Exceptional Family Magazine Winter/Spring 2022 by Lexington Family Magazine

WINTER/SPRING

2022

Independence, Integration, Inclusion

Norb Ryan

Legendary Advocate Has Used Humor and Tenacity to Impact Countless Lives in a Long Career of Public Service

18 4 Letter From CCDD

Norb Ryan Continues His Advocacy Career as a CCDD Council Member.

7 Reader Survey

Complete a Short Survey and Earn A Chance to Win $250.

Covid Consequences Experts Have Called the Pandemic a Mental Health Tsunami, Affecting People with Disabiities Such as Jay TynerWilson of Lexington

16 HDI's LEND Program Training Future Leaders to Improve Lives Of People With Developmental Disabilities.

6 National Connections 9 Self-Advocates Needed 20 Resource List CCDD Benefits From Relationship With National Association of DD Councils.

With Open Seats, the CCDD Is Seeking Self-Advocate Applicants for the Council.

14 Program Successes KPIP Continues to Garner Praise; CCDD Prepares for Legislative Session.

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Editor...................................John Lynch Graphic Artist........................Nick Farr Contact Info: 3529 Cornwall Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 494-1140 / john@lexingtonfamily.com 2

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From Autism to Vision Issues, Statewide List Provides the Information You Need.

Advocacy Works

¿Hablas Espanol? For the Spanish version of the magazine, visit www.lexingtonfamily.com 2022 “Exceptional Family KY” is published by the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities.

656 Chamberlin Ave., Suite C, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 (502) 367-5332 • (502) 564-7841 • www.CCDD.KY.gov

The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000

IT’S THE LAW! On October 30, 2000, Congress Passed Law 106-402. It States:

Congress finds that – (1) disability is a natural part of the human experience that does not diminish the right of individuals with developmental disabilities to live independently, to exert control and choice over their own lives, and to fully participate in and contribute to their communities through full integration and inclusion in the economic, political, social, cultural, and educational mainstream of United States society.

OUR MISSION 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.

GET INVOLVED TODAY – Join the CCDD Info: (877) 367-5332 or visit www.ccdd.ky.gov

Letter

Advocacy Works

From the CCDD by Norb Ryan

Advocacy Through the Years

For 13 years I served bring the state University ADA Kentucky. the Commonwealth coordinators together to discuss The CCDD develops a five-year of Kentucky as the common problems and solutions. plan to look at current needs and State Americans with It was my vision that the cohow to address them. Disabilities Coordiordinators would benefit from What I truly appreciate is the nator (ADA). discussing solutions to common diverse membership of the CounAs retirement was approachissues. The CCDD did fund the cil. Not only are there people ing, I wondered what my inproject. with disabilities, but members volvement include parents in disabiland representaity issues tives from state would be. agencies regardI had been CCDD Council members include people with ing people with so involved disabilities. developmental disabilities as well as family members as an advoThe appointand guardians of people with developmental cate – it was ment by the disabilities. difficult to Governor allowed Council members are expected to attend quarterly believe that me to continue meetings that last two to three days, and other this part of my advocacy for events throughout the year. my life was people with disA member serves a three-year term and is limited coming to abilities. to two terms of service. an end. All the memInfo: www.ccdd.ky.gov or 1-877-367-5332 At that bers are there to point, I was share ideas, conappointed cerns and develop by the Governor to the Common- After I was appointed, I began solutions as a team. wealth Council on Developmen- to realize how the Council operIf you would like to become ates. The Council membership is tal Disabilities. a member of this extraordinary divided into several workgroups My initial contact with the Council, please contact the Govto look at the challenges facgroup had come several years ernor’s office to begin the proceing the people with disabilities earlier when I approached the dure or use the contact informathroughout the Commonwealth of tion listed on this page. n CCDD to fund a program to

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER

www.lexingtonfamily.com

Independence JOIN OUR TEAM integration Inclusion 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.

Come Join Us! 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.

(877) 367-5332

www.ccdd.ky.gov

Reader Survey

Advocacy Works

CCDD Benefits From Relationship With National Organization

specially during the past two years of the Covid-19 pandemic, the CCDD’s membership in the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities has bolstered the CCDD through difficult times. The pandemic challenged everybody in all walks of life and that was true for the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities. Leaning on The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (www.nacdd.org) for help and support lessened the stress of the pandemic. “They stepped up so much during Covid with weekly calls for everyone,” Executive Director Kellie McCain said. “They were very helpful in getting out information about the pandemic.” In normal times, the national association, which consists of 56 Councils on Developmental Disabilities across the U.S. and its territories, performs four main functions: Provides technical assistance to all DD Councils; advocates for the national public policy agenda; advocates for DD Councils’ appropriations in Congress; and convenes DD Councils for leadership and development training. That training is crucial, according to Council Chairperson David Allgood, who is in his second stint as a Council member and has been Council Chair for four years. He also previously served as vice president of the national organization. 6

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Before the pandemic, members met two or three times a year in person at conferences around the country. “I got a more rounded understanding of all the issues we face, and it helped to know that the issues were universal,” Allgood said. “It was also good to hear from our counterparts across the country and gain insight into how other people have made their councils work better.” Leadership conferences run over the course of a few days, and training covers everything from understanding the group’s efforts in Congress to how to run a successful meeting. Those skills are essential, according to Laureen Vassil, the CCDD’s Vice Chairperson. “The training was absolutely helpful,” she said. “It helps you stay on task, follow parliamentary rules, and how to get Council members engaged with the mission of our fiveyear plan.” Those skills also helped Vassil in her role as the Chairperson of the Hart-Supported Living Council, a program that provides funds for supports to help Kentuckians with disabilities live in their homes and communities and avoid institutionalization. Membership in the national organization is a valuable asset to the CCDD, McCain said. “It helps to know that we are not alone,” she said. “They are our partners in Washington and help us develop programs and keep those programs and our people strong.” n

WINNER

Kathy Mullen

he winner of a $250 prize in the latest Reader Survey contest for this magazine is Kathy Mullen, director of education at Visually Impaired Preschool Services. Mullen has worked for nine years at VIPS, which provides early intervention services to Kentucky and Indiana’s youngest children with blindness and low vision. Services include evaluations, in-home visits and access to resources that help parents and caregivers better support a child with visual impairment. Mullen plans to use the money to buy supplies for the organization’s at-home visits. A regular reader of Exceptional Family Magazine, Mullen values the statewide Resource List and the breadth of topics covered in the magazine’s articles. “We’re a statewide provider so the resources are golden,” she said. “I also like the continuum of needs you represent with your stories from medically fragile children to college students with disabilities who are being successful. “In celebrating their success, you give a nod to their families as well. That shares the idea that success relies on the whole community.” n

WE WANT

YOUR FEEDBACK

WIN $250

Be among the first 50 to enter a drawing for $250. To fill out the form online, scan the QR Code or simply follow the link below

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Q65DNJ5

Having trouble filling out or accesing the form? Contact John Lynch at 859-494-1140 or email john@lexingtonfamily.com

Advocacy Works

Meet the CCDD Staff

Kellie McCain - Executive Director Kellie.McCain@ky.gov | 502-782-8601 After working 16 years in the office of the Commissioner of DIDD services in Tennessee, Kellie joined the Council in 2017. She manages and directs Council activities based on the goals and objectives in compliance with federal laws and requirements. She leads Council staff in implementing the Five Year Plan and assists in developing the Council’s public policy, advocacy agenda and strategies, state and federal government relations, and other operations. She also manages the Council’s budget and hires and manages the Council staff. She has a master’s degree in Civic Leadership and has over 30 years of experience in the disability and mental health field. She has experience in various capacities supporting people with disabilities including direct care worker, case manager, quality surveyor, Medicaid Waiver operations and program administration.

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 PPR (Program Performance Report), and Annual Work Plans. She facilitates the Council work teams to help them achieve the goals and objectives in the Five Year Plan. Jen has been with the Council for 6 years. Prior to 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.

Vicki Goins - Fiscal Manager 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.

Justin Jeter - Public Policy Coordinator 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 at the Kentucky Housing Corporation and as a Research Fellow at the Council of State Governments. He graduated with a master’s degree in policy at the University of Kentucky in 2020.

Nicole Maher - Self-Advocacy 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 and objectives in the Five Year Plan. She has been with the Council for 4 years and has worked in the disability field for 16 years in a variety of different capacities. Nicole has a daughter who has Down syndrome. 8

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CCDD Council Seeks Self-Advocate applicants

he Commonwealth Council on Development Disabilities is looking for people who have a developmental disability to serve on the Council. The vacancies come with the resignation of David DeSanctis and Erin Tiemeier. “Both had served for many years and their service is appreciated,” CCDD Executive Director Kellie McCain said. Another self-advocacy vacancy remains after a person appointed last summer decided not to participate.

The Council currently has four governor-appointed self-advocate members. To serve as a self-advocate, a person must have a developmental disability. According to KRS 41.410 regulations and the DD Act Section 125 (b)(3), at least 60% of the membership must be self-advocates and family members. Under section 125 (5), at least 1/3 of the 60% shall be self-advocates. With only four self-advocates, the Council does not meet this standard. McCain has posted on the

Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities Facebook page a notice that self-advocates are needed. McCain also has emailed various stakeholders to enlist their help in filling the vacancies. McCain is asking all friends of the CCDD to recommend candidates. Candidates can apply directly at https://governor.ky.gov/services/ application-for-boards-and-commissions. Info: Contact: Kellie McCain at (502) 782-8601 or Carol Ann Tudor at (502) 782-8606. n

List of CCDD Council Members Self-Advocates & Parent Representatives

Norb Ryan, Versailles Kathy Salazar, New Concord Laureen Vassil, Lexington Regina Watts, Covington

Casey Allen, Ballard County David Allgood, Louisville Morgan Elliston, Frankfort Grant Gupton, Simpsonville Paul Hitchcock, Morehead Mark Leach, Louisville Aisha Omar, Louisville Micah Peace, Louisville Sherry Pickett, Russell Springs Mark Rothel, Lexington

State Agency Representatives Andrea Bartholomew, Dept. of Education Laura Smith Butler, HDI Camille Collins, Protection & Advocacy

Scott Collins, Department of Aging and Independent Living Blaire Handshoe, Department of Medicaid Tammie Isenberg, Department of Public Health Claudia Johnson, Dept. of Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities Laura Lyle, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation n

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.

