Exceptional Family Magazine Winter/Spring 2026

Independence, Integration, Inclusion

4 8 10 11

4 Disability Spotlight

Chelsea Gibbs Combined Her Skills to Start Central Kentucky Creative Therapies.

6 'My Silence Roars'

In Her New Book, Tina Jackson Tells Her Story of 'Persistence and Passion.'

8 Louisville's Cass Irvin

Disability Rights Pioneer Reflects on 50-Plus Years of a Life of Advocacy.

10 Two CCDD Grants

Build Inclusion and Its Grant Partners Will Show the Power of Person-Centeredness.

11 Build Inclusion Profile

One Size Does Not Fit All: This Lexington Business Changes Lives One at a Time.

12 Resource List

From Autism to Vision Issues, Statewide List Provides the Information You Need.

The Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $1,195,270 with 84 percent funded by ACL/HHS, and $192,300 and 16 percent funded by non-federal-government source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/ HHS, or the U.S. Government.

READ EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MAGAZINE ONLINE

For digital, downloadable copies of Exceptional Family Magazine, use the QR code to the left.

¿Hablas Espanol?

For digital, downloadable copies of the Spanish version, use the QR code to the right.

Editor...................................John Lynch Graphic Artist........................Nick Farr

Contact Info: (859) 494-1140 / johnplynch1950@gmail.com

Digital copies of the English and Spanish issues of Exceptional Family Magazine are available at the CCDD website at CCDD.KY.gov, or use the QR code to the right.

“Exceptional Family KY” is published by the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities 1024 Capital Center Dr., Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 (502) 564-7841 • CCDD.KY.gov

Letter From the CCDD Nugent Follows Her North Star

AAustin Nugent of Louisville is ideally suited for her new role as public policy coordinator for the CCDD.

A 2015 graduate of UCLA, Austin has a sociology and disability studies degree, plus a master of public administration with a graduate certificate in developmental disabilities.

But the bulk of her knowledge comes from her lived experience, and the people she has met.

Austin has a family connection to disability. Her brother Gavin, who was born when Austin was a teenager, has Down syndrome.

Other than her own child, Gavin is her favorite person on the planet.

“He is my North Star,” she said.

“He changed the course of my life.

Austin Nugent and her brother Gavin

and neglect. They brightened her North Star.

A self-described perfectionist, Austin entered therapy after college and realized that she had OCD.

“Owning who you are is part of the disability journey. My diagnosis expanded my understanding of disability,” she said.

Austin has held various roles in the disability community – direct support professional, youth and community coor-

Accessible Living Board of Directors; and is a youth mentor with the Statewide Independent Living Council.

At the national level, she was an atlarge board member with the National Disability Rights Network.

Always drawn to policy, Austin considers her new position – she began in December – the ultimate opportunity to be a bridge between policymakers and the disability community.

“When I was offered the job, I knew I had to pursue this,” she said.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER

If you are a self-advocate or family member of a person who has a developmental disability and are interested in applying to be on the Council, please use the QR code to access the Governor’s Application for Boards and Commissions website.

We suggest that you add a resume or statement of interest to your application. Please follow up with Carol Tudor at Carol.Tudor@ky.gov

“From the moment we learned he had Down syndrome, I decided to do everything in my power so he could run for president, if he wanted.

“I wanted to change systems to make that possible for him.”

In addition, Austin has two adopted brothers who have developmental disabilities as the result of trauma, abuse

dinator, advocate, researcher.

When she moved to Louisville in 2019, she worked at Mattingly Edge. She spent the past six years at UK’s Human Development Institute.

Austin volunteers at multiple disability organizations.

She is the chair of the mental health advisory council for Kentucky Protection and Advocacy; vice chair of the Center for

“Policy, at all levels, has real life implications for people.

“People with lived experience need to be the ones connecting with legislators,” she said.

She also recognizes that policy is complex, but she is determined to make it accessible to everyone.

She is still getting settled in at CCDD, but first impressions have been positive.

“I’ve had a very warm, supportive welcome,” she said. “Guided by my North Star, and CCDD members, I will be responsive to community needs.

"My hope is to actively engage people with disabilities and their support networks throughout the policy process.” n

CENTRAL KENTUCKY CREATIVE THERAPIES

Chelsea Gibbs Pairs Music Skills With Her Neurodivergent Background

By John Lynch

Gracie Bickel, 20, is a dedicated self-advocate who has inspired the creation of two separate businesses supporting the disabled population in Lexington.

The first is Build Inclusion, started by her mother Annette Jett, who cited Gracie as inspiration for leaving her restaurant/food catering career to launch Build Inclusion. (Please see story, Page 11).

Gracie has a bubbly personality and a drive to make others feel good about themselves. She thrives on being social and participating in community activities with others.

Her determination to break through barriers rubs off on others. "She makes you want to be a better advocate too, and to do something to improve community access and inclusion for all," her mother Annette said.

Chelsea Gibbs of Lexington also cites Gracie as the impetus for her starting Central Kentucky Creative Therapies. That story takes a little explanation.

Chelsea, 31, is from Vermont where she double majored in music education and music performance before moving to Lexington in 2018. She took a part-time summer job providing community living supports for Gracie, then 13.

“I had never worked one-on-one with an individual with a developmental disability before, but after the first day with Gracie, I knew I wanted to spend more time working in this field,” Chelsea said.

Working with Gracie soon developed into a full-time job.

Chelsea is still a part of Gracie’s Michelle P. Waiver team and considers her a close friend.

Chelsea loved working in this field but missed making music every day, which led her to go back to school to study music therapy. Chelsea has completed a master’s degree in music therapy from the University of Kentucky.

In 2023, Chelsea became a board-certified music therapist and founded Central Kentucky Creative Therapies. As it turns out, she is ideally suited for this line of work.

First, she’s an accomplished musician. She started with the flute in fourth grade and quickly added on piano and voice lessons, learned the saxophone, and now plays guitar.

As for the disability aspect, she not only worked with Gracie, she also worked at Build Inclusion as a supported employment specialist.

“That really opened my eyes to the world of disability and how much more work needs to be done in this field,” she said.

Chelsea also brings a personal component to the work. She is neurodivergent and was diagnosed with OCD in high school. She is self-diagnosed with ADHD and is currently receiving testing for a formal diagnosis.

Her OCD includes irrational fears, ritualistic behaviors, anxiety and depression. Her ADHD can make it difficult to start tasks and remain focused for extended periods of time.

Chelsea has found great success in her own work with the help of mental health professionals, which has further mo-

tivated her to pursue her career in the mental health field.

“In my work, the more I learned about disability, the more I learned about myself,” she said. “In high school, I thought everybody did what I did and thought like I thought.

“If I had never worked in the disability field, I don’t think I would have ever made the realization that I am neurodivergent and never would have sought out an ADHD diagnosis. A diagnosis can be helpful because it opens the doors to appropriate services.”

Her self-discovery journey also makes her a better music therapist.

“It helps me work with my clients,” she said. “I think they can tell that I have some lived experience.”

Sara Johnson of Lexington confirms that.

“Her own experience absolutely helps her as a teacher and provider. She is the most tolerant, patient person when it comes to kids with learning differences,” Sara said.

Chelsea works with Sara’s son, Seth Weathers, 9. Seth is creative, outgoing, and accepting of others.

Sara gave birth at 27 weeks and Seth weighed 1 pound 11 ounces. Due to his premature birth, Seth has a sensoryprocessing disorder.

Sara homeschools Seth, whose curriculum includes music lessons with Chelsea. Since 2023, her weekly meetings with Seth helped him use music to work on his communication skills.

guitar, ukulele and voice.

CENTRAL KENTUCKY CREATIVE THERAPIES

3131 Custer Drive, Suite 4, Lexington, Ky., 40517

802-282-6096

www.ckctherapies.com

He started with music therapy and now takes adaptive music lessons and is learning piano and ukulele.

“Music lessons helped him gain more independence with speech,” Sara said. “Music seems to calm him.”

Sara not only homeschools her son, she has a master’s degree in rehab counseling and was a case manager with New Vista.

Her resume also includes jobs at the Kentucky Office of the Blind and at Kentucky Protection and Advocacy.

Sara now offers inclusive homeschool co-ops, summer camps, and school break camps at Central Kentucky Creative Therapies, where music, art and science are used to learn about specific topics.

When Chelsea started her business, she had no office space and traveled to see clients in their homes or at facilities. Word spread quickly. She now receives referrals from other providers as well as self-referrals.

Three years later, she has a 1,500 square-foot office with room to expand in 2026. Five contractors provide music lessons, both traditional and adaptive, and music therapy.

Lessons for all ages and abilities are available for violin, viola, piano,

The business also offers inclusive camps, and community events such as monthly movie nights and a community choir. Last year, Chelsea’s business served 200 people. She partners with The Bair Foundation, a kinship care agency, offering music therapy during supervised visits. Another partner is the Provision School, a counseling center as well as a therapeutic learning environment for students who struggle in traditional school settings.

Central Kentucky Creative Therapies also partners with an equine therapy non-profit, Annie’s Answer in Nicholasville, to offer equine-assisted music therapy.

That part of the business is influenced by Chelsea’s wife, Rachel Womack, a lifelong equestrian, and a social worker and division director at UK’s Human Development Institute.

Chelsea offers sliding scale payments, pro bono services, and is the first music therapist in the state to accept insurance coverage for music therapy through UnitedHealthcare Medicaid.

Chelsea will expand the business in 2026, adding a non-profit branch so she can raise funds and apply for grants that will allow greater access to services for Kentuckians. As her business grows, Chelsea is filled with gratitude.

“Kids feel safe here. They make friends and want to come back,” she said. “Every kid deserves that.

"It makes me sad that these wonderful kids weren’t always accepted in other settings. That’s why inclusion is so important.” n

In Her Book, Tina Jackson's Silence Roars

Tina Jackson of Louisa was born with Cerebral Palsy and lost her ability to speak when she was 24, but that has hardly silenced her. In fact, her memoir, which is now available through Amazon, is titled "My Silence Roars."

It's been an interesting and rewarding journey for Tina, who is 68.

Born Tina Blevins in Eastern Kentucky, she was raised by parents who encouraged her to be self-sufficient and to value education.

Tina earned a degree in social work at Northern Kentucky University and then moved to California where she watched her mother and her mother's sisters be filmed on an episode of the Family Feud TV show.

Her California adventure over, Tina returned home and became a social worker.

The stress of the job affected her health. Following a never-diagnosed event, she lost her speech and then the ability to eat.

She has used a feeding tube ever since.

Undaunted, she moved in with her sister in Charlotte, North Carolina where she earned a medical records degree at Central Piedmont Community College.

Tina worked for AT&T in Cincinnati for a few years before downsizing eliminated her job.

After returning to Louisa, Tina took a job in medical records at a nursing home.

Then she met Mark Jackson, who had acquired a brain injury in a motorcycle accident.

