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City of Temecula Presents:
Southwest Riverside County Special Needs Resource Guide
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ccording to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention they estimate that 1 in 88 children in the United States have been identified as having an Autism Spectrum Disorder (CDC, 2012). Autism spectrum disorders are now almost five times more common among boys than girls, with 1 in 54 boys being identified. Within the public schools systems, population rates in Temecula and Lake Elsinore school districts have increased approximately 300 percent (Kabbany, 2007).
There are various resources in the community that offer support in all areas of advocacy, education, training, medical referrals, products, and services. Knowing where to look for services in your community can be a daunting task if you do not know where to start. The City of Temecula, in collaboration with the Southwest Riverside Autism Task Force, has compiled a Temecula Special Needs Resource Guide as a way to assist individuals, caregivers, and professionals affected by disabilities.
Having a child with special needs can be challenging and rewarding at the same time. Parents and caregivers all experience the stresses and worries that accompany the desire to strive for the best and most effective services to help their child. The City of Temecula is very fortunate to have numerous programs and services throughout the community and surrounding areas that serve the special need population.
“The resource guide will always be a work in progress. The more we learn and know the more we will update the resource guide. The guide is just the important first step in making sure those that need help at a critical time get it” says Mayor Pro Tem Mike Naggar. Every effort has been made to provide a list that is up-to-date and that offers information and guidance on locating resources in Southwest Riverside County and surrounding areas. Not only will individuals and parents benefit from this guide but so will the community. We are confident that this guide will help the community better understand the resources available to support a more independent and fulfilling life. The guide is the most comprehensive guide of its kind in Southwest Riverside County. The guide features some of the best and most innovative resources our city has to offer. While flipping through the guide one can easily locate agencies/ organizations through the table of contents and/or index. It is easy to use and is complete with extensive contact information and a description of the services offered. The City of Temecula will be updating the Southwest Riverside County Special Needs Resource Guide on a quarterly basis. Suggestions of additional programs and/or services that would assist individuals with special needs are welcomed. An agency/ organization application can be requested by contacting the Temecula Human Services Division. The guide is available in electronic format on the City of Temecula website, www.cityoftemecula.org as well as in print by request. For more information on the Southwest Riverside County Special Needs Resource Guide, please contact Yvette Martinez, Inclusion Services Specialist at (951) 693-3902 or email Yvette.Martinez@cityoftemecula.org.
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