Carol Ann Tudor - Policy Analyst and Operations Carol.Tudor@ky.gov | 502-782-8606 Carol Ann has been with the Council since 2005. She 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. Carol Ann also coordinates meeting logistics and supports Council members in making meeting arrangements and reimbursement. She serves as staff to the Council Affairs Committee. Before working for the Council, she worked in the Office of Exceptional Children.

Meet the CCDD Staff

Tim Moore - Front Desk Manager

2022 Exceptional Family KY

CCDD Council Welcomes Three New Members Aisha Omar

ou will be hard-pressed to find a more fierce advocate than Aisha Omar, so it makes sense that she now sits on the CCDD Council. A graduate of Alabama State with a master’s in justice and public safety from Auburn, Omar works for the Kentucky Court of Appeals and is the mother of Addonis 13, and Aya Thomas, 11. Addonis was born with significant speech delays, lack of muscle tone and now has a diagnosis of autism and ADHD with a moderate reception and expression disorder. Getting proper services for him – even getting an accurate diagnosis – has been a struggle since day one. “I felt like a lonely soldier at first,” Omar said. “Because of his speech delays, I didn’t get an ‘I love you,’ from Addonis until he was 3 years old.” But all through his childhood, Omar fought for services even though she heard ‘No’ all the time. Not that she’s looking for a pat on the back. Instead, she hopes that her work on the Council can help ease the burden of other Kentucky parents. Along with her individual journey as an advocate, Omar was recruited by CCDD staff to join Kentucky Partners in Policymaking, a unique, year-long educational program that helps self -advocates and their family members become leaders by empowering them to speak up and be knowledgeable about issues around disability. Omar graduated from the 2019 class. “It was a phenomenal program that helped people become better advocates when all they had were tears and a broken compass,” said Omar, who is vice chair of the CCDD finance committee. “I want to help the CCDD continue its good work. I also always want us to have a five-year plan for our babies so, for the next mom, life is a little smoother and we can save some tears and frustration.” n

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Micah Peace

recent graduate of college and the CCDD’s 2019 Kentucky Partners in Policymaking class, Micah Peace of Louisville brings a fresh and diverse approach as a new member of the CCDD Council. Peace, who identifies as nonbinary, created their own major at Northern Kentucky University and earned a bachelor’s degree in 2018 in integrative studies based on four minors – psychology, social justice, organizational leadership, and women and gender studies. While in college, Peace worked at the Center for Accessible Living in Louisville. In 2019, Peace was hired as an elementary school teacher at the Friends School of Louisville and still works there as a substitute teacher. Also in 2019, Peace was hired part-time by Showing Up for Racial Justice, a national network of groups and individuals organizing white people for racial and economic justice. In October 2021, Peace moved to full time at SURJ where Peace is the Disability Access Coordinator charged with making the group’s work accessible. Racism and ableism come from a similar place, Peace said, referencing the work of Rebecca Cokley, an American disability rights activist. “They come from the roots of the same tree,” Peace said. “They are founded on the bad idea in this country about what bodies are acceptable and this leads to discrimination based on race as well as discrimination against people with disabilities.” Peace has both physical and developmental disabilities. Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and dysautonomia weaken their soft tissue and have damaged their hips. They use a cane, a walker and wheelchair to get around. Peace also is on the autism spectrum. (When people say their autism must be a mild case, Peace answers jokingly, “No, it’s spicy.”) Peace has two goals on the Council. One, strengthen partnerships and increase dialogue and communication between parents and self-advocates. Two, bolster supports for mental health for people with disabilities. “Existing mental health services are by and for people without disabilities, so there’s a dimension to our lives that is being missed,” Peace said. “People with disabilities have inner lives. People can’t blame all our struggles on our disability.” n

CCDD Hires New Staffer Regina Watts

egina Watts has worked at The Point in Northern Kentucky for the past 14 years, but her journey in the disability field began nearly a half-century ago when she worked with children with disabilities as a 12-year-old volunteer. Young Regina volunteered at Riverside Good-Counsel (now called New Perceptions) until she was 16 when she was hired. She worked there until she graduated high school and moved to Virginia. She returned to Kentucky and rejoined the field of disabilities as an instructional aide at Holmes High in Covington in 1990. She helped found the school’s Functional Mental Disability classroom in her 10 years there. After a seven-year stint in the insurance field, Watts returned to The Point as IT Manager and Activities Director. She also enrolled in college, studying for a degree in social work while working full time and raising a family. She has three adult children, Victoria, 40, Aarika, 37, and Clifford 36. With her three adult step-children, Kera 36, Daryl 37, and Lexus 35, Watts is a grandmother 21 times over. Her daughters work as instructional aides in Covington schools, and Clifford is in food service. All three volunteer regularly at The Point. Watts has sisters with learning disabilities and a granddaughter with sotos syndrome, a genetic disorder that’s characterized by excessive physical growth during the first few years of life. As Activities Director at The Point, Watts helps clients learn social skills – and have fun along the way. She has taken groups on numerous vacations, including to Gatlinburg and an upcoming trip to Florida. Watts has known about the CCDD for years through her colleague Margaret Reed Sauser, who previously served on the CCDD Council. Watts is on the policy committee with a goal of passing more bills in the legislature and opening more slots for Michelle P. and Supports for Community Living Waivers. “I’m ecstatic about being on the Council,” she said. “I’ve admired the CCDD because they are doing great things and I’d like to be a part of that.” n

Justin Jeter

ustin Jeter seems ideally suited for his new position as the public policy coordinator for the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities. First is his training. Jeter, 24, graduated from UK with a bachelor’s degree in business management with a minor in history and international business. In 2020, he earned his master’s at UK in diplomacy and international commerce, all while managing his diagnosis of ADHD. Significantly, while in graduate school, he worked for The Council of State Governments, an assignment that immersed him in public policy. “And that is precisely what this job is,” Jeter said of his new duties at the CCDD where he started in September. CCDD Executive Director Kellie McCain cited those experiences as central to his new duties. “I am thrilled to have Justin join the CCDD office team,” McCain said. “His expertise in diplomacy and experience at The Council of State Governments makes him a perfect fit to support Council public policy goals.” Jeter also has personal experience with the disability community. In high school in Tennessee, he volunteered in the Best Buddies program, where he was paired with someone with Down syndrome. Also, his wife Grace, who is a paralegal and worked at the Human Development Institute while attending UK, has a sister, Ava, 16, with Down syndrome. “Getting to know Ava has been a delight,” Jeter said. “It has been educational for me and taught me about inclusion. Meeting her and Grace has made those issues important to me.” Jeter is eager to embrace his duties in public policy while forming productive relationships in the state legislature. “I want to help coordinate the Council’s messaging to policymakers and increase our influence with the legislature,” he said. “I’m looking forward to reaching out to legislators. Ideally, we will be the first organization they think of when they consider issues that affect the disability community.” n

2022 Exceptional Family KY

Advocacy Works

Covid Consequences With Spikes in Anxiety and Depression, the Pandemic Has Created a Mental Health Tsunami By John Lynch

s the Covid-19 pandemic drags on, the toll to the mental health of the nation marks another sad indicator of the damage this disease has wrought. Locally, Dr. Sheila Schuster is a founding member and Executive Director of the Kentucky Mental Health Coalition, which includes 80 organizations. Schuster characterizes the pandemic as nothing short of a mental health tsunami. “Everybody’s mental health has been impacted by Covid because isolation has increased anxiety, depression and loneliness that we all have felt,” she said. “There have been economic worries and then anxiety and worry over whether family and loved ones might get sick or die. “We may not all have clinical diagnoses but we’ve all been affected.” The pandemic, like other societal disruptions, has hit those with developmental disabilities particularly hard. Just ask Melanie Tyner-Wilson of Lexington. She is the Family Support Specialist/ Navigator at the Kentucky Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics. She also serves on the boards of the Autism Society of the Bluegrass, the Arc of Central Kentucky, and the Arc of Kentucky. Her son Jay has autism, ADHD, an intellectual disability and apraxia, which causes motor coordination issues. This has affected Jay’s speech, and despite 12

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years of therapy, he has limited verbal skills. But prior to the pandemic, there was nothing limited about Jay’s lifestyle. He worked two days a week at McLeod’s Coffee Jay Tyner-Wilson of Lexington House, swam with a Special with his caregiver Megan Russell Olympics group, went bowling and took fitness classes through Lexington’s therapeutic recreation program, and tried archery while and they returned. He also started and horseback riding. to sleep a lot more and he gained “We signed him up for everything weight. That was heartbreaking to see.” because he really enjoys the social asTyner-Wilson can’t be certain that Jay pect of the different activities,” Tyneris depressed because he can’t express Wilson said. emotions. Plus, behaviors that indicate “The team that works with Jay on a depression are similar to behaviors asdaily basis has been instrumental in his sociated with autism. And talk therapy quality of life, and I am so appreciative treatment won’t work for Jay. of all their hard work. “This has been so difficult to watch,” “Jay had lots of opportunities to go Tyner-Wilson said. “At work, I helped with folks in the community and be with a presentation on grief and I would a part of things. He had a structured end up being unable to do my part of schedule and that seemed to make him the presentation. I would end up sobhappy.” bing each time. It made me realize how At the height of the pandemic, all of sad I am about what we’ve seen happen that stopped for Jay. And because of to Jay’s life.” his language issues, moving to virtual activities did him no favors. Gradually, signs of anxiety and dechuster and mental health pression appeared. professionals have witnessed “When Jay gets upset, he paces or similar breakdowns in their talks in a high-pitched voice, or hits patients whether in counseling or a himself in the chest or head,” Tynerschool setting. Wilson said. Disruptions in routine at school and “We hadn’t seen those behaviors in a