They both have limitations but support each other. They married and bought a house in Louisa.

Health concerns ended Tina's work life but advocacy became her new passion.

She has served with the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities Council, Kentucky Protection and Advocacy's Developmental Disability Board, and the Kentucky Assistive Technology Services Network advisory board.

She also has written extensively about her experiences and compiled a collection of essays.

Tina connected with Dave Matheis, who edited “A Celebration of Family,” a book about parents with disabilities, published through Advocado Press.

Based in Louisville, Advocado Press (www.advocadopress.org ) chronicles the disability experience in America.

Matheis worked with Tina to transform the essays into a memoir with a cohesive narrative.

“This is a story of persistence and passion,” Matheis said.

“Tina hopes her story will help someone who is facing their own road bumps in life, especially young people.

“She wants to help the next generation to be strong, creative and productive.”

To buy the book,

com/dp/0972118977?ref=sp_email n

Reader Survey WINNER!!!

Angie Martin

The winner of a $250 cash prize in the latest Reader Survey contest for this magazine is Angie Martin of Beaver in Floyd County.

Angie is the director of the Mudcreek Family Youth Services Center at John M. Stumbo Elementary School. She has 26 years experience as an educator, 16 at the Center.

Angie enjoys the articles in Exceptional Family Magazine, saying, "They give you a better understanding of what people with disabilities face every day.

"I pass out the magazine at open houses, parents nights and other Youth Services Center community events.

"I work with a lot of grandparents who may not be familiar with digital technology so they appreciate that there is a physical copy to read."

Angie can't always get WiFi at her home in the Eastern Kentucky mountains so she plans to buy an automatic car starter for her automobile.

"It costs $229 so this is perfect," she said. “I’m very grateful to be the winner.” n

Cass Irvin: Disability Pioneer

By John Lynch

In 1954, only a few years before the polio vaccine was widespread in the U.S., nineyear-old Cass Irvin of Louisville complained of a sore back while attending a Girl Scouts summer camp.

After a night in the infirmary, her parents drove her from the camp to a hospital in Louisville. “I thought I could walk into the hospital but Daddy carried me in,” Cass recalled.

Diagnosed with polio, she hasn’t walked since and is considered a quadriplegic. Thus started the education and career of one of the first and most important self-advocates in Louisville history.

A list of her achievements is nothing short of staggering, considering she was raised during the dark ages for people with disabilities.

Imagine a world where someone in a wheelchair had access to virtually nothing, including employment, transportation and just about every building in town.

Cass didn't even get her first motorized wheelchair until she was 32 years old.

Louisville – and everywhere else in the state – is a more accessible, inclusive place in part because of Cass and her fellow Louisville disability pioneer Arthur Campbell.

(For a profile of Arthur, please visit https://issuu.com/lexingtonfamily/docs/ef_sf_19.)

David Allgood is the Director of Advocacy at the Center for Accessible Living in Louisville. Cass helped found that organization and served on its board for years.

When David first started at CAL 28 years ago, he worked with Cass. He describes her as an effective pioneer noted for her intelligence, tenacity and her coalition building.

“Cass could bring clarity to the barriers and challenges that people with disabilities face daily,” he said.

“She was committed to the cause of accessibility. I learned a lot from her about how to work with elected officials.

“She knew how to work within the system to make change and to step outside the system to demand change.”

Author and advocate Dave Matheis worked with Cass on the Disability Rag, a nationally

Cass Irvin, 80, of Louisville has lived with polio since she was 9 years old. She became a pioneering founder of the disability rights movement in her hometown. Kentucky is a more accessible, inclusive place in part because of her lifelong advocacy efforts.

recognized advocacy publication that flourished from the 1980s to the early 2000s.

Cass was one of the publication’s founders and primary contributors.

“She laid the foundation for the disability rights movement in Louisville,” Dave Matheis said. “She persevered and was extremely determined. She wasn’t afraid to put up a fight. She served as a role model for everyone who came after her.”

Cass’s career in public life spanned half a century. She was still active into her mid-70s but has withdrawn from public life since the Covid pandemic.

But she hasn’t stopped her advocacy.

“Every time I come across somebody, even a home health person coming to my house, I educate them. I’m just a teacher at heart,” she said.

But first she had to educate herself. Cass was a bright student, but being in a wheelchair kept her at home

through most of her childhood. Her bedroom was her classroom.

Her parents arranged tutors and she was an avid reader. Finally, by her senior year in high school, she attended school but then only three hours a day.

She graduated and then enrolled at Kentucky Southern College, a Baptist school now closed.

While earning an English degree, she wrote for the school newspaper, was president of the literary club, vice president of the art club and was part of the group that helped organize the college’s first dance.

She also left her bedroom and lived in the dorm, a major move toward independence.

With that impressive resume, she hit the job market in the 1970s – but for 10 years found no work. At that time, almost all buildings were inaccessible as was the local bus system.

During this time, she earned a master’s degree from the University of Louisville and

finally landed a part-time teaching job at Jefferson County Community College, one of her few paying jobs ever.

“In 25 years in the work force, I got paid for only about five years,” she said.

Still, she was a whirlwind of activity – if mostly as a volunteer.

Consider the following:

u Center for Accessible Living: Cass was a founder in 1981 and immediately launched the Ramp Building Program that provided access for wheelchair users all over the city.

u Personal Care Attendant Program: Cass advocated for this statewide program that provides financial assistance so that wheelchair users and others with severe mobility issues can hire their own personal attendants.

u ALPHA: Cass first joined and then became a Board member for the Action League for Physically Handicapped Adults.

The organization predated the widespread use of the word disability and made clear this was advocacy for adults not “crippled children.”

The group lived up to the word action in its title, Cass said.

“This was one of the first organizations that helped give adults with disabilities access to the world,” Cass said. “It just grew and grew and grew.”

u Prime Movers Inc.: Along with her good friend and colleague Mary Johnson, Cass started PMI with the goal of influencing community leaders and elected officials.

An example of their success came with the planning for the Kentucky Center for the Arts.

Planners took Mary Johnson’s accessibility presentation to heart and designed seating with accessibility in mind.

Revolutionary at the time, accessible seating is now commonplace.

PMI also lobbied for a disability demographics study. In 1980, just how many people with disabilities lived in Louisville?

The study showed 80,000 people, twice as many as originally thought. This led to increased funding and programs to support the disability community.

u VISTA: As a PMI member, Cass joined Volunteers in Service to America, a program conceived by President Kennedy and made into law under President Johnson.

VISTA is like a domestic Peace Corps program, now called AmeriCorps.

CASS IRVIN: AUTHOR

Along with her long list of accomplishments, Cass Irvin also is an author, writing her memoir “Home Bound” in 2004.

Published by Temple University Press, the book received praise, including the following from Fred Hafferty from the University of Minnesota.

“There is a remarkable ring of ‘truth’ and authenticity,” he wrote. “I loved the energy of this book… It is powerful, well-written and hard to put down.”

Cass outlines her life from her childhood through her college years and her career as a pioneering activist in Louisville.

Cass cites many colleagues and friends that she partnered with along the way. The book also prominently mentions Franklin D. Roosevelt.

The president who guided America out of the Depression and to victory in World War II contracted polio in 1921 when he was 39 years old.

He underwent treatment in Warm Spring, Ga., noted for its mineral-rich springs.

Roosevelt used his influence to make Warm Springs a Mecca for polio patients and a center for polio research.

VISTA volunteers joined PMI and helped broaden the group’s reach. Through Vista volunteers, PMI impacted Legal Aid, the Human Relations Committee and the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights.

As a VISTA volunteer, Cass received a small stipend but more importantly lots of training.

“VISTA was the best thing that ever happened to me,” Cass said. “It gave me an education in activism. I felt qualified to help people with disabilities speak for themselves.”

u Disability Rag: Mary Johnson was the first editor and Cass the primary writer when the "Rag" first appeared in 1980.

The Rag was a subscription-based print periodical from 1980 to 2004, and an online publication from 1997-2007.

The Rag served as a national forum for activists and leading scholars of disability rights.

A 1985 front-page profile in the Wall Street Journal boosted the Rag's profile.

Almost every issue contained an article by Cass, who was named one of 50 American Heroines by the Ladies Home Journal.

Cass never left home without a copy of the latest issue.

Cass visited Warm Spring for treatment four times in her youth, staying up to six months at a time.

FDR is a controversial figure in the disability world because he hid his polio from the public.

Despite that, Cass sees Roosevelt as a hero because he refused to be limited by the disease, rising all the way to the White House.

The book also serves as tribute to Cass’s father, Melvin, who supported her financially and otherwise while he was alive.

She cherished a greeting card from him that included his note: “No two snowflakes are alike but we come very close.”

Said Cass: “He was a free spirit and so was I.” n

“Because I was an activist and a consultant, I got to travel to conferences. Everywhere I went I brought copies and passed them out,” she said.

Writing for the Disability Rag was a natural fit for Cass, who has dedicated her life to speaking out for disability rights.

Her voice has been one of the loudest over the past 50 years, which makes her proud.

“Of course, I’m proud of what I accomplished,” she said. “All my efforts were to help people with disabilities organize for change.”

Cass feels a special responsibility to advocate. She was born into a upper-middle class family in Louisville and enjoyed advantages others were denied.

“I was born into good circumstances, so I needed to do something because I had a good life,” she said.

More than a good life, Cass has etched her name into history as one of the great disability rights pioneers -- a free spirit who never backed down from a fight.

The world for people with disabilities would look much different today if not for Cass Irvin. n

ONE-ON-ONE APPROACH

Build Inclusion Will Show That Two Grants FEATURING PERSON-CENTEREDNESS Can Improve Lives of People With Disabilities

By John Lynch

It takes a lot to describe Annette Jett of Lexington: mother, business owner, disability advocate, people connector and founder of Build Inclusion, a non-profit dedicated to inclusion and community access for people with disabilities.

Annette started her career in restaurant and hotel management.

After her daughter Gracie was born with a rare diagnosis causing intellectual and developmental delays, Annette changed her focus to disability issues and founded Build Inclusion. (Please see related story, Page 11.)

All of Annette’s roles came together when she collaborated with Starfire Council of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky and Life Works of San Diego to launch two grants that will provide greater community access and housing opportunities for people with disabilities in rural Kentucky.

Funded by the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities, the grants come with money to facilitate success.

While all three grant partners have a role in both grants, each has a specific focus that complements the others.

The Housing Grant is designed to match people with disabilities with housing that fits their individual needs and wants.

To identify those needs, the person uses the Liberty Plan, a tool designed and implemented by Life Works founder Beth Gallagher, and their Executive Director, Kirk Hinkleman. (More on the Liberty Plan later.)

Life Works also specializes in Supported Living in California and helps identify supports that people need to live interdependently in the community.

The Rural Community Access Grant utilizes the expertise of Starfire Council, run by Bridget and Tim Vogt.

