Exceptional Family Summer/Fall 2017

2017 Exceptional Family KY

1

SUMMER/ FALL

INDEPENDENCE

INTEGRATION

2017

INCLUSION

14

A Kentucky First Lexington Woman Wins Her Rights Through Supported Decision-Making

4

11

16

Sherry Sanders of Somerset Explains What the CCDD Means to Her

CCDD Hires Experienced Leader As New Executive Director

Mom With Hearing Loss Advocates for Daughters After Advocating for Herself

Letter from CCDD

Meet Kellie McCain

Sound Advice

6

18

These Are Folks Just Like You

Lela Hale Is Anything But Typical

8

20

Now Is the Time to Let State Legislators Know About the Value of Medicaid

From Autism to Tourette’s Syndrome, Statewide List Provides The Information You Need

CCDD Profile

Meet the CCDD

Resource List

Medicaid Waivers

9

Reader Survey Provide Feedback About Exceptional Family Magazine for a chance to win $250

10

A Word From Allison Ball State Treasurer Praises STABLE Kentucky

12

Her Brother's Keeper After David Allgood Suffered A Debilitating Injury As a Teen, His Older Sister Rushed to His Side

Editor..........................John Lynch of Lexington Family Magazine

Graphic Artist...............Matthew Hall

of Lexington Family Magazine 2

www.lexingtonfamily.com

Need More Copies?

For Additional Free Copies, Call: (859) 223-1765 or email: john@lexingtonfamily.com Hablas Espanol? For the Spanish Version of the Magazine, visit lexingtonfamily.com

2017 “Exceptional Family Ky” is published by Lexington Family Magazine, Central Kentucky’s premier parenting publication.

138 E. Reynolds Rd. # 201 • Lexington, Kentucky 40517 (859) 223-1765 • www.lexingtonfamily.com • info@lexingtonfamily.com

Kentucky Guardianship Association, Inc. I m p ro v i n g A d u l t G u a rd i a n s h i p

The KGA, Inc. announces the creation of the new Public Pooled

Special Needs Trust

for beneficiaries eligible for SSI or Medicaid to exempt resources. Small accounts welcomed.

Trustee services provided

by ElderLawLexington.

For more information call: 1-800-773-4040 The KGA was founded on the principle of improving the practice of adult guardianship in Kentucky by promoting practices that protect the Constitutional rights and autonomy of persons with disabilities.

Address:

Phone:

Email:

P.O. Box 25173 Lexington, KY 40524

(859) 543-0061

info@kyguardianship.org

Advocacy Works

Letter from the By: Sherry Sanders

I

C C DD

am a 55-year-old woman who and cooking our family’s meals. is diagnosed with cerebral She also takes me grocery palsy and has a speech shopping and to pick up my impediment. medicine.

I am fully With her help, independent I can remain although I active in the sometimes need community. help with a few One of the things such as ways I am active communicating in is through the the community.

Commonwealth My husband Council on James and I live in Developmental Somerset and we Disabilities. have been married I have been for 11 years. active with the We live in group for five a home that years.

Sherry Sanders has been a we purchased The Council member of the CCDD Council for ourselves. has helped me five years I receive 40 become a better hours of personal self-advocate and assistance a week a better advocate for others. and case management services I really enjoy being a member through Cornerstone Case of the Council and believe that Management. other people should consider My personal assistant is joining the group.

Jacinda Kidd, who is 23 and lives Being a member has built in Monticello. my confidence and helped me She transports me to my become a leader. doctors’ appointments and helps I think the same thing will me with house cleaning, laundry 4

www.lexingtonfamily.com

happen to others who participate on the Council.

So please come join us. I think you will enjoy it and learn ways to make your life and the lives of others better. n

to HowCCDD

become a

member

Members include people with developmental disabilities as well as family members and guardians of people with developmental disabilities.

Council members are expected to attend quarterly meetings that last two to three days, and other events throughout the year.

A member serves a threeyear term and is limited to two terms of service.

Info: www.kyccdd.com or

1-877-367-5332.

We Need Your Help If you want to affect policy, influence legislators and advocate for change,

the CCDD Council is the place for you.

The Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities 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.

Get Involved Today Join the CCDD

Info: (877) 367-5332 or visit www.kyccdd.com.

Commonwealth on Developmental 2017 Council Exceptional Family KY Disabilities 5

Meet the CCDD...

Advocacy Works

Council members from left to right are: Back Row: Norb Ryan, Stephanie Turner, Lynne Flynn, Sondra Gilbert, Camille Collins, Claudia Johnson, Roxanne Holbrook, Keith Hosey. Middle Row: Elaine Eisenbaum, Laura Lyle, Anne Weaver, Laureen Vassil, Lela Hale, Melissa Hardison, Robin Linton, Margaret Reed Sauser, Colleen Payne. Front Row: Sherry Sanders, Chastity Ross, Sherry Pickett, Jennifer Dudinski 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 Council is the place for you.

Call today to learn how you can make a difference.

(877) 367-5332

6

www.lexingtonfamily.com

www.kyccdd.com

The Arc of Kentucky P

T

he Arc of Kentucky – the largest volunteer organization in the state – is a grassroots organization formed in 1955 by a small group of parents. (The national Arc was created in 1950.)

Funded by the state and private donations, the non-profit Arc of Kentucky is people:

– With intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, their families, neighbors and friends – Advocating for fairness and equality.

The Arc works to ensure a quality life for children and adults with I/DD by focusing efforts on P.E.O.P.L.E.

The Arc of Kentucky 706 E. Main Street, Suite A • Frankfort (502) 875-5225 • (800) 281-1272 www.arcofky.org • Sherri@arcofky.org https://facebook.com/ArcofKentucky/

$ The Arc Needs Your Support $

w

orking to improve the lives of Kentucky children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1955, The Arc of Kentucky now needs your help.

The state’s largest volunteer organization, The Arc learned June 29 that its state funding of $125,000, which had been reduced already from $200,000, would be cut effective immediately.

Without funding, current programs, including Advocates in Action and the Annual Conference, are in jeopardy.

In fact, Sherri Brothers, who replaced Stella Beard as executive director, is serving strictly as a volunteer without pay.

“Your generosity will make a huge difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families,” said Brothers, who is developing fundraising events.

“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

E O P L E

protecting rights encouraging inclusion optimizing supports

Over sixty years of advocating, supporting and empowering people with disabilities & their families

promoting choice lifting expectations educating communities

community throughout their lifetimes.”

Brothers is a member of the State Arc Board and served on its Executive Committee. She is President of The Arc of Central Kentucky and participated in the Advocates in Action program. A board member for the Autism Society of the Bluegrass, she is the mother of two, including one who has autism.

“The Arc’s mission has always been a passion of mine and been close to my heart because I care about people,” she said.

“Your support can help us build an upsurge of activism for those who have gone unseen and unheard for far too long. Together, we can make a difference.”

Info: Support the Arc with a generous gift by visiting http://arcofky.org/ or donating by mail at The Arc of Kentucky, 706 East Main Street, Ste A, Frankfort, KY 40601. n

Donate Your Vehicle to The Arc

T

he Arc of Kentucky’s Vehicle Donation Program accepts ALL cars, trucks, motorcycles, RV’s, regardless of the condition of the vehicles.

Towing is FREE to the donor.

Donors can complete the online form at www.thearc.org/donate-my-car or call our toll free number 1-877-272-2270.

Donors are encourage to specify the chapter of The Arc they would like to benefit from the proceeds of their vehicle by selecting the chapter from the online form’s drop down menu, or by notifying the Melwood Charity Car Donation Center call center representative.

Melwood Charity Car Donation Center assigns the vehicle to a local auction company and schedules vehicle pickup with a reputable tow truck company.

Vehicles are usually picked up within onetwo business days.

Note: All vehicles that are donated must have a clean title. Donors do not have to be present when the car is picked up, but the title must be provided.

Melwood then provides each donor with a written vehicle donation confirmation and acknowledgment letter on behalf of The Arc, along with the IRS 1098C. Info: visit www.arcofky.org. n

Car Donation Program Easy, Convenient and Tax Deductible!

Donate today and give someone with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) the key to their independence. The Arc works through a national network of nearly 700 chapters to advocate for and support people with I/DD. Proceeds from your donation will benefit your local chapter. We accept any vehicle with a title and will arrange free, convenient pick up or towing. Plus, we’ll take care of all of the paperwork you need to take advantage of a tax break for your donation!

Thank you!

Call Toll Free 1-877-ARC-CAR-0 Or Donate Online at

2017www.thearc.org/donate-my-vehicle Exceptional Family KY 7

Advocacy Works

N

ow is the time for Kentuckians with disabilities who rely on Medicaid funding to take action by reaching out to their local elected officials.

The call to action is necessary because many Medicaid programs that affect people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are currently in a full redesign with Medicaid.

So Kentuckians are urged to follow the advice offered by Jeff Edwards, executive director of Kentucky Protection & Advocacy.

“Go to them (your legislators) when they are home in your community, before the 2018 legislative session begins in January,” Edwards said.

“Tell them: ‘This is who I am and this is what Medicaid does for me.’”

But first some background: Medicaid is a federal/state partnership that was formed based on the needs of the poor and those with disabilities. Kentucky receives 70 cents for every 30 cents that the state contributes.

Medicaid provides 242,400 people with disabilities in Kentucky with access to critical care that helps them live independently.

Some Medicaid programs that help people with disabilities include Kentucky Transitions (assistance moving from institutional care to community living); School Based Health Services listed in the student’s IEP; Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment Program (EPSDT); and Case Management for children with severe emotional disabilities and adults with severe mental illness.

The programs that could be changed fall under 1915(c) Waivers and include Home and Community Based Services (HCB).

The HCB waivers are: Acquired Brain Injury Waiver, Acquired Brain Injury Long Term Care Waiver, Home and Community Based Waiver, Home Health, Michelle P Waiver, Model II Waiver,

and Supports for Community Living Waiver.

People can have an impact on this process by educating legislators about the importance of Medicaid to those with disabilities.

“Sit down with them over a cup of coffee and have these conversations,” Edwards said.

“Let them get to know you as a person and tell them why Medicaid is important to you and your family.”

All the information you need to take action can be found on the Legislative Research Commission website www.lrc. ky.gov/lrc.htm n

Reader Survey Winner Announced Congratulations to Karen Hignite, who is the winner of Exceptional Family Magazine’s first ever Reader Survey giveaway.

Hignite’s name was selected at random from among the first 50 people who completed the Reader Survey. She received a cash prize of 8

www.lexingtonfamily.com

$250, courtesy of the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities, sponsor of the magazine.

Hignite is the Director of the Family Resource Center at both Highland and Waynesburg elementary schools in Lincoln County.

Take This Survey online at: www.lexingtonfamily.com/exceptional-family-reader-survey SUMMER/FALL 2017

Name: Address: Are you a:

Take This Survey & Win a Prize Be among the first 50 to enter a drawing for $250 Phone number: (

)

Person with a developmental disability Family member of a person with a developmental disability Other:

What do you most enjoy about this magazine?

What improvements would you suggest?

How satisfied are you with this magazine?

Not very satisfied ( ) Somewhat satisfied ( )

Satisfied ( )

Very satisfied ( )

Please list any story ideas you would like to see in a future edition:

To enter contest, mail the completed survey to: 138 E Reynolds Rd Ste 201 Lexington, KY 40517

859-223-1765

info@lexingtonfamily.com www.LexingtonFamily.com

2017 Exceptional Family KY

9

Advocacy Works

Kentuckians With Disabilities Can Save More Money Without Jeopardizing Benefits

By: Allison Ball, Kentucky State

A

s a public servant, it is always a great honor when your work directly impacts the people you

serve.

Last winter I experienced that honor in an incredible way. In December 2016, my office launched STABLE Kentucky, the Kentucky version of the federal ABLE program. ABLE stands for Achieving a Better Life Experience.

This initiative promotes saving and investing for people with disabilities, who, before the passage of ABLE, were unable to save money without fear of losing their benefits.

STABLE Accounts allow Kentuckians 10

www.lexingtonfamily.com

with disabilities to save money that can be used like a checking account to pay for disability related expenses or as an investment vehicle to grow money over time.