Advocacy Works

Donna Fox Found Way to Conquer Covid Depression

onna Fox, a 56-year-old program director at Zoom Group in Louisville, has battled rheumatoid arthritis since she was 5 years old. The ailment affects every joint in her body, and she has undergone nearly 20 surgeries over the years. She has mobility issues and sometimes needs a cane to walk. In addition, five years ago, she suffered a traumatic brain injury after a fall. Because of her arthritis, Fox was told as a child not to expect a normal life. So she didn’t. She dropped out of high school and seemed destined to live at home forever with no life of her own. But as an adult, she discovered self-empowerment, went back to school and eventually earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisville. She also married, raised two children and now has three grandchildren. She also has a successful career helping others with disabilities. At Zoom Group, which offers supported employment programs, Fox coordinates DiscoverU, a self-empowerment program. But when the pandemic closed everything down in 2020, her childhood feeling of being trapped surfaced with a vengeance.

work have spawned a laundry list of symptoms, including spikes in anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and weight gain among inactive people. Students with developmental disabilities have been hard hit, especially those who rely on routine and structure. The impact of the pandemic causes problems in all directions, as Schuster outlined. “Some students who were abused and bullied at school were happy when school went virtual, but for other kids living in an abusive household, staying at home might mean even more abuse,” she said. “We definitely have seen a spike in domestic violence during the pandemic, and people in recovery suffered when 12-step programs were canceled.” When schools returned to in-per-

“As a child, I felt trapped in a box but then as an adult, my cage opened and I soared. That’s why I picked the career I’m in, to help others,” she said. “But working from home, disconnecting from the outside world, that made me feel like I was back in my box. It put me in a dark place. “I felt stuck. I was worried I was becoming suicidal, thinking maybe not living would be better than this. I just wanted Covid to end.” Fox has always been a positive, optimistic person with no history of mental issues so she didn’t recognize what was happening to her. But she’s also a fighter. In July of last year, she took a vacation near Lake Michigan and something about the water and her own inner reserves combined to help her turn things around. “Nope, I said to myself, this isn’t you. You’re going to get out of your cage. You’re going to fly and soar again,” she said. And she has. n

son learning, students often faced a change in school personnel and more substitute teachers, which particularly hurts kids with developmental disabilities who rely on familiarity. Evan Rollins is a school-based counselor with Pathways Mental Health in Montgomery County who works with middle and high school students. He has seen a spike in anxiety and depression and an erosion of school discipline as behavior problems have increased. “Kids with mental disorders rely on routine and structure and there were times last year when we were in school one week and at home the next,” he said. “With worries about the spread of the virus, that creates crisis time behavior. Students think there are more important things going on than worrying about class work.”

Not surprisingly, the job for Rollins and his colleagues has grown more difficult. “I wouldn’t change my job for anything because we help people who are in dire straits,” he said. “But the job is harder and the hours are longer. “I’m not worried about myself, but I worry about my colleagues. I’ve seen the stress on teachers, the defeated looks on their faces because so many things are happening outside of their control.”

ichael Daniel, the Coordinator of Children’s Services at Pennyroyal Center in Hopkinsville, has seen a spike in the number of referrals and tells a similar story. Among his clients are children with

2022 Exceptional Family KY

Advocacy Works

Members Heap Praise on KPIP By John Lynch

his is how much Amy Smith, a Frankfort mother of a teenager, Brendan, with autism, thinks of the CCDD’s Kentucky Partners in Policymaking program. The program is dedicated to teaching best practices so that advocates and self-advocates can become catalysts for systems change. Even though the group’s monthly meetings take up a full weekend, Smith eagerly anticipates each session. “It’s a wonderful experience that I’m glad to be a part of,” Smith said. “I’m excited about our weekends, which says a lot about the program.” The 17-member group, which began monthly meetings in September and will meet through June, consists of advocates like Smith, who has worked in state government for 16 years and founded an autism support group, Capital Area Autism Parents that now has 300 members. KPIP also consists of professionals and self-advocates and is run by Nicole Maher and Justin Jeter, staff

members at the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities. Strassburg said. “She really knows her Praise for the leadership team is uni- stuff and is very compassionate. The versal. “Nicole is awesome. She has re- leaders are very much about learnally helped me be a better leader,” said ing from us as much as we learn from Tyler Levy, a 30-year-old self-advocate them.” who lives in Louisville. Strassburg added that KPIP memLevy has Williams syndrome and de- bers learn not only from experts and velopmental delays, and calls himself a the group leaders but from each other. changed man since he joined the YES! Members bring diverse skills and Group (Young Empowered Self-Advoexperiences to KPIP. cates), another program supported by For example, Strassburg has worked the CCDD. at UK’s Chandler Medical Center for “YES helped me learn to speak up for 22 years and has a master’s degree in myself, and being in KPIP has helped Rehabilitation Counseling. me learn more about my advocacy and She also earned a Developmental to expand my advocacy,” he said. Disability Certificate through UK’s Andrea Strassburg, a 55-year-old Human Development Institute and self-advocate who endured constant like Levy is a Kentucky Colonel. epileptic seizures until brain surgery Strassburg also chaired the advocacy five years ago eliminated the The CCDD is accepting applications for the 2022-23 seizures, echoed those sentiset of nine sessions that will begin in September. ments. “Nicole Maher For information, call (502) 564-7841 or visit is very good at https://ccdd.ky.gov/projects/Pages/default.aspx what she does,”

GA Could Use Federal Money to Help Disability Community

By John Lynch

ired in September of 2021 as Public Policy Coordinator, Justin Jeter begins his work at the CCDD at an exciting time. He is charged with advancing the Council’s priorities in the state legislature – the priority is to improve the lives of people with disabilities. In anticipation of his first General Assembly (GA) session in 2022, he has connected with legislators and monitored the pre-filings of all bills. What makes the upcoming GA session so intriguing is the federal American Rescue Plan Act, which will pump millions of dollars into the Kentucky treasury. Prior to receiving the money, the state committed to spending $150 million to improve access to home and community based services. That means that the long waits 14

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Kentuckians now endure to secure Michelle P. and Supports for Community Living waivers might be reduced. In addition, if President Biden’s Build Back Better proposal becomes law, the amount of money Kentucky will receive could increase sixfold into the billions of dollars. “That’s a really exciting possibility and why it is important that I build relationships with current legislators to encourage them to direct money toward laws that improve the lives of people with disabilities,” Jeter said. He also is working with state Senator Reginald Thomas who wants to eliminate the sub-minimum wage that can be paid to people with disabilities. “Some states already have outlawed it so there is potentially some momentum for this law to be changed,” Jeter said. n

group, Commission for People with Disabilities, in Lexington. She offered input on accessibility during Lexington’s city planning process while she worked on her master’s degree at UK. “I’m already an advocate and I joined KPIP to be a better advocate, and that is what’s happening,” Strassburg said. “I’m learning through the course work and the people in the class. There are different cultural aspects that bring the class together. “It’s interesting to hear how people have been survivors to this point with their different abilities.” As for the course work, Smith, who is working on her master’s degree in

school counseling at the University of the Cumberlands, was particularly impressed with the presentation made by Laura Buckner of the Texas Center for Disabilities Studies. Buckner’s presentation included a video that chronicled the triumphs of a man with intellectual disabilities who was not institutionalized by his parents. “It was such a powerful presentation I cried three times while listening.” Smith said. “Buckner also explained about the history of special education, how it has evolved, and what we can do now to advocate. I left feeling so empow-

Covid Consequences

Advocacy Works ered. “This program is amazing and is ideal for anybody who is passionate about learning more and being an advocate. “You will learn a lot and make great people connections.” As Levy said, that’s what KPIP is all about with the aim of influencing Kentucky policymakers. “We’re an interconnected group of people trying to make the lives of people with disabilities better,” he said. “That’s our mission and goal.” n

Continued From Page 13

autism. He trained for a year at the mental disabilities and has her own may help people with disabilities, who University of Louisville autism center. developmental disability. do things slower,” she said. “Maybe Much of his therapy with this popuHer clients include people on now doing things slowly won’t be conlation centers on developing social waivers, in group homes and in day sidered the worse thing in the world.” skills to deal with everyday life. programs. The pandemic has made it Schuster also sees hopeful signs in Because of disthe wake of the panruptions caused by demic, even though Need Help? Covid, his clients she admits that the Mental Health America of Kentucky has put together a listing of have lost some of worst in mental resources at the following website: those skills. health impacts may www.mhaky.org/gethelp.html “Children with be yet to come. autism have lost She expects a The Autism Society of the Bluegrass suggests these helpful websites: chances to practice delayed reaction www.autism-society.org/covid-19 those skills, and in everyone from https://childmind.org/topics/covid-kids-mental-health-challenges Zoom doesn’t work students and teachers for many of them,” to nurses and other https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/supporting-individuals-autism-throughhe said. healthcare workers. uncertain-times “Even wearing But if nearly evmasks is a problem eryone has experiOther resources because kids who enced anxiety and www.independenceseekersproject.org need to learn how depression, the to read emotions stigma linked to those are missing facial conditions may fade, cues and other subtle cues,” he said. hard to return to those places. Schuster said. “Children in quarantine can be set She now sees half as many clients “There’s never been more discussion back for weeks.” as she did before the pandemic. And of mental health than during Covid,” Both Daniel and Rollins have seen Covid has affected her personally by Schuster said. increases in drug use and truancy as making her world smaller. “That’s a good thing. At least the stressed-out students try to cope. But she sees a silver lining in the subject gets out there in the public. If Amanda Stahl is a counselor who pandemic. everybody has anxiety, maybe it will works with people with develop“The world is slowing down and that be easier to ask for help.” n 2022 Exceptional Family KY