This grant is designed to help people with disabilities connect with the greater community

through their own hobbies and passions.

The goal is for a person with disabilities to make at least four new friends/colleagues through this shared experience.

A central principal to both grants is personcenteredness. In the current system, people often get too little time to have their desires heard and understood.

“We are battling a system that restricts providers to one-hour sessions,” Annette said.

“People need more time. With these grants, we will show that a person-centered approach can work.”

The best way to understand the grants and person-centeredness is to meet the Kentuckians using them now.

Build Inclusion & Life Works

To find Kentuckians suitable for the grants, Build Inclusion, Life Works and Starfire Council held public information gatherings in Madison and Scott counties and the Tri-

County rural area of Laurel, Whitley and Knox. That’s how they found Terry Buhler, a paraeducator at Scott County High and the father of twins Kameron and Kendall, 21.

Both are bright individuals who are on the spectrum.

They graduated from Phoenix Academy, a school within a school at Scott County High where they received one-on-one attention.

Terry is a widower – his wife died last year –and he has faced his own health challenges.

“I was concerned about what would happen to my boys after I’m gone,” he said.

Fate provided help when Kameron and Kendall were selected for the housing grant. They currently live at home and want to share a house of their own.

The first step in the process was taking the Liberty Plan, a process developed by Life Works.

Here’s how it works. Two facilitators meet with the planner, which is the person being supported by the Liberty Plan.

One facilitator sits side-by-side with the plan-

B uild i nclusion c hanges l ives -

When it came time to transform her life and career, Annette Jett plunged ahead fearlessly.

At the age of 38, Annette gave birth to her daughter Gracie.

Gracie was born with Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum, which presented with mobility issues and developmental delays.

At the time, Annette owned Annette’s Catering and ran multiple restaurants with her husband Frank, sometimes working up to 10 events a day.

So Annette put away her recipe books and embraced life as an advocate.

First, she did her research, learning everything she could about the disability community.

She served as a member of the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities, earned a graduate certificate at UK’s Human Development Institute, and worked as a parent resource liaison for special education with Fayette County schools.

While at HDI, Annette learned of the employment obstacles people with disabilities face and had an

ner to ask questions.

The

The other facilitator creates an illustration of the person’s skills, interests, characteristics etc. (See this page for accompanying graphic.)

“Aha” moment.

“I have a business degree and realized this is where I fit in,” she said.

In 2012, she co-founded Build Inclusion with Jessica Frye. Three years later, Build Inclusion (BI) became a non-profit.

While supported employment is a big part of the company, BI also offers services in clinical and mental health, housing and independent living and enhanced community.

With six employees, BI has served thousands of clients, getting referrals from Vocation Rehabilitation, schools, parent advocacy groups and word of mouth.

BI also hosts monthly inclusive community socials such as Friendsgiving, dances and makerspace nights.

The No. 1 theme at BI is person-centeredness.

“We believe one size doesn’t fit all,” Annette said. “That’s why we individualize every experience. With a person-centered culture, we ensure every individual receives the support they need.”

Liberty

Plan

A tailored process for cultivating possibilities in life categories that matter to you now.

In Kameron and Kendall’s case, it was Annette asking the questions and Beth Gallagher creating the graphics.

sions. She and Kirk trained Annette in 2019. The experience was so rich that the three got together and brought these trainings to Kentucky in 2024. They completed the third cohort of trainees in February.

A chance to celebrate you, reflect on what you want to accomplish & listen for what more you want to explore.

Rachael Lanter, Build Inclusion's Executive Director who is fully trained in the process, stepped in to help complete the graphics on Kendall’s plan the following week.

“Sometimes it takes more time than originally planned and that’s ok,” Annette said. “It’s their dream – we don’t want to limit it.”

A way to engage you in action planning.

“The goal is for the person to realize that their life is rich and to identify their strengths and interests,” Beth said. “This exercise can shape the rest of their lives.”

When completed, the subject has a large, colorful illustration that features all his hopes, dreams and goals, and serves as a launching pad for the future.

Beth has led more than 600 Liberty Plan ses-

Said Annette: “I’d rather my daughter had the Liberty Plan than a high school diploma. The Liberty Plan gives people permission to dream and visualize what’ possible.

“By creating an illustration, it puts power to the dream to make it come to life.”

(To learn more about the Liberty Plan, visit www. allianceofchange.com)

Both Kameron and Kendall were impressed.

“The Liberty Plan is amazing,” Kameron

Current client Maggie McCain, 20 of Richmond is an example.

Because of a brain malformation, Maggie endured uncontrolled seizures until her first surgery at age 4.

Seizures returned when she was 8. At 13, she had a second surgery and has been seizure free since.

She graduated high school with honors in 2024. Because of multiple disabilities, Maggie needed help finding meaningful work.

BI Supported Employment Specialist Nicole DeZarn helped Maggie get a job at Kohl’s and accompanies her to every shift.

“Nicole is such a good facilitator, and she really gets Maggie,” Tami said. “Build Inclusion has been incredible. I cannot sing their praises high enough.”

That is gratifying to hear, Annette said.

“What I’m most proud of is the work our team does and the reputation we have built,” Annette said. “It takes a lot of heart and soul.”

And grit, which is something Annette possesses in spades, according to Rachael Lanter, BI’s executive director since 2023.

“When she sees a need in the community, she does what it takes to address it,” Rachael said. “She’s not afraid to fight for things she believes in. We need more people like that in the world.” n

said. “I’m extremely grateful that I’m getting a chance to grow up. I was reassured that I was worthy of this.”

The brothers know that they need jobs to pay rent. The Liberty Plan helped with that.

Kameron, who is big and strong, wants to work for a moving company.

Kendall, a poet with a passion for books, wants to combine his poetry with his brother’s interest in design and photography to make greeting cards.

Kendall, as his dad said, marches to the beat of his own drum.

Or as Kendall said: “All things strange, weird and mostly Kendall.”

The grant provides sustainability for the brothers such as setting up STABLE accounts and learning money management.

Build Inclusion's Employment Supervisor

Melody Roberts is providing supported employment to help the brothers find work.

“We’re very excited,” Kameron said. “We are

Please see TWO GRANTS, Page 13

(859) 351-0728 / TheArcOfCentralKentucky@gmail.com

Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities

1024 Capital Center Dr., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-7841 / https://ccdd.ky.gov

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.

The Arc of the United States

2000 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C., 20006 / (202) 534-3700 / (800) 433-5255

The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. / www.thearc.org

The Arc of Central Kentucky

The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. The Arc endorses services and supports that promote respect, choice, friendship, quality of life, and the opportunity to contribute to society. The Arc believes that all people with intellectual or developmental disabilities are defined by their strengths and inherent value, not by their disability. To learn how to join and support The Arc, follow the link here.

https://arcofcky.org

Barren Heights Community Center

11420 Watterson Court, Suite 800, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 327-9495 / Contact: Abbi Rose

The mission is to love and encourage families by providing free weekend retreats and community outreach events for families who have children with physical and/or intellectual disabilities. Weekend retreats are for the whole family. Approximately 18 family retreats a year. Friday evening through Sunday afternoon, June-October. Retreats consists of four volunteer host families serving three guest families, including group activities and family free time. Families can relax, play, and get to know others who are dealing with similar situations. Retreat Center is located just off Barren River Lake; office is in Louisville. / https://barrenheights.org

Best Buddies Kentucky (502) 536-7876

Best Buddies Kentucky, founded in 2009, is dedicated to establishing a volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. www.bestbuddies.org/kentucky

Best Point Education and Behavioral Health

(Formerly Children’s Home of Cincinnati) 5050 Madison Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45227 (513) 272-2800

Best Point Education & Behavioral Health follows the principles of the Teaching-Family Model (TFM) to help vulnerable children with social, behavioral and learning challenges succeed in their home, school and community environments. The Teaching-Family Model is an evidencebased behavior modification model that teaches at-risk children to improve their behaviors and social skills. https://bestpoint.org/behavioral-health/

Big Brothers Big Sisters Organizations

For more than 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is the

TWO GRANTS

Continued from Page 11

breaking chains. There is a massive upside to living on our own.”

Said Kendall: “I don’t know how long it will take for me to feel comfortable, but the only way I could do it is with my brother.”

Also gratified is their father.

“I’m amazed that things have fallen into place for them,” Terry said. “I feel relieved that this plan is in place. This is what I want, and this is what they deserve.”

Build Inclusion & Starfire Council

Sanjay Blevins, 21, of Madison County has Down syndrome, is nonverbal, loves music and is a big extrovert.

When he was selected for the Rural Community Access grant, his mother, Meena Mohanty, sought an activity that matched his passions and was not dependent on conversation. Her solution: a drum circle.

She is working with Richmond parks and recreation and has targeted Tasty Tuesday, a local event at a city park that draws big crowds.

With a drum circle, anyone can join and play five minutes or the full 30 minutes. Meena’s plan is to meet once a month at Tasty Tuesday.

Richmond didn’t have a drum circle so this would be an addition to the community.

“This is an amazing opportunity for us,” she said. “The process makes you stop and think about your child’s gifts and where they fit into the community.”

Meena cites the guidance of Bridget Vogt, Starfire Council’s Community Builder Coordinator, as crucial to the process. Bridget has more than 25 years experience in the disability field.

“I get lots of affirmation from Bridget,” Meena said. “She checks in with me as we lay out my next steps. She keeps me on track.”

So many young people out of high school and college struggle to make connections.

“There’s a loneliness epidemic in our culture and that impacts people with disabilities even more,” Bridget said.

This grant intends to show that working with one person at a time is an effective way to connect people with disabilities to their communities.

Said Meena: “I don’t want my son to be seen as an ‘other’ but as part of the community.”

Drum circle participants will not only join the circle, they could also join Sanjay’s circle of friendship.

“I want a mindset change as we bring real person-centeredness to Kentucky,” Annette said. “We will implement best practices to show that providing services one person at a time can work.” n

LEARN

Do you want to influence policy at the community, state and national level?

For more information about KPIP, contact Nicole Maher at nicole.maher@ky.gov

(502) 564-7481 / ccdd@ky.gov www.ccdd.com / facebook.com/kyccdd For people with developmental disabilities and their family members

2026 Resource List

ability to succeed and thrive in life. As the nation’s largest donor and volunteer-supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through 18, in communities across the country. BBBS develops positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.

Bluegrass

181 Lowry Lane, Suite 150, Lexington Ky., 40503 (859) 231-8181 / www.bbbs-bluegrass.org

Greater Cincinnati

615 Elsinore Place, Suite 950, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 (513) 421-4120 / www.bigsforkids.org

Kentuckiana

1519 Gardiner Lane, Suite B, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 587-0494 / (855) 524-0062 / www.bbbsky.org

Tristate

1557 Winchester Ave., Suite 204, Ashland, Ky., 41105 (606) 329-8799 / (304) 522-2191 / www.bbbstristate.org

Bluegrass Care Navigators

1733 Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (855) 492-0812 / www.bgcarenav.org

Bluegrass Care Navigators (formerly Hospice of the Bluegrass) provides physical, emotional and spiritual care for adult and pediatric patients with life-limiting illness, and their families, at home, in nursing facilities and at Hospice Care Centers. Support and bereavement services extend to family members and anyone in the community experiencing grief. Bluegrass Care Navigators provides care in 32 central, northern and southeastern Kentucky counties.