After we announced this new initiative, a self-advocate approached me and thanked me for working diligently to bring STABLE Kentucky to the Commonwealth.

She explained that STABLE Kentucky has provided her with the opportunity to be more financially secure.

She stated that while her disability does not prevent Treasurer her from working, she does need a customized van for long distance travel for work. Before STABLE Kentucky, she was allowed to save only $2,000 without jeopardizing government benefits she received.

The repairs to her van cost more than $2,000. STABLE Kentucky allowed her to save the money needed to repair her van.

According to the 2015 American Community Survey, 16.8% of the population in Kentucky has a disability.

Many of these Kentuckians rely on federal benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income but were previously prohibited from saving

more than $2,000 in order to maintain eligibility for their benefits.

STABLE Kentucky allows Kentuckians with disabilities to foster their independence, maintain their health, support their employment, participate in their communities and enhance their quality of life. Through STABLE Kentucky, participants can save, invest, and spend money on qualified expenses without affecting their eligibility for federal benefits, including healthcare, education, housing, transportation and general living expenses.

S

TABLE Kentucky is also affordable – account holders pay only $3.50 per month and there is no operational cost to the Kentucky taxpayer. As of July 2017, there were over 100 active STABLE Kentucky accounts with a total value of $416,000.

Each individual account holder is eligible to save $14,000 annually and up to $445,000 over his or her lifetime.

Individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income can save $100,000 without affecting their benefits.

But we aren’t done yet. In August, my office participated in the national campaign of #ABLEtoSave month to promote STABLE Kentucky across the Commonwealth.

I am excited to continue traveling the Commonwealth talking about STABLE Kentucky and the amazing impact it is having on people’s lives. I look forward to hearing more success stories.

To create an account or for more information, please visit www.stablekentucky.com. n

Advocacy Works

Kellie McCain Named Executive Director Experienced Leader From Nashville Replaced Pat Seybold in September

L

ooking for a person with the perfect pedigree to lead the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities? Seek no further than Kellie McCain.

That’s exactly what the Council did when it hired McCain to become the CCDD’s new Executive Director.

In September, McCain replaced Pat Seybold, the former CCDD executive director who served on an interim basis after MaryLee Underwood left the organization in March.

“I think the Council did an excellent job in hiring Kellie,” Seybold said.

“After meeting her and talking with her, I think she will do a terrific job.

She has all the qualifications you need to be a successful director.”

McCain, 48, comes to the CCDD from Nashville where she served for 18 years in the state Commissioner’s Office in the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. She also served in Nashville on the Mayor’s Advisory Committee for People with

‘ Bottom Dollars’

Disabilities and previously was a member of the city’s Access Ride policy committee.

She earned a bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green University in Ohio in 1991 in art therapy with a minor in special education. Right after college, McCain worked as a home manager in Columbus, Ohio at the Association for the Developmentally Disabled.

In 2014 she completed work on a master’s degree at the Nelson and Sue Andrews Institute for Civic Leadership at David Lipscomb University in Nashville.

“One of the tenets of the Institute is ‘great communities are not accidental, but intentional.’ That really is what our job is all about – intentionally building great communities for all people to be accepted,” McCain said.

“Everything I know has to do with collaboration and creating change in the community. This job fits that bill.”

Describing herself as a servant leader and a connector, McCain will initially

Screenings Now Available For Documentary Film About Employment Rights

S

creening opportunities are now available for the documentary film “Bottom Dollars,” an original production by Rooted in Rights that focuses on employment for all.

This hour-long documentary covers the segregated workplaces and low wages that people with disabilities often experience. The film includes both personal stories and expert interviews that promote community inclusion, equal opportunity and fair wages.

Rooted in Rights is a Seattle-based organization that produces videos and social media campaigns on disability rights issues.

The film is presented by the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities, Kentucky Protection & Advocacy and the UK Human Development Institute.

For screening requests, submit the online form at www.rootedinrights.org/videos/ employment/bottom-dollars/. The film also can be viewed for free for Amazon Prime subscribers at www.amazon.com/Bottom-Dollars-Cheryl-Bates-Harris/dp/B071H28PYL. You can rent the film for $2.99 or buy it for $9.99 at https://vimeo.com/ondemand/ bottomdollarsad. n

Kellie McCain observe and learn about the CCDD – an organization that she holds in high regard.

“First of all, DD councils have such a great reputation and I worked with the DD staff in Nashville,” she said. “All the work in advocacy that the CCDD does and its leadership training are very impressive.”

Growing up in Ohio, McCain remembers her uncle, who had an intellectual disability, never went to school and spent his life on the family farm. “I’ve always had a heart for people who didn’t fit in,” she said.

At 18, she became a counselor at a camp for people with disabilities and held the position throughout college.

As for her Kentucky connections, her grandparents are from Eastern Kentucky so she has a feel for those in the Commonwealth.

Inclusion and leadership are important values for McCain.

“We want to build on the idea that people with disabilities are valued and that there is a place for everybody in the community,” she said.

“We know that leaders are not born but are made, and everybody has the capacity to be a leader.” n 2017 Exceptional Family KY

11

Her Brother’s Keeper

Advocacy Works

After David Allgood Suffered A Debilitating Injury As a Teen, His Older Sister Rushed to His Side

By John Lynch

I

n the summer of 1982, 16-year-old David Allgood bought his first street legal motorcycle with money he earned at a convenience store in his hometown of Louisville.

For the 5-foot-10, 150-pound high school athlete (football and track at St. Xavier), what could be better than hot-rodding across town on a Kawasaki 440 bike during the carefree days of summer?

A

nd that he did, along with hanging out with his friends.

It was during one of those hang out days – June 27, 1982 to be exact – that David’s life changed.

The boys were hurling each other into a neighbor’s above-ground backyard pool. When David was tossed, he landed chin first in the four-foot pool and heard a loud ringing in his ears. He also noticed that he couldn’t move.

His friends thought he was kidding and dropped him back in. Then they realized this was no joke.

David was rushed to the hospital where he spent the next 10 days. The diagnosis: quadriplegia caused by a broken neck.

In the ICU he was immobilized – his mom had to scratch his nose – and he was flipped every two hours like a ragdoll. Dignity took a back seat to 12

www.lexingtonfamily.com

medical care.

Then came a Halo, a ring of sharp-pointed hunks of metal that are screwed into the skull while the patient is awake.

Two days later, doctors had to repeat the procedure because the Halo had been placed incorrectly in the front.

After the hospital, David underwent physical and occupational therapy for three months at Frazier Rehab Institute.

Meanwhile, he lived in the family basement with the fireplace ablaze because poor circulation left him constantly chilled. To leave the house, he had to be carried six steps up.

Still reeling while trying and failing to imagine a life for himself in a wheelchair, David stared at the TV and did little else. No more motorcycle, football, track. No more normal life.

“It was hard to comprehend,” he said.

“I was like a hermit that summer. I

didn’t want to see my friends because everything was different – I was different from the way I was.”

After three months of this, Dad strode down the stairs for a father-son chat.

“Life has changed,” David Allgood told his son. “There are things you can’t do, but there are still many things you can do. You’re not going to stay in the basement all the time. And we are here for you to help in any way we can.”

H

is son soon felt the full measure of that message. His older sister Cathy, 23 at the time and enrolled at Murray State, dropped out of school and came home to help her little brother.

David Allgood with his sister Cathy Murphy (far left) and his wife, Lisa Allgood. Above, David with his father, David, on his son’s wedding day. be now. Even though I haven’t walked in 35 years, I’m very lucky to be where I am today.”

She became his constant companion, driving him to therapy and helping him with the activities of daily living.

David’s spirits soon lifted.

“My dad gave me a gentle nudge and a different perspective on things,” David said. “With my sister’s help, life became a little more normal.”

He eventually returned to high school and graduated before earning a history degree from the University of Kentucky. Aided by the state’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation – and equipped with his first power wheelchair – David lived in Holmes Hall with other people with disabilities.

“Being around other people in a wheelchair was beneficial,” he said. “I learned that there were many things

that I could do.”

After a brief fling with law school, David got his a master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling.

Today, at 51, he drives his own van and is the Director for Advocacy at the Center for Accessible Living. For 16 years, he’s been married to Lisa, who is the Area Operations Director for the non-profit Dialysis Clinic Inc. A season ticket holder, David has attended UK basketball games since 1984, and many of his friends today are his same friends from childhood.

But if not for Cathy and his blended family, David might still be in that basement.

“I’m incredibly grateful to my family,” David said. “If it wasn’t for their support, I don’t know where I’d

N

ot every sister would give up so much to help a younger brother. Even though no one asked her to come to his aid, Cathy wonders: “What’s the big deal?”

“Geez Louise,” she said. “He’s my baby brother and I loved him. It never felt like a sacrifice to me. It needed to be done and it felt like the right thing to do.”

So she put him into bed at night and got him up in the morning. She carted him upstairs, pulled him in and out of the car and drove him to school, therapy and even to parties.

But she didn’t do everything for him.

“He would ask me to get his brush

NContinued on page 15 2017 Exceptional Family KY

13

Advocacy Works

Supported Decision-Making

Freed From Guardianship A Kentucky First: Woman Wins Her Rights in Court Using SDM

S

uzanne Heck wanted her rights back… and in the process the 22-year-old from Lexington became a pioneer and role model for those like her in Kentucky.

Shortly after Heck, who is diagnosed with a mild intellectual disability, reached adulthood, a Kentucky court took away her right to decide where she lived, what she did with her money and what happened to her body.

At the age of 18, she became a ward of the state.

So in March of 2017, Heck (her friends call her Suzie) and her support team contacted Kentucky Protection & Advocacy and requested its help with restoring her rights through Supported Decision-Making.

SDM is a way people can make their own decisions and stay in charge of their lives while receiving any help they need to do so. Supported Decision-Making is just a fancy way of describing how we all make choices.

Currently in Kentucky, there are over 4,500 adults in the state guardianship system, which is underfunded and severely overburdened.

Many adults like Heck can make decisions for themselves with the support of a team. Heck’s team consists of friends and paid caregivers through Kentucky’s intellectual and developmental disability Medicaid waiver called 14

www.lexingtonfamily.com

Supports for Community Living.

She attends day services at an Adult Day Training facility in Lexington, lives in a home with two housemates and staff who assist her with daily living, as needed.

W

hen Camille Collins, an Advocate with Kentucky Protection & Advocacy, became involved in Heck’s case, Suzie’s supporters had already begun functioning as a SDM team.

Team member Stacy Seale, a licensed psychological associate at Employment Solutions, submitted a psychological report with a petition to modify or terminate guardianship in Fayette County District Court.

In this report, Seale emphasized all of Heck’s abilities and that she works with her team when making medical, personal and financial decisions.

“Ms. Heck does a wonderful job of seeking out her team and asking for their input on

her current life decisions,” Seale said.

Seale concluded that Heck, working with her SDM team, would no longer need a legal guardian.

In April, Heck attended a hearing to modify or terminate her guardianship order. Her state guardian attended and agreed with Heck’s request.

Because the county attorney was not comfortable with the restoration, Collins requested that an attorney be appointed for Heck and that the hearing be postponed. The judge agreed.

Moira Mulligan, Heck’s appointed attorney, worked with Collins and Heck’s SDM team to learn how individuals with disabilities can use teams to support them in their ability to make decisions for themselves.

Heck also created a “Dream Board,” which consists of photos of her SDM team members on one side and illustrations that represent her hopes and dreams on the other.

Her goals are no different from anyone else’s – vacations, employment, and more time with family and friends.

As a ward of the state, most if not all of her goals and dreams would have to be approved by a guardian, forcing Heck to defend her goals.

That would mean meetings and hours

of discussion. That was one of her motives for terminating guardianship.

On July 24, 2017 – two days before her birthday – the judge, with the agreement of the county attorney who better understood Heck’s situation, fully restored Heck’s rights. She is now able to make personal, medical and financial decisions.

H

eck is a sort of Jackie Robinson for restored rights. She is the first person on record in Kentucky to have her rights fully restored by the courts with Supported Decision-Making as an alternative to guardianship.

Heck was so elated when the judge ruled in her favor, she nearly floated out of the courtroom.