Advocacy Works

HDI & LEND Program

Training Future Leaders To Improve Lives Of Those With Developmental Disabilities By John Lynch

abriella Martin, a fourth-year clinical psychology graduate student at EKU, calls the LEND program a dream come true in her quest to work with people with autism in a multi-disciplinary medical environment after graduation. Tanya Torp, another LEND program student, describes the program as inspirational, saying it will enhance her skills as a parent and community activist. Self-advocate Morgan Turner credits the program for educating him about disabilities besides his own. That praise gratifies Caroline Gooden, the Disability Program Director at the University of Kentucky’s Human Development Institute, which administers the LEND program. The LEND was secured through the excellent leadership of Dr. Kathy SheppardJones, HDI’s Executive Director, and Dr. Phil Rumrill, HDI’s Director of Research and Training. Landing the prestigious program was welcomed by leadership at HDI, UK and across the state. UK’s support of projects for persons with disabilities contributed to this success. “We feel honored at UK to be joining our colleagues across the country in the highly respected LEND program,” Gooden said. So what is LEND? It’s a federal health program that stands for Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities. The purpose of LEND’s long-term, graduate-level interdisciplinary training is to improve the health of infants, children and adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, as the title indicates. That includes all persons with developmental disabilities, though the focus 16

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is neurodevelopmental disorders, which includes autism.

he five-year program at HDI began in July, making it one of 60 similar federal programs across the U.S. The program includes training for nine longterm students. Seven are graduate students from UK,

2020 report by the Centers for Disease Control stated that one in 54 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism. “We know that there are dramatically increasing numbers of people with autism, and that we don’t have enough services here in Kentucky,” Gooden said. “LEND is an intense program to prepare professionals to serve this popula-

“We feel honored at UK to be joining our colleagues across the country in the highly respected LEND program.”

– Caroline Gooden EKU and the University of Louisville. The other two participants are a self-advocate and a parent of children with disabilities. Neither is currently a graduate student. Many others also receive training, including persons trained through a wide variety of HDI projects and training programs. These include students in HDI’s developmental disabilities graduate certificate program (see https://hdi.uky.edu/ project/graduate-certificate-in-developmental-disabilities); as well as students, professionals, and family members who attend HDI seminars, which are open to the public.

he nine LEND students meet every Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., either in person or via Zoom for two classes taught by a group of 13 professors from UK, EKU and U of L, as well as state leaders in the field. LEND is timely and much needed. A

tion.” Students receive real world and classroom education, where a diverse faculty creates an interdisciplinary experience. “The most exciting thing in the program is when these diverse students meet with the interdisciplinary faculty and professionals,” Gooden said. “These are highly motivated, hardworking students learning from faculty who are very knowledgeable in their fields.” Torp, the parent of sons 5 and 4 years old, one of whom has been diagnosed with autism, singled out Professor Bev Harp, an educational specialist and LEND faculty member at HDI, calling her class session a “phenomenal presentation.” “She really taught us about autism, and the history of disability inclusion, and how the world works for people with neurological disorders,” Torp said. Along with classroom work, each student undertakes a variety of field experi-

Advocacy Works ences that require at least 12 hours a week. Torp, for instance, is working on decreasing vaccine hesitancy in the disability community. Martin, a graduate student, has coordinated a telehealth program that offers free, individual and group therapy for parents of children with autism. Turner, a self-advocate, is working on a universal design project that focuses on bringing accessibility to everything from wheelchair ramps and houses to exercise equipment and handoperated kitchen utensils. Gooden has been nothing short of dazzled by the effort and progress of the students. “They all work really hard and this is a time-consuming program,” she said. “You can see that these students are going to be leaders in their fields. Each one is going to make a difference for people with autism in Kentucky.”

Here is a capsule look at three of the students: a parent, graduate student and a self-advocate.

Tanya Torp is a parent, activist, agent for change and the Executive Director of Step By Step, Inc., which encourages and supports young single mothers, ages 12-24. Her foster sons, 5 and 4, have received diagnoses of autism plus sensory processing disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and reactive attachment disorder. Torp benefits from LEND both personally and professionally. As a parent of a foster child on Medicaid, she is accustomed to long waiting lists for services, so “I took this class to learn what I could to help my foster son until he gets services,” she said. At Step By Step, she and her staff of four serve more than 300 young mothers a year. She shares what she learns through LEND with those mothers. “Before LEND, the most effective way for parents to share information and techniques was by TikTok,” Torp said. “LEND centers the disability community. I’m learning real life applications. “And I’m very inspired by the people I’ve met in the LEND community. It challenges me to keep learning.” She is proud of the progress she has made with her vaccine hesitancy program, identifying barriers and working with people all over the country. LEND also unites her advocacy for the disability community with her fight against racism. “The history of disability advocacy would not be complete without the Civil Rights movement,” she said. “I learned that the Black Panthers brought food during the 504 disability sit-ins back in the day, so the intersectionality of that is huge.”

Gabriella Martin is a graduate student at EKU who will earn her doctorate in clinical psychology in 2022 and already has big plans for a career for which LEND is training her. “I want to work in a multi-disciplinary environment,” she said. “This is my dream, and LEND is my first comprehensive dive into that. Through LEND, I can seek out so many multidisciplinary professionals, and our class is so diverse.” Martin is in her second year of running a free telehealth program to support parents with children with autism. She and her colleagues worked during the early months of the pandemic to bring the program to a telehealth format, and they will be presenting on this at a conference in Ohio. With the resources she has gleaned from LEND, she plans to create, in cooperation with the website lettercase.org, a coping handbook to help parents who have just learned of a prenatal or postnatal diagnosis of their child. “I want to focus on underserved populations and LEND complements that well,” she said. “I am very happy in the program. Just ask my friends. I talk about it all the time.” Tanya Torp photo by Hannah Allen/Olive Branch+Co.

Morgan Turner is a program education assistant at UK’s Human Development Institute and a strong self-advocate. He uses prosthetics on both legs and has a learning disability, neither of which slows him down for a second. LEND has broadened his horizons and increased his knowledge of other disabilities, which helps him better understand his friends in Special Olympics. Turner was a high school wrestler and is still active in athletics. His project focuses on universal design, which is about bringing accessibility to everything, ranging from athletic equipment to cooking utensils and everything in between. He has presented on UK’s campus about universal design, and helped coordinate a panel discussion for UK education students to help them learn about people with disabilities. He also has worked with fellow student Tanya Torp with her project to reduce vaccine hesitancy in the disability community. Even with the long hours and extra work that comes with LEND, Turner is pleased to be a participant. “It has not been easy but I have learned so much and I’ve made many new friends,” he said. 2022 Exceptional Family KY

Advocacy Works

NORB RYAN Legendary Advocate Uses Humor, Tenacity to Impact Countless Lives By John Lynch

taff member Jennifer Hicks of the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities witnessed the transformation countless times when she worked with Norb Ryan during his 13 years as the state’s American With Disabilities Act Coordinator. A room full of dubious listeners shift uncomfortably in their chairs as Norb (nobody calls him Mr. Ryan) enters a room to talk about ADA rules or disability etiquette to groups as diverse as realtors and lawyers and doctors and police officers. In a matter of minutes, the listeners have relaxed and are engaged because Norb, who has cerebral palsy that affects his speech and mobility, has already cracked half a dozen jokes – all at his own expense. When speaking to a group about disability etiquette, he breaks the ice by telling the crowd that his wife is certain that he knows nothing about etiquette. Famously, he once lost his balance while presenting to a large crowd and as he fell backward remarked with an impish grin, “I’ll be right back.” “Norb has a wonderful, disarming sense of humor,” said Hicks, Norb’s No. 2 at the state ADA office who later served as his successor. “I learned so much from him about how to handle awkward situations with humor. One summer, he and I drove around the state checking the accessibility of Kentucky parks. Spending a lot of time in the car with your boss could be bad for some people, but 18

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we laughed a lot and had a ball.” And they went everywhere to ensure that state parks, government buildings, victims service agencies, racetracks, domestic violence and sexual assault centers, and even prisons met accessibility standards mandated by law. Norb combined his sense of humor with an incisive intelligence, signaled by his mastery of the ADA law. In any room he entered, he was always the most knowledgeable about that subject. “As ADA Coordinator, he helped thousands of people with disabilities,” Hicks said. “He worked every case personally and knew the law, and people respected him for it. I learned from his wisdom and absorbed how to be a better person by working with him.” Norb was also relentless. And because of that, he has a wall full of awards at his home office and an army of admirers. That’s why he was recognized wherever he went. “It seems like every time we got into an elevator somewhere,” Hicks said, “somebody would say, ‘Are you Norb Ryan?’ It even happened once when he was with his wife in North Carolina.” Norb’s persistence and dedication to the mission of advocacy for accessibil-

