For the Community

Indiana Institute on Disability and Community – Indiana Resource Center for Autism (IRCA)

IRCA is a part of Indiana University’s Indiana Institute on Disability and Community. The center works to provide communities, organizations, agencies, and families with the knowledge and skills to support individuals across the lifespan and across the autism spectrum. Some of their work includes training, coaching, consultations, and school district support.

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HANDS in Autism

HANDS in Autism is a training and resource center at Indiana University for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other special needs and their families and caregivers. The organization provides interdisciplinary training and coaching to better understand the process and ability to work with individuals with ASD and other developmental and behavioral challenges.

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Autism Society of Indiana (ASI)

ASI’s mission is to ensure that individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Indiana receive the high-quality services they deserve. They provide resources to understand ASD and steps to receive a diagnosis along with a list of services covered under Indiana’s Family Supports Waiver. Some of their programs include family and individual support groups and career services.

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INSOURCE Special Education Parent Support

The organization started with a group of parents in 1975 wanting to understand what “going to school” would mean for their children with disabilities. IN*SOURCE focuses on helping parents and families of students with special needs with resources and connections to professionals. The website includes resources and training for parents, families, individuals, and service providers in Indiana. All their staff is parents of individuals with disabilities.

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Somewhere on the Spectrum Support Group

Somewhere on the Spectrum Support Group is a community on Facebook that supports individuals, parents, caregivers, and professionals affected by autism spectrum disorder.

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Indiana Family to Family

Family to Family is a national, nonprofit, family-led organization. The organization provides families with children and youth with health care needs or disabilities with resources, support, and training through education, outreach, and community partnerships. Their goal is to provide families with resources to help inform decisions, advocate for improved systems and policies, and build partnerships between families and professionals.

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Indiana University Health – Riley Children’s Hospital

The Down Syndrome Program at Riley Children’s Hospital at Indiana University is suitable for children with Down syndrome from birth to adolescence. The children in the program will receive personalized healthcare. Families, on the other hand, will be provided with current information on health-related services for children with Down syndrome and also be connected with community services. Furthermore, developmental pediatric doctors will help families transition from child care to adult care when the time comes.

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Down Syndrome Indiana

Down Syndrome Indiana connects families and individuals with down syndrome with information and resources on Down syndrome. The organization offers programs that help to promote the inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome in their greater community. There are also programs that offer support and information to families, caregivers, educators, employers, and professionals who work with individuals with Down syndrome.

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Families United for Support and Encouragement (FUSE Inc.)

FUSE Inc. provides information, resources and support to families and individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. As those children grow into adulthood, services and supports change, and families need to learn how to navigate new systems and services. FUSE can act as a guide with individuals and families while giving information and resources that help them meet their individualized needs and live a fulfilling life in their community. They host training sessions, Q&A meetings, and seasonal social events, so families have a variety of ways to get involved.

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Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD)

AUCD is “a network of interdisciplinary centers advancing policy and practice for and with individuals with developmental and other disabilities, their families, and communities.” They want to see equitable access to supports and services that reflect the preferences and values of diverse communities and that lead to self-determination, independence, productivity, and a healthy and satisfying quality of life.

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PACER Center

PACER Center enhances the quality of life and expands opportunities for children, youth, and young adults with all disabilities and their families so each person can reach his or her “highest potential.” PACER operates on the principles of parents helping parents, supporting families, promoting a safe environment for all children, and working in collaboration with others. They place a special focus on the PACER National Bullying Prevention Center®.

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Indiana Disability Resource FINDER

FINDER was created in 2018 as a way to consolidate many of the disability resource outlets into one place. Service providers, community advocates and medical professionals regularly contribute to FINDER, keeping the information current, relevant and practical. Participation is voluntary, and new information is added regularly. There is a special tab to look at up coming events!

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