“I was really nervous at first but when the judge ruled, I almost ran out because I was so excited. I was blown away,” she said.

Heck admits that the full impact of the ruling has yet to sink in, but she already has benefitted. Recently, she went with a friend and her friend’s caregiver to the Hamburg YMCA.

“As far as I can remember, that’s the first time I went out without a caregiver,” Heck said.

What else will she do with her freedom? “I want to buy a copy of the movie, ‘The Last Mimzy,’” she said.

Sounds simple enough. Not so if she were still a ward of the state. A request for cash would go though her guardian and then on to the state and could take a few weeks to process.

“Now, if she wants $50 to go to Kentucky Kingdom, for example, she can get the money the same day. She has total control of her money now,” Collins said.

“I’m excited for her. Research shows that people who are empowered with their rights live happier and healthier lives.”

Heck is bursting with plans for the future. In 2018, a visit Dollywood, and Disney World a year later.

She wants to be a social worker or a police officer or go to college. “How do I start applying for jobs?” she asks.

Chastity Ross, a former chairperson of the CCDD Council, is her case worker and can help with job searches or refer her to the Office of Vocational

Her Brother’s Keeper and I would say, ‘Show me that you can’t.’ It broke my heart to say that but it was a way for him to help himself,” Cathy said.

While helping her brother, Cathy earned a sociology degree in 1987 from the University of Louisville. She worked at a Louisville bank and at AARP. She joined the Board of the Center for Accessible Living in 1993 and now works full time for the Center.

“Yeah, David and I work at the same place. I can’t get rid of him,” Cathy said with a laugh.

Yeah, right. Cathy’s family (she has children and grandchildren) lives a mile from David and Lisa, and the families regularly take vacations together.

About the only rift between the siblings is basketball: She roots for Louisville. He’s part of Big Blue Nation.

Lisa admires the relationship between brother and sister.

“What Cathy did when David was first hurt was completely unselfish,” she said. “She personified his whole family’s mentality toward David and she was his biggest cheerleader.”

L

isa has taken over the role of David’s chief caregiver and is grateful for the support she receives from her husband’s family.

Rehabilitation.

In the meantime, Heck is heady with all the wild possibilities. “It’s awesome that I could go wherever I want and live wherever I want.”

Actually, her wishes are much more grounded – She longs for a family setting through the Family Home Provider program.

“I want to live with a family but why is it taking so long?”

Not to worry, said Collins.

“I think you will find a family provider soon because you’re such an awesome person,” Collins said.

A big grin creases Heck’s face.

There is much to be happy about now for Suzie Heck, a free woman with big dreams for the future.

The National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making can help you find information on Supported Decision-Making and other alternatives to guardianship, access Supported Decision-Making agreements and other legal forms, connect you with people and organizations that may be able to help you, and answer your questions. Info: www.

SupportedDecisionMaking.Org. n

“They provide his personal care when I am out of town and they are available to him in every way,” she said. “David’s dad was a role model for his children and played a big part in instilling those virtues in his children.”

David never fails to express his gratitude for his wife’s support.

“She has been incredible,” he said. “I don’t know what I’d do without her.

“If you had told me back in 1982 that I would be a college graduate, drive my own van, work full time, be married and own my own home, I would have said that you weren’t in touch with reality.”

But all those things have come true –and that’s a message that David shares regularly.

He works out at the gym at Frazier Rehab Institute and also is a guest speaker there. He conveys the same message all the time.

“I know exactly how they feel,” he said of those who suddenly find themselves with a disability. “I tell them that they can make it. There are many things that they can do. It’s important to me that I give back, the same way people gave to me.”

Cathy would expect nothing less of her brother.

“I’m very proud of David,” she said. “He’s a shining example of what you can do. He’s easygoing, even-tempered and all-around good guy. He’s the best of all of us.” n 2017 Exceptional Family KY

15

Advocacy Works

Mom With Hearing Loss Advocates for Daughters After Advocating for Herself

By Anita Dowd

B

ack in the early 1970s, when I was diagnosed with a severe/ profound hearing loss, life was different. There were no such things as the Internet, Facebook or YouTube.

You knew only what you were exposed to in person, and if you lived in a rural area, as I did, you weren’t exposed to a lot. As the only deaf individual in a hearing family, I did not meet another person with a hearing loss until I was in high school.

American Sign Language just did not exist in my world. I didn’t intentionally avoid it, but in my community, there was no one who used it and there was no one to suggest that I use it.

I was the only kid with a hearing loss in my entire school district and, quite frankly, no one knew what to do with me.

In hindsight, I sorely needed an advocate. But no one, neither I nor my family, knew what to advocate for.

I did the best I could with what I had and somehow I managed to get by.

Life changed after I graduated from high school and enrolled at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. Gallaudet is the world’s only liberal arts university for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, and it’s where, for the first time in my life, I was surrounded by deaf and hard of hearing peers, faculty and staff.

It was there that I realized there were resources and assistive technology available to help break down communication barriers.

16

www.lexingtonfamily.com

I realized just how much I had been missing, not only academically, but more importantly, socially.

It wasn’t an easy feat, but I quickly learned to sign and for the first time in my life I could actually be an active participant in conversations!

I could catch the punch line of a joke and laugh along with everyone rather than wait for someone to clue me in after the fact. Or worse, fake a laugh and hope that no one realized that I was clueless.

This was my road to personal freedom and empowerment.

Helen Keller, the first deaf-blind person to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree, understood and expressed this feeling perfectly when she was asked if she had to choose, would she rather be deaf or blind.

Her response was, “I would rather be blind than deaf. Blindness separates you from things, but deafness separates you from people.”

Over the next decade, I continued to hone my signing skills and learn about not only the resources available

to individuals with hearing loss but also the dark side of hearing loss and the controversy surrounding communication options.

I had been unaware that medical professionals, families and even others with hearing loss believed firmly that sign language was detrimental to children with hearing loss and should be avoided.

Although I totally support the development of speech and spoken English skills, I know from personal experience that speech and lip reading were only minimally effective for me and countless others like me.

Adding sign language opened the door to much more effective communication and access to the world around me.

Based on my experience and that of many others that I know and work with, I feel confident in saying that it is important that we fill our “communication toolbox” with as many tools as we can because our communication needs vary from situation to situation.

What works in one situation may fail miserably in another.

Advocacy Works

Resources

I

Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 372-2907 / www.kcdhh.gov Kentucky Hands & Voices (888) 398-5030 / www.kyhandsandvoices.org Hands & Voices Headquarters www.handsandvoices.org

I

I

When my first child, Emily, was diagnosed with a severe hearing loss at the age of 4, I knew that she needed as many communication tools as possible so she could choose which one she needed at any given moment.

I exposed her simultaneously to sign language and spoken English. I assumed that everyone would agree with me, but as soon as she enrolled in school, I learned that wasn’t the case.

I quickly became an advocate for my daughter – and I admit that I was grossly unarmed and unprepared.

Although I knew what I was asking for was reasonable and what was best for Emily, I was clueless as to how to express it, much less justify it. Thus began my career as an advocate.

Many long nights were spent at the kitchen table with coffee, books and highlighters (those of you who come into this picture after the Internet have no idea how fortunate you are!)

Learning about Emily’s rights was the quickest and easiest part. Learning to keep my emotions in check while advocating for her is another story!

I became THAT mother! You know… the one who gets loud, bangs tables and demands things.

I soon realized that those tactics didn’t work. Unfortunately, I had far too many opportunities to hone those skills. Eventually, I could detach, remain calm and advocate more effectively.

W

hen Emily entered second grade, I started working at the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH), a state agency within the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet.

My first position involved advocating for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in a multitude of diverse situations. I have changed positions several times in my 18 years with KCDHH but advocating for individuals who have a

hearing loss is still the best part of my job.

Six years after I began at KCDHH, my youngest daughter, Hannah, was also diagnosed with hearing loss, at the age of 4.

Her hearing loss is less severe than that of my oldest so my role as an advocate for Hannah has been different. She has yet to need accommodations at school.

In fact, she was the drum major for the Anderson County Marching Band last year and currently is in the color guard.

I have raised both of my girls to understand that they should settle for nothing less than what they deserve, which is EQUALITY. They are not entitled to more than others because of their hearing loss, but they are definitely entitled to the SAME. Over the years, they have seen me advocate on their behalf, as well as my own, and they can self-advocate when necessary.

Again, knowing their rights was the easy part. Learning how to selfadvocate tactfully and with grace takes a little longer… especially for emotional and dramatic girls!

years, I have worked with Hands & Voices, a non-profit, parent-driven organization dedicated to supporting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

This organization is non-biased about communication methodologies and believes that families can make the best choices for their child if they have access to good information and support.

Hands & Voices is especially dear to me because it is helping to bridge the divide between those who think there is only one way (their way!) to raise a child with a hearing loss.

My girls and I are proof that this is far from the truth.

Because of my role at the Kentucky Commission on the Hard of Hearing and my involvement with both the state chapter and Hands & Voices Headquarters, I have been blessed to travel across the state and the U.S. to speak with parents of deaf and hard of hearing children.

This has become my passion.

Nothing is as satisfying as speaking to a room full of people about my experiences growing up with a hearing loss and raising two girls with a hearing loss and knowing that something I say may touch their lives in a positive way.

It makes every struggle worth it. n

W

e are fortunate today to have access to endless amounts of information online.

Support groups are available for families who have children with special needs as are groups of trained advocates ready and willing to assist when necessary.

The past few

Anita Dowd, holding grandson Wyatt, with daughters Emily and Hannah (with Ozzy) 2017 Exceptional Family KY

17

Advocacy Works

I

r e h t o M of

is

1 of aKind

By John Lynch

n many ways, Lela Hale typifies a member of the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities – she’s a passionate advocate, supporter of independent living and believer in the group’s mission.

But little else about Lela Hale of Hopkinsville is typical.

First of all, she is the mother of eight children. Her first child was born when she was 18, her last when she was 44.

She has five grandchildren with two more due this fall.

CCDD Council Profile: Lela Hale Advocates for Her Youngest: Elijah

“I

came from a big family and I just love kids,” she said. “I never felt done but when I hit 50 I was like, ‘Ohmigosh, I know I’m done now.’”

Lela, who accompanies veterans on honor flights, is on a first-name basis with many state legislators and has met with Senators Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul.

She has worked retail, run a restaurant, was part owner of a video store that also sold pizza and ice cream, and she worked in a tanning bed salon. She even sold used cars and worked in the office of a dealership for three years.

She was a receptionist at a mental health center and worked at home transcribing medical records before working for 10 years as a transcriptionist at a medical center.

For the past five years, she has been the service coordinator at the 40-acre Christian Care Retirement Community in Hopkinsville where she helps elder residents stay independent as long as possible.

Amid all these changes add one more.

Elijah, at 9 years old her youngest 18

www.lexingtonfamily.com

child, was born via emergency C-section with Down syndrome. When Lela learned of Elijah’s situation, she was actually relieved.

“First of all, at 44, I was considered a geriatric patient,” she said. “Second, I was told he would have dwarfism.

When I heard it was Down syndrome, I knew that his survival rate would be high.”

Lela also had learned much from a friend with a 2-year-old boy with Down syndrome.

Despite modest beginnings – Elijah weighed 4 pounds 1 ounce at birth and even less when he came home – he has thrived.

His health is good and he is high functioning.

“He does awesome at school and is very social,” Lela said. “He loves women. He’s

dangerous,” she added with a laugh.

He is mainstreamed half of the day at school and spends the other half in a special education classroom.

He competes in the Special Olympics, is a Soapbox Derby winner and loves to ride horses.

He’s also a bit of a star.

In 2015, Elijah was chosen to participate in a Down Syndrome Psychological Study at Massachusetts General Hospital under Dr. Brian Skotko, who is a world renowned Down syndrome expert. Elijah and Lela have flown to Boston four times for the study.

When he was nearly 3 years old, his photo was picked by the National Down Syndrome Society, which sent Lela and Elijah for a three-day trip to New York City where they participated in the Buddy Walk and

visited Central Park and Times Square.

Lela’s article about Elijah, called “God’s True Grace in Elijah’s Eyes,” appears on the NDSS web site under its “My Great Story” feature.