Bluegrass Career Services

1165 Centre Pkwy., Suite 120, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 272-4855 / https://bcs.esinc.org

Bluegrass Career Services is a non-profit agency that assists individuals with disabilities to overcome barriers to employment. The group prepares, educates and empowers clients to help them achieve their employment goals. BCS receives client referrals from the offices of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Social Security Administration. Through these programs, services are free to our clients.

Brighton Center Inc.

741 Central Ave., Newport, Ky., 41071 (859) 491-8303

Brighton Center wraps a community of support around individuals and families by tackling the issues that prevent people from becoming self-sufficient, removing the barriers they face, and creating hope so that goals can be achieved and dreams realized. From modest beginnings in 1966, the Center has grown to provide a wide range of programs and services that include meeting basic needs, adult and early childhood education, workforce development, substance abuse recovery for women, affordable housing, financial education and counseling, youth services, and neighborhood based programs. / www.brightoncenter.com

Build Inclusion, Inc.

3138 Custer Drive, Suite 100, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 321-5597 / www.buildinclusion.org

Build Inclusion promotes intentional inclusion, access, and opportunities through meaningful employment opportunities, community and family education, and inclusive, civic engagement. Build Inclusion facilitates success for individuals in transition to adulthood in preparing for and fully

participating in this next stage of their lives. Person-Centered Planning through the Liberty Plan, and Clinical Social Work services are also available for the ID/DD population.

Center for Accessible Living

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.

Louisville Location

501 E. Broadway, Suite 310, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 589-6620 / (888) 813-8497 / www.calky.org

Lexington Location

Independence Place

870 Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 266-2807 / https://independenceplaceky.org

Murray Location

205 Andrus Drive, Suite A, Murray, Ky., 42071 (270) 753-7676 / (888) 261-6194 / www.calky.org

Bowling Green Location

1830 Destiny Lane, Suite 108, Bowling Green, Ky. 42104 (270) 599-0911 / www.calky.org

Christian Appalachian Project

485 Ponderosa Drive / P.O. Box 1768, Paintsville, Ky., 41240 / (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 Council

710 West High St., Lexington, Ky., 40508 (859) 233-4600

To residents in Fayette, Bourbon, Harrison and Nicholas Counties, the CAC offers two free programs (Weatherization and Warmwise) to lower energy costs for individuals who are within 200% of the poverty guideline. Weatherization is designed to lower summer cooling and winter heating costs by identifying and performing energy saving measures. This will save money each month.

Warmwise is a partnership between Community Action Council and Columbia Gas. The program allows an energy auditor to test natural gas furnaces for efficiency and safety. If the furnace is found to be operating at less than 85% efficiency, is unsafe or unreliable, it can be replaced with a high efficiency gas furnace at no cost to the client. If the client is a renter, CAC must obtain permission from the home owner to complete the work.

https://commaction.org/service/weatherization-assistanceprogram/

Community Action Kentucky (CAK)

101 Burch Court, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (800) 456-3452 / (502) 875-5863

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. www.capky.org

Council on Developmental Disabilities

1219 West Jefferson St., Suite 106, Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 584-1239

Since 1952, the Council has empowered Kentuckians with IDD and their families to live their best life – full of love, support and resources. The Council helps individuals, families and caregivers by providing one-on-one guidance, training

events and social events to navigate essential community resources. / www.the-council.org

Home of the Innocents

1100 E. Market St., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 596-1000 / info@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 health-care facility offering pediatric medical, dental, hearing, vision and pharmacy. www.homeoftheinnocents.org

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

https://hdsunflower.com/us/

This simple tool allows people to voluntarily share that they have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that they may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport or in public spaces. Globally 1 in 6 live with a disability. That is approximately 1.3 billion people. Non-visible disabilities can be temporary, situational or permanent. They can be neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental as well as physical, visual, auditory and include sensory and processing difficulties. As diverse as these conditions are, so are individual access needs and the barriers faced in daily life. Info: https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.freshdesk.com/en/ support/tickets/new

Human Development Institute (HDI) Kentucky’s University Center on Disability University of Kentucky

113 Mineral Industries Building, Lexington, Ky., 40506-0051 / (859) 257-4356

HDI’s mission is to advance efforts that build inclusive communities, address inequities, and improve the lives of all people who experience disability across the lifespan. HDI achieves its mission through leadership and community partnerships across Kentucky and the nation. Learn more at www.hdi.uky.edu

Independence Place, Inc.

(Now part of Center for Accessible Living) 870 Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 266-2807 / https://independenceplaceky.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 help people with disabilities achieve their potential for community inclusion by improving access and equal opportunity.

Independence Seekers Project

1244 South Third St., Suite 200, Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 509-9363

As a leader in disability advocacy, the Independence Seekers Project aims to challenge ableism and redefine community through a support network built by those with disabilities. Alongside peers and allies, ISP aspires to create a more inclusive community dedicated to interdependence. www.independenceseekersproject.org

KARRN (Kentucky Appalachian Rural Rehabilitation Network)

UK College of Health Sciences

900 South Limestone, Lexington, Ky., 40536 (859) 218-0580 / Patrick.Kitzman@uky.edu

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. www.karrn.org

Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs

83-C Michael Davenport Blvd., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 226-2704 / erecktenwald@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. / www.kasap.org

Kentucky Partnership for Families and Children, Inc.

600 Teton Trail, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 875-1320 / (800) 369-0533

Melissa@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. / www.kypartnership.org

Kentucky Special Parent Involvement Network, Inc. (KY-SPIN)

10301-B Deering Road, Louisville, Ky., 40272 (502) 937-6894 / (800) 525-7746

The mission is to link families and individuals with disabilities to valuable resources that will enable them to live productive, fulfilling lives. A project of KY-SPIN, Inc. is the KY-SPIN Parent Center PTI (Parent Training & Information Project), which is funded by the U.S. Dept. of Education. KY-SPIN Parent Center provides training, information and support for children and youth with all types of disabilities (birth through 26 years old), their parents, families and professionals. / www.kyspin.com

Kentucky Youth Advocates

10200 Linn Station, Suite 310, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 895-8167 / (888) 825-5592

KYA advocates for policies that give children the best possible opportunities for a brighter future and are making Kentucky the best place in America to be young. www.kyyouth.org

Life Coaching for Special Needs Families

Rob Ralston / (502) 541-5038

rob@lifecoachingforspecialneedsfamilies.com

Life Coaching for Special Needs Families offers 24/7 support from someone who truly understands the journey – because he's lived it too. Rob is a parent of a nonverbal autistic adult. Together, he and clients create a safe space to navigate your challenges, find your strength and discover peace, even in the chaos. www.lifecoachingforspecialneedsfamilies.com

Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky

2265 Harrodsburg Road, Suite 200, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 225-8879 / pcaky@pcaky.org

The mission of PCAK is to prevent the abuse and neglect of Kentucky’s children through advocacy, education, awareness and training. PCAK is helping to build a better Kentucky by shaping future leaders and their families

to ensure Kentucky’s children grow up in safe, healthy environments. / www.pcaky.org

Public Library Home Delivery Service

Many of the state’s county public libraries offer home delivery service for those with physical limitations that prevent them from visiting. Below are libraries in the state’s most populous areas. Contact the public library in your county to inquire about services.

Boyd County (Ashland):

Midland branch (606) 929-5346

www.thebookplace.org/index.php/locations-hours/ homebound-services

Boone County (Florence): (859) 342-2665 ext. 8108

www.bcpl.org/locations

Campbell County (Newport): (859) 572-5035 ext. 352

www.cc-pl.org/services/adult-outreach-services

Daviess County (Owensboro) (270) 684-0211

www.dcplibrary.org

Hardin County (Elizabethtown): (270) 769-6337

www.hcpl.info/services.asp

Kenton County (Covington): (859) 962-4062

www.kentonlibrary.org/outreach/homebound

Laurel County (London): (606) 864-5759

www.Laurellibrary.org/services/outreach-services/ Lexington: (859) 231-5500

www.lexpublib.org

Louisville: (502) 574-1609

www.lfpl.org/services#121

Paul Sawyier (Frankfort): (502) 352-2665 ext. 111

www.pspl.org/services/outreach

Warren County (Bowling Green): (270) 781-4882

https://warrenpl.org

Puzzle Pieces

2401 New Hartford Road, Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (270) 926-7813

The mission is to provide a safe environment for individuals with intellectual disabilities and promote independence, life skills, community access and involvement, social interaction, communication skills, self-worth, and trusting relationships between clients, staff and families.

Puzzle Pieces provides day training, ABA therapy, autismcentered programming, residential services, supported employment, Pre-ETS, Community Access and more. The nonprofit supports more than 400 individuals with disabilities and employs over 100 people. / puzzle-pieces.org

Safe Kids Worldwide

1 Inventa Place, Sixth Floor West, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20910 / (202) 662-0600

Safe Kids is a program that brings together health and safety experts, educators, corporations, foundations, governments and volunteers to educate and protect families. Safe Kids is a global network of organizations dedicated to preventing accidental injury. Efforts are needed because as many as 90% of accidental injuries can be prevented. www.safekids.org

Resource List 2026

Safe Kids Fayette County

Kentucky Children's Hospital

2333 Alumni Park Plaza, Suite 105, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 323-1153

https://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/safe-kids-fayette-county

Louisville and Jefferson County Coalition Norton Children’s Hospital 315 E. Broadway, Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 629-7244 www.safekids.org/coalition/safe-kids-louisville

Special Persons Advocacy Network (SPAN)

P.O. Box 1861, Danville, Ky., 40422

Info: bobbie.hancock@uky.edu or lshort9655@gmail.com

The mission is to provide a safe environment for individuals with intellectual disabilities, promote independence, life skills, community access, involvement, social interaction, communication skills and self-worth by letting them be active participants in the community. SPAN also offers support to parents and caregivers. The Board meets the first Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. at Centenary Christian Church in Danville. / https://app.candid.org/profile/7976119/specialpersons-advocacy-network-inc-61-1349003

TASH Disability Advocacy Worldwide

1825 K St., NW, Suite 1250, Washington D.C., 20006 (202) 817-3264

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. / www.tash.org

Kentucky Chapter

Darrell Mattingly / (859) 229-7499 or (859) 373-8920 darrell.mattingly@uky.edu www.tash.org/chapters/kentucky-tash

Tourette Association of America

42-40 Bell Blvd., Suite 507, Bayside, N.Y., 11361 (888) 486-8738 / support@tourette.org

Tourette Association of America (formerly Tourette Syndrome Association) is the only national organization serving the community, and works to raise awareness, advance research, and provide ongoing support to patients and families impacted by Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. The TAA directs a network of 31 Chapters, 83 support groups and recognizes 18 Centers of Excellence across the country. / www.tsa-usa.org

Tourette Syndrome in the Bluegrass

Angela King / (270) 317-3046 www.facebook.com/tourettesyndromeinthebluegrass

Toys With a Purpose (859) 218-0580 / phkitz1@uky.edu

A project of the KATS network at the University of Kentucky, Toys With a Purpose is a collaboration that provides free adapted toys to individual families through an online lending library. Organizers are planning to expand services to provide adapted toys to organizations that work closely with children of all abilities. Additionally, this program serves as a platform for educating students from multiple levels (high school, community college and university) about inclusion and accessibility through the process of adapting toys. / https://toyswithapurposeky.com

2026 Resource List

Un Abrazo Amigo Parent Support Group

Lexington / (859) 474-2722

Un Abrazo Amigo is a parent support group in Spanish for families of children and youth with special health care needs and serves families from Fayette and surrounding counties. The support group works on addressing language and cultural barriers to access to health care and social services, reducing caregiver stress and enhancing children’s health and well-being, and supporting families in becoming advocates for their children through education and mutual support.

