WINTER/SPRING 2017
INDEPENDENCE
INTEGRATION
INCLUSION
Kentucky Teens With Disabilities Meet Legislators in Washington, D.C.
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Letter From CCDD Vice Chairperson Learned How to Be An Advocate from the CCDD
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CCDD's New State Plan Three Goals for Next Five Years: Advocacy, Capacity Building, Systems Change
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Workplace Rights Step-by-Step Instructions for Getting ADA Accommodations on the Job
Culture of Support for Mitchum Family Started In Utero
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Karen Herdina’s Effort Helps Financial Plan Become Law in Kentucky
From Autism to Tourette’s Syndrome, Statewide List Provides the Information You Need
STABLE Accounts
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Staff Members Explain What Advocacy Means to Them
Late Self Advocate Started His Own Memorabilia Business
Meet the CCDD & Staff
Jim Chesser Tribute
Editor..........................John Lynch of Lexington Family Magazine
Graphic Artist...............Matthew Hall
of Lexington Family Magazine 2
www.lexingtonfamily.com
Prenatal Advocacy
Resources List
Need More Copies? For Additional Free Copies, Call (859) 223-1765 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
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 Council on Developmental Disabilities
The Power of Advocacy
Letter from the
C C DD By: Colleen Payne
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reetings from the full citizenship and inclusion in Commonwealth Council on the community through capacity Developmental Disabilities. building and advocacy. I am excited to introduce you to Advocacy plays a huge role in that. the 2017 edition of Exceptional As the old disability rights motto Family Magazine. goes, “Nothing about us without us!” Seven years ago, my story was The CCDD’s work, including this featured in the second magazine, has always issue of this magazine. revolved around advocacy. I wrote about my son, But with our new 5-year Nate, who was born with plan, which includes a Spina Bifida. specific self-advocacy goal Our journey continues for us to work toward, our as Nate turns 11 and focus and commitment enters middle school this are rising to another level. year. (For a complete story on One of the best the State Plan, please see lessons I have learned Page 6). as Nate’s mom is how to I think you will see Colleen Payne with her effectively advocate for husband, Blake, and children that intensified focus him – and how to teach throughout this magazine. Georgia, 7, Nate, 10, him to advocate for From now on, each and and Bo, 4 himself. every Exceptional Family Most of what I have learned about Magazine story will be about some advocacy has come from the CCDD. form of advocacy. The Council consists of individuals Whether that advocacy takes place with developmental disabilities, on the legislative level or in our family members and guardians who schools, medical appointments and are traveling alongside those with communities, we all can learn from disabilities, and representatives of each other how to make our voices key state agencies. heard. All those years ago when we were I am also excited to announce featured in the magazine that was that in 2017, for the first time we started and is funded by the CCDD, I will launch a second edition of had no idea I would one day serve as Exceptional Family Magazine! the Council’s vice chair. There are so many exceptional The CCDD’s mission is to create advocates across Kentucky, one systemic change in Kentucky that annual magazine just isn’t enough. empowers individuals to achieve The 2017 Summer/Fall issue will be 4
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available in August. We hope as you read through this magazine, you will be inspired to become the best advocate you can be for yourself and those with disabilities in your community. n
to How CCDD
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.
The Arc of Kentucky
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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 nonprofit Arc of Kentucky is people
– 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 • stella@arcofky.org https://facebook.com/ArcofKentucky/
Advocates in Action
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n 2001, with funds from the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities, The Arc launched the Kentucky Advocates in Action Leadership/ Self-Determination Program. AIA is an innovative selfdetermination leadership academy program designed to train and support individuals with disabilities, family members, siblings of family
P 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
members with disabilities; or professionals working with people with disabilities. Classes start in November, meet again in February during the 874 K Rally and for the final class at The Arc’s annual conference in March. (The Arc is accepting applications for the class of 2017-18. For an application, call The Arc or visit its website.) During the lifespan of the AIA, important public policy changes have occurred including a state self-determination law (the first of its kind in the U.S.). Plus, individuals can now control their budgets to live more independently. $50 million was added to the support for community living program in 2002, and the HB 144 Commission was established. The “R” word was changed through legislative action, there is now an Adult Abuse Registry, accessibility and voting rights issues have been addressed and more. Empowered advocates throughout the state continue to make significant changes so that Kentucky will be a better place for individuals with disabilities to live. n
Annual Conference
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he turnout for the 2017 annual conference, “Building a Brighter Future,” more than doubled last year’s total as 300 attendees enjoyed the two-day conference. In addition to the attendees, 60 speakers and 53 exhibitors were featured. Tim Wamback, Founder of Handicap This, gave the keynote address. “Handicap This got great reviews from the attendees, who really enjoyed the conference,” Executive Director Stella Beard said. n
Meet The Arc's New Leader: Stella Beard
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he Arc of Kentucky’s Advocates in Action program is so successful it even produced the organization’s executive director. Stella Beard, the mother of four including a son with Williams syndrome, became The Arc’s executive director in October after working for years in the field. She worked in special education in different school systems, assisting families locate local resources to help them become better advocates for their children.