A sample form the story: “One night, Elijah was watching me as I watched him… He was searching for something in MY face.

I didn’t know what it was, whether it was for a smile to comfort him or if it was for reassurance that I would always be there, but I think he was searching for acceptance from me for the person he was inside and not because of some physical characteristic that said he was blonde or blue-eyed or almond-eyed.

“I could now see the gift he is and realized the diagnosis is not his guiding force. My favorite quote is “God doesn’t give you the people you want in your life, he gives you the people you NEED... to help you, to hurt you, to leave you, to love you and TO MAKE YOU INTO THE PERSON YOU WERE MEANT TO BE...”

A

long with her advocacy with legislators, Lela has been a member of the CCDD Council since 2014 and was elected in August as the Chairperson.

“Being elected by this group of peers to lead the Council is the biggest honor ever,” she said.

“Being on the Council has helped me be more aware of what I say and how I say it,” she said.

“The friendships I have made and the support I have received – emotional support and support in every kind of way – have been so helpful.”

Membership has also helped her as a parent and advocate for Elijah.

“I feel like I have a voice. I realized that I may not be anything special but my child is,” she said. “He has so much to offer and he gets to live a real life.”

That’s a long way from when Elijah was born and all Lela heard was what he wouldn’t be able to do.

“They said he would never do this and never do that,” she said. “But when he looks at me his little eyes say, ‘But I can do all these other things.’

“I could be having the worst day ever but when I look at Elijah, he just clears it all up.” n

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

es Conferenc nal & Educatio Lectures

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

Reso ur Lend ce ing Libra ry

Bluegrass Autism Walk

visit our website or facebook page

asbg.org • facebook.com/Autism-Society-of-the-Bluegrass 2017 Exceptional Family KY

19

•

Resource List 2017

Amber Horne of Georgetown and her son Conor, 2

Photo by: Robin Allen Photography

GENERAL •

Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities 32 Fountain Place, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (877) 367-5332 / (502) 564-7841 www.kyccdd.com 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.

Adoption Support for Kentucky UK College of Social Work 1 Quality St., Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 257-7361 adoptky@uky.edu / www.uky.edu/trc/ask 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.

Attorney Robert McClelland, LLM, CELA ElderLawLexington McClelland & Associates, PLLC 1795 Alysheba Way, Suite 2102 Lexington, Ky., 40509 / (859) 543-0061 www.elderlawlexington.com Robert L. McClelland is a certified elder law attorney, special needs trustee and guardian with ElderLawLexington 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.

Attorney Karen L. Perch 2333 Alexandria Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 224-0513 / www.perchlaw.com Karen Perch and her staff are dedicated to helping clients with their 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.

All Abilities Drama Camp Embracing the gifts of all campers through the arts by celebrating difference, skills, personalities and abilities. aadramacamp@gmail.com www.allabilitiescamp.blogspot.com ALMOSTfamily/CAREtenders Kentucky Home Health Offices Multiple locations / www.patientcare.com

20

www.lexingtonfamily.com

Have your rights been violated due to disability?

We can help.

502.564.2967 800.372.2988 Fax 502.695.6764 www.kypa.net

Scholarships Avaliable!

Proud Members of:

2017 Exceptional Family KY

21

Resource List 2017 Alter UR Ego Adaptable clothing for people in wheelchairs to be fashionable and functional. For kids, teens and plus sizes. alterurego.co Arc of the United States (800) 433-5255 / (202) 534-3731 info@thearc.org / www.thearc.org The national organization of and for people with intellectual disabilities and related developmental disabilities and their families.

The Arc of Kentucky Sherri Brothers, Executive Director 706 East Main St., Suite A, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 875-5225 / (800) 281-1272 arcofky@aol.com / www.arcofky.org The Arc of Kentucky believes that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are contributing members of schools, work places, churches, synagogues, neighborhoods and their communities. The Arc values services and supports that enhance the quality of life through interdependence, friendship, choice, and respect for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Arc’s website includes resources, projects, events, etc. pertinent to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

The Arc of Kentucky Local Chapters The Arc of Barren County Jini Payne – (270) 791-3162 The Arc of Warren County Loretta Helmes – (270) 816-7213 The Arc of Logan County Shirley Harper – (270) 726-2218 The Arc of Breckinridge County Mark Grimes/Sandra Moyer P.O. Box 37, Harned, Ky. 41044 The Arc of Hardin County Clara Harrison – (270) 300-6659 The Arc of Meade County Beatrice Moore – (270) 422-3778 Louisville Metro Arc Vacant The Point Arc of Northern Kentucky Judi Gerding – (859) 491-9191 The Arc of Lake Cumberland Vacant The Arc of Owensboro Lisa Prendergrast – (270) 691-0502 The Arc of Floyd County/Prestonsburg Vacant The Arc of Central Kentucky Sherri Brothers – (502) 517-6511 sherribrothers@bellsouth.net Best Buddies Kentucky 1151 South Fourth St., Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 736-0838 www.bestbuddieskentucky.org Best Buddies Kentucky, founded in 2009, is dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism and traumatic brain injuries.

22

www.lexingtonfamily.com

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana 1519 Gardiner Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (877) 588-2300 / (502) 587-0494 www.bbbsky.org The mission of BBBS is to help all children reach their full potential through professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships.

Brighton Center Inc. 741 Central Ave., Newport, Ky., 41071 (859) 491-8303 / www.brightoncenter.com Non-profit organization’s mission is to create opportunities for individuals and families to reach self-sufficiency through family support services, education, employment and leadership. Bright Center creates an environment that rewards excellence and innovation, encourages mutual respect and maximizes resources.

Build Inclusion, Inc. www.buildinclusion.org An organization created by parents, self-advocates and industry professionals to facilitate natural networks and community access for individuals with disabilities through education, engagement and employment.

Camp Discovery A three-day all female camp designed to teach women in wheelchairs physical fitness and 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. www.campdiscoveryco.com The Center for Courageous Kids 1501 Burnley Road, Scottsville, Ky.,42164 (270) 618-2900 / jobryan@courageouskids.org www.courageouskids.org The Center for Courageous Kids (CCK) is a medical camp where children with disabilities or life-threatening illnesses will experience what a real camp is like, in a setting that is physically safe and medically sound. The camp offers children who are typically watching rather than participating, the opportunity to fully engage in camp activities that focus on their abilities. Illness specific summer camps for children (7-15) and illness specific family weekend retreats, free of charge.

Center for Accessible Living - 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 Center for Accessible Living - 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 Center for Accessible Living - Northern Kentucky P.O. Box 12304, Covington, Ky., 41012 (859) 940-3843 rthompson@calky.org / www.calky.org 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.

Independence Place, Inc. Willis Deitz, Executive Director 501 West 6th St., Suite 250, Lexington, KY 40508 (859) 266-2807 / Toll Free (866) 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 assist people with disabilities to achieve their potential for community inclusion through improving access and equal opportunity.

Children’s Home of Cincinnati 5050 Madison Road; Cincinnati, Ohio 45227 (513) 272-2800 www.thechildrenshomecinti.org 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.

Christian Appalachian Project Lexington Location 2528 Palumbo Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 269-0635 / (866) 270-4227 www.christianapp.org 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.

Community Action Kentucky 101 Burch Court, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (800) 456-3452 / www.kaca.org 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.

Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children Kentucky CASA Network 1640 Lyndon Farm Court, Suite 108, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 238-2154 / www.kentuckycasanetwork.org Court Appointed Special Advocates or 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 above.

Easter Seals Kentucky At Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 254-5701 / www.cardinalhill.org Easter Seals West Kentucky 801 N. 29th St. / Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 444-9687 / www.eswky.easterseals.com

Resource List 2017 Handi Capable Guide Services P.O. Box 421, Grand Rivers, Ky., 42045 (270) 362-0970 / (270) 559-6876 www.handicapable.net Home of the Innocents 1100 E. Market St., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 596-1000 / info@homeoftheinnocents.org www.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 healthcare facility offering pediatric medical, dental, hearing, vision and pharmacy.

Hospice of the Bluegrass (Bluegrass Care Navigators) 2312 Alexandria Drive, 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. Hospice of the Bluegrass provides care in 32 central, northern and southeastern Kentucky counties.

Human Development Institute University of Kentucky 114 Mineral Industries Building, Lexington, Ky., 40506 (859) 257-4356 / www.hdi.uky.edu HDI’s mission is to promote the independence, productivity and inclusion of people with disabilities and their families throughout the life span. Established in 1969, HDI is a unit of the Office of the Executive Vice President for Research at the University of Kentucky and part of a nationwide network of University Centers for Excellence. The Centers were established by federal legislation to promote team-based approaches to provide services for individuals with disabilities and their families.

HDI and its sister agencies, the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities and the Kentucky Division of Protection & Advocacy, form the state’s Developmental Disability Network.

O

Are We Missing Resources?

ur goal at Exceptional Family Magazine is to provide a comprehensive, statewide list of resources for folks with disabilities. Since we first published this magazine in 2009, each year we have updated and expanded our list of resources many times.

Help us continue to make this Resource Directory as accurate and thorough as possible. If you know of resources in the state or in your part of Kentucky that need to be included, please let us know.

Thanks for your assistance and we look forward to hearing from you.

To add to this Resource Directory, simply contact Editor John Lynch by phone (859) 223-1765 or email at john@lexingtonfamily.com. n Key Services was created to support children and adults with disabilities within the community. Key Services helps individuals become involved in their community while conquering their goals.

New Perceptions 1 Sperti Road, Edgewood, KY 41017 (859) 344-9322 / newperceptions.org Non-profit organization has been dedicated to enriching lives of those with intellectual/developmental disabilities since 1952.

NuMotion Louisville Location 11380 Bluegrass Pkwy, Jeffersontown, Ky., 40299 (502) 266-9061 Lexington Location 973 Beasley St., Ste. 110, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 225-3624 Bowling Green Location 1017 Shive Lane, Ste. E, Bowling Green, Ky., 42103 (270) 904-4934 www.numotion.com With a strong local focus, NuMotion aims to be the most responsive and innovative complex wheelchair company with which to do business.

Kerrinton’s Heart, Inc. P.O. Box 911074, Lexington, Ky., 40591 (859) 509-9857 / www.kerringtonsheart.org Dedicated to the education, support and encouragement of children with heart disease, their families and caregivers.

Pathways P.O. Box 790, Ashland, Ky., 41105 (606) 329-8588 / (800) 562-8909 www.pathways-ky.org

Key Assets Kentucky 961 Beasley St., Suite 110, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 226-5022 / www.keyassetskentucky.com Key Assets provides support for specialized foster parents who care for children with developmental delays or autism.

Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs P.O. Box 4028, Frankfort, Ky., 40604 (502) 226-2704 / erecktenwald@kasap.org www.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.

Key Services 215 Evans Ave., Mt. Sterling, Ky., 40353 (859) 497-3800 / www.keyassetskentucky.com

Redwood 71 Orphanage Road, Ft. Mitchell, Ky., 41017

(859) 331-0880 / www.redwoodnky.org A non-profit organization funded by United Way, Redwood guides children and adults with multiple and severe disabilities to achieve independence and reach their highest potential throughout their lives, by providing enriching educational, therapeutic and vocational services.

ResCare 9901 Linn Station Road, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (800) 866-0860 / www.rescare.com Provides supports to people with developmental, cognitive and intellectual disabilities. Services include group homes, supported living, in-home, Telecare, foster or companion care and vocational and habilitation.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass 1300 Sports Center Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 268-0757 / www.rmhclexington.com 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.

Shriners Hospital for Children Orthopedic clinic only, will refer for pediatric and adult care 110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, Ky., 40508 (859) 266-2101 www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org Shriners Hospitals for Children has a mission to provide the highest quality care to children with orthopaedic or neuromusculoskeletal disorders and diseases within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment.

Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov Special Needs Adoption Program DCBS/Adoption Services

2017 Exceptional Family KY

23

Resource List 2017 275 East Main St., 3C-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (800) 928-4303 / www.chfs.ky.gov/snap Special Olympics Kentucky 105 Lakeview Court, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 695-8222 / (800) 633-7403 www.soky.org Special Olympics is the world’s largest program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

STRIDE 150 Maryland Ave., Winchester Ky 40391 (859) 744-0370 / www.strideky.org Superior Van & Mobility 1180 E. New Circle Road, Lexington, Ky., 40505 (859) 253-1832 4734 Rockford Plaza, Louisville, Ky., 40216 (502) 447-8267 / www.superiorvan.com 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.