United Way

Bluegrass

651 Perimeter Drive, Suite 510, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 233-4460 / 211 Help Line

LiveUnited@uwbg.org / www.uwbg.org

Kentucky

P.O. Box 4653, Louisville, Ky., 40204 (502) 589-6897 / 211 Help Line / www.uwky.org

Metro

334 E. Broadway, P.O. Box 4488, Louisville, Ky., 40204 (502) 583-2821 / 211 Help Line

Fights for the education, health, housing and financial stability of every person. / 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.

• STATE RESOURCES •

Brain Injury

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver

275 E. Main St., 6W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-7540 / (844) 784-5614

This program is designed to provide intensive services and support to adults with acquired brain injuries as they work to re-enter community life.

https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/abi.aspx/

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Trust Fund

275 E. Main St., 3E-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-6930 / toniaawells@ky.gov

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. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/tbitrust.aspx

Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Office for Children with Special Health Care Needs

The mission of the OCSHCN is to enhance the quality of life for Kentucky’s children with special health-care needs through quality service, leadership, advocacy, education and collaboration. The OCSHCN’s vision is to be the visible leader in supporting the highest quality of life for Kentucky’s children

with special health-care needs and their families through collaboration and creation of a more accessible communitybased system of support.

www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/ocshcn/Pages/default.aspx

Regional Offices:

Central office / Louisville

310 Whittington Parkway, Suite 200, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 429-4430 / (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

916 North Mulberry St., Suite 172, 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 West First St., Morehead, Ky., 40351 (606) 783-8610 / (800) 928-3049

Serving Bath, Boyd, Bracken, Campbell, Carter, Elliot, Fleming, Greenup, Lawrence, Lewis, Mason, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Pendleton, Robertson and Rowan counties.

Owensboro

1600 Breckenridge St., Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (270) 687-7038 / (877) 687-7038

Serving Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, Hopkins, McLean, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Union and Webster counties.

Paducah

2855 Jackson St., Paducah, Ky., 42003 (270) 443-3651 / (800) 443-3651

Serving Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken and Trigg counties.

Prestonsburg

311 North Arnold Ave., 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 of Cumberland, Green,

McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor and Wayne counties.

Career and Technical Education

300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4286 ext. 4249

The Department of Education offers four career and technical education (CTE) pathways. These pathways pave the way for early post-secondary opportunities in the form of recognized industry certifications and credentials, CTE endof-program certificates for articulated postsecondary credit and CTE dual credit, ensuring a seamless transition into the workforce or postsecondary programs for graduates. https://education.ky.gov/CTE/Pages/default.aspx

Family to Family Health Information Centers

1600 Breckenridge St., Suite 1200

Owensboro, Ky., 42302 / (502) 782-8781 ext. 3 (270) 993-9430 / Sondra.Gilbert@ky.gov

Located at the offices of the Commission for Children with Special Health Care Needs, Family to Family HICs are familyrun 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.

www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/ocshcn/Pages/ftf.aspx

Hart-Supported Living Program

275 E. Main St., 3E-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-6930 / pcap.hsl@ky.gov

The Hart-Supported Living program provides funds for supports to help Kentuckians with disabilities live in their homes and communities and avoid institutionalization. Any Kentuckian with a disability as defined by the Americans with Disability Act can apply for Hart-Supported Living funds. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/hslp.aspx

Coordinators

Region 1: Angel Lawrence

P.O. Box 3759, Paducah, Ky., 42003 (502) 401-8650 / angel.lawrence@ky.gov

Counties: Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Christian, Crittenden, Daviess, Fulton, Graves, Henderson, Hickman, Hopkins, Livingston, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken, McLean, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg, Union, Webster.

Region 2: Makalla Morrison

P.O. Box 2010, Bowling Green, Ky., 42102 (502) 229-5211 / makalla.morrison@ky.gov

Counties: Adair, Allen, Barren, Breckinridge, Bullitt, Butler, Cumberland, Edmonson, Grayson, Green, Hancock, Hardin, Hart, Larue, Meade, Metcalf, Monroe, Nelson, Ohio, Russell, Simpson, Taylor, Warren.

Region 3: Amanda Coulter

P.O. Box 876, Lawrenceburg, Ky., 40342 (502) 229-2294 / AmandaM.Coulter@ky.gov

Counties: Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Casey, Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Marion, Mercer, Montgomery, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Scott, Woodford.

Region 4: Susan Miller

P.O. Box 9531, Louisville, Ky., 40209 (502) 229-9716 / smiller@ky.gov

Counties: Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham,

COUNCIL MEMBERS (FRONT ROW): Laura Butler, Danny Slaton, Ryan Guyder, David Allgood and Camille Collins.

(BACK ROW): Casey Allen, Chad Hunt, Andrea Strassburg, Amy Smith, Kelly Jones and Scott Collins.

(NOT PICTURED): Kristen Beach, Meagan Brannon, Jaz Brown, Nick Carpenter, Jake Cruz, Donna Deal, Blaire Handshoe, Barb Locker, Darrell Mattingly, Heather

2026 Resource List

Owen, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble, Washington. Region 5: Caryn Turvey P.O. Box 1385, Ashland, Ky., 41105 (502) 229-6863 / caryn.turvey@ky.gov

Counties: Bath, Boone, Boyd, Bracken, Campbell, Carter, Fleming, Grant, Greenup, Harrison, Kenton, Lewis, Mason, Nichols, Pendleton, Robertson, Rowan. Region 6: Angelia Forgey P.O. Box 1907, Hyden, Ky., 41749 (502) 401-8654 / angelia.forgey@ky.gov

Counties: Bell, Breathitt, Clay, Elliot, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, McCreary, Menifee, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Wayne, Whitley, Wolfe.

Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corp. Mayo-Underwood Building

500 Mero St., 1st Floor, SE06, Frankfort Ky., 40601 (877) 675-0195

The Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation (KATLC) offers low interest loans for qualified applicants with disabilities for assistive technology. Notice January 2024: The KATLC is going through a reorganization. As a part of this process, KATLC will be looking for a new lending partner. Interested lending partners may contact KATLC at (877) 675-0195 or edu.katlc@ky.gov for additional information. https://katlc.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Children Insurance Program (K-CHIP) (855) 459-6328

KCHIP is a free health insurance program for children under the age of 19 without health insurance who qualify for help. KCHIP covers prescriptions, well-care checks and immunizations, hospital stays, provider and dental visits, mental health services, glasses and vision care, speech and physical therapy, and much more. Uninsured children under 19 who live in families with an income at or less than 218% of the federal poverty level are eligible. https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits/s/medicaid-kchipprogram?language=en_US

Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

632 Versailles Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 573-2604 / Videophone: (502) 416-0607

kcdhh@ky.org

Provides effective and efficient leadership, education, advocacy and programs to eliminate barriers and to meet the social, economic, educational, cultural, intellectual, and health and human services needs of deaf and hard of hearing Kentuckians. / www.kcdhh.ky.gov

Kentucky Community Mental Health Centers

275 E. Main St., 6W-D, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-6890

Community Mental Health Centers provide a comprehensive range of accessible, coordinated, direct or indirect mental health services through Kentucky's 14 regional MH/IDD boards. Regional boards are private, nonprofit organizations serving residents of designated multicounty regions.

chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dpo/bpb/Pages/cmhc.aspx

Kentucky

Department for Aging and Independent Living

275 E. Main St. 3E-E, Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 564-6930

The Kentucky Department for Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) oversees administration of statewide programs and services on behalf of Kentucky elders and individuals with disabilities. The mission is to promote the dignity, well-being, and independence of Kentuckians and their caregivers. DAIL aspires to be a foundation of support where aging and disability are met with compassion, inclusivity and empowerment. www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities

275 E. Main St., 4W-F, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4527

The mission is to provide leadership to prevent disability, build resilience in individuals and their communities and

Are We Missing Resources?

Ofacilitate recovery for people affected by mental illness, substance abuse or intellectual or developmental disability. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dbhdid/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Division of Community Alternatives Medicaid Waivers

275 E. Main St., 6W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-7540

If you have a disability or are elderly, you may qualify for a 1915(c) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid waiver. These waivers provide the support you need to live as independently as possible. The Department for Medicaid Services (DMS) offers six waiver programs: ABI Acute and ABI Long-Term Care Waivers; Home and Community Based (HCB) Waiver; Model II Waiver (MIIW); Michelle P. Waiver; Supports for Community Living (SCL) Waiver. www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/HCBSWaiver.aspx

Kentucky Early Intervention System

275 E. Main St., HS2WC, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-3756

Kentucky Early Intervention System is a statewide early intervention system that provides services to children with developmental disabilities from birth to age 3 and their families. Kentucky Early Intervention System is Kentucky’s response to the federal Infant-Toddler Program. Kentucky Early Intervention System offers comprehensive services through a variety of community agencies and service disciplines and is administered by the Department for Public Health in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dmch/ecdb/Pages/keis.aspx Regional Offices: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dmch/ecdb/fs/ POElistingforWebsite.pdf

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

ur goal at Exceptional Family Magazine is to provide a comprehensive, statewide list of resources for people with disabilities. Since we first published this magazine in 2009, we have updated and expanded our list of resources many times. Help us continue to make this Resource Directory as accurate and thorough as possible. If you know of resources in the state or in your part of Kentucky that need to be included, please let us know. Thanks for your assistance and we look forward to hearing from you.