“That’s what got me involved. I wanted to be a better advocate for my son,” said Beard, who previously served as The Arc’s Parent Enrichment Coordinator and was a Board member. The recipient of the Betty Triplett Award sponsored by the Kentucky Partnership for Families and Children, Beard has facilitated IEP meetings and trained in a variety of subjects including Transition and Medicaid Waivers. She currently serves on the State Advisory Panel for Exceptional Children (Governor Appointed); HB 144 Council
(Governor Appointed); Kentucky Interagency Transition Council; Parent Representative Stella Beard on the College and Career Readiness/Kentucky State Personnel Improvement Grant. “The Arc is a place people can go to get the information they to need to make life better for their families,” Beard said. “This is the path I walk every day.” n 2017 Exceptional Family KY
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The Power of Advocacy
CCDD Outlines State Plan CCDD’s Strategic State Plan guides our work to create positive systems change for people with disabilities. This plan is based on data and input gathered from individuals with disabilities and their family members through focus groups, surveys and extensive research. On Oct. 1, 2016, we launched a new 5-Year Strategic State Plan. We invite you to join us as we work to address the issues of highest priority to individuals with disabilities and their families.
Goal 1: Advocacy
Individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) and family members will increase their advocacy skills. t Objective 1: Self-Advocacy Organization The Council will establish or strengthen a state self-advocacy organization coordinated with and led by individuals with DD. t Objective 2: Training & Mentoring The Council will create training opportunities for individuals with DD and their families; and, in collaboration with DD Network Partners (UCEDD/HDI and P&A), increase leadership training and mentoring for individuals with DD by individuals with DD. t Objective 3: Leadership Coalitions The Council will increase training and supports provided to individuals with DD so that at least 5 individuals with DD will effectively participate in cross-disability and culturally diverse leadership coalitions. t Objective 4: Hispanic Outreach The Council will increase the advocacy skills of Hispanic families of 6
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children with DD living in Louisville for whom English is a second language so they can more effectively access the services needed.
Goal 2:
Capacity Building
The capacity of communities and systems to include individuals with DD will be increased so that people will have opportunities for greater independence and integration. t Objective 1: Communities & Schools The Council will increase the capacity of communities and educational systems to increase opportunities for people with DD to form relationships beyond family and paid staff. t Objective 2: Employment The Council will increase competitive, integrated employment for individuals with DD. t Objective 3: Housing The Council will increase the supply of affordable, accessible, and integrated housing through the analysis and modification of public policies, budget actions and/or practices. t Objective 4: Emerging Issues
The Council will increase the capacity of advocates and policy makers to address at least 3 emerging issues that impact individuals with DD and their families.
Goal 3:
Systems Change Systems that provide services and supports for individuals with DD will be improved so that people with DD and their families can live and thrive in their communities. t Objective 1: Information Systems The Council will improve up to 3 systems that provide information about resources and services so that people with DD and their families can have greater access to information. t Objective 2: MedicallyFragile The Council will improve systems that provide services and supports for individuals who are medically fragile so they have more equitable access to community-based supports and services. t Objective 3: Community Supports The Council will improve long-term community supports for individuals with DD provided in integrated community settings. n
Take This Survey online at: www.lexingtonfamily.com/2017/01/exceptional-family-reader-survey/
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)
$250 -
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2017 Exceptional Family KY
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The Power of Advocacy Stephanie Sharp
Communications Coordinator Why Is Advocacy So Important? “It is most important to help educate yourself, family members, and others about policy issues and programs and services one might use in their daily lives in order to live happily, independently, and to be part of the community.” Advocacy Tip: “Believe in yourself and your capabilities, not your limitations.”
Carol Ann Tudor
Internal Policy Analyst III Why Is Advocacy So Important? “If you don’t advocate for disability related issues… who will?” Advocacy Tip: “Nobody knows your story but YOU. Learn how to tell YOUR story.”
Raymond F. Anderson
Budget Officer Why Is Advocacy So Important? “It is important to advocate about disability related issues to ensure individuals with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.” Advocacy Tip: “Educate yourself on issues that are important to you so you can share your knowledge with others.”
Meet the CCDD Staff Tim Moore
Receptionist Why Is Advocacy So Important? “It is important because it helps to educate others and make people aware of the issues and challenges facing people with disabilities.” Advocacy Tip: “Be aware of the cause that you are advocating for and to make your message clear and articulate so people can understand what you are saying.”
Jennifer Hicks Program Administrator Why Is Advocacy So Important? “Every individual has a unique perspective and no one knows what your particular perspective is until you share it.” Advocacy Tip: “A very important thing to remember about advocating is to be yourself. You are the only one who can share your experience.”
Katie Bentley
Public Policy Coordinator Why Is Advocacy So Important? “As a mom, I am motivated by love to help my children achieve the best life. I know that my voice has strength, that knowledge is power, and that our life stories bring a face to disability-related issues.” Advocacy Tip: “Learn as much as you can about resources and disability history. Connect with your legislators. Let them get to know you and offer to be a resource to those who don’t live in the world of disability. You are the expert here!”
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.
www.kyccdd.com
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Meet the CCDD...