United Way of the Bluegrass 100 Midland Ave., Suite 300 Lexington, Ky., 40508 211 Information Line / (859) 233-4460 / www.uwbg.org United Way of Kentucky P.O. Box 4653, Louisville, Ky., 40204 334 E. Broadway, Suite 308, Louisville, Ky., 40204 (502) 589-6897 / www.uwky.org Metro United Way P.O. Box 4488, Louisville, Ky., 40204 (502) 583-2821 / Fax (502) 292-5673 www.metrounitedway.org WHAS Crusade for Children 520 West Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 582-7706 / www.whascrusade.org 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.

• ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY • Bluegrass Technology Center 817 Winchester Road, Suite 200 Lexington, Ky., 40505 (859) 294-4343 / (800) 209-7767 www.bluegrass-tech.org BTC is a non-profit, grassroots organization that assists individuals who have disabilities, their families and service

24

www.lexingtonfamily.com

providers in connecting with various technologies and services that provide the gateway to greater independence, productivity and quality of life. BTC is a member of the Alliance for Technology Access, The Eastern Regional Center for the Kentucky Assistive Technology Service (KATS) Network.

KATS (Ky. Assistive Technology Service Network Coordinating Center) 200 Juneau Drive, Suite 200, Louisville, Ky., 40243 (502) 489-8285 / Toll Free (800) 327-5287 www.katsnet.org The KATS Network is the Kentucky Assistive Technology program operating within its lead agency, the Office for the Blind, Education Cabinet. It consists of a statewide network of organizations and individuals connecting to enhance the availability of assistive technology devices and services to improve the productivity and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. In addition to the Coordinating Center located in the McDowell Center in Louisville, there are four regional AT resource centers and two partner satellite centers that are participating members of the KATS Network serving Kentucky.

Project CARAT (800) 327-5287 / info@projectCARAT.org www.katsnet.org/projectCARAT CARAT enables underserved individuals with disabilities in the Appalachian region of Kentucky by collecting, refurbishing and redistributing assistive technology (AT) and durable medical equipment (DME) 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 ProjectCARAT Hotline (800) 327-5287.

Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center 5659 Main St., Thelma, Ky., 41260 (606) 788-7080 / www.cdpvtc.ky.gov 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 Loan Corporation 275 East Main St., / Mail Drop 2 E-K Frankfort, KY 40621 / (877) 675-0195 www.katlc.ky.gov The Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation (KATLC) offers low interest loans for qualified applicants with disabilities for assistive technology. Working with its lending partner, Fifth Third Bank, 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.

Kentucky Dept. of Education Exceptional Children 300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601

(502) 564-4770 http://education.ky.gov/specialed/Pages/default.aspx Kentucky Assistive Technology Guidelines 8412 Westport Road, Louisville Ky., 40242 (800) 327-5287 www.katsnet.org/publications/aitis/index.html Redwood Assistive Technology Center 71 Orphanage Road, Ft. Mitchell, Ky., 41017 (800) 728-9807 / www.redwoodnky.org Western Kentucky Assistive Technology Center Wendell Foster’s Campus 815 Triplett St., Owensboro, Ky., 42302 (270) 689-1738 / www.wkatc.org

• AUTISM • 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 Wendell Foster’s Kelly Autism Program 819 East Ninth St., Owensboro, Ky. 40303 (270) 663-1460 www.wfcampus.org Autism Society of the Bluegrass Support Group P.O. Box 24212, Lexington, Ky., 40524-241 (859) 299-9000 / saraspragens@gmail.com www.asbg.org Autism Society of the Bluegrass, an all-volunteer parent advocacy group, was established in 1991 and is a chapter of ASA. Its mission is to provide education, advocacy and support to families, educators and health providers affected

by ASD in the Bluegrass.

Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati P.O. Box 58385, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45258-0385 (513) 561-2300 / www.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.

Autism Society of Kentuckiana P.O. Box 21895, Louisville, Ky., 40221-0895 Rebecca Thompson, Kentucky Resident Contact (502) 263-5708 / www.ask-lou.org Families for Effective Autism Treatment 1100 E. Market St., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 596-1258 / www.featoflouisville.org Kentucky Autism Training Center University of Louisville Autism Center at Kosair Charities

Be an ADS Groundbreaker Aging and Down Syndrome Research Study (ADS)

The University of Kentucky, Sanders-Brown Center on Aging has been conducting Down syndrome and aging research since 2009. This research is funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Exceptional Family Magazine Is

Free!

Who can join?

• You have Down syndrome and are age 25 or older.

• You are willing to come for a study visit once a year.

To Request Free Copies for You, Your School or Organization

• You, a family member, or caregiver are willing to answer questions about your health.

For more information: Call: 859-218-3865 http://www.uky.edu/DSAging/ Email: rdavi3@uky.edu

Call (859) 223-1765 Click www.lexingtonfamily.com Email john@lexingtonfamily.com

An Equal Opportunity University

OPPORTUNITY RECOVERY G R O W T H

WE

HELP

YOU

GET

THERE.

Celebrating 50 years of serving Central Kentucky with services in Mental Health, Substance Use and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

24

HOUR

FOR APPOINTMENTS AND SUPPORT: H E L P L I N E 1 . 8 0 0 . 9 2 8 . 8 0 0 0 • www.bluegrass.org

2017 Exceptional Family KY

25

Resource List 2017 1405 E. Burnett Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 852-4631 / 800-334-8635 ext. 852-4631 www.louisville.edu/education/kyautismtraining Lake Area Autism Families Support Group Michelle Schoremak, President / (270) 978-0680 laaf.msu@gmail.com PACT: Police Autism Community Training (513) 394-1813 https://loveabigaila2.wixsite.com/pact PACT is a non-profit program run by a sibling of an individual with autism aimed at educating and raising autism awareness within Kentucky’s law enforcement departments.

PACT seeks to increase awareness and knowledge through a classroom session focused on improving miscommunication among law enforcement officials and individuals with autism.

The session can be followed by a community open house designed to prepare both individuals with autism and law enforcement officials for interactions during an emergency or crisis situation. Contact PACT for a training in your community.

Weisskopf Child Evaluation Center 571 South Floyd St., #100, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 588-0907 www.louisville.edu/medschool/pediatrics/clinical/wcec 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.

• DOWN SYNDROME • Christian Academy of Louisville Providence School 3110 Rock Creek Drive, Louisville, Ky., 40207 (502) 897-3372 http://caschools.us/down-syndrome-providence-school Serves children 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. This program works in relationship with Down Syndrome of Louisville.

Currently offering Junior Academy-third grade and scheduled to expand each year.

Down Syndrome Association of Central Kentucky 1050 Chinoe Road, Suite 204, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 494-7809 / www.dsack.org 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.

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

Green River Area Down Syndrome Association – Owensboro and surrounding area P.O. Box 2031, Owensboro, Ky., 42302 (270) 681-5313 / info@gradsa.org / www.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.

Down Syndrome of Louisville 5001 South Hurstbourne Parkway Louisville, Ky., 40291 / (502) 495 5088 www.downsyndromeoflouisville.org 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.

Down Syndrome Assn. of South Central Kentucky PO Box 1611, Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 info@dssky.org / www.dssky.org Down Syndrome Association of Western Kentucky (270) 559-9026 upsandowns@dsawk.com / www.dsawk.com DSAWK promotes public awareness and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome by providing information, resources and support in our community. Generally, meetings are on the 3rd Monday of the month at the Heartland Worship Center in Paducah.

National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) (800) 232-6372 / (770) 604-9500 info@ndsccenter.org / www.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.

National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) (800) 221-4602 / info@ndss.org / www.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.

• EPILEPSY • Epilepsy Council of Greater Cincinnati

26

www.lexingtonfamily.com

895 Central Ave., Suite 550, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 (513) 721-2905 / (877) 804-2241 efgc@cincinnatiepilepsy.org www.epilepsy-ohio.org Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana 982 Eastern Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 637-4440 / (866) 275-1078 / www.efky.org

• EDUCATION • Kentucky Adult Education Council on Postsecondary Education 1024 Capital Center Drive, Suite 250 Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 573-5114 V/TTY / www.kyae.ky.gov Creative Learning Center Woodland Early Learning Center 575 Woodland Ave., Lexington, Ky., 40508 (859) 255-3444 www.cclc.com/center/ky/woodland-early-learning-center The Council for Exceptional Children (888) 232-7733 / TTY (866) 915-5000 www.cec.sped.org The largest international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, students with disabilities, and/or the gifted.

EKU Center for Student Accessibility 521 Lancaster Ave., Whitlock Building, Room 361 CPO 66, Richmond, Ky., 40475 (859) 622-2933 / www.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.

Kentucky Education Rights Center 256 Abbey Road, Versailles Ky., 40383 (859) 983-9222 / kerc@edrights.com www.edrights.com Kentucky State Department of Education Melissa Terrell / (502) 564-4770 300 Sower Blvd., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 https://education.ky.gov The Kidz Club 7140 Preston Highway, Louisville, Ky., 40219 (502) 368-9318 225 N. 25th St., Louisville, Ky., 40212 (502) 365-2426 527 Watson Road, Erlanger, Ky., 41018 (859) 727-0700 2200 Regency Road, Lexington Ky., 40503 (859) 224-0799 www.thekidzclub.com The Kidz Club is a prescribed pediatric extended care facility that provides skilled nursing care for children who

Resource List 2017 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 and social setting. Transportation can be provided. Medicaid and private insurance accepted. There are no costs to the child or their family.

Music for Life: Music Therapy and Music Education Patricia Guobis, M. M., MT-BC (502) 767-8308 Kentucky State University Disability Resource Center Room 220 of the Student Center Or Room 429 of the Academic Services Building 400 E. Main St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 597-5076 / diane.robinson@kysu.edu www.kysu.edu Morehead State University Disability Services 109J Enrollment Services Center, Morehead, Ky. 40351 (606) 783-5188 / e.day@moreheadstate.edu www.moreheadstate.edu/disability This office ensures that the university’s programs, activities, services and the campus itself are accessible to all students and visitors.

Northern Kentucky University Office of Disability Services Northern Kentucky University Student Union, Suite 303, Highland Heights, Ky., 41099 (859) 572-5401 / www.disability.nku.edu NKU provides learner-centered assistance and resources to students with disabilities in their transition to Northern Kentucky University.

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

University of Kentucky Disability Resource Center 725 Rose St. Multidisciplinary Building, Suite 407, Lexington, Ky., 40536 / (859) 257-2754 www.uky.edu/StudentAffairs/DisabilityResourceCenter Resources for prospective and current students and parents.

University of Louisville Disability Resource Center 119 Stevenson Hall, Louisville, Ky., 40292 (502) 852-6938 / askdrc@louisville.edu www.louisville.edu/disability UofL provides support for students with documented disabilities by promoting equal access to all programs and services.

Western Kentucky University Student Accessibility Resource Center Downing Student Union, First Floor, 1074 1906 College Heights Blvd., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 745-5004 / www.wku.edu/sarc

WKU coordinates services and accommodations for students with documented disabilities.

peers have graduated from high school and moved on to postsecondary settings.

Public School Parent Resource Centers Cabinet for Health and Family Services 275 E. Main St. Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4986 / http://chfs.ky.gov/dfrcvs/frysc/ 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.