To add to this Resource Directory, simply contact Editor John Lynch by phone (859) 494-1140 or email at johnplynch1950@gmail.com n

Bluegrass District Point of Entry 1351 Newtown Pike, Building 5, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (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

175 East Peachtree St., Corbin, Ky., 40701

(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 68 Oberline St., 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., 42303 (270) 852-2905 / (888) 686-1414

Counties served: Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, Webster

Kentuckiana District Point of Entry

312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 200, Louisville, 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

2935 Dolphin Drive, Suite 204, Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 (270) 737-5921 / (800) 454-2764

Counties served: Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington

Northern Kentucky District Point of Entry

NorthKey Community Care:

502 Farrell Drive, Covington, Ky., 41011 / (859) 578-3200 St. Elizabeth: Community Outreach Building 4900 Houston Road, Florence, Ky., 41042 (859) 655-1195

Counties served: Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton

Pennyrile District Point of Entry 102 West Second St., Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 (270) 886-5186 / (877) 473-7766

Counties served: Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Lyon, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg

Purchase District Point of Entry 425 Broadway, Suite 204, Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 442-6223 / (800) 648-6599

Counties served: Ballard, Carlisle, Calloway, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Marshall, McCracken.

Kentucky Education & Labor Cabinet

500 Mero St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-3070

Providing Kentuckians from all across the Commonwealth with the opportunity of transformational change through education and quality training so they can attain a meaningful career, support their families, break the cycle of poverty and prosper.

https://educationcabinet.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Home and Community-Based Waiver (HCB)

275 E. Main St., 6W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-7540

The HCB waiver is part of Kentucky’s 1915(c) HCBS Medicaid waiver program. HCB provides assistance to the elderly or to adults and children with disabilities to help them live in the community as independently as possible. https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/hcb-waiver.aspx

Kentucky IMPACT Program

275 E. Main St., 4W-G, Frankfort , Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4456

The overall goal of Kentucky IMPACT is to prevent children/youth with Serious Emotional Disturbance from being placed outside of their homes and to provide support and assistance to those who were transitioning home from such residential placements. Kentucky IMPACT has embraced the Wraparound process since its inception. https://dbhdid.ky.gov/mh/kyimpact

Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation

The Mayo-Underwood Building

500 Mero St.,4th floor NE, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4440 / (800) 372-7172

The Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA) assesses the vocational rehabilitation needs of Kentuckians with disabilities every three years, as required by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended). OVR uses the results to develop and update its state plan for vocational rehabilitation services, and to help determine objectives and priorities.

https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/Pages/KentuckyOffice-of-Vocational-Rehabilitation.aspx

To find a Regional office, visit: https://kcc.ky.gov/Pages/Locations.aspx

Kentucky Transitions (Money Follows the Person Demonstration Grant)

275 East Main St., 6 W-B, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-0330 / (877) 564-0330

Kentucky Transitions helps people move out of nursing facilities or institutions and into their own homes. The Department for Medicaid Services developed the program in 2008 with a Money Follows the Person demonstration grant from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Kentucky Transitions has helped more than 750 people leave institutional care.

https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/kytransitions. aspx

Medicaid Waiver Provider Directory

The Provider Directory is maintained by the Division of Developmental & Intellectual Disabilities. Contact information for provider agencies certified to provide SCL/Michelle P. Medicaid waiver services may be accessed in this interactive map.

https://dbhdid.ky.gov/providerdirectory

Personal Care Attendant Program

Department for Aging and Independent Living

275 East Main St., 3E-E, Frankfort, Ky., 40621

The Personal Care Attendant Program helps severely physically disabled adults at risk of being institutionalized to live in their own homes and communities by subsidizing

costs of personal attendant services.

Personal Care Attendant Program Regional Coordinators

Region 1: Valerie Leathers

P.O. Box 570, Benton, Ky. 42025 (502) 229-2979 / valerie.leathers@ky.gov

Counties: Adair, Allen, Ballard, Barren, Breckenridge, Bullitt, Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Christian, Clinton, Crittenden, Cumberland, Daviess, Edmonson, Fulton, Graves, Grayson, Green, Hancock, Hardin, Hart, Henderson, Hickman, Hopkins, Larue, Livingston, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, McClean, McCracken, Meade, Metcalfe, Monroe, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Russell, Simpson, Taylor, Todd, Trigg, Union, Warren, Wayne, Webster.

Region 2: Ben Parsley

P.O. Box 23938, Lexington, Ky. 40517 (502) 229-2327 / benjamin.parsley@ky.gov

Counties: Anderson, Boone, Carroll, Franklin, Gallatin, Henry, Jefferson, Kenton, Marion, Nelson, Oldham, Owen, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble, Washington.

Region 3: Keagan Wilson

P.O. Box 570, Nicholasville, Ky. 40340 (502) 330-0409 / keagan.wilson@ky.gov

Counties: Bath, Bell, Bourbon, Boyd, Boyle, Bracken, Breathitt, Campbell, Carter, Casey, Clark, Clay, Elliot, Estill, Fayette, Fleming, Floyd, Garrard, Grant, Greenup, Harlan, Harrison, Jackson, Jessamine, Johnson, Knox, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lewis, Lincoln, Madison, Menifee, Magoffin, Martin, Mason, McCreary, Menifee, Mercer, Montgomery, Morgan, Nicholas, Owsley, Pendleton, Perry, Pike, Powell, Pulaski, Robertson, Rockcastle, Rowan, Scott, Whitley, Wolfe, Woodford. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/pcap.aspx

Social Security Administration (800) 772-1213 / www.ssa.gov

In 2024, the Social Security Administration (SSA) celebrated 50 years of administering the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. President Richard Nixon signed the bill in 1972, and in January 1974, SSA began issuing the first SSI payments to nearly 4 million eligible people. The goal of the SSI program was to aid aged, blind, and individuals with disabilities with very limited income and resources.

Fifty years later, the SSI program remains a lifeline by providing cash assistance to about 2% of the U.S. population – approximately 7.5 million people – with limited income and resources, including nearly 1 million low-income children with disabilities. SSI benefits can help pay for basic needs like rent, food, clothing and medicine, reducing the number of people in extreme poverty, and alleviating the burden on other family members.

The agency recently announced it will expand access to the SSI program by updating the definition of a public assistance household. The agency also announced it will exclude the value of food from SSI benefit calculations. Additionally, the agency announced it will expand its rental subsidy exception, currently only in place for SSI applicants and recipients residing in seven states, as a nationwide policy.

For more information on the SSI program, including who is eligible and how to apply, visit www.ssa.gov/ssi

To find your closest Social Security office, visit www.ssa.gov/locator

2026 Resource List

Zero V: Kentucky United Against Violence

111 Darby Shire Circle, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 209-5382

ZeroV's coalition supports Kentucky's 15-regional Domestic Violence Programs, providing free, confidential residential services and non-residential services to survivors of intimate partner violence. / www.zerov.org

• ADOPTION AND FOSTERING •

Adoption Support for Kentucky

UK College of Social Work / Training Resource Center 1648 McGrathiana Parkway, Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 257-7156 / (888)-44-ASKKY

Adoption Support for Kentucky (ASK) is an award-winning program that utilizes innovative training modalities and inclusive support group practices to meet the needs of foster, adoptive, relative, and fictive-kin caregivers throughout the Commonwealth.

https://socialwork.uky.edu/centers-labs/training-resourcecenter/adoption-support-for-kentucky

The Bair Foundation: Kindred Roots

771 Corporate Drive, Suite 700, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 519-3273

Offers strengths-based, trauma-informed family reunification and support services, including supervised visitation, parenting education, court advocacy and case consultancy. / www.bair.org

Benchmark Family Services

Therapeutic Foster Care

Kentucky Administrative Office 160 Burt Road, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 899-9515

Provides quality out-of-home placements for youth in need by working with referring agencies to guarantee the support, treatment and care they deserve. Serves children with emotional, mental and physical disabilities along with youth who have been severely neglected or abused. Therapeutic services include training of foster families. Benchmark Family Services has offices in Berea, Bowling Green, Columbia, Corbin, Elizabethtown, Florence, Hazard, Irvine, Lexington, London, Louisville, Madisonville, Morehead, Owensboro, Owenton, Prestonsburg and Somerset. www.benchmarkfamilyservices.org

Best Point Education and Behavioral Health

(Formerly Children’s Home of Cincinnati) 5050 Madison Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45227 (513) 272-2800 / https://bestpoint.org/behavioral-health

Best Point Education and Behavioral Health follows the principles of the Teaching-Family Model (TFM) to help vulnerable children with social, behavioral and learning challenges succeed in their home, school and community environments. The Teaching-Family Model is an evidencebased behavior modification model that teaches at-risk children to improve their behaviors and social skills.

Key Assets Behavioral Health

2331 Fortune Drive, Suite 225, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 226-5022

The goal of Key Assets Behavioral Health is to be the safety net for children, families and adults in times of crisis. Additionally, it is important to provide ongoing support following a crisis. This support may take many forms, including psychological assessment and/or testing, targeted case management, and individual or group therapy. www.keyassetskentucky.com

• THE ARTS •

Allegro Dance Project (715) 252-6137 / info@allegrodanceproject.org

Based in Lexington, Allegro Dance Project is a non-profit contemporary dance company specializing in Inclusive dance outreach for children with Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other specific needs. www.allegrodanceproject.org

Arts for All Kentucky

907 Arcadia Circle, Murray, Ky., 42071 (270) 792-0023 / programs@artsforallky.org

A non-profit organization dedicated to providing inclusive arts and education programs for children, youth and adults with disabilities, in addition to professional development for artists and teachers in schools and communities statewide. Offers an under-served population equal opportunity to explore the arts in a way that is fully accessible. Through participatory involvement with trained professionals and volunteers, people with disabilities learn new creative and social skills that open doors to new opportunities. www.artsforallky.org

Latitude Artist Community

740 National Ave., Suite 180, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 806-0195

Latitude is an art studio that serves all people, with an emphasis on those who are considered to have a disability. The multi-modal activities, workshops and community outreach events form a framework that encourages us to recognize our own life’s narrative, and to then choose ways in which we may contribute to the well-being of our community. / www.latitude-arts.com

Lexington Children’s Theatre

418 W. Short St., Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 254-4546

LCT is committed to creating an environment where everyone feels welcome to enjoy the magic of theatre. Join LCT for sensory friendly performances that are designed to be a safe environment where young people with sensory sensitivities or disabilities, first-time theatre-goers, young children, and their friends and family are free to speak, respond and move around the seating area in reaction to the story. ASL interpretation and audio description are also available. / www.lctonstage.org/tickets/access-at-lct/

Wellness Creative

501 Darby Creek Road, No. 7, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 287-4111 / www.wellnessmtc.com

Wellness Creative offers music therapy, traditional and adapted music lessons, and art therapy. The mission is to help people of all ages improve, grow and heal through music lessons, music therapy and art therapy. The objective is to promote wellness in all aspects of life to achieve cognitive, physical, emotional, social and behavioral goals.