FRONT ROW: Chastity Ross, Brian Samuels Jr., Joe Cowan, Leigh Ann Edwards LEFT TO RIGHT: Colleen Payne, Harold Kleinert, Lindsay Jones, Teresa Brandenburg, Sondra Gilbert, Claudia Johnson, Jennifer Dudinskie, Lela Hale, Roxanne Holbrook, Margaret Reed, Camille Collins, Dina Nelson, Anne Weaver, Laura Lyle, Lynne Flynn, Sherry Sanders, Keith Hosey, Melissa Hardison, Debbie Mays and Norb Ryan
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
www.kyccdd.com 2017 Exceptional Family KY
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The Power of Advocacy
Prenatal Advocacy
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Culture of Support for Mitchum Family Started in Utero By Kellie Mitchum
By Kellie Mitchum
leven years ago my husband and I were expecting our first child. We were very excited as you can imagine. That excitement quickly turned to fear and anxiety with the news that our baby would be born with myelomeningocele, or spina bifida. We had no idea what spina bifida was or how that would affect our child. We quickly Photo by: Jonathan Palmer learned that spina bifida is a neural tube birth defect that Kellie and Carl Mitchum started advocating for Brock, left, when he underwent affects 1 in a 1,000 births.
successful in utero surgery to address spina bifida. At right is Brock’s brother Wyatt.
The baby is born with a lesion or hole along the spine, and the damage to the spine can affect mobility, bowel and bladder function, and cause hydrocephalus (cerebral fluid backup in the brain) along with other health and social issues. Obviously, we were concerned and immediately wondered what we could do to help our baby before he was born. We learned about an experimental surgery offered at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. During this surgery the doctors operate on the baby’s back in utero with the hope of lessening the damage from the hole along his spine. The surgery is risky and our decision was difficult. After fully informing ourselves about spina bifida and the surgery, we decided to participate. The result was a successful surgery, pregnancy and outcome. Years later I realized this was the first time we advocated for our child. Fast-forward a decade, and we now have a very silly, funny and often 10
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stubborn 10-year-old son. Since Brock was born we’ve had many opportunities to advocate for him. We have always let Brock be our guide when it comes to his interests and activities. Many times as parents we automatically step in to find some creative way to allow him to engage and fully participate. Sometimes, advocating has been as simple as asking for a playdate with a new preschool friend. Other times advocating is more complicated, like spending four hours in IEP meetings at school to make sure he gets all the services and supports he needs to be successful. We advocate in the most positive way we can. It is my hope that we have been good advocates and have set a good example for Brock. This past summer, Brock and I attended the National Spina Bifida conference in Minnesota. The conference was an ideal opportunity for Brock to attend Kids Camp, where he participated in fun
and educational activities with other children with spina bifida. While Brock was at Kids Camp I attended numerous education sessions, learning about everything from the latest medical advancements in spina bifida care to adaptive sports opportunities. The session that made the biggest impact on me was “Raising a SelfAdvocate.” Although my husband and I had been advocating for Brock since before he was born, it became clear that making Brock more responsible for advocating for himself was just as important as teaching him social and independence skills. The session leader offered helpful suggestions on how to start selfadvocating. When we returned home, Brock and I sat down to discuss ways he could advocate for himself. Being a fifth grader, most of Brock’s life revolves around school and school friends. One advocacy opportunity he identified was to be present at his IEP
The Power of Advocacy meetings so he could give direct input. only.) He practiced it a couple of times the night before. He also saw a need to educate his classmates about what The day of the presentation, I asked him how he felt before spina bifida is and about people with disabilities in general. he presented. He was really nervous but excited to educate He mentioned that he often gets questions about why he his class on a topic in which he was an expert! wears leg braces and sometimes uses a wheelchair. He has I attended the presentation and, of course, I thought he did always answered, “Because I have spina bifida.” a great job. He was nervous at first but as the children asked He recognized that maybe he could provide a more detailed questions – and they had excellent ones – you could tell that explanation. Brock enjoyed answering and Brock chose to give appreciated their interest. a presentation to his Afterward, I asked how he He was nervous before the presentation but class during Spina Bifida felt about the presentation. excited to educate classmates on a topic in Awareness month in His answer? It wasn’t as which he was an expert. October. We talked hard as he thought, and he about how education and was glad he did it! awareness are also a form of He received many advocacy. compliments from his classmates. Several thought that it was Brock created a brief kid-friendly PowerPoint to use as his really cool that he “had a special thing about him he could guide while he presented. talk about.” He and I brainedstormed different topics he wanted to It is our hope that Brock will continue to grow and learn to address such as how all people have differences and things navigate his world in a way that works for him. in common, definitions of disability and the proper words We know that he will continue to learn to advocate for to use to describe a disabled person as well as outdated or himself and educate others about spina bifida. hurtful words to avoid. We feel that by starting now to be mindful as parents to let He also included general information about spina bifida him take the reins of advocacy whenever possible will only and what that means to him. help him in the long run to be a confident and successful selfHe put together the presentation himself. (I fact checked advocate. n
