a compassionate and capable workforce, Cedar Lake has launched a career development program with ongoing educational opportunities to further sharpen people’s skills. In doing so, Cedar Lake employees develop a heightened sensitivity – or compassion – for the people they support and a clear understanding of how they can best support these individuals to live a life filled with abundant possibilities. www.cedarlake.org

Mattingly Edge

1930 Bishop Lane, Suite 1001, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 451-6200

Mattingly Edge cultivates partnerships that enable people with disabilities to thrive at work, at home and in relationships. The mission is based on the belief that people with disabilities have the right to the same privileges and responsibilities as other citizens. Communities are better when everyone is included. “Real Jobs. Real Homes. Real Friends. Real Lives.”

www.mattinglyedge.org

New Perceptions

1 Sperti Drive, Edgewood, Ky., 41017 (859) 344-9322

This non-profit organization has been dedicated to enriching lives of those with intellectual/developmental disabilities since 1952.

newperceptions.org

New Vista

Regional Office: 1351 Newtown Pike Lexington, Ky., 40511

(859) 253-1686 / (859) 272-7483

24-hour help line (800) 928-8000

New Vista serves children and adults in 17 Central Kentucky counties through mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental disability and primary care services. Individuals and families receive services at

the location nearest to them. New Vista has four anchor centers providing a full range of services in Boyle, Fayette, Madison and Scott Counties. The anchor centers are surrounded by satellite offices in neighboring counties. newvista.org

Options Unlimited Inc.

205 Castlerock Drive, Shepherdsville, Ky., 40165 (502) 955-7271 / t.carr@optionsunlimitedinc.org

Changing lives by helping people with disabilities become as independent as possible. Services include supported employment, school transitions program/PreETS, TLC training program at UPS, adult day program, deaf & hard of hearing. Serving Bullitt, Shelby, Spencer and Jefferson counties.

www.optionsunlimitedinc.org

Pathways

P.O. Box 790, Ashland, Ky., 41105 (606) 324-1141 / (800) 562-8909

Pathways assists in obtaining individual and familydetermined supports for persons who have developmental disabilities or intellectual disabilities. Goals are to serve and enhance opportunities for making choices that promote inclusion as a valued citizen in all meaningful phases of community life.

www.pathways-ky.org

R.E.A.C.H of Louisville 501 Park Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40208 (502) 585-1911

REACH provides an exemplary Supports for Community Living program with support for individuals and families through highly qualified support staff, which includes psychologists, social workers, crisis support managers, recreational specialists and special educators. www.reachoflouisville.com

Easter Seals Redwood

71 Orphanage Road, Ft. Mitchell, Ky., 41017 (859) 331-0880

A non-profit organization funded by United Way, Redwood guides children and adults with multiple and severe disabilities to achieve independence and to reach their highest potential throughout their lives, by providing enriching educational, therapeutic and vocational services. www.redwoodnky.org

STRIDE

150 Maryland Ave., Winchester, Ky., 40391 (859) 744-0370

STRIDE serves individuals who have a learning or developmental disability and are at least 16 years of age. Daily programming includes cooking classes, dances, Special Olympic activities, daily living skills classes and much more in an effort to improve the quality of life for participants. All participants are expected to live up to their responsibilities at home, work and in the STRIDE program. Motto: “We have an obligation to expect the best out of our participants and try to help them to continue to improve their skills.” / www.strideky.org

Zoom Group

1904 Embassy Square Blvd., Louisville, Ky., 40299

(502) 581-0658

Zoom Group has been providing supports for individuals with disabilities for over 30 years. Zoom Group’s mission is to assist persons with disabilities to explore, create, and realize their journey. Zoom Group strives to create a community that is enriched by including and valuing persons with disabilities. / www.zoomgroup.org

SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND HEARING

Heuser Hearing Institute 117 E. Kentucky St., Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 584-3573

Heuser Hearing Institute (HHI) is a multi-specialty nonprofit campus promoting the needs of children and adults with disorders of hearing and balance. The organization has served Louisville and many of the surrounding Kentucky and Indiana communities since 1948.

www.thehearinginstitute.org

Kentucky School for the Deaf

303 South Second St., Danville, Ky., 40422 (859) 239-7017

Ensures that children and youth who are deaf or hard of hearing have educational opportunities to develop their potential to become educated, life-long learners and productive citizens.

www.ksd.k12.ky.us

Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

632 Versailles Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (800) 372-2907 / kcdhh@mail.state.ky.us

www.kcdhh.ky.gov/

Kentucky Hands & Voices

P.O. Box 43914, Louisville, Ky., 40253 (888) 398-5030 / info@kyhandsandvoices.org

Hands & Voices is a non-profit, parent-driven national organization dedicated to supporting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The organization is nonbiased about communication methodologies and believes that families can make the best choices for their child if they have access to good information and support. The group consists of parents of ASL signers, cued speech users, kids with cochlear implants and total communicators. www.kyhandsandvoices.org

Kentucky Speech-Language-Hearing Association

838 E. High St., Suite 263, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (800) 837-2446 / khsaoffice@khsa.info

The mission is to enhance the provision of quality services to persons with communication disorders and their families. KSHA provides broad-based education opportunities, public awareness and policy development initiatives, and supports professionals in speech-language pathology and audiology by promoting the highest standards for service providers.

www.ksha.info

Lexington Hearing and Speech Center

350 Henry Clay Blvd., Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 268-4545

Provides diagnostic, therapeutic and educational services for individuals with hearing, speech and language impairments. / https://hscky.org

