Community Resources
General Information
Americans with Disabilities Act – Information and technical assistance on the ADA.
Area Agency on Aging -- The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) exists to help older adults and persons with disabilities live in their community with independence and dignity.
Community Mental Health Providers -- List of Community Mental Health Providers in Michigan
Michigan Government Disability Resources -- Website devoted specially to the interests, concerns, and needs of individuals with disabilities in Michigan.
National Research and Training Center (NRTC) provides a series of tools to advance self-determination and person-driven services for the individuals and family living with disabilities.
Advocacy
The Arc of Kent County – Advocacy group that is well-connected to parents and guardians.
Disability Advocates of Kent County -- Volunteer opportunities, community groups and events, consultation and disability services
PACER Center -- (Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights) Community Resources.
R-Word Campaign – The campaign, led by Special Olympics and Best Buddies International, to eliminate usage of the “r-word” and replace it with “respect.”
Employment
Work First -- Based out of Washtenaw County, Work First provides education and training services to recipients of Temporary Aide to Needy Families (TANF); State Family Assistance and Food Stamps.
Michigan Works! -- More than 100 centers fostering high-quality employment and training programs
Michigan Rehabilitation Services -- helps Michigan residents with disabilities achieve employment and self-sufficiency.
Housing
Grand Rapids Housing Commission -- provides housing assistance and affordable housing opportunities to lower-income families, the disabled and senior citizens in a manner that is fiscally sound and in ways that support families, neighborhoods and economic self-sufficiency.
Insurance and Funding
Michigan Department of Human Services -- Disability Assistance Programs
Michigan Community Mental Health, Medicaid -- What is Medicaid? Filling out your Medicaid Application...
Social Security and Disability Resource Center -- Information on the federal government's two disability benefit programs, title II SS disability benefits, and title 16 SSI disability benefits. Topics include disability applications, denial on claims, the filing of appeals, and disability claim evaluation process.
Transition
Michigan Alliance for Families -- Information, support, and education. Also provides information about family involvement and workshop opportunities in Michigan.
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition -- National resources, technical assistance, and info relating to secondary education and transition for youth with disabilities.