CAROUSELKIDZ A program to fit your child’s special needs
• One-on-one gymnastics and dance lessons • Small group gymnastics and dance class • Aid/assistant program For more information contact Heath at
hunderwood@legacyallsports.com
859-977-8862 261 Ruccio Way • Lexington www.legacyallsports.com
2017 Exceptional Family KY
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The Power of Advocacy
Know Your
Rights
In the Work Place By Jennifer Hicks
A
re you an employee with a disability? Have you ever wondered how to go about getting ADA accommodations from your employer? Here is the step-bystep process: t The employee makes an accommodation request. This should be in writing whenever possible. t The employer may ask for medical documentation. This should be from a certified medical professional (not necessarily a medical doctor but may include therapists, etc.) and should include what type of disability you have, how it affects your job performance and any accommodations your medical professional thinks would be helpful. t Employee and employer have a back-and-forth discussion of appropriate accommodations. The employer does not necessarily have to give the exact accommodation requested but must offer accommodations that are both reasonable and effective. For instance if an employee requests a specific chair because it has certain features, the employer may substitute a different chair with the same features. *NOTE: Accommodations are 12
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only considered unreasonable when an employer can show that to provide it would be an undue burden or hardship. This may include exorbitant costs, or if providing it would change the nature of the way the business operates. t Both employer and employee should monitor the new accommodations and make sure they are effective and reasonable. If they are not, the back-and-forth discussion must occur again. Any time additional accommodations are needed, this process must occur. t Once accommodations are decided upon, they may not be removed unless they become an undue burden. t If an employee is still unable to perform the essential job functions even with reasonable accommodations, the employer must look for an open position in which the employee may fit. If there are no such open positions, the employer may begin the disciplinary process, which could result in termination. ADA National Network advice line (800) 949-4232 or https:// adata/org. To file a formal complaint, contact Equal Employment Opportunity Office at www.eeoc. gov. n
Tina Jackson
Wins
NATIONAL ADVOCACY AWARD
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ongratulations to Tina Jackson on her induction into the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities’ Self-Advocate Leadership Circle. Jackson, a 60-year-old retiree from Louisa, was born with cerebral palsy and lost her ability to speak in 1981. But her message of inclusion and service for those with disabilities rings out loud and clear. Jackson was honored in July by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities with the Outstanding Commitment to Self-Advocacy award. “I lived my life as I was taught – to try to bring awareness to disability issues and all minorities in general,” she said. “I just happened to be disabled so my path took that focus.” Jackson is a former member of the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities and helped launch the Council’s Community of Sharing Project. She has earned two professional degrees – an Associate’s in medical records and a Bachelor’s in social work. She has been married 18 years to Mark Jackson, who has disabilities because of a head injury. He runs his own lawn care business. “I was blessed with parents who lived by example, in inclusion and community service,” Jackson said. “I’ve been living a full life despite my limitations, taking on challenges and educating others on these issues.” Though Jackson said she is aware of prejudices against people with disabilities, her work stands as a rebuke to those prejudices. Said Jackson: “Working and going to school in mainstream society give evidence that people with disabilities are capable and hardworking.” 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 h at St. Mic urch h C l Episcopa te Dr. n fo 2025 Belle n Lexingto
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
Scholarships Avaliable!
Proud Members of:
2017 Exceptional Family KY
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The Power of Advocacy
MRS. HERDINA GOES TO FRANKFORT Advocacy for ABLE Act By Fort Thomas Mom Takes Her All the Way To the State Capital By Karen Herdina
I
have two adult sons with Fragile X Syndrome so my husband and I have advocated for a long time in the school system, the community and with agencies that support our sons. I never thought my advocacy for them would bring me to the Kentucky State Legislature. On a September day in 2014, State Senate candidate Wil Schroder showed up on my porch campaigning. I proceeded to tell him the difficulties individuals with disabilities have in saving money because if they have $2,000 or more in the bank they are at risk of losing their Social Security or Medicaid benefits. I told him it would be great if there was legislation for people with disabilities that was similar to 529 college savings accounts, which allow people to save tax-free dollars toward their children’s education. I gave him my card in case he heard of anything and wished him luck. Little did I know that there had already been a movement started at the federal level for creating this legislation. It was called the ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) Act. Advocates Chip Gerhardt and Steven Beck started the process. Chip is from Ohio and I happened to meet his sisterin-law at a party in October. I immediately contacted Chip and became part of the National Down 14
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Syndrome (NDSS) and Autism Speaks ABLE Ambassadors network. Our role was to contact legislators as well as inform other advocates to help get this legislation passed. In December 2014, President Obama signed the bill into law. I thought, “Great, that was easy,” even though it took eight years at the federal level to get the bill passed. Then, while watching a webinar on the ABLE Act, I discovered the law amended the 529 tax code but mandated that each state had to pass its own ABLE Act law.