Photo by Robin Allen Photography

ity accounts for his many admirers. One of those is MaryLee Underwood, Executive Director of the Interstate Commission for Juveniles and former Executive Director of the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities. “Norb never shies away from a challenge. In fact, he actually seeks them out,” Underwood said. “If he agrees to do something, he does it exceedingly well.” Norb and Underwood first met when she was lead council for the state Association of Sexual Assault Programs. An advocate informed the group that people with disabilities were an overlooked population when it came to sexual violence. At an ad-hoc meeting that included Norb, then the state ADA Coordinator, Project SAFE evolved. That effort raised awareness and offered sup-

port and help to victims of sexual and domestic violence in the disability community. Shortly thereafter, Underwood, who was a new mother with a child who was showing developmental delays, attended a seminar where Norb spoke. His words affected her both professionally and personally. “I was just blown away by his knowledge and my world view expanded,” she said. “At the same time, his words helped me learn how to parent this child I had. “Norb lives to a very high standard. Maybe early in his life expectations were low because of his disability. But his family said, ‘No no no. We expect you to do great things,’ and he did.” Norb can’t praise his parents, Adele and Patrick Ryan, enough for the life he has enjoyed. Norb was born in Cleveland in 1946 with cerebral palsy, and doctors recommended that his parents send him to a facility. Two years of that and they realized that he would do much better at home. And he did. He always defied expectations and shattered stereotypes. Although he attended an adaptive P.E. class in school, he played intramural football in high school, and softball and baseball most of his life. “I was not a fast runner but I could hit so there was always a spot for me on the team,” he said. A graduate of Eastern Kentucky University in 1975, he worked at Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital for six years and then was an administrator at Child Development Center of the Bluegrass for 16 years. In 1992, he moved to the Human Development Institute at UK where he served as the disability program administrator, the Kentucky ADA Act Initiative director and employment specialist until he became the State ADA Coordinator in 2001. He also became legendary for his Disability Etiquette Powerpoint presentation that started off with a list of celebrities with disabilities such as Franklin Delano Roosevelt (polio),

Advocacy Works

Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison (learning disability) He’s also proud of his work as a and Tom Cruise (dyslexia). fundraiser at Cardinal Hill where he Sample points: Using a wheelchair organized the hospital’s annual teleis not a tragedy – it represents indethon, pointing out that in six years he pendence to the user. Never lean on a tripled donation totals. wheelchair. Before lending assistance, Also at Cardinal Hill, where he ask first if help is needed. worked with his wife Barb, they Norb retired as ADA Coordinator in implemented a recreation project that 2014 and soon thereafter was appointprompted Lexington to start its own ed to the CCDD Council, at Undertherapeutic recreation program. wood’s recommendation. He has nothing but praise for the “Absolutely, I wanted him on the Council because of his depth of knowl- CCDD, citing its financial backing of worthy projects and working for the edge, analytical skill and his people needs of people with disabilities both skills,” Underwood said. “He can dive now and in the future. right to the heart of an issue and has such a high level of expertise.” Norb is entering his sixth and final year as a Council member still as fearlessly committed to advocacy as ever. He admits that age – he is 75 – has worsened his disability. Able-bodied enough to coach his children in youth sports and take a parachute ride in Seattle, Norb now uses a “ranger” (his name for Norb Ryan with his wife, Barbara, far a walker, inspired by the TV show “Walker, right, and daughter Jen and son Matt Texas Ranger.”) He still drives himHis biggest wish is for the state to self, attends physical therapy regularly reinstate the ADA Coordinator office, and stays as independent as possible. which was closed during Governor His focus is on the future but when Bevin’s administration, saying that the pressed he admits he has created a ideal person for the job would be someunique legacy and impacted countless one with a visible disability – someone lives. like Norb Ryan. His accolades include induction into “He is fearless and unflappable and the Kentucky Commission on Human has had a profound effect on people as Rights Hall of Fame, numerous lifetime achievement awards from various a mentor and as an advocate,” Underwood said. associations and recognition from the Added Hicks: “Norb always makes Association of University Centers on sure his voice is heard. He is a great Disabilities, a national organization. example to self-advocates, and has the He’s devoted to his wife Barb, he’s ability to parse out right from wrong a dedicated father and now the proud and speak so eloquently about those grandfather of two with one more on issues.” n the way. 2022 Exceptional Family KY

Resource List 2022

General Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities 656 Chamberlin Ave., Suite C, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (877) 367-5332 / (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-

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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 Ashland: Toni Mullins / (606) 694-1797 toni@guidedlivingllc.com Barren County: Allison Curasi / thebcarc@gmail.com Central Kentucky: Alva M. Covington / (312) 502-8217 Floyd County/Prestonsburg: Deborah Hall (606) 268-0808 Hardin County: Clara Harrison / (270) 300-6659 Lake Cumberland, Somerset: Pending Logan County: Thomas Thompson / (270) 726-2218 Louisville Area: Serena Jacobs / (502) 939-8273 Meade County: Mary Greenwell / (270) 980-0150 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 Ashland: Toni Mullins / (606) 694-1797 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 www.bestbuddies.org/kentucky/ 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. 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 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, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (877) 588-2300 / (502) 587-0494 / www.bbbsky.org Madisonville-Hopkins County 1 South Main Street, Madisonville, Ky., 42431

Providing meaningful experiences and opportunities for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

At New Vista our goal is to help individuals live and participate in their community. We promote person-centered care, providing services that support an individual’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being We see the good ahead.

24-Hour Helpline 1.800.928.8000 | newvista.org | Joint Commission Accredited

24-Hour Helpline 1.800.928.8000 | newvista.org

Resource List 2022 (270) 821-0688 / www.Madisonvillebbbs.org Tristate 1505 Carter Ave., Suite 301, Ashland, Ky., 41105 (606) 329-8799 / www.bbbstristate.org

who has been affected by cerebral palsy, brain injuries or birth injuries. The goal is to continue to provide the most up-to-date information from trusted sources as it becomes available. / cerebralpalsygroup.com

Bluegrass Care Navigators 1733 Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (855) 492-0812 / www.hospicebg.org 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..

Children’s Home of Cincinnati 5050 Madison Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45227 (513) 272-2800 / (513) 808-9632 The Children’s Home of Cincinnati 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. The Home 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

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

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

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 also available for the ID/DD population. www.buildinclusion.org Centers 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 Cerebral Palsy Group 13506 Summerport Village Parkway, Windermere, Fla., 34786 / (866) 510-0717 Cerebral Palsy Group is an online resource for anyone

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Community Action Kentucky 101 Burch Court, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (800) 456-3452 / (502) 875-5863 Community Action Kentucky (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.kaca.org Easter Seals Cardinal Hill 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 367-7217 / www.cardinalhill.org Western Kentucky 801 N. 29th St., Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 444-9687 / www.eswky.easterseals.com 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 assist people with disabilities to achieve their potential for community inclusion through improving access and equal opportunity. / www.ipky.org 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 / www.ipky.org 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. Independence Seekers Project P.O. Box 21104 Louisville, Ky., 40221 (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 kpfc@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

The Autism Society of the Bluegrass serves as resource and support for people in Central Kentucky who care about autism.

es Conferenc nal & Educatio s Lecture

Monthly Meetings Monday of Held the last 6:30pm each month, l’s at St. Michae urch h Episcopal C te Dr. n 2025 Bellefo Lexington

Visit the HDI Center for Assistive Technology Services (CATS) University of Kentucky Human Development Institute This Regional Assistive Technology Center serving Lexington and surrounding counties offers:

Reso ur Lend ce ing Libra ry

• Lending Library of devices • Demonstration of assistive technologies

• Training on assistive technology devices

2358 Nicolasville Rd. Ste. 180 Lexington, KY 40503 hdiatcenter@l.uky.edu | www.katsnet.at4all.com | 859-218-7979

Bluegrass Autism Walk

hdi.uky.edu

visit our website or facebook page

ukhdi

UK_HDI

hdi.uky.edu © University of Kentucky Human Development Institute

asbg.org • facebook.com/Autism-Society-of-the-Bluegrass

P protecting rights encouraging E inclusion optimizing O supports promoting P choice lifting L expectations educating E communities

uk_hdi

THE ARC OF KENTUCKY is a statewide grassroots advocacy organization that works to ensure a quality life for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc of Kentucky 706 East Main, Suite A Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 875-5225 / www.arcofky.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.

Achieve with Us:

Advocate Educate Empower

Encourage for Change

The Arc of Kentucky Statewide Conference Best Practices for People with Intellectual/ Developmental Disabilities www.arcofky.org

Conference Is Held Annually 2022 Exceptional Family KY

Resource List 2022 (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 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 Kerrington’s Heart, Inc. P.O. Box 911074, Lexington, Ky., 40591 (859) 509-9857 Dedicated to the education, support and encouragement of children with heart disease, their families and caregivers. www.kerringtonsheart.org The Molly Johnson Foundation P.O. Box 215, Fisherville, Ky., 40023 (502) 724-0067 The Molly Johnson Foundation was created to assist families of children with special needs in a variety of ways, including financial help, supplying medical equipment, home accommodations and travel expenses for services. The Molly Johnson Foundation desires to make a difference in the lives of these families in the best way possible. www.themollyjohnsonfoundation.org A Mother’s Rest 32 W. Main St., New Market, Md., 21774 Organizes year-round small-group respite retreats for families with children (youth or adult) with disabilities. Locations include Versailles and Mammoth Cave. www.amothersrest.org Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky 801 Corporate Drive, Suite 120, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 225-8879 / 1-800-CHILDREN pcaky@pcaky.org / www.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. 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.