Wildwood Music Therapy

2375 Professional Heights Dr., Suite 180 Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 456-0292

Board-certified music therapists provide music therapy and adaptive music lesson services for all ages and abilities. Sessions celebrate strengths and help clients achieve their goals. / wildwoodmusictherapy.com

The Appalachian Center for Assistive Technology (ACAT) (606) 439-3557 / crystal.hignite@uky.edu keisha.wells@uky.edu / Patrick Kitzman (859) 218-0580 / (phkitz1@uky.edu)

The Center is the Assistive Technology Resource Center serving Eastern Kentucky and is a part of Kentucky Assistive Technology Service (KATS) Network. ACAT provides assistive technology (AT) demonstrations and consultation, a short term AT loan locker, maker space, workforce training and refurbishing. / www.uky.edu/chs/karrn/acat

Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center

5659 Main St., Thelma, Ky., 41260 (606) 788-7080 / emily.jackson@ky.gov

The mission of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Training Center is that persons will achieve sustainable, competitive, integrated employment, maximize independence, and gain self-respect through the provision of comprehensive services. Consumers may live on campus in dormitory housing or can commute to the Perkins Center each day they are scheduled for classes and/or therapy. https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/seekingservices/cdpvtc/Pages/default.aspx

HDI Center for Assistive Technology Services (CATS) 2358 Nicholasville Road, Suite 180, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 218-7979

CATS 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. CATS is a member of the Alliance for Technology Access, The Eastern Regional Center for the Kentucky Assistive Technology Service (KATS) Network.

https://hdi.uky.edu/hdicats / www.facebook.com/HDICATS

KATS Network Disability Solutions Through Technology

Office of Vocational Rehabilitation

8020 Veterans Memorial Drive, Suite 100, Florence, Ky., 41042 / (800) 327-5287 / Info@katsnet.org

The Kentucky Assistive Technology Locator is a free service of the KATS Network that connects Kentuckians to the AT devices they need to live independently. By registering for an account, you can borrow devices to try, find used devices for free or low-cost, sell used devices, give away devices or place want ads for devices you need. / www.katsnet.org

KATS Project CARAT

(800) 327-5287 / (859) 218-7979 keisha.wells@uky.edu

A program of KATS, CARAT enables under-served individuals with disabilities in the Appalachian region of Kentucky by collecting, refurbishing and redistributing assistive technology and durable medical equipment 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 the ProjectCARAT Hotline at (800) 327-5287. www.katsnet.org/services/at-reuse/

Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corp.

Mayo-Underwood Building

500 Mero St., 1SE06, Frankfort Ky., 40601 (877) 675-0195

The Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation (KATLC) offers low interest loans for qualified applicants with disabilities for assistive technology. Notice: January 2024: The Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation is going through a reorganization. As part of this process, KATLC will be looking for a new lending partner. Interested lending partners may contact KATLC at (877-675-0195) or edu.katlc@ky.gov for additional information. https://katlc.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Ky. Department of Education

Exceptional Children and Early Learning

300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4970 / gretta.hylton@education.ky.gov

The Office of Special Education and Early Learning (OSEEL) works to improve educational outcomes for diverse and early learners through training and coaching for local district staff and teachers, technical assistance, guidance and policy documents, and providing supports for students and their families. www.education.ky.gov/specialed/Pages/default.aspx

Easterseals Redwood

71 Orphanage Road, Ft. Mitchell, Ky., 41017 (859) 331-0880

Easterseals Redwood is leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access through life-changing services. Easterseals Redwood operates programs designed to enrich education, expand employment, enhance health and elevate our communities. / www.eastersealsredwood.org

Wendell Foster Technology and Resource Center

815 Triplett Street, Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (270) 852-1488

Wendell Foster Technology and Resource Center is a

member of the Kentucky Assistive Technology Services (KATS) Network. Services include a lending library, device demonstrations, and a reutilization program that assists consumers in finding gently used equipment at no cost. Staff can also provide information and assistance on a variety of disability topics and help navigate local and state resources. www.wendellfoster.org/services

• AUTISM •

A

Different World (859) 629-8896

A Different World Inc.’s mission is to provide support, resources and sensory-friendly events for children, teens and adults with Autism and/or disabilities and their families. Members hope to make a difference in the community by helping children, teens and adults and their families. The group offers support and resources, and creates sensoryfriendly events for them to make memories in a judgmentfree space. / www.adwinc.org

As You Are (866) 219-8595 / https://asyouare.com

As You Are is a virtual clinic for autism diagnostic evaluations for kids ages 16 months to 10 years old. Diagnostic evaluations are conducted by a team of physicians via telehealth appointments.

Autism Society of the Bluegrass P. O. Box 24212, Lexington, Ky., 40524-2412 (859) 402-6733

Established in 1991 and a chapter of the Autism Society of America, ASBG is an all-volunteer group of families, caregivers and self-advocates. The mission is to provide community, education, advocacy and support to those impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder. ASBG hosts monthly meetings with speakers on a wide variety of topics related to autism. It also operates a discussion board and is active on social media. Everyone, including individuals, families, educators, therapists and health-care providers, are welcome to participate. www.asbg.org www.youtube.com/user/autismsocietybg www.facebook.com/Autism-Society-of-theBluegrass-122689954438582/

Autism Connections (Formerly Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati) (513) 561-2300 / info@autismcincy.org

Autism Connections works to promote awareness and education about autism. Autism Connections provides information packets, support groups for families and individuals, newsletters and public speakers. www.autismcincy.org

Autism Society of Kentuckiana P.O. Box 21895, Louisville, Ky., 40221-0895 Rob Ralston: (502) 541-5038 / info@ask-lou.org www.ask-lou.org

Autistic Self Advocacy Network

Resource List 2026

P.O. Box 66122, Washington, D.C., 20035 info@autisticadvocacy.org

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network seeks to advance the principles of the disability rights movement with regard to autism. / https://autisticadvocacy.org

Capital Area Autism Parents (CAAP) (502) 330-5223 / capitalareaautism@gmail.com

Established in 2013, Capital Area Autism Parents is a support group for parents, caregivers, autistic self-advocates, and neurodivergent voices. Support group members will find resources, information, opportunities and friendships. CAAP hosts meetings with speakers and events to bring awareness and education to the Central Kentucky community. CAAP values individuality and the uniqueness of every journey. CAAP believes no one should walk this journey alone and support is essential for every individual. www.facebook.com/groups/CAAP2

Erin's Hope for Friends

650 Kennedy Road, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (859) 538-6047 / esclubky@gmail.com info.lex@erinshopeforfriends.org

Erin's Hope for Friends is a nonprofit in Lexington that provides a social club, called E's Club, where teens ages 12-18 and young adults ages 18-24 can hang out, have fun and make friends. The mission of E's Club is to provide a safe, fun and supportive place for autistic youth and young adults to be themselves and create lasting friendships through joyful interactions. Social club events for teens ages 12-18 are held every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m., and Saturdays from 4 to 7 p.m. for young adults. Free outreach events are held every second and fourth Saturday for the entire community to promote connection and awareness of Erin’s Hope’s mission. / www.esclubky.org

Families for Effective Autism Treatment

1100 E. Market St., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 774-0797 / www.featoflouisville.org

Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Louisville is a non-profit organization that actively supports and funds autism programs for the entire family.

Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers

Lexington: 1300 E. New Circle Road, Suite 150, Lexington, Ky., 40505 / (859) 685-1019

Louisville East: 215 South Hurstbourne Parkway, Suite 213, Louisville, Ky., 40222 / (502) 353-2074

Louisville South: 175 Market Place Drive, Suite A, Louisville, Ky., 40229 / (502) 251-7002

Bowling Green: 2427 Russellville Road, Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 936-7472

Edgewood: 2904 Foltz Drive, Edgewood, Ky., 41017 (859) 795-3000

Provides a full range of professional services in one location for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental delays. / www.hopebridge.com

The Kelly Autism Program

Western Kentucky University

Clinical Education Complex, 104 Alumni Ave., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 745-4232

cec@wku.edu

The Kelly Autism Program offers educational support

2026 Resource List

through Individual Education Plan assistance, classroom adaptations and tutoring, community involvement through active participation in community activities, social and leisure activities, job coaching and parent support. www.wku.edu/kellyautismprogram

Ky. Autism Training Center: Kosair for Kids University of Louisville

1405 E. Burnett Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 852-4631 / (800) 334-8635 ext. 852-4631 / katc @ louisville.edu https://education.louisville.edu/research/centers-institutes/ kentucky-autism-training-center

Kentuckiana Autistic Spectrum Alliance (KASA) kyautisticalliance@gmail.com

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network is a national organization of autistic people advocating for the rights of autistic people. / www.facebook.com/KASALouisville

Life Works at WKU

1328 Adams St., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 745-4380

LifeWorks at WKU is a supportive living and learning community for autistic young adults as they transition to independent living and employment. www.lifeworksatwku.org

•

CAMPS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES •

Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Special Populations Division

225 East Third Ave., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 393-3480 / cameron.levis@bgky.org

Programs and services offered provide all individuals, regardless of their ability level, opportunities for recreation and leisure. People with and without disabilities participate side by side in an inclusive environment. Activities include Bowling Green Special Olympics (softball, basketball, flag football, bowling, cheerleading, swimming, and track and field), adapted sports (wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis and goal ball), and social gatherings (holiday parties, movie nights, dances and more). www.bgky.org/bgpr/special-populations

Maysville Initiatives, Inc. Camp Discovery

33 W. Second St., 3rd Floor, Maysville, Ky., 41056 (606) 301-8338

dsugarbaker@maysvilleinitiatives.com

A free, summer-long day camp for children aged 5-12 at Beechwood Park in Maysville. Swimming, field trips and supervised activities. Breakfast and lunch are served. The camp is open to children with disabilities. maysvilleinitiatives.com/camp-discovery

Cassidy’s Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy 6075 Clinton Road, Paducah, Ky., 42001

(270) 554-4040 / www.cassidyscause.org

Cassidy’s Cause is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide individuals living with disabilities the opportunity to grow and develop through therapeutic, educational and recreational activities, while on a horse.

The Center for Courageous Kids

1501 Burnley Road, Scottsville, Ky., 42164 (270) 618-2900 / info@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. / www.courageouskids.org

Central Kentucky Riding for Hope

4185 Walt Robertson Road, inside the Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, Ky., 40583 / (859) 231-7066 / pat@ckrh.org

Under the guidance of trained teachers, volunteers and medical personnel, 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. www.ckrh.org

Dream Riders of Kentucky Inc.