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Karen Herdina, above, with husband, Stephen, and 35-year-old son, Joe. Right, is Andy, the couple’s 32-yearold son. Both men have Fragile X Syndrome
he first person I called was Sen. Schroeder (he won his race). He said he would sponsor the legislation in the Senate, and he also told me to get in touch with MaryLee Underwood, the Executive Director of CCDD. I sent Sen. Schroeder the federal bill and contacted the NDSS and Autism Speaks national teams to get suggested language for us to use. The national organizations also put me in touch with three other Kentucky advocates: Lynn Braker, Anne Gregory and Ashley Meier-Barlow. These three
women along with MaryLee Underwood would make our nucleus of spreading the word throughout Kentucky. Now we needed to find a sponsor in the House. I was told to stay optimistic even if we couldn’t secure a House sponsor because it is a short session (odd years sessions are 30 days; even year sessions are 60). At least we were getting some visibility. Our team of advocates began calling legislators and talking to
The Power of Advocacy everyone about the needed legislation. At a business networking event in late January an associate said she knew State Rep. Mike Denham well. She made an email introduction for me and I made the case for the ABLE Act. On Feb. 5, I attended the 2015 874K Issues Forum and Advocacy Event in Frankfort. This coalition represents the 874,000 Kentuckians with disabilities, which is nearly 23% of the state’s population. The event allows lawmakers to meet with advocates, families and individuals with disabilities to learn about their legislative priorities. I had never attended before but thought it was an ideal opportunity to spread the message of the ABLE Act. When I arrived there were lots of tables bearing the names of various representatives and senators. I checked the maps of tables and found one earmarked for both Rep. Denham and Sen. Schroder. I sat at the table and waited. Right after lunch, a gentleman walked
up and introduced himself as Rep. Mike Denham. I shook his hand and said, “I am Karen Herdina.” “My office has been trying to get hold of you,” he said. “You’ve got a jacket. Do you have a copy of your proposed legislation with you?” I thanked him and said I would have a sample legislation sent to his office within the hour. As he walked away I wondered, “What is a jacket?” Luckily, a person at the table who was familiar with legislation jargon told me it meant that he planned to sponsor our bill. “Oh my goodness – we have two sponsors.” The next step would be to get a bill introduced. Once again, due to the short session and the mid-February deadline for submitting bills, we were under the gun to get a bill written and introduced. Thanks to the national teams plus many Kentucky agencies and advocates, the ABLE bill was introduced in the Senate on Feb. 13 and in the House a
few days later. While the bill did not pass in 2015, getting this far allowed us to have conversations throughout the state to get feedback on how we wanted this legislation to work in Kentucky. Those conversations paid off because STABLE accounts became available to Kentuckians on Dec. 13. (See story below). The reason I wrote this article was not only to educate people about the ABLE Act but also to stress how much can get done with just a few advocates. Granted my job situation at the time (I’m a consultant) allowed for much flexibility but most of the success for getting the ABLE Act into law stemmed from: Looking past obstacles Utilizing business and social networks – you never know who knows who Looking at every situation as an opportunity to educate Building a network of advocates to support Being persistent – Never give up. n
How to Open a STABLE Account in Ky.
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TABLE Accounts, which became available in Kentucky in 2016, allow individuals with disabilities and their family members to save money beyond the $2,000 state and federal asset limit without penalty. To qualify for a STABLE Account, an individual with a disability, a parent, legal guardian or beneficiary must meet at least one of the following requirements: t Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI); t Have one of the Social Security Administration’s Compassionate Allowances Conditions or a signed diagnosis from a licensed physician; t Be blind. Also, a person with a disability must have been diagnosed before the age of 26 and cannot have another ABLE Account in another state. If you meet these requirements, you can open an account online. You must provide the following information:
Name // Address // Social Security or taxpayer ID number // Bank Account information (account and routing numbers) // Birth date // Email address. You are then asked to choose from five investment options, including a FDIC-insured BankSafe Option. Once you link your bank account to your Stable Account, deposits can be made. Withdrawals can be made through electronic transfer to a bank account, by check or to a STABLE debit card. A setup contribution of at least $50 is required when the account is opened and has a lifetime maximum of $426,000. Account holders pay $5/month ($60 annually) for maintenance and asset-based fees of 0.45% to 0.60%, depending on investments. To enroll visit http://stablekentucky.com. n
– By Stephanie Sharp 2017 Exceptional Family KY
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The Power of Advocacy
By Stephanie Adams
Kentucky Teens With Disabilities Meet Legislators in Washington, D.C.