St. Rita School for the Deaf

1720 Glendale Milford Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45215 (513) 771-7600 / www.srsdeaf.org

SPINA BIFIDA

Cardinal Hill Center for Outpatient Services

2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 254-5701

https://encompasshealth.com/locations/cardinalhillrehab

Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies

982 Eastern Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 635-6397

9810 Bluegrass Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 584-9781

Since 1959, the Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies has been helping children with special needs. Each week the Center sees more than 300 children facing challenges such as autism, Down syndrome, spina bifida and cerebral palsy. / www.kidscenterky.org

Spina Bifida Association of Kentucky

Kosair Charities, 982 Eastern Parkway, Suite 18 Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 637-7363 / sbak@sbak.org

The Spina Bifida Association of Kentucky is a resource center for children, their families and adults affected by Spina Bifida. SBAK educates parents how to be the best advocate for their child, and helps children and adults overcome physical, cognitive and social challenges to become successful and independent. The mission is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and enhance the lives of all those affected. www.sbak.org

Shriners Hospitals for Children

110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, Ky., 40508

(859) 266-2101

Shriners Hospitals for Children has a mission to provide the highest quality care to children with orthopedic or neuromusculoskeletal disorders and diseases within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment.

www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/lexington

VISION

(859) 422-6390 / (800) 238-5193 ext. 1010 info@radioeye.org

Louisville: Family Library of Visually Impaired Preschool 1906 Goldsmith Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 509-5184

Eastern Kentucky: (606) 233-1330 sharon.cornett@radioeye.org

Radio Eye broadcasts the reading of current news, public service and general interest programming to listeners and others who are blind and print-disabled. Radio Eye, which serves Lexington, Louisville and parts of Eastern Kentucky, strives to produce high-quality programming designed to help the listening audience lead enriched, productive and independent lives. www.radioeye.org

Cincinnati Association for the Blind

2045 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 (513) 221-8558 / info@cincyblind.org

Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) is a private, non-profit organization offering comprehensive vision rehabilitation services for people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. cincyblind.org/about

Clovernook Center for the Blind/Visually Impaired

7000 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45231 (513) 522-3860 / fd@clovernook.org

Clovernook has proudly served women, men and children for more than 100 years. This rich history provides the backdrop for today’s progressive and caring campus-like environment where the Center remains dedicated to adults and youth who are blind or visually impaired. clovernook.org

Children’s Vision and Learning Center

105 Crossfield Drive, Versailles, Ky., 40383 (859) 879-0089

In addition to general optometric services, Family Eyecare offers unique programs such as Vision Therapy for children experiencing difficulty with reading and/or underachievement at school. Children in these programs average more than a 3-year improvement in performance in 10 to 15 weeks.

https://eyedoctor.io/optician/childrens-vision-andlearning-center-psc-versailles-ky/

Kentucky Vocational Rehabilitation, Blind Services Division

Mayo-Underwood Building

500 Mero St., 4th Floor NE, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4440 / (800) 372-7172

https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/BlindServices/Pages/Blind-Services-Division.aspx

Kentucky School for the Blind Division of the Kentucky Department of Education

Office of Special Instructional Services

1867 Frankfort Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 897-1583

A K-12 public school serving Kentucky students who are blind and visually impaired. The school offers a Short Course program (1-12 weeks) of specialized instruction available to students throughout the school year. Summer school programs are offered in June and July.

https://www.ksb.kyschools.us

Kentucky School for the Blind Outreach Services

Available Statewide

1867 Frankfort Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 897-1583 ext. 7714

Outreach works in partnership with the Educational Cooperatives to facilitate expansion of regional services. KSB Outreach Consultants are assigned to each of the Educational Cooperatives as points of contact for services and programs offered by KSB. The Director of Special Education within local school districts may make referrals for services to the assigned KSB Outreach Consultant for their cooperative or by contacting KSB Director of Outreach. The Outreach department supports proficient student performance by assisting local school districts, including KSB and the Kentucky School for the Deaf, in reducing barriers to learning associated with a vision loss. It also provides students access to the general curriculum, the Kentucky Core Academic Standards, and Expanded Core Curriculum for Students with Visual Impairments.

www.ksb.kyschools.us/Content/36

Silver Circles, Inc.

2396 New Shepherdsville Road, Bardstown, Ky., 40004 (859) 489-7773 / (812) 273-6986

Catherine C. Barnes, Director & Irlen Diagnostician

The Irlen Method uses colored overlays and precision tinted filters, worn as glasses, to reduce or eliminate perceptual difficulties and light sensitivity. www.silvercirclesinc.com

Visually Impaired Preschool Services (VIPS)

Greater Louisville

1906 Goldsmith Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (888) 636-8477

Central Kentucky

350 Henry Clay Blvd., Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 276-0335 / (888) 254-8477

Radio Eye

Lexington: 1733 Russell Cave Road, Lexington, Ky., 40505

The mission is to provide opportunities for employment and independence to individuals with visual disabilities. The Division serves Kentuckians who are visually impaired or blind and assists individuals in obtaining and maintaining employment, economic self-sufficiency and independence with complete integration into society. The Blind Services Section provides statewide services to all 120 counties and has 10 field offices located throughout Kentucky in Ashland, Bowling Green, Covington, Elizabethtown, Lexington, Louisville, Owensboro, Paducah, Prestonsburg and Somerset.

The mission of Visually Impaired Preschool Services is to offer appropriate services to infants, toddlers and preschoolers who are visually impaired or blind and to their families; and to maximize each child’s development potential through direct services, advocacy and community education. VIPS staff includes certified teachers who specialize in early childhood education, visual impairment, O&M, and special education. Several staff members are also parents of visually impaired children.

www.vips.org n