Region 1: Coordinator Teresa Dixon Counties Served: Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Christian, Crittenden, Graves, Fulton, Hickman, Hopkins, Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg Region 2: Coordinator Dianne M. Arnett Counties Served: Butler, Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, Logan, McLean, Ohio, Simpson, Union, Warren, Webster Region 3: Coordinator Naela Imanyara Counties Served: Jefferson Region 4: Coordinator Betty Pennington Counties Served: Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Kenton, Oldham, Owen, Shelby, Trimble Region 5: Coordinator Paul Cookendorfer Counties Served: Anderson, Bourbon, Clark, Franklin, Grant, Harrison, Jessamine, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Pendleton, Scott, Woodford Region 6: Coordinator Tammy Gay Counties Served: Bullitt, Boyle, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Garrard, Lincoln, Marion, McCreary, Nelson, Pulaski, Russell, Spencer, Taylor, Washington, Wayne Region 7: Coordinator Doug Jones Counties Served: Bath, Boyd, Bracken, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Greenup, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Martin, Mason, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Robertson, Rowan Region 8: Coordinator Teresa Combs Counties Served: Breathitt, Estill, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Magoffin, Wolfe Region 9: Coordinator Maxine Reid Counties Served: Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, Rockcastle, Whitley Region 10: Coordinator Mary Jennings Counties Served: Fayette, Floyd, Pike Region 11: Coordinator Sherrie Baughn Martin Counties Served: Adair, Allen, Barren, Breckinridge, Edmonson, Grayson, Green, Hardin, Hart, Larue, Meade, Metcalfe, Monroe.

VSA Arts of Kentucky P.O. Box 3320, Bowling Green, 42102 (270) 904-7019 / www.vsartsky.org

SHEP Supported Higher Education Project Human Development Institute 1525 Bull Lea Road, Suite #160, Lexington Ky., 40511 (859) 977-4050 / www.shepky.org The Supported Higher Education Project of Kentucky is based on the understanding that education for all students is a lifelong endeavor. For too long, students with intellectual disabilities have been overlooked as their

• SCHOOLS • Child Development Center of the Bluegrass 290 Alumni Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 218-2322 / www.cdcbg.org Four-Star rated preschool for children with and without disabilities. Services provided include assessment, evaluations, and speech, physical and occupational therapy.

Academy for Individual Excellence 3101 Bluebird Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 267-6187 / www.aiexcellence.com 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 www.gtplex.org Growing Together Preschool has been offering 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, physical, occupational and speech therapy, and behavior consultations.

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.

KORE Academy Porter Memorial Church 4300 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, Ky., 40515 (859) 971-7129 / www.koreacademy.org School for children with learning differences: Grades 3-12.

The Langsford Center 9402 Towne Square Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45242 (513) 531-7400 2520 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 473-7000 2805 N. Hurstburn Parkway, Suite. 103, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 245-1706 / www.langsfordcenter.com The Lexington School’s The Learning Center 1050 Lane Allen Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 278-0501 / www.thelexingtonschool.org The Learning Center provides a unique and essential service to children with language-based differences by

2017 Exceptional Family KY

27

Resource List 2017 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.

Meredith Dunn School 3023 Melbourne Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40220 (502) 456-5819 / www.meredithdunnschool.org Pitt Academy 7515 Westport Road, Louisville, Ky., 40219 (502) 966-6979 / www.pitt.com The Provisions School & Family Counseling Center 128 Dennis Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 396-0644 / www.theprovision.org The Sphinx Academy 1591 Winchester Road, Suite 101 Lexington, Ky., 40505 (859) 309-6372 / www.sphinxacdemy.com New and innovative secondary school for grades 7-12.

Combines Montessori, homeschooling and special education.

Sproutlings Pediatric Day Care & Preschool Kosair Charities Center 3800 Tom Larimore Lane, Masonic Home, Ky., 40041 (502) 753-8222 / www.SproutlingsDayCare.com 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.

Stewart Home School 4200 Lawrenceburg Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 227-4821 / www.stewarthome.com 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.

Summit Academy of Louisville 11508 Main St., Louisville, Ky., 40243 (502) 244-7090 / www.summit-academy.org

• KENTUCKY RESOURCES • Cabinet for Health and Family Services Commission for Children with Special Health Care Needs www.chfs.ky.gov/ccshcn The Commission for Children with Special Health Care 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 will be staffed

28

www.lexingtonfamily.com

by mentors who are parents of children with special needs and will 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.

Locations: Central office / Louisville 310 Whittington Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 429-4430 / Toll Free (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 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, Muhlenber, 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, 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.

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) 431-3313 rbdiloreto@childrenslawky.org / www.childrenslawky.org Provides free legal services for children with educational disabilities, and performs research and policy work, training and education in this area.

Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities Preadmission Screen and Resident Review 275 E. Main St., Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4527 / (502) 782-6217 www.dbhdid.ky.gov/kdbhdid PASRR mandates a preadmission screening and resident review for all persons applying for admission to or residing in a nursing facility.

Disability Specific Web Resources www.disabilityresources.org The web site has a listing of several services available on the Internet.

Family to Family Health Information Centers Western Region Sondra Gilbert / Sondra.GIlbert@ky.gov (270) 852-2918 / (877) 687-7038, ext. 2123 Eastern Region (Including Louisville) Debbie Gilbert / DebbieA.Gilbert@ky.gov (502) 429-4430 / (800) 232-1160 www.kyf2f.com Located at the offices of the Commission for Children With Special Health Care Needs, Family to Family HICs are family-run centers that assist families of children and youth with special health care needs and the professionals who serve them. The goal is to help keep children healthy by promoting regular medical care. F2F HICs help families make more informed choices by providing support, information, resources and training. F2F HICs promote access to community based, self-directed services that are available to children with special needs.

Hart-Supported Living Program (844) 689-6620 www.chfs.ky.gov/dail/hartsupportedliving 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.

Kentucky ADA Office ADA Coordinator: Donna Shelton 501 High St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601

Resource List 2017 (502) 564-0348 https://personnel.ky.gov/Pages/ada.aspx The State Office of the Americans with Disabilities Act provides technical assistance, consultations and training for state government employees. Other Kentuckians should contact the Southeast ADA Center at 1419 Mayson St. NE, Atlanta, Ga., 30324. Info: (800) 949-4232 or www. adasoutheast.org Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corp.

275 East Main St., Mail Drop 2 E-K Frankfort, Ky. 40621 Toll Free (877) 675-0195 / www.katlc.ky.gov (For more information, please see listing under Assistive Technology on Page 24).

Kentucky Cabinet for Workforce Development Connecting Kentucky to employment, workforce information, education and training. / www.kcc.ky.gov Supported Employment Assists persons with disabilities to find and maintain employment. www.ovr.ky.gov/programservices/se Kentucky Children Insurance Program (K-CHIP) (877) 524-4718 / chfs.kchip@ky.gov www.kidshealth.ky.gov/en 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 very important and that preventive care is a large part of health care.

Kentucky Comprehensive Care Centers http://dbhdid.ky.gov/cmhc/centers.aspx 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 and Marshall counties.

Pennyroyal MH / MR Board 3999 Fort Campbell Blvd., Hopkinsville, Ky., 42241 (270) 886-2205 Serving Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Lyon, Muhlenburg, Todd, Trigg counties.

River Valley Behavioral Health, Inc. 1100 Walnut St., P.O. Box 1637, Owensboro, Ky., 42301 (270) 689 6500 Serving Davies, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, Webster counties.

Lifeskills 380 Suwanee Trail St., Bowling Green, Ky., 42102 (270) 901-5000 Serving Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, Warren counties.

Communicare, Inc. 107 Cranes Roost Court, Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 (270) 765-2605 / www.communicare.org Serving Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington counties.

Seven Counties Services, Inc. 101 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd., Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 589-8600 Serving Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Spencer, Shelby,

and Trimble counties.

NorthKey Community Care 502 Farrell Drive, P.O. Box 2680, Covington, Ky., 41011 (859) 578-3200 / Toll Free (877) 331-3292 www.northkey.org Serving Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen and Pendleton.

Comprehend, Inc. 611 Forest Ave.,, Maysville, Ky., 41056 (606) 564-4016 Serving Bracken, Fleming, Lewis, Mason, Robertson counties.

Pathways, Inc. 1212 Bath Ave., Ashland, Ky., 41101 (606) 329-8588 Serving Bath, Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Greenup, Lawrence, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Rowan counties.

Mountain Comprehensive Care Center 104 S. Front Ave., Prestsonburg, Ky., 41653 (606) 886-8572 Serving Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin, Pike counties.

Ky. River Community Care 3830 KY-15, Jackson, Ky., 41339 (606) 666-7591 Serving Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Owsley, Perry, Wolfe counties.

Cumberland River Comprehensive Care P.O. Box 568, Corbin, Ky., 40702 (606) 528-7010 Serving Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, Rockcastle, Whitley counties.

Adanta MH / MR Board 130 Southern School Road, Somerset, Ky., 42501 (606) 679-4782 Serving Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor, Wayne counties.

Bluegrass Access (bluegrass.org) 201 Mechanic St., Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 272-7483 / 24-hour help line (800) 928-8000 www.bluegrass.org Bluegrass celebrates 50 years of service to 17 Central Kentucky counties. The mission of the non-profit organization is to help individuals and families live their best life. Bluegrass provides services for community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and mental health and substance use issues.

Kentucky Department of Education: Division of Exceptional Services 300 Sower Blvd , Frankfort Ky., 40601 www.education.ky.gov/specialed/Pages Oversees funding, special education programs, data collection, personnel development, monitoring of school districts, curriculum development and more.

Kentucky Coalition against Domestic Violence 111 Darby Shire Circle, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 209-5382 / www.kcadv.org 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.

Kentucky Education Rights Center, Inc 256 Abbey Road, Versailles, Ky., 40383 (859) 983-9222 / www.edrights.com Kentucky First Steps State Lead Agency 275 E. Main St., HS2W-C, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (877) 417-8377

2017 Exceptional Family KY

29

Resource List 2017 www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/firstSteps/How+to+Contact+Local+ Point+of+Entry+Offices 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 decrease the problems early in a child’s development can reduce or prevent costly educational programs in the future.

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 Bluegrass District Point of Entry 343 Waller Ave., Suite 201, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 271-9448 / (800) 454-2764 Counties served: Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott, Woodford Buffalo Trace District Point of Entry 611 Forest Ave., 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., 42301 (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 Lousiville, 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

30

www.lexingtonfamily.com

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 108 New Glendale Road, P.O. Box 2609 Elizabethtown, Ky., 42702 (270) 737-5921 / (800) 678-1879 Counties served: Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington Northern Kentucky District Point of Entry 718 Columbia St., Newport, Ky., 41071 (859) 308-5963 / (888) 300-8866 Counties served: Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton Pennyrile District Point of Entry 735 North Drive, 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 which coordinates services for children with severe emotional disabilities and their families. IMPACT serves children and youth of all ages.

Kentucky Division of Protection and Permanency 275 E. Main St., 3E-A, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-6852 / Fax (502) 564-4653 www.chfs.ky.gov/dcbs/dpp 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.

Kentucky Office of Victims Advocacy (800) 372-2551 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. www.ag.ky.gov/criminal/victims/pages/mission Kentucky Protection & Advocacy 5 Millcreek Park, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (800) 372-2988 / (502) 564-2967 www.kypa.net 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.

Kentucky PTA P.O. Box 654, Frankfort, Ky., 40602-0654

(502) 226-6607 / kentuckypta@bellsouth.net www.kypta.org Kentucky Special Parent Involvement Network, Inc. (KY-Spin) 10301-B Deering Road, Louisville, Ky., 40272 (502) 937-6894 / (800) 525-7746 Fax (502) 937-6464 / www.kyspin.com KY-SPIN, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting programs that enable persons with disabilities and their families to enhance their quality of life. Fully 85% of all program income goes to direct services to families.

The Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation www.ovr.ky.gov Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Central Office Cabinet for Human Resources Building 275 E. Main St., Mail Stop 2E-K Frankfort, Ky., 40621 / (502) 564-4440 Bowling Green (270) 746-7489 / (800) 443-6055 (800) 246-6193 (TTY) Elizabethtown (270) 766-5121 / (866) 883-0001 Florence (859) 371-9450 / (877) 371-9451 Bluegrass/Lexington (859) 246-2537 / (888) 211-7276 Middletown (502) 426-0145 Whitesburg (606) 633-2568 West Liberty (606) 743-7978 / (800) 440-2530 Louisville (502) 595-4173 / (800) 456-3334 Madisonville (270) 824-7549 / (888) 640-2713 Owensboro (270) 687-7308 / (800) 241-5821 (TTY) (888) 640-2811 Paducah (270) 575-7304 Ashland (606) 920-2338 Carl D. Perkins Center (800) 443-2187 Kentucky Youth Advocates 11001 Bluegrass Parkway, Suite 100 Jeffersontown, Ky. 40299 (502) 895-8167 / (888) 825-5592 www.kyyouth.org The Charles W. McDowell Rehabilitation Center Kentucky Office for the Blind 8412 Westport Road, Louisville, Ky., 40242 (502) 429-4460 / www.blind.ky.gov Pathways to Careers and Special Programs Donnalie Stratton, Program Consultant 300 Sower Blvd., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4770 / https://education.ky.gov

Resource List 2017 Personal Care Attendant Program Department for Aging and Independent Living 275 E. Main St., 3E-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-6930 Ext 3477 www.chfs.ky.gov/dail/pcap 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.