By Stephanie Adams had the pleasure last summer of accompanying a group of students with developmental disabilities on a trip to Washington, D.C. for a week-long immersion civics lesson. The Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities partnered with the Close Up Foundation to provide this opportunity for two dozen students from Danville, Louisville, Hardin County, Walton County and Pulaski County. Close Up is a nonprofit, nonpartisan citizenship education organization. Its mission is to promote participation in the American political system through education about the system. On the visit to D.C., students from all over the country were grouped together, both in the hotel and during the educational and recreational activities during the week. The Close Up Foundation worked with the National Association of 16
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Councils on Developmental Disabilities to promote the opportunity among state DD councils. Kentucky and Indiana were the first two states to participate. CCDD provided scholarships to the Kentucky students and chaperones who attended. Our Council advertised the opportunity through our Peer Networks schools as well as on our listserv and social media. More than 100 students applied. Six adults joined the 24 students who made the trip. For many of the students attending, this was their first trip on an airplane, their first trip outside of Kentucky, or their first time on an overnight field trip without their parents. Our students were integrated with students without disabilities from other states. It was an ideal opportunity to learn with and from different kinds of
students but also to increase awareness about disabilities. For the most part, the experience was wonderful. Our students made new friends and really stepped outside of their comfort zones and engaged in a participatory learning environment. Some of the trip’s highlights were learning about the world wars during visits to the war monuments; visiting the Smithsonian Museum of American History and visiting the Saudi Arabian consulate. We were thrilled to meet Senators Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul and spent time speaking with U.S. Rep. Andy Barr. There were some challenges though. The pace of the week was intense. The students were on the go from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. each day. We walked extensively and learned about accessibility and how to negotiate the D.C. subway system with a large group of students and wheelchairs. We also had some work to do at the beginning with the students from the other schools, who were not aware ahead of time that they would be rooming with students with developmental disabilities. At the end of the week, we were all exhausted and ready to return to Kentucky, but it truly was an experience of a lifetime, not only for the students, but for me as well. n
The Power of Advocacy
Jack Bradley: Study in Contrasts
J
ust like my life, my trip to Washington, D.C. with the Close Up program was a study in contrasts. In school, I am considered both “gifted” and “dis”abled (I have Tourette’s syndrome, ADHD and autism). I, myself, am a study in contrasts. In Washington, there are contrasts between the rich and the poor, black and white, and, of course, Republicans and Democrats. On the same day that I took a selfie with U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, we visited the House of Representatives where the Democrats were staging a sit-in to protest the failure to pass gun control laws. Another Kentucky legislator, U.S. Rep. John Yarmuth, participated in the sit-in. Sen. McConnell did not. He is a graduate of my high school – Manual in Louisville. Rep. Yarmuth came this fall to talk to students at Manual about his experiences in Congress. These two men have vastly different points of view and I got to see them both on the very same day! Kentucky has a history of being a state with a foot in the north and a foot in the
south. So I guess it’s not surprising that our elected officials are also a study in contrasts. Even the war memorials we visited were different. The Vietnam and Korea ones felt somber and dark compared to the Lincoln and World War II memorials, which are grand and bright. Two memorials seem to hope for the future while the other two remember a sad past. I really liked being with a group of teenagers who just got to be students. It didn’t feel to me like we were “different” in any way from any other group that was visiting our nation’s capitol. We were all there learning together and hanging out together. But my favorite thing was attending the Second City’s “Almost Accurate Guide to America.” I am a big fan of political satire. The Almost Accurate Guide was super funny. The satire was deep, complex. Now, after the recent election has passed, I realize how amazing it was to have had the opportunity to be in D.C. during the summer leading up to the election. I watched Second City’s satire being
played out over and over in the news – yet another study in contrasts. In the end, I couldn’t figure out whether the real world was mimicking the play or the other way around. Which leads me to the fact that there really aren’t any “dis”abilities – only abilities. Some of us have more than others, but in the end, we’re way more the same than we are different. I would recommend this opportunity to other students and am grateful that I got to go. No matter who you are, knowing about our nation’s history and government is important for everyone.
Disclosure: These are my original ideas. My family helps me organize my thoughts and ideas, and write them down. Having difficulty writing does not mean I cannot think for myself just like needing glasses doesn’t mean a person can’t read. n
Nate Creech: A Helping Hand
W
hen I traveled to Washington, D.C. last summer with a group of teenagers from Kentucky under the sponsorship of the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities, I saw the trip as a chance to be an advocate. I’m an 18-year-old senior at Manual High in Louisville and because I was born with spina bifida, I use a manual wheelchair for mobility. During the trip, we visited the White House, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery and the U.S. Capitol where we met with Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky. He asked about our concerns and I told him about mine.
I really dislike it when people park in handicapped spots when they don’t have a disability. I know how important it is for folks with disabilities to have access to these parking spots. When I was younger, we had a handicapped sign in front of our house so the caregiver who came for me would have an easier time helping me from my wheelchair into her car. Sen. McConnell listened to our concerns and I felt good about that. Because I have a manual wheelchair and Washington, D.C. has lots of hills, I needed help getting around. Usually, I’m uncomfortable with letting just anyone push my chair. I have to know you first to trust you with my chair. But the adults on the trip treated me
really well, and I was happy to have their help as they pushed me up the bigger hills in D.C. I also made a friend on the trip. Actually, it was someone I already knew. Jack Bradley and I both attend Manual High, but we have spent little time with each other at school. On the trip, we had lots of time to talk and to get to know each other. He and I became friends and that has continued since we returned from Washington. n 2017 Exceptional Family KY
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The Power of Advocacy
Tribute to an
Advocate Lexington Small Business Owner Tirelessly Promoted Change rom tiny beginnings – he was born three months premature at all of 2 pounds, 1 ounce – tireless advocate Jim Chesser rose to make a massive impact for those in Kentucky with disabilities. He was diagnosed at 2 with cerebral palsy and marched through life on a pair of crutches. But little could slow him down..