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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 1255 23rd St., NW, Suite 400, Washington, D.C., 20037 (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, 1117 S. Limestone St., Lexington, Ky., 40536 / (859) 323-1153 www.ukhealthcare.uky.edu/safekids Kentucky Coalition Kentucky Department of Health, 275 E. Main St., HS2W-A, Suite 242, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-2154 ext 4459 tara.tucker@ky.gov, Louisville and Jefferson County Coalition Norton Children’s Hospital, 231 E. Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40202 / (502) 629-7335 Special Persons Advocacy Network 1007 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, Ky., 40330 bobbie.hancock@uky.edu / (859) 734-4378 SPAN seeks to support individuals with disabilities and their families by facilitating community involvement and support groups. TASH Disability Advocacy Worldwide 1101 15th Street NW, Suite 206, Washington D.C., 20005 (202)-817-3264 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 www.tash.org/chapters/kentucky-tash/ Tourette Syndrome Association

Lexington Support Group: (270) 317-3046 Louisville Support Group: (502) 235-0704 www.tsa-usa.org United Way Bluegrass 651 Perimeter Dr., Suite 510, Lexington, Ky., 40517 211 Information Line / (859) 977-7391 www.uwbg.org Kentucky P.O. Box 4653, Louisville, Ky., 40204 334 E. Broadway, Suite 308, Louisville, Ky., 40204 (502) 589-6897 / www.uwky.org Metro 334 E. Broadway, P.O. Box 4488, Louisville, Ky., 40204 (502) 583-2821 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 / (800) 592-1117 Serves those affected by brain injury through advocacy, education, prevention, service and support. www.biak.us Cabinet for Health and Family Services Commission for Children with Special Health Care Needs The Commission for Children with Special Health Care

Advocacy Works

2022 Calendar Quarterly Council Meetings • February 17 and 18 • May 12 and 13 • August 18 and 19 • November 17 and 18

SAVE THE DATE • February 23 874K Day at the Capitol

• March 1 CCDD Day at the Capitol

CCDD Office: 656 Chamberlin Ave, Suite C, Frankfort, Ky. (502) 367-5332 / (502) 564-7841 / www.CCDD.KY.gov

2022 Exceptional Family KY

Resource List 2022 Needs has received a grant from the federal Health Resources and Services Administration to create Family to Family Health Information Centers throughout the commission offices. The centers are staffed by mentors who are parents of children with special needs, and they provide support to families of individuals with special needs. Parents and caregivers have the opportunity to connect with another parent or caregiver with a similar situation or special health care need. 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, 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 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 400 Park Ave., Bldg. D, Paducah, Ky., 42001 (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.

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. Sondra Gilbert 1600 Breckenridge St., Owensboro, 42302 Sondra.GIlbert@ky.gov / (270) 687-7038 ext. 3 or (502) 782-8781 or (270) 993-9430 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 The Hart-Supported Living program is for Kentuckians with disabilities to request grants so they can live in, contribute to and participate in their communities. Any Kentuckian with a disability recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is eligible to apply for a HartSupported Living grant. Coordinators Region 1: Rachel Phelan P.O. Box 548, Bardwell, Ky., 42023 (502) 229-9110 / rachel.phelan@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, Family to Family Health Information Centers Hancock, Hardin, Hart, Larue, Logan, Meade, Metcalf, Located at the offices of the Commission for Children Monroe, Nelson, Ohio, Simpson, Taylor and Warren. with Special Health Care Needs, Family to Family HICs are Region 3: Natalie Rawlings family-run centers that assist families of children and youth P.O. Box 206037, Louisville, Ky., 40220 (502) 229-6500 / natalie.rawlings@ky.gov Counties: Bullitt, Jefferson and Spencer. Region 4: Denise Poynter-Shook P.O. Box 33, Richmond, Ky., 40476 (502) 229-2102 / mpoyntershook@ ky.gov Counties: Anderson, Bourbon, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Harrison, Jessamine, ur goal at Exceptional Family Magazine is to provide a compreMadison, Marion, Mercer, Montgomery, Powell, Scott, Washington and hensive, statewide list of resources for folks with disabilities. Woodford. Since we first published this magazine in 2009, we have upRegion 5: Contact main office at (502) 564-6930 dated and expanded our list of resources many times. Counties: Bell, Boyle, Casey, Clay, Help us continue to make this Resource Directory as accurate and Clinton, Garrard, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, thorough as possible. If you know of resources in the state or in your Laurel, Lee, Leslie, Lincoln, McCreary, Owsley, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell, part of Kentucky that need to be included, please let us know. Wayne and Whitley. Thanks for your assistance and we look forward to hearing from you. Region 6: Caryn Turvey P.O. Box 498, Ironton, Ohio, 45638 (502) 229-6863 / caryn.turvey@ To add to this Resource Directory, simply contact Editor John Lynch by ky.gov phone (859) 494-1140 or email at john@lexingtonfamily.com. n Counties: Bath, Boyd, Bracken, Breathitt, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Floyd,

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Resource List 2022 Greenup, Johnson, Knott, Lawrence, Letcher, Lewis, Magoffin, Martin, Mason, Menifee, Morgan, Nicholas, Perry, Pike, Robertson, Rowan and Wolfe. Region 7: Jennifer Rush P.O. Box 797, Lancaster, Ky., 40444 (502) 229-5015 / jennifer.rush@ky.gov Counties: Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Franklin, Gallatin, Grant, Henry, Kenton, Oldham, Owen, Pendleton, Shelby and Trimble. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/hslp.aspx Home and Community-Based Waiver (HCB) 275 E. Main St., 6W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-5560 The Home and Community-Based Waiver program provides Medicaid coverage to eligible persons who are aged or disabled and would otherwise require nursing facility level of care. Services include but are not limited to the following: assessment and reassessment, case management, homemaker services, personal care services, respite care, minor home adaptations, attendant care and adult day health care. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/hcb-waiver. aspx Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corp. Mayo-Underwood Building 500 Mero St., 4th 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. KATLC can provide loans for modified vehicles, hearing aids, adapted computers, mobility devices, augmentative communication devices or any other type of equipment or home modification that will improve the quality of life or increase the independence of Kentuckians with disabilities. / www.katlc.ky.gov Kentucky Education & Workforce Development 500 Mero St., 4th floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-0372 Providing Kentuckians from all across the Commonwealth 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 (V/TTY) / (800) 372-2907 (V/TTY, in Kentucky only) / kcdhh@mail.state.ky.us www.kcdhh.ky.gov 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 / (606) 679-9425 Ext. 2272 Serving Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor, Wayne counties. www.adanta.org Seven Counties Services 10401 Linn Station Road, Suite 100, Louisville, Ky. 40223 (502) 589-8600 Serving Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble counties. / www.sevencounties.org Communicare, Inc. 1311 North Dixie Ave., Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 (270) 765-2605 Serving Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington counties. www.communicare.org Comprehend, Inc. 611 Forest Ave., Maysville, Ky., 41056 (606) 564-4016 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., P.O. Box 6499, 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, P.O. Box 2680, 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., 8th floor, Ashland, Ky., 41101 / (606) 329-8588 ext. 4078 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., P.O. Box 1637, Owensboro, Ky., 42302 (270) 689 6500 Serving Davies, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, Webster counties. / www.rvbh.com 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 First Steps State Lead Agency 275 E. Main St., HS2WC, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-3756 First Steps is a statewide intervention system that provides services to children with developmental disabilities from birth to age 3 and their families. Administered by the Department for Public Health in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, First Steps offers comprehensive services through community agencies and service disciplines. Children who participate in early intervention have significant improvement in development and learning. Helping to

2022 Exceptional Family KY

Resource List 2022 decrease the problems early in a child’s development can reduce or prevent costly educational programs in the future. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dmch/ecdb/Pages/ firststeps.aspx Regional Offices: www.kyfirststeps.org/find_my_poe.html 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 P.O. Box 568, Corbin, Ky., 40702 (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,

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Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott, Woodford Northern Kentucky District Point of Entry NorthKey Community Care: 12 East 5th St., Newport, Ky., 41071 / (859) 308-5963 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 (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 Regional Offices: Ashland: (606) 920-2338 Bluegrass: (859) 246-2537 / (888) 211-7276 Bowling Green: (270) 746-7489 / (800) 443-6055 Carl D. Perkins Center: (800) 443-2187 Covington: (859) 292-6513 / (866) 380-3450 Danville: (859) 239-7885 / (800) 795-8481 Elizabethtown: (270) 766-5121 / (866) 883-0001 Florence: (859) 371-9450 / (877) 371-9451 Lexington: (859) 246-2185 / (859) 246-2540 (877) 246-2185 Louisville: (502) 595-4173 / (800) 456-3334 East Jefferson District: (502) 420-5952 (866) 304-1958 Owensboro: (270) 687-7308 / (888) 640-2811 Paducah District: (270) 575-7304 Prestonsburg District: (606) 889-1689 (877) 398-6656 Whitesburg: (606) 633-2568 Kentucky Transitions (Money Follows the Person Demonstration Grant) 275 East Main St., 6 W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-0330 / (877) 564-0330 Using funding from the Money Follows the Person Demonstration Grant, the Department for Medicaid Services assists eligible individuals to transition from institutional settings back into the community. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/kytransitions.aspx

Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services Division of Community Alternatives If you are elderly, have a physical, intellectual or developmental disability or are ventilator dependent, you may qualify for Medicaid waiver services. Known as 1915(c) Home- and Community-Based Services waivers, these services provide the support you need to continue to live at home. https://public.medicaid.gov/connect.ti/public.comments/ view?objectId=3217936 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 Michelle P. Waiver Division of Community Alternatives 275 E. Main St., 6 W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (855) 459-6328 / (502) 564-1647 / (502) 564-4527 A Medicaid program that helps people live in the community or return to the community after living in an institution. The Michelle P. Waiver is for anyone with an intellectual or a developmental disability who is eligible to receive services at an Intermediate Care Facility. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/default.aspx Pathways to Careers and Special Programs 300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4286 https://education.ky.gov/CTE/Pages/default.aspx Personal Care Attendant Program Department for Aging and Independent Living 275 E. Main St., 3E-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-6930 Ext 3477 Attendant services are provided for people 18 and older with functional loss of two or more limbs and who have the ability to hire and supervise an attendant. Services include assistance with personal care, housekeeping, shopping, travel, self-care procedures, meal preparation, and other daily activities. 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 Bowling Green 2724 Chandler Drive, Bowling Green, Ky., 42104 Campbellsville 101 Hiestand Farm Road, Campbellsville, Ky., 42718 Corbin 159 Future Drive, Corbin, Ky., 40701 Danville 103 Belinda Blvd., Danville, Ky., 40422