Programs for Children with Disabilities Division of Extended Learning Office of Academic and Professional Development (Ages 3 through 5) 300 Sower Blvd., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 / (502) 564-4970 https://education.ky.gov First Steps Program (Ages Birth through 2) 275 East Main St., HS2W-C, Frankfort, Ky.,40621 (502) 564-3756 / www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/firststeps Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Developmental Delays: Ages Birth to 3.

R.E.A.C.H of Lousiville 501 Park Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40208 (502) 585-1911 / www.reachoflouisville.com Seven Counties Comprehensive Care Services Appointments: (502) 589-1100 (800) 264-8799 / www.sevencounties.org A community behavioral health and developmental services center serving Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer and Trimble counties. The vision of Seven Counties Services is that all persons affected by mental illness, developmental disabilities, addictions and abuse live satisfying, productive and valued lives. Website includes a 93-page Resource Book called “Build Your Future.”

United Partners in Kentucky www.up-in-ky.com UP in Kentucky is a functional, non-compensated partnership to enhance each other’s work on behalf of children, youth and young adults with disabilities and their families. The intention is to collaborate with each other, reduce duplication of effort and help determine and influence policies.

• LEARNING DIFFERENCES • The Curious Edge – The Reading Room 401 Lewis Hargett Circle, Suite 120 Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 899-EDGE (3343) www.thecuriousedge.com Working with children with dyslexia.

Learning Disabilities Assn. of Kentucky 2210 Goldsmith Lane, Suite 118, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 473-1256 / (877) 587-1256 www.LDAofky.org

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. The International Dyslexia Assn. - Ky. Branch P.O. Box 2011, Lexington, Ky., 40588 (859) 948-0013 / www.idakentucky.org Dyslexia Association of the Pennyrile 583 A Noel Ave., Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 (270) 885-5804 / www.hopkinsvilledyslexia.org LD Online The world’s leading website on learning disabilities and ADHD. www.ldonline.org/ldresources/local_org/kentucky Ohio Valley Branch of the International Dyslexia Association 317 East Fifth St., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 (513) 651-4747 / www.cincinnatidyslexia.org 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.

Progressive Educational Program, Inc. Joni Strickland, Director of Tutoring Service and Karen Cress, Certified Dyslexia Tester.

212 Venture Way, Somerset, Ky., 42503 (606) 677-2514 www.progressiveeducationalprogram.com Specializing in tutoring children with Dyslexia.

• MEDICAL • Associates in Pediatric Therapy 90 Howard Drive, Shelbyville, Ky.,40065 Louisville Area: (502)-633-1007 Lexington Area: (859)-899-2022 Indiana Area: (812)-542-2771 www.kidtherapy.org APT’s unique appeal is that it offers a family approach with multiple pediatric services including Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Nutrition, Developmental Intervention, Audiology, and Mental Health Services with Family Therapists and Psychologists to the patient and family in a team approach. APT strives to provide therapy in a variety of locations that is appealing to the patient and family. Offices are located in Bullitt County, Shelby County, Jefferson County, Fayette County, Oldham County & Southern Indiana. -- APT partners with other pediatric facilities such as All About Kids to provide therapy in a fun and rewarding environment where the child can feel normal.

Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky 7321 New LaGrange Road, Suite 100 Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 493-0609 / www.biak.us

Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital www.cardinalhill.org Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 254-5701 Cardinal Hill Center for Outpatient Services 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 367-7125 Cardinal Hill Home Care 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 367-7148 Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Center Easter Seals of Louisville 9810 Bluegrass Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 584-9781 Cardinal Hill of Northern Kentucky 31 Spiral Drive, Florence, Ky., 41042 (859) 525-1128 Charles L. Shedd Kentucky Association 4801 Sherburn Lane, LL1, Louisville, Ky. 40207 (502) 656-4453 / www.sheddtutoring.org The Shedd Program provides educational remediation through highly structured teaching methods and materials utilizing a multisensory approach and one-to-one instruction.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Center for Infants and Children with Special Needs Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center MLC 7009 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229 (513) 636-3000 / (800) 344-2462 TTY (513) 636-4900 www.cincinnatichildrens.org/svc/alpha/c/special-needs Dental Care in Northern Kentucky for Special Needs Donated Dental Services / (888) 765-6789 Early Periodic Screening Diagnostic and Treatment Special Services (EPSDT) Dept. of Medicaid Services, Children’s Health Services (800) 635-2570 / TTY (800) 775-0296 www.chfs.ky.gov/dms/epsdt 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.

Frazier Rehab Institute 220 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 582-7400 www.kentuckyonehealth.org/rehabilitationcarefrazier Health Point Family Care, Covington 1401 Madison Ave., Covington, Ky., 41011 (859) 655-6100 www.healthpointfc.org/location/covington/ Home and Community-Based Waiver (HCB Waiver)

2017 Exceptional Family KY

31

Resource List 2017 pharmacy patient care activities of the University of Kentucky, and in several off-site locations.

Kentucky Transitions (Money Follows the Person Demonstration Grant) Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services Division of Community Alternatives 275 East Main St., 6 W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 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. http://chfs.ky.gov/dms/ archive +mfp+grant+information. htm (502) 564-5560 / www.chfs.ky.gov/dms/hcb The Home and Community-Based Waiver program provides Medicaid coverage to eligible persons who are aged or disabled, who 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.

Horn and Associates in Rehabilitation Greatstone Office 2412 Greatstone Point, Lexington, Ky., 40504 Todds Road Office 4127 Todds Road, Lexington, Ky. 40509 (859) 224-4081 / www.horntherapy.com 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. HRA addresses concerns of the individual, family and referral sources including physicians, schools and other agencies. Families are encouraged to participate through evaluations and therapy, and a focus is placed on providing services that can generalize into academics, home, community and job settings.

Kentucky Children’s Hospital University of Kentucky, 800 Rose St., Lexington, Ky., 40536 (859) 257-1000 / (800) 333-8874 www.ukhealthcare.uky.edu/KCH Established in 1957, UK HealthCare consists of the medical, nursing, health sciences, public health, dental and

32

www.lexingtonfamily.com

Michelle P. Waiver (502) 564-4527 www.chfs.ky.gov/dms/mpw A Medicaid program that helps people live in the community, or go back 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 ICF/ID (Intermediate Care Facility – Intellectual Disability), like Oakwood, Hazelwood, or Cedar Lake Lodge.

The Kidz Club 7140 Preston Highway, Louisville, Ky., 40219 (502) 368-9318 225 N. 25th St., Louisville, Ky., 40212 (502) 365-2426 527 Watson Road, Erlanger, Ky., 41018 (859) 727-0700 2200 Regency Road Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 224-0799 www.thekidzclub.com 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 and social setting. Transportation can be provided. Medicaid and private insurance accepted. There are no costs to the child or their family.

Julie Kraska, OTR/L 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.

Marshall Pediatric Therapy 109 Wind Haven Drive, Suite 100 Nicholasville, Ky., 40356 (859) 224-2273 / Fax (859) 224-4675 www.mptcares.com 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 ages birth to 21.

NorthKey Community Care 502 Farrell Drive, P.O. Box 2680 Covington, Ky., 41011 (859) 578-3200 / Toll Free 877-331-3292 www.northkey.org Serving Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen and Pendleton.

Paving the way to a community healthy in mind and spirit – that’s what NorthKey Community Care is working toward in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas with a comprehensive continuum of mental health, developmental disability and substance abuse care.

Passport Health Plan 5100 Commerce Crossings Drive Louisville, Ky., 40229 (800) 578-0603 EST / TDD (800) 691-5566 Member Services 7 a.m.-7 p.m. (EST) Monday-Friday www.passporthealthplan.com 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. To learn more about Passport Health Plan, please visit our website, www. passporthealthplan.com., or call our Member Services department at 1-800-578-0603. TDD users should call 1-800-691-5566.

Safe Kids Fayette County Coalition Kentucky Children’s Hospital 800 Rose St., Lexington Ky., 40536 (859) 323-1153 www.ukhealthcare.uky.edu/safekids Safe Kids Fayette County is a program of Kentucky Children’s Hospital in Lexington and one of more than 650 grassroots coalitions in all 50 states and 17 countries, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico that brings together health and safety experts, educators, corporations, foundations, governments and volunteers to educate and

Resource List 2017 protect families. Safe Kids Fayette County Coalition is a member of Safe Kids Worldwide, a global network of organizations dedicated to preventing accidental injury.

Efforts are needed because as many as 90% of accidental injuries can be prevented.

Safe Kids Coalition Kentucky Led by Kentucky Department of Health 333 Waller Ave., Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 323-6194 / www.safekids.org Barren County Barren River District Health Department 318 West Washington St., Glasgow, Ky., 42141 (270) 651-8321, ext. 13 Louisville and Jefferson County Norton Children’s Hospital 315 E. Broadway, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 629-7335 River Cities Communities King’s Daughters Medical Center 2201 Lexington Ave., Ashland, Ky., 41101 (606) 408-4000 SKY Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Mandy Ashley DMD, MsEd, MS 727 US-31 W. Bypass, Suite 101 Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 715-5437 www.skypediatricdentistry.com Dentistry for children and teens with special needs.

Square One Specialists in Child and Adolescent Development 6440 Dutchmans Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 896-2606 / info@squareonemd.com www.squareonemd.com Comprehensive Evaluations: Medical, psychological, psychiatric, educational, and speech-language evaluations are offered to help understand differences that impact children’s and adolescents’ development, behaviors, and emotions.

Robert A. Underwood, Ph.D. & Byron White, Psy.D: 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.

(502) 384-ADHD (2343) / drwalker@louisvilleadhd.com www.louisvilleadhd.com

• MENTAL HEALTH • 360 Mental Health Services Dr. Tim Houchin 1517 Nicholasville Road, Suite 302, Lexington, Ky., 40515 (859) 948-9471 / tim@360mentalhealth.com www.360mentalhealth.com Dr. Tim is one of only 203 physicians triple board certified in child/adolescent psychiatry, general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry. He believes in a holistic, 360-degree approach to evaluating and treating both children and adults.

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver (502) 564-5198 / Toll Free (866) 878-2626 Acquired Brain Injury Kentucky Branch 275 E. Main St., 6W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 www.chfs.ky.gov/dms/Acquired+Brain+Injury This program is designed to provide intensive services and support to adults with acquired brain injuries as they work to re-enter community life.

Bluegrass Access (bluegrass.org) 201 Mechanic St., Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 272-7483 / 24-hour help line (800) 928-8000 www.bluegrass.org Bluegrass celebrates 50 years of service to 17 Central Kentucky counties. The mission of the non-profit organization is to help individuals and families live their best life. Bluegrass provides services for community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and mental health and substance use issues.

The Kentucky Assn. of Regional Programs 152 West Zandale Drive, Suite 201 Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 272-6700

www.sites.google.com/site/kentuckycmhcs 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.

University of Louisville Norton Children’s Hospital 231 E. Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40402 (502) 629-6000 / www.kosairchildrenshospital.com 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.

Cedar Lake 9505 Williamsburg Plaza, Suite 200, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 495-4946 / www.cedarlake.org Cedar Lake is committed to providing the highest quality of services to the people it supports. To demonstrate its commitment to the development of a compassionate and capable workforce, Cedar Lake has launched a career development program with ongoing educational opportunities to further sharpen people’s skills. In doing so, Cedar Lake employees develop a heightened sensitivity – or compassion – for the people they support and a clear understanding of how they can best support these individuals to live a life filled with abundant possibilities.