F
Jim Chesser / 1970-2016 A graduate of Lafayette High in Lexington, Chesser earned an associate’s degree in paralegal studies from Sullivan College and launched his own business, Retro Memories, which was a celebration of his love of pop culture memorabilia. Chesser served on the state and regional Supported Living Councils, and was the founding president of Kentucky Self Advocates for Freedom, and co-founder of the Central Kentucky Chapter of KYSAFF. He also served on the Consumer
By John Lynch Advisory Council for the Human Development Institute and was on the House Bill 144 Commission on Services and Supports for Individuals with Intellectual and other Developmental Disabilities. A board member of the Arc of Central Kentucky, Chesser also was involved with Lexington Parks and Recreation Special Populations programs. An avid bowler, he bowled in the Bluegrass State Games and twice qualified for the national games. Chesser died last year at the age of 46 of respiratory failure after a long battle with throat cancer. However, his memory burns bright for his family and colleagues. “Jim was an inspiration for people with disabilities,” said Brandon Griffith, a case manager from Jackson and Chesser’s good friend. “He was a real beacon. In his
Jim Chesser ran his own businesss, Retro Memories, in Lexington 18
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way, he was a mover and shaker in the disability community. “He would take all the concerns of people he cared about and argue for them and make change in our state.” A regular fixture in Frankfort, Chesser used his outgoing personality to form meaningful alliances with state legislators. Those relationships served as a springboard for change. Chesser cheerfully pursued the serious work of advocacy. He endured much physically, spending the last years of his life in a wheelchair after suffering a serious fall, but nothing dampened his spirits. Chemotherapy kept him cancer free for 10 years, but the side effects cost him his hearing, dulled his vision and wreaked havoc with his eating habits. And food was only one of Chesser’s many passions. He loved to eat, talk, travel and follow sports, and he was a lifelong collector. He owned more than 200 ball caps, countless political buttons and a seemingly endless supply of all things Star Trek. (At a memorabilia show, he and Griffith met Star Trek actor William Shatner.) At Chesser’s funeral, his ashes were
Jim Chesser loved meeting people in all walks of life, especially musicians. Left, he’s at the Grand Ole Opry and below he’s sitting on the shoulders of Dee Snider of Twisted Sister
placed in his favorite Howdy Dowdy lunch box, and mourners were presented with keepsakes from his memorabilia collection. His mother, Nancy, worked for
The Power of Advocacy Chesser at Retro Memories – a booth at the Peddler’s Mall in Lexington. “Jim never met a stranger,” Nancy said. “He would learn things about you without you realizing it. And he remembered everything so the next time he saw you he asked all about you. “He loved meeting new people.” Chesser met Larry Gatlin on a country music cruise, and sat on the shoulders backstage of Dee Snider of Twisted Sister. He was good friends with Alan Stein, founder of the Legends baseball team. Stein asked Chesser to serve as an unofficial consultant on disability issues when the Whitaker Bank Ballpark was built. Before starting his own business, Chesser worked for the Legends and as a paralegal for Judge Tim Philpot. More than anything, Chesser lived his own creed: “People with disabilities can do a lot. They just need the chance.” n
CCDD Quarterly Meetings
CCDD 2017 Calendar
• Feb 9-10 • May 18-19 • Aug. 17-18 • Nov. 16-17
Clarion Hotel, 1950 Newtown Pike, Lexington Clarion Hotel, 1950 Newtown Pike, Lexington Clarion Hotel, 1950 Newtown Pike, Lexington Clarion Hotel, 1950 Newtown Pike, Lexington
HB 144 Commission Meetings (All meetings in Frankfort) March 9 // June 8 // Sept. 7 // Dec. 7
Other 2017 Dates • March • March 16-18 • March 20-21 • March 29-30 • May 26 • June 20-22 • October • Nov. 1-4
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month The Arc of KY Annual Conference, Louisville National Disability Policy Seminar, Washington, D.C. KY Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) Conference, Lexington Old Frankfort State Hospital Cemetery Clean-Up, Frankfort National APSE Conference, Portland National Disability Employment Awareness Month The Arc of the US National Convention, Orlando
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Resource List 2017
• 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
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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 in 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 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 Stella Beard, 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
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Resource List
2017
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 Gail Lowe – (502) 228-8660 The Point Arc of Northern Kentucky Judi Gerding – (859) 491-9191 The Arc of Owensboro Bob Gray – (270) 685-2976 The Arc of Floyd County/Prestonsburg Barbara Sword – (606) 478-9803 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. 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
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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
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 CASA of Kenton County 303 Court St., Suite 707, Covington, Ky., 41011 (859) 392-1791 / www.casaforkidsnky.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 700 CASA volunteers advocated for the best interest of more than 3,000 children in 42 counties.
Center for Accessible Living - Northern Kentucky Location 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.
Easter Seals Kentucky At Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital 2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 254-5701 / www.cardinalhill.org
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.
Handi Capable Guide Services P.O. Box 421, Grand Rivers, Ky., 42045 (270) 362-0970 / (270) 559-6876 www.handicapable.net
Children’s Home of Cincinnati 5050 Madison Road; Cincinnati, Ohio 45227 (513) 272-2800 Cincinnati, Ohio, 45227 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.
Easter Seals West Kentucky 801 N. 29th St. / Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 444-9687 / www.eswky.easterseals.com
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
My daughter, my Passport case manager, and me. When I told her what happened to my daughter, my case manager got busy. She called around to find someone who could provide my daughter with physical therapy in our home. I’d never heard of a health insurance plan going above and beyond like that. Thanks to her, my little girl has a chance to walk again.