Resource List 2022 Elizabethtown 591 Westport Road, Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 Florence 7 Youell St., Florence, Ky., 41042 Frankfort 140 Flynn Ave., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 Hazard 122 Reynolds Lane, Hazard, Ky., 41701 Hopkinsville 1650 Marie Drive, Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 Jackson 850 KY-15 N., Jackson, Ky., 41339 Lexington 2241 Buena Vista Road, Suite 110, Lexington, Ky., 40505 Louisville 10503 Timberwood Circle, Suite 50, Louisville, Ky., 40223 Madisonville 4431 Hanson Road, Madisonville, Ky., 42431 Maysville 509 Market Place Drive, Maysville, Ky., 41056 Owensboro 4532 Lucky Strike Loop, Owensboro, Ky., 42303 Paducah 125 Brett Chase Road, Paducah, Ky., 42003 Prestonsburg 1897 Ky. Route 321, Prestonsburg, Ky., 41653 Richmond 1060 Gibson Bay Drive, Richmond, Ky., 40475 Somerset 3975 US-27, Somerset, Ky., 42501 Supports for Community Living Waiver Branch 275 E. Main St., 4CF, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-7700 The Supports for Community Living (SCL) Waiver Branch of the Division of Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities (DDID) provides staff support for and oversight of the Supports for Community Living waiver program. The SCL waiver program is a home- and community-based program funded by the Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services and administered by DDID. dbhdid.ky.gov/ddid/scl.aspx

ADOPTION AND FOSTERING Adoption Support for Kentucky UK College of Social Work, 1500 Bull Lea Road, Suite 194, Lexington Ky., 40511 (859) 257-7361 Adoption Support for Kentucky (ASK) is a statewide program that specializes in the utilization of support groups to offer pre- and post-adoptive support and services to both foster and adoptive parents. ASK provides the opportunity to share resources, suggestions, frustrations and successes with those who share this unique experience. ASK strives to prevent pre-adoption disruption and post-adoption dissolution through peer-led support and training. There is no cost and any and all are welcome. www.uky.edu/trc/ask

The Bair Foundation 2393 Alumni Drive, Suite 205, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 519-3273 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 traumainformed care for all children, helping them face challenging behaviors, and provides them with stable environments while focusing on the child’s strengths. www.bair.org 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, Lexington, Louisville, Madisonville, Morehead, Owensboro, Owenton, Paducah, Prestonsburg, and Somerset. www.benchmarkfamilyservices.org Children’s Home of Cincinnati 5050 Madison Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45227 (513) 272-2800 / (513) 808-9632 The Children’s Home of Cincinnati 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. The Home 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.thechildrenshomecinti.org Key Assets Kentucky 961 Beasley St., Suite 160, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 286-5744 Key Assets provides support for specialized foster parents who care for children with developmental delays or autism. www.keyassetskentucky.com Kentucky Adoption Profile Exchange (Formerly Special Needs Adoption Program) 275 East Main St., 3C-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-7043 DCBS/Adoption Service prdweb.chfs.ky.gov/kape/index.aspx

THE ARTS All Abilities Drama Camp Jessamine Early Learning Village, 851 Wilmore Road,

Nicholasville, Ky., 40356 aadramacamp@gmail.com Embracing the gifts of all campers through the arts by celebrating difference, skills, personalities and abilities. www.allabilitiescamp.blogspot.com Allegro Dance Project (715) 252-6137 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 P.O. Box 3320, Bowling Green, Ky., 42102 (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

2022 Exceptional Family KY

Resource List 2022

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center 5659 Main St., Thelma, Ky., 41260 (606) 788-7080 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

Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corp. Mayo-Underwood Building 500 Mero St., 4th 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. KATLC can provide loans for modified vehicles, hearing aids, adapted computers, mobility devices, augmentative communication devices or any other type of equipment or home modification that will improve the quality of life or increase the independence of Kentuckians with disabilities. / www.katlc.ky.gov Ky. Department of Education Exceptional Children 300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4970 www.education.ky.gov/specialed/Pages/default.aspx

Enabling Technologies of Kentuckiana (enTECH) at Spalding University 812 S. Second St., Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 992-2448 / www.entech.spalding.edu

Kentucky Assistive Technology Guidelines 8412 Westport Road, Louisville Ky., 40242 (800) 327-5287 www.katsnet.org/resources/web-accessibility/ky-ait-law/

HDI Center for Assistive Technology Services 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. www.hdi.uky.edu/HDICATS / www.facebook.com/ HDICATS

Redwood Assistive Technology Center 71 Orphanage Road, Ft. Mitchell, Ky., 41017 (800) 728-9807 / www.redwoodnky.org

KATS (Ky. Assistive Technology Service Network Coordinating Center) 8412 Westport Road, Louisville, Ky., 40242 (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

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/

KATS Project CARAT (800) 327-5287 A program of KATS, CARAT enables underserved 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/

www.lexingtonfamily.com

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 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 www.ask-lou.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. Capital Area Autism Parents believes no one should walk this journey alone and support is essential for every individual. www.facebook.com/groups/CAAP2 Families for Effective Autism Treatment 1100 E. Market St., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 774-0797 / www.featoflouisville.org Hopebridge 1300 E. New Circle Road, Suite 150, Lexington, Ky. 40505 / (859) 685-1019 5215 Commerce Crossings Drive, Louisville, Ky., 40229 (502) 251-7002 2427 Russellville Road, Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 936-7472 Provides a full range of professional services in one location for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental delays. www.hopebridge.com The Kelly Autism Program Western Kentucky University Clinical Education Complex, 104 Alumni Ave., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 745-4KAP (4527) 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 www.louisville.edu/education/kyautismtraining Norton Child Development and Genetic Center 411 E. Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 588-0850 Provides center-based and outreach diagnostic evaluations and treatment to infants and children with, or at risk for, developmental disabilities, congenital anomalies, genetic disorders, autism, organic behavior disorders (ADHD) and learning disabilities, as well as genetic counseling to adults. http://louisville.edu/medicine/departments/pediatrics/ divisions/developmental-behavioral-genetics louisville.edu/medicine/departments/pediatrics/divisions/ weisskopf 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

Resource List 2022 knowledge through a classroom session focused on improving miscommunication among law enforcement officials and individuals with autism. www.pactautism.com Wendell Foster’s Kelly Autism Program 815 Triplett St. / P.O. Box 1668, Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (877) 932-2678 https://wendellfoster.org

CAMPS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Special Populations Division 225 E. Third Ave., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 393-3549 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 Camp Discovery 33 W. Second St., 3rd Floor, Maysville, Ky., 41056 (606) 301-8338 A three-day, all-female camp designed to teach women in wheelchairs physical fitness and how to form lasting relationships. Sports such as wheelchair tennis, SCUBA diving and horseback riding as well as whole body wellness such as art therapy, nutrition classes, cooking and massage are all incorporated throughout the weekend. maysvilleinitiatives.com/camp-discovery/ Camp Hendon 1640 Lyndon Farm Court, Suite 108, Louisville, Ky., 40223 / (502) 272-2370 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

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 P.O. Box 13155, Lexington, Ky., 40583 (859) 231-7066 / lauriston@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 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. Easter Seals Adaptive Recreation 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 246-8816 / 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

Cassidy’s Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy 6075 Clinton Road, Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 554-4040 / www.cassidyscause.org

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/

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

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 Dunbar Community Center, 545 N. Upper St., Lexington, Ky., 40508 / (859) 288-2900 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/ LYSA’s TOPSoccer Program P.O. Box 23481, Lexington, Ky., 40523 (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 / (800) 633-7403 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) 254-9622 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

2022 Exceptional Family KY

Resource List 2022 spring and fall. www.facebook.com/pages/category/Disability-Service/ Toyota-Bluegrass-Miracle-League-59145356197

DOWN SYNDROME Down Syndrome Association of Central Kentucky 1050 Chinoe Road, Suite 204, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (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) 723-4548 / 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.facebook.com/321heartland/ Green River Area Down Syndrome Association Owensboro and surrounding area P.O. Box 2031, Owensboro, Ky., 42302 (270) 681-5313 / 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. www.downsyndromeoflouisville.org

www.lexingtonfamily.com

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

or P.O. Box 654, Frankfort, Ky., 40602-0654 (502) 226-6607 / kentuckypta@bellsouth.net www.kypta.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, meetings are on the third Monday of the month at the Heartland Worship Center in Paducah. / www.dsawk.com

Kentucky State Department of Education 300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-3141 / education.ky.gov

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) (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 / TTY (866) 915-5000 The largest international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, students with disabilities, and/or the gifted. / 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: Division of Exceptional Services 300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4970 Oversees funding, special education programs, data collection, personnel development, monitoring of school districts, curriculum development and more. www.education.ky.gov/specialed/excep/Pages/default.aspx Kentucky PTA 148 Consumer Lane, Frankfort Ky., 40601

Kentucky State University Disability Resource Center 400 E. Main St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 Hathaway Hall Office, Suite 107 (502) 597-6041 / phillip.clay@kysu.edu 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 e.day@moreheadstate.edu This office ensures that the university’s programs, activities, services and the campus itself are accessible to all students and visitors. www.moreheadstate.edu/disability 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 Public School Parent Resource Centers, Cabinet for Health and Family Services 275 E. Main St., 3C-G, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4986 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,

Resource List 2022 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 3: Program Manager Naela Imanyara and Andrea Pike-Goff (502) 271-7720 / naela.imanyara@ky.gov (270) 980-9134 / 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 Barbara Pettus (859) 200-7777 / barbara.pettus@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 Gay (859) 661-9629 / lisa.gay@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 Resources for prospective and current students and parents. www.uky.edu/StudentAffairs/DisabilityResourceCenter