Dr. F. Allen Walker Creative Psychiatry P.L.L.C. 10200 Forest Green Blvd., Suite 401 Louisville, Ky., 40223

Division of Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities 275 E. Main St., 4CF, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-7702 / www.dbhdid.ky.gov/ddid

It is the mission of the Division of Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities to empower each person to realize his or her place in the community as a citizen of Kentucky. To accomplish this mission, DDID will partner with and support persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities, families, advocates, stakeholders and government agencies.

Mental Health America of Kentucky 216 E. Reynolds Road, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 684-7778 / mhaky@kih.net / www.mhaky.org Mental Health Association of Northern Kentucky 912 Scott St., Covington, Ky., 41011 (877) 361-4518 / (859) 431-1077 www.mhanky.org NAMI Kentucky (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) 2441 S. Hwy. 27, Somerset Ky., 42501 (606) 677-4066 / (800) 257-5081 namiky@bellsouth.net / www.ky.nami.org NAMI Bowling Green Larry Gregory / (270) 303-8232 gregnamibgky@hotmail.com NAMI Buffalo Trace (Maysville) Sharon Darnell / (606) 759-4010 ndarnell@maysvilleky.net NAMI Cumberland River Wayne Bullock / (606) 256-9250 nami.mtvernon@crccc.org NAMI Danville Lauren Clements / (859) 412-1886 lauren.clements89@gmail.com NAMI Hazard Donia Shuhaiber / (859) 537-6869 Namihazard@yahoo.com NAMI Heartland Gary Barr / (502) 471-4064 gary.barr@ge.com NAMI Henderson/Webster County Beverly Jones / (270) 854-6264 bjones.nami@att.net NAMI Hopkinsville Sherri Turner / (513) 317-6932 sbsturner@gmail.com NAMI Lexington Phill Gunniing Executive Director / (859) 272-7891 pgunning@namilex.org NAMI Louisville Jean Henry, Executive Director / (502) 588-2008 jean.henry@namilouisville.org NAMI Madisonville (800) 257-5081 NAMI Morehead Carol Mauriello / (606) 356-9194 camauriello@moreheadstate.edu NAMI Nelson County Gary Barr / (502) 471-4064 Gary.barr@ge.com NAMI Northern Kentucky Dorothy Best, Executive Director / (859) 392-1730 dbest@namiky.org NAMI Owensboro

2017 Exceptional Family KY

33

Resource List 2017 Marla Payne / (270) 302-3113 Marla.k.payne@sscgp.com NAMI Paducah Balinda Hudson / (270) 443-3448 namipaducah@yahoo.com NAMI Somerset Maggie Krueger, President / (270) 384-1134 maggiekureger@windstream.net NAMI Winchester Brenda Harrington / (859) 749-3702 bebe1@bellsouth.net Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Trust Fund (502) 564-6930 / toniaawells@ky.gov www.chfs.ky.gov/dail/braintrust 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.

• PARENT SUPPORT • The Arc of Kentucky Sherri Brothers, Executive Director 706 East Main St., Suite A, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 875-5225 / (800) 281-1272 arcofky@aol.com / www.arcofky.org (For more information, please see listing under General on Page 22).

Kentucky Partnership for Families and Children, Inc. 207 Holmes St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 875-1320 / (800) 369-0533 kpfc@kypartnership.org / www.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.

The Council on Developmental Disabilities 1151 South Fourth St., Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 584-1239 / Fax (502) 584-1261 info@councilondd.org / www.councilondd.org The mission of The Council is to initiate positive change on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities. The Council serves people with developmental disabilities of all ages through all stages of life, connecting families to resources and services and providing training and support.

Resources focus on lifelong education and empowerment of constituents. The Council provides support, resources and information to families; advocates on behalf of people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities; initiates changes in laws and regulations that improve public policies, funding and perceptions of people with ID-DD; provides specialized trainings to families (Medicaid waiver, financial planning, guardianship); and offers six-week LEAD (Leadership Education & Advocacy Development) training for parents on special education laws, Individualized Education Plans and principles of advocacy.

Weber Gallery Weber Gallery specializes in bringing professional artists

34

www.lexingtonfamily.com

and artists with disabilities together in integrated exhibitions.

Weber Gallery, a program of The Council on Developmental Disabilities, provides an inclusive art venue for talented local, regional and national artists, with a vision toward the inclusion and empowerment of artists with developmental disabilities. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday or by appointment.

The Molly Johnson Foundation P.O. Box 215, Fisherville, Ky., 40023 (502) 724-0067 www.themollyjohnsonfoundation.org 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.

• SPEECH, HEARING & LANGUAGE • Heuser Hearing Institute 111-117 E. Kentucky St., Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 584-3573 / www.thehearinginstitute.org 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 servied Louisville and many of the surrounding Kentucky and Indiana communities since 1948.

Lexington Hearing and Speech Center 350 Henry Clay Blvd. Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 268-4545 / www.lhscky.org Provides diagnostic, therapeutic and educational services for individuals with hearing, speech and language impairments.

Kentucky Association of the Deaf P.O. Box 463, Danville, Ky., 40423-463 www.kydeaf.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.org Kentucky Hands and Voices (888) 398-5030 / www.kyhandsandvoices.org Hands & Voices is a non-profit, parent-driven national organization dedicated to supporting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Organization is nonbiased about communication methodologies and believe that families can make the best choices for their child if they have access to good information and support. Group consists of parents of ASL signers, cued speech users, kids with cochlear implants or total communicators.

Kentucky School for the Deaf

303 South Second St., Danville, Ky., 40422 (859) 239-7017 / www.ksd.k12.ky.us Ensures that deaf and hard of hearing children and youth have educational opportunities to develop their potential to become educated, life-long learners and productive citizens.

Kentucky Speech-Language-Hearing Association 838 E. High St., Suite 263, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (800) 837-2446 / khsaoffice@khsa.info www.ksha.info The mission is to enhance the provision of quality services to persons with communication disorders and their families.

KSHA provides broad-based education opportunities, public awareness and policy development initiatives, and by supporting professionals in speech-language pathology and audiology by promoting the highest standards for service providers.

St. Rita School for the Deaf 1720 Glendale Milford Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45215 (513) 771-7600 / www.srsdeaf.org

• SERVICE DOGS • 4 Paws for Ability University of Kentucky UK4PAWS@gmail.com / www.facebook.com/4PawsatUK Kentucky Working K-9 Academy Service Dogs for the Disabled 4856 Lilac Road, Leitchfield, Ky., 42754 (270) 259-3647 www.kentuckyservicedogacademy.com Paws With Purpose P.O. Box 5458, Louisville, Ky., 40255 (502) 689-0804 / Info@PawsWithPurpose.org pawswithpurpose.org Wildcat Service Dogs University of Kentucky www.wildcatservicedogs.org

• SPINA BIFIDA • Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 254-5701 Cardinal Hill Center for Outpatient Services 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 367-7125 Cardinal Hill Home Care 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 367-7148 Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Center/Easter Seals of Louisville 9810 Bluegrass Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 584-9781 Cardinal Hill of Northern Kentucky 31 Spiral Drive, Florence, Ky., 41042 (859) 525-1128

Resource List 2017 Spina Bifida Association of Kentucky Kosair Charities Centre 982 Eastern Parkway, Box 18, Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 637-7363 / sbak@sbak.org / www.sbak.org SBAK is a resource center that provides free services and programs to children and adults with Spina Bifida and their families. The mission is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and to enhance the lives of all affected. Have you had your recommended daily dose of Folic Acid? Remember, 400mcg of Folic Acid taken before pregnancy can reduce the risk of having a child with Spina Bifida by 70%.

Shriners Hospital for Children Lexington Office Spina Bifida Program (Orthopaedic clinic only) 110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, Ky., 40508 (859) 268-5798 www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org

• VISION • Silver Circles, Inc. Catherine C. Barnes, Director & Irlen Diagnostician 2396 New Shepherdsville Road, Bardstown, Ky., 40004 (502) 264 7886 / www.silvercirclesinc.com The Irlen Method uses colored overlays and precision tinted filters, worn as glasses, to reduce or eliminate perceptual difficulties and light sensitivity.

Office for the Blind 275 E. Main St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (800) 321-6668 / (502) 564-4754 http://kcc.ky.gov/Office-for-the-Blind/Pages/default.aspx Family Eyecare Associates & Children’s Vision and Learning Center Dr. Rick Graebe 105 Crossfield Drive, Versailles, Ky., 40383 (859) 879-3665 / (855) 686-2020 www.myfamilyvision.com Family Eyecare Associates and Dr. Rick Graebe offer the best available eyecare for the entire family. This includes computerized exams for children and adults; and quality eyeglasses, sunglasses and contact lenses. 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.

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 / www.ksb.k12.ky.us A K-12 public school serving Kentucky students who are blind and visually impaired, offers 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.

Visually Impaired Preschool Service (VIPS)

Greater Louisville 1906 Goldsmith Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 636-3207 / (888) 636-8477 www.vips.org VIPS-Central Kentucky 350 Henry Clay Blvd., Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 276-0335 / (888-254-8477) www.vips.org The mission of Visually Impaired Preschool Services, Inc. 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.

• OTHER ORGANIZATIONS • Cardinal Hill Adaptive Recreation (859) 254-5701 / cindy.jacobelli@cardinalhill.org www.cardinalhill.org/programs/adaptive-recreation Promotes healthy and active lifestyles for people with physical disabilities through education, exposure to adaptive equipment and adaptive recreation experiences in the community.

Cassidy’s Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy 6075 Clinton Road, Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 554-4040 / www.cassidyscause.org KARRN (Kentucky Appalachian Rural Rehabilitation Network) phkitz1@uky.edu / www.karrn.org 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.

Toyota Bluegrass Miracle League Plays at Shillito Park in Lexington North Lexington YMCA / (859) 258-9622 www.ymcacky.org/main/toyota-bluegrass-miracle-league/ www.facebook.com/Toyota Bluegrass Miracle League A baseball program for youth and adults with special needs. The leagues play on a specially designed field located at Shillito Park in Lexington. The all-accessible field is the only one of its kind in Kentucky with leagues in both spring and fall.

LYSA’s TOPSoccer Program 404 Sporting Court, Lexintgton, Ky., 40503 (859) 223-5632 / www.lysa.org/tops 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.

Legacy All Sports 261 Ruccio Way, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 977-8862 / www.legacyallsports.com Carousel Kidz is a program to meet your child’s special needs with one-on-one gymnastics lessons.

Central Kentucky Riding for Hope P.O. Box 13155, Lexington, Ky., 40583 (859) 231-7066 / lauriston@ckrh.org www.ckrh.org Operated at the Kentucky Horse Park Under the guidance of trained teachers, volunteers and medical people, 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.

Cerebral Palsy K.I.D.S. Center Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies 982 Eastern Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 635-6397 www.kidscenterky.org Since 1959, the Kids Center has served families of children with Down syndrome, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, autism, seizure disorders, and a number of other developmental conditions.

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America Kentucky Chapter P.O. Box 573, Prospect, Ky., 40059 (877) 283-7513 / Kentucky@ccfa.org www.ccfa.org/chapters/kentucky/ National Multiple Sclerosis Society Kentucky-Southeast Indiana Chapter 1201 Story Ave., Suite 200 Louisville, Ky., 40206 / (502) 451-0014 www.nationalmssociety.org www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/KYW/About-thisChapter/Staff TASH Disability Advocacy Worldwide (202) 540-9020 www.tash.org 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.

TASH, Kentucky Chapter Located in Louisville Leslie Lederer / (502) 239-4805 www.tash.org/chapters/kentucky-tash/ Tourette Syndrome Association Lexington Support Group (606) 225-0946 Louisville Support Group (502) 235-0704 / www.tsa-usa.org YMCA of Central Kentucky (859) 254-9622 www.ymcaofcentralky.org n

2017 Exceptional Family KY

35

Associates in Therapy Associates in Pediatric Pediatric Therapy

Advancing Patients to Their Next Therapeutic Level

Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy & Mental Health Offices located in Louisville, Lexington, Southern Indiana & the surrounding areas.

502.633.1007 or 859.899.2022

36

www.lexingtonfamily.com

Kidtherapy.org