Together for a healthier life. passporthealthplan.com/together
MARK62621c | APP_7/21/2016
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Resource List
2017
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. 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. 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. Key Services 215 Evans Ave., Mt. Sterling, Ky., 40353 (859) 497-3800 / www.keyassetskentucky.com 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 Not-for-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
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which to do business. Pathways P.O. Box 790, Ashland, Ky., 41105 (606) 329-8588 / (800) 562-8909 www.pathways-ky.org 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. 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 Spina Bifida Program (Orthopedic clinic only, will refer for pediatric and adult care) 1900 Richmond Road, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (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 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.kystride.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 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
Resource List 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 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 Weisskopf Child Evaluation Center 571 South Floyd St., #100, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 588-0907 www.louisville.edu/medschool/pediatrics/clinical/wcec
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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 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 DSAWY 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.
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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 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. Eastern Kentucky University Office of Services for Individuals with Disabilities 521 Lancaster Ave., Whitlock Building, Room 361 CPO 66, Richmond, Ky., 40475 (859) 622-2933 / www.disabilities.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
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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 500 Mero St., 6th Floor CPT, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 www.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 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. (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. Public School Parent Resource Centers Cabinet for Health and Family Services 275 E. Main St. Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4986 Nearly all public schools in the state have Parent Resource Centers, which are divided into 11 Regions. The mission is to remove nonacademic barriers to learning as a means to enhance student academic success. The Centers are also places where families of children with special needs can receive parent-to-parent counseling on special education issues and concerns. Families are welcome to visit and preview materials from the lending library, which has many books, videotapes and periodicals related to disability. The staff can connect parents to resources and support groups and also help with online research. 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
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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. 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 peers have graduated from high school and moved on to postsecondary settings.
VSA Arts of Kentucky P.O. Box 3320, Bowling Green, 42102 (270) 904-7019 / www.vsartsky.org
• 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.
Have your rights been violated due to disability? We can help.
Academy for Individual Excellence 3101 Bluebird Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 267-6187 / www.aiexcellence.com
502.564.2967 800.372.2988 Fax 502.695.6764 www.kypa.net
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.growingtogetherpreschool.org
OPPORTUNITY R E C O V E R Y G R O W T H
W E
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Celebrating 50 years of serving Central Kentucky with services in Mental Health, Substance Use, Brain Injury and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
F O R A P P O I N T M E N T S 2 4 H O U R H E L P L I N E :
A N D S U P P O R T: 1 . 8 0 0 . 9 2 8 . 8 0 0 0
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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 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
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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 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 and Pike counties. Somerset Professional Plaza, 401 Bogle St., Suite 104, Somerset, Ky., 42503 / (606) 677-4120 (800) 525-4279 Serving Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor and Wayne counties. 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 Provides free legal services for children with educational disabilities, and performs research and policy work, training and education in this area. rbdiloreto@childrenslawky.org / www.childrenslawky.org 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
Resource List 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 Hart-Supported Living grant. Kentucky ADA Office ADA Coordinator: Donna Shelton 401 Sower Ave., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (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 to government agencies and programs regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act. Technical assistance and training areas include: employment, programs, services and facilities. 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 25). 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
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(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. Provides services for community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and mental health and substance 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 www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/firstSteps/How+to+Contact+Local+P oint+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
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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 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
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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 Capitol Plaza Tower, Room 2113 500 Mero St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4770 / www.education.ky.gov 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-Âcare 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) 500 Mero St., Capitol Plaza Tower, 17th Floor Frankfort, Ky., 40601 / (502) 564-4770 www.kde.state.ky.us First Steps Program (Ages Birth through 2) 275 East Main St., HS2W-C, Frankfort, Ky.,40621
Resource List (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
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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. 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
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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) (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 Department for Medicaid Services Division of Community Alternatives 275 East Main St., 6 W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-0330 http://chfs.ky.gov/dms/archive+mfp+grant+information.htm 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. 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.
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 pharmacy patient care activities of the University of Kentucky, and in several off-site locations.
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.
Kentucky Transitions (Money Follows the Person Demonstration Grant)
NorthKey Community Care
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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 providersponsored, 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 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 Kosair 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
Resource List 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. University of Louisville Kosair Children’s Hospital 231 E. Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40402 (502) 629-6000 / www.kosairchildrenshospital.com Kosair 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. Dr. F. Allen Walker Creative Psychiatry P.L.L.C. 10200 Forest Green Blvd., Suite 401 Louisville, Ky., 40223 (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. Provides services for community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and mental health and substance 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. 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. 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
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(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 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.
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• Parent Support •
and empowerment of artists with developmental disabilities. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday or by appointment.
The Arc of Kentucky Stella Beard, Executive Diorector 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 20).
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.
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 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
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• 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 nonprofit, 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
Resource List (502) 584-9781 Cardinal Hill of Northern Kentucky 31 Spiral Drive, Florence, Ky., 41042 (859) 525-1128 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 Spina Bifida Program (Orthopaedic clinic only) 1900 Richmond Road, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 266-2101 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
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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
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Associates in 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
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www.lexingtonfamily.com
Kidtherapy.org