University of Louisville Disability Resource Center 119 Stevenson Hall, Louisville, Ky., 40292 (502) 852-6938 / askdrc@louisville.edu UofL provides support for students with documented disabilities by promoting equal access to all programs and services. www.louisville.edu/disability Western Kentucky University Student Accessibility Resource Center 1906 College Heights Blvd., Suite 21052 Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 Downing Student Union, First Floor, 1074 (270) 745-5004 / SARC.CONNECT@WKU.EDU WKU coordinates services and accommodations for students with documented 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 538 A 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. ldonline@weta.org www.ldonline.org/ldresources/local_org/kentucky 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 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 Attorney Karen L. Perch 230 Lexington Green Circle, Suite 120, Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 224-0513 Karen Perch and her staff are dedicated to helping clients with legal matters regarding Wills, Living Wills, Powers of Attorney, Trusts, including Special Needs Trusts, Qualifying Income Trusts (Miller Trusts) and Family Trusts and Estate Administration. / www.lifeplanofky.org 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 $2000.00 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 Attorney Robert McClelland, LLM, CELA McClelland & Associates, PLLC, 1795 Alysheba Way, Suite 2102, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 543-0061 / (800) 773-4040

2022 Exceptional Family KY

Resource List 2022 Robert L. McClelland is a certified elder law attorney, special needs trustee and guardian with Elder Law Lexington, the firm of McClelland & Associates, PLLC. He is a member of the Special Needs Alliance, a national alliance of special needs attorneys who focus their practice on benefits planning and caring for those with family members who have special needs. www.elderlawlexington.com 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 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. 1-877-KYSAFE1 or 1-877-597-2331. 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 Nick Wallace, Financial Planner Northwestern Mutual 330 E. Main St., Suite, 300, Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 302-1223 / Nick.Wallace@nm.com

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

MEDICAL AND THERAPY SERVICE PROVIDERS

(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

Associates in Pediatric Therapy Louisville Area: (502) 633-1007 Lexington Area: (859) 899-2022 Indiana Area: (812) 542-2771 Bowling Green Area: (270) 467-7700 APT’s unique appeal is that it offers a family approach 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

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 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

Blue Sprig Pediatrics Lexington Autism Therapy Center 1035 Strader Drive, 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. / https://bluesprigautism.com/

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/

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 635 S. Main St., Leitchfield, Ky., 42754 (270) 287-0656 363 W. Lincoln Trail Blvd., Radcliff, Ky., 40160 (270) 352-1133 722 Harvard Drive, Owensboro, Ky., 42301

Edelson and Associates, PSC 7511 New La Grange Road, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 423-1151 / www.edelsonandassociates.info Neuropsychological, ADHD, learning disability, autism and psychological disorder evaluations. 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. www.kentuckyonehealth.org/rehabilitationcarefrazier 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/ Horn and Associates in Rehabilitation 2412 Greatstone Point, Lexington, Ky., 40504

Resource List 2022 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, 800 Rose 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. www.ukhealthcare.uky.edu/KCH 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 Bowling Green: 1347 Kentucky Hwy. 185, Suite 2, Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 746-0333 Erlanger: 527 Watson Road, Erlanger, Ky., 41018 (859) 727-0700 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 for children who are medically fragile in a daycare setting. 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) Locations 50 Gene Cash Road, Campbellsville, Ky., 42718 (270) 465-SPOT (465-7768) 107 Financial Dr., Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 (270) 763-8225 944 Fields Drive, Suite 102, Bowling Green, Ky., 42104 (270) 495-1312 200 Tower Circle, Somerset, Ky., 42503

(606) 416-5139 308 Horton Street, Suite B, Grayson, Ky., 41143 (270) 283-3845 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 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 need-based 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 NCC 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-disabilitiesservices/ 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-childrenshospital/

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.passporthealthplan.com 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 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

MENTAL 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

2022 Exceptional Family KY

Resource List 2022 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 / 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 also available for the ID/DD population. The Kentucky Association of Regional Programs 3459 Buckhorn Drive, Suite 100, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 272-6700 A state association whose members are 11 of the 14 community mental health centers in Kentucky. KARP can connect citizens to their local community mental health center for information about services and support. www.sites.google.com/site/kentuckycmhcs 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. 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 912 Scott St., Covington, Ky., 41011 (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

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Bowling Green Deborah Weed & Larry Gregory: (270) 796-2600 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 Steven Hoeck: (606) 282-3793 Daniel Esseck: (606) 545-2019 Danville Suzanne Fryman: (859) 221-6879 Nikki Rothwell: (859) 319-9757 Ellen Suters: (859) 200-6642 Jonathan Taylor: (859) 319-4113 Gallatin County Autsin McQuistion: (513) 706-7093 Green River Jasmine Cox: (270) 283-2034 Jeff Cox: (270) 619-2461 Daniel Esseck: (606) 545-2019 Steven Hoeck: (606) 282-3793 Hazard Nicole Smith: (606) 233-4372 Mary Prater: (606) 253-8039 Heartland Brenda Harrington: (859) 550-6628 Hopkinsville Gayla Lockhart: (270) 776-4004 Beverly Jones: (270) 635-1492 Jessica Rambo: (276) 614-4522 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) 282-3793 Daniel Esseck: (606) 545-2019 Louisville Steward Bridgeman: (502) 588-2008 Madison County Suzanne Fryman: (859) 221-6879 Myranda McClure: (859) 986-6301 Rob Milde: (859) 893-5279 Nikki Rothwell: (859) 319-9757 Ellen Suters: (859) 200-6642 Margaret Suters: (859) 582-2613 Madisonville Linda Pierce: (270) 836-3445 Larry Pierce: (270) 836-7087 Beverly Jones: (270) 635-1492

Jessica Rambo: (276) 614-4522 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 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 Beverly Jones: (270) 635-1492 Jessica Rambo Dixon: (276) 614-4522 Winchester Brenda Harrington: (859) 749-3702 Wolfe County Ghedra Dunn: (606) 362-4962 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 with services in mental health, substance use and intellectual and developmental disabilities. 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

MISCELLANEOUS Alter UR Ego P.O. Box 56, Farmers, Ky., 40319 / hello@alterurego.co

Resource List 2022 Adaptable clothing for people in wheelchairs to be fashionable and functional. For kids, teens and plus sizes. www.alterurego.co NuMotion Bowling Green 1017 Shive Lane, Suite E, Bowling Green, Ky., 42103 (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 / 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

Creative Learning Center Woodland Early Learning Center 575 Woodland Ave., Lexington, Ky., 40508 (859) 255-3444 www.kindercare.com/our-centers/lexington/ky/301376 The dePaul School 1925 Duker Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 459-6131 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 Bowling Green: 1347 Ky. Hwy. 185, Suite 2 Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 746-0333 Erlanger: 527 Watson Road, Erlanger, Ky., 41018 (859) 727-0700 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 for children who are medically fragile in a day care setting. 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 Porter Memorial Church, 4300 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, Ky., 40515 / (859) 971-7129 School for children with learning differences for grades 3-12. / www.koreacademy.org The Langsford Center 9402 Towne Square Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45242 (513) 531-7400 Louisville Locations: (502) 473-7000 2520 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Ky., 40205

2805 N. Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40223 St. Francis School, 11000 W. U.S. Hwy. 42 Goshen, Ky., 40026 Kentucky Country Day School, 4100 Springdale Road, Louisville, Ky., 40241 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 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 Meredith Dunn School 3023 Melbourne Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40220 (502) 456-5819 www.meredithdunnschool.org The Provisions School & Family Counseling Center 301 Harvard Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 396-0644 www.theprovision.org Sproutlings Pediatric Day Care & Preschool Kosair Charities Center Located on the Masonic Homes Kentucky campus 3800 Tom Larimore Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40041 (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 is 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

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Resource List 2022 (502) 244-7090 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 4 Paws for Ability UnUniversity of Kentucky / UK4PAWS@gmail.com www.facebook.com/4PawsatUK 4pawsforability.org/ Paws With Purpose P.O. Box 5458, Louisville, Ky., 40255 (502) 689-0804 / Info@PawsWithPurpose.org pawswithpurpose.org Wildcat Service Dogs University of Kentucky wsdpres@gmail.com / www.wildcatservicedogs.org

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,

www.lexingtonfamily.com

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 New Perceptions 1 Sperti Drive, Edgewood, Ky., 41017 (859) 344-9322 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 with services in mental health, substance use and intellectual and developmental disabilities. 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 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 SCL 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 Redwood Rehabilitation Center 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 “EMPOWER, EDUCATE AND EMPLOY” people of all abilities. 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 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

Resource List 2022 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 Hospital 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 Radio Eye 1733 Russell Cave Road, Lexington, Ky., 40505 (859) 422-6390 / 800-238-5193 ext. 1010 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 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 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 campuslike environment where the Center remains dedicated to adults and youth who are blind or visually impaired. clovernook.org/ Family Eyecare Associates & Children’s Vision and Learning Center, Dr. Rick Graebe 105 Crossfield Drive, Versailles, Ky., 40383 (859) 879-3665 / (855) 686-2020 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. www.myfamilyvision.com Kentucky Office for the Blind Mayo-Underwood Building 500 Mero St., 4th Floor NE, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4440 / (800) 372-7172 The Kentucky Office for the Blind consolidated services in October 2018 with the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. The mission of the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation/Blind Services Division 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. https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/Blind%20 Services/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 x 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 www.silvercirclesinc.com 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. Visually Impaired Preschool Services (VIPS) Greater Louisville 1906 Goldsmith Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 636-3207 / (888) 636-8477 Central Kentucky 350 Henry Clay Blvd., Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 276-0335 / (888) 254-8477 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

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KENTUCKY PARTNERS IN POLICYMAKING

KPIP Class of 2019

APPLY NOW! The Partners in Policymaking program is about: • POLICY ADVOCACY • LEGISLATIVE PARTNERSHIPS • DISABILITY TRENDS • DISABILITY BEST PRACTICES

For people with developmental disabilities and their family members

LEARN MORE AND CONTACT US: (502) 564-7481 / ccdd@ky.gov www.ccdd.com / facebook.com/kyccdd

Do you want to influence policy at the community, state and national level? Then apply now for the 2022-23 KPIP sessions.