4705 Winkler Road, Philpot, Ky., 42366 (270) 613-0079 / info@dreamridersofky.org

The mission of Dream Riders is to provide individuals with physical, cognitive, social, and/or emotional needs an opportunity to experience the joy of riding and the therapeutic value of horses. / www.dreamridersofky.org

Easterseals Adaptive Recreation

1900 Richmond Road, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 399-6270 / cindy.jacobelli@eastersealsbg.org

Promotes healthy and active lifestyles for people with physical disabilities through education, exposure to adaptive equipment and adaptive recreation experiences in the community. / www.eastersealsbg.org

Kamp KESSA

758 Beechridge Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 376-4367

A non-profit day camp serving populations who are at-risk and have special needs. Kamp KESSA provides adventure education and treatment programs utilizing horses and the wilderness. / www.cedarfire.net

Josephine Sculpture Park

3355 Lawrenceburg Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 352-7082 / info@josephinesculpturepark.org

Interact with nearly 70 works of art as you explore 30 acres of walking paths through native meadows. The Park partners with schools and organizations to provide arts and nature programming to individuals with disabilities. The Park is committed to making park grounds accessible for those with physical disabilities, and golf carts are available for those who need mobility assistance. (Please call or email before your visit to reserve). / https://josephinesculpturepark.org

Lex. Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Recreation

Dunbar Community Center, 545 N. Upper St., Lexington, Ky. 40508 / (859) 288-2928 / jfarmer2@lexingtonky.gov

Therapeutic Recreation programs provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy activities through recreation, leisure and play, and to showcase their talents and abilities. Programs are designed to enhance the overall health, wellness and social needs of individuals with disabilities. A variety of recreation and sport opportunities are available such as adult fitness, adaptive aquatics, archery, Miracle League Baseball, cooking, summer camps, drama, hand drumming, art, day-trip outings, overnight excursions, bowling, horsemanship, dance class, special events, Zumba, yoga and more. / www.lexingtonky.gov/tr

Louisville Parks and Recreation Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation

1300 Heafer Road, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 456-8148

Offers adaptive sports and recreation for people in Jefferson and outlying counties. Programs include the state’s only Paralympics Sports Club, plus health and wellness classes such as nutrition, yoga, and exercise and strength training classes. Sports offerings include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, bocce ball, pickle ball and wheelchair pickle ball, archery, adaptive golf, goal ball and beep baseball for people with low or no vision. Clinics are offered in track & field, wheelchair lacrosse, sled hockey and more. Louisville is also home to the state wheelchair basketball team, Louisville Spokes & Spires. https://louisvilleky.gov/government/parks/berrytownrecreation-center-adaptive-and-inclusive-recreation

LYSA’s TOPSoccer Program

Masterson Station Park

3051 Leestown Road, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (859) 223-5632 / topsoccerlex@gmail.com

TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a community-based soccer program designed to meet the needs of athletes with physical, developmental, and/or intellectual disabilities. Player participation and development are key elements of the program. TOPSoccer is designed to improve the overall fitness, self-esteem and social skills of athletes. / www.lysa.org/topsoccer

Special Olympics Kentucky

105 Lakeview Court, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 695-8222 / soky@soky.org

Special Olympics is the world’s largest program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. / www.soky.org

Toyota Bluegrass Miracle League

Shillito Park, 300 West Reynolds Road Lexington, Ky., 40503

The mission is to provide children facing physical, developmental or emotional disabilities with the opportunity to experience the joy of baseball in a safe, inclusive and empowering environment. The Miracle League creates spaces where every child can belong, thrive, and discover their full potential, fostering a sense of camaraderie and achievement. With unwavering dedication, we strive to make dreams a reality, inspiring hope and making miracles happen on and off the field. / https://bgml.org www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063463843208#

• DOWN SYNDROME •

Down Syndrome Association of Central Kentucky

2265 Harrodsburg Road, Suite 370, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 494-7809

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. / www.dsack.org

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

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. www.dsagc.com

Down Syndrome Association of the Heartland 1105 Juliana Court, Suite 2, Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 / (270) 312-1540 / tonya@dsheartland.org

This organization offers support to individuals with Down syndrome, as well as their families, friends, caregivers, teachers and coworkers. Plus, this organization strives to educate the public at large about Down syndrome. It is the desire of Down Syndrome Association of the Heartland for every individual who has been touched by Down syndrome, regardless of age, to have access to support and services that would aid each individual in reaching his or her individual potential. / www.dsheartland.org

Green River Area Down Syndrome Association Owensboro and surrounding area 3115 Commonwealth Court Suite B1 Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (270) 359-9469 / natalie@gradsa.org

Gradsa is dedicated to empowering individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and communities by providing support, education, advocacy, and programming that promotes inclusion, independence, and lifelong opportunities. www.gradsa.org

Down Syndrome of Louisville 5001 South Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40291 (502) 495-5088

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. / https://dsoflou.org

Down Syndrome of Southern Kentucky 522 State St., Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 (270) 796-5002 / info@dssky.org

A group of parents, friends and families who have loved ones born with Down syndrome provides information and support for the journey that lies ahead. Serves all ages of

individuals born with Down syndrome. Most services are free. The group partners with WKU. / www.dssky.org

Down Syndrome Association of Western Kentucky P.O. Box 7366, Paducah, Ky., 42002-7366 (270) 559-9026 / upsandowns@dsawk.com

DSAWK promotes public awareness and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome by providing information, resources and support in the community. Generally, meetings are on the third Monday of the month at the Heartland Worship Center in Paducah. / www.dsawk.com

National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC)

3825 Edwards Road, Suite 103, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45209 (770) 604-9500 / (800) 232-6372 info@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. / www.ndsccenter.org

National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) 1155 15th St., NW, Suite 540, Washington, D.C., 20005 (800) 221-4602 / info@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. / www.ndss.org

• EDUCATION •

Berea College Disability and Accessibility Services

248 Library Annex, Berea, Ky., 40404 (859) 985-3237 / dasoffice@berea.edu

DAS provides services to the Berea College community to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to all aspects of college life. / www.berea.edu/das

College Planning Guide for Students with Learning Disabilities

506 Second Ave., Seattle, Wash., 98104 (800) 799-7103 / hello@intelligent.com

This extensive planning guide provides the tools you need to be successful in understanding the college environment for students with learning disabilities as well as your rights and potential accommodations. Whether it’s in-person or online college that you’re pursuing, this website will help you find the best resources to achieve your goals. www.intelligent.com/college-planning-guide-for-studentswith-learning-disabilities

The Council for Exceptional Children

3100 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 600, Arlington, Va., 22201 (888) 232-7733

The largest international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, students with disabilities, and/or the gifted. CEC is known as the source for information, resources, and professional development for special

educators. / www.cec.sped.org

EKU Center for Student Accessibility

521 Lancaster Ave., Whitlock Building, Room 361 CPO 66, Richmond, Ky., 40475 (859) 622-2933 / accessibility@eku.edu

Provides equal access to University resources, coursework, programs and activities by serving qualified individuals, and advocating for equal access for all individuals who qualify. www.accessibility.eku.edu

Family Resource and Youth Services Centers

Cabinet for Health and Family Services

275 E. Main St., 3C-G, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-4986 / melissa.goins@ky.gov

The division provides administrative support, technical assistance and training to local school-based Family Resource and Youth Services Centers (FRYSC). The primary goal of these centers is to remove non-academic barriers to learning as a means to enhance student academic success. Each center offers a unique blend of programs and services determined by the needs of the population being served, available resources, location and other local characteristics. FRYSCs have established a record of success based on improved student performance in class work, homework and peer relations as reported by teachers. Parents, too, report they experience greater satisfaction and involvement with the schools as a result of assistance through their local FRYSCs. www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dfrcvs/dfrysc/Pages/default.aspx

Regional Offices:

Region 1: Program Manager William Owen (270) 339-2192 / william.owen@ky.gov

Counties Served: Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Christian, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Hopkins, Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken, Trigg. Plus: Dawson Springs Independent, Fulton Independent, Mayfield Independent, Murray Independent, Paducah Independent. Region 2: Program Manager Heather McCarty (270) 285-2553 / heather.mccarty@ky.gov

Counties Served: Butler, Daviess, Edmonson, Grayson, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Simpson, Union, Webster. Plus: Owensboro Independent. Region 3A: Program Manager Naela Imanyara (502) 271-7720 / naela.imanyara@ky.gov

County Served: Jefferson Region 3B: Program Manager Melanie Madison (502) 330-7613 / melanie.madison@ky.gov

Counties served: Jefferson, Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Oldham, Owen, Shelby, Trimble. Plus Eminence Independent Region 4: Program Manager Betty Pennington (859) 227-8206 / betty.pennington@ky.gov

Counties served: Boone, Campbell, Grant, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton. Plus: Bellevue Independent, Covington Independent, Dayton Independent, Erlanger-Elsmere Independent, Ludlow Independent, Newport Independent, Walton-Verona Independent, Williamstown Independent.

Region 5: Program Manager

Tiffany Runyon (502) 545-9833 / tiffany.runyon.ky.gov

Counties Served: Fayette, Franklin, Harrison, Scott. Plus: Frankfort Independent.

Region 6: Program Manager Maggie Myers (859) 200-7777 / maggie.myers@ky.gov

2026 Resource List

Counties Served: Adair, Boyle, Casey, Green, Lincoln, Marion, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor, Washington, Wayne. Plus: Campbellsville Independent, Danville Independent, Science Hill Independent, Somerset Independent.

Region 7: Program Manager Brittany Brown (502) 330-3941 / Brittany.brown@ky.gov

Counties Served: Bath, Boyd, Bracken, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Greenup, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Mason, Menifee, Morgan, Robertson, Rowan. Plus: Ashland Independent, Augusta Independent, Fairview Independent, Paintsville Independent, Raceland Independent, Russell Independent.

Region 8: Program Manager Teresa Combs (606) 272-7031 / teresa.combs@ky.gov

Counties Served: Breathitt, Floyd, Knott, Lee, Letcher, , Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Wolfe. Plus: Hazard Independent, Jackson Independent, Jenkins Independent, Pikeville Independent.

Region 9: Program Manager Russell Jones (606) 545-2110 / russell.jones@ky.gov

Counties Served: Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, Leslie, Rockcastle, Whitley. Plus: Barbourville Independent, Corbin Independent, East Bernstadt Independent, Harlan Independent, Middlesboro Independent, Pineville Independent, Williamsburg Independent.

Region 10: Program Manager Lisa McKenzie (859) 661-9629 / lisa.mckenzie@ky.gov

Counties Served: Anderson, Bourbon, Clark, Estill, Garrard, Jessamine, Madison, Mercer, Montgomery, Nicholas, Powell. Woodford. Plus: Berea Independent. Burgin Independent, Paris Independent.

Region 11: Program Manager Tiffanie Cooper (502) 661-9841 / tiffanie.cooper@ky.gov

Counties Served: Breckinridge, Bullitt, Hardin, Hart, Larue, Meade, Nelson, Spencer. Plus: Caverna Independent, Cloverport Independent, Elizabethtown Independent. Region 12: Program Manager Lacey Phillips (859) 297-8071 / lacey.phillips@ky.gov

Counties Served: Allen, Barren, Clinton, Cumberland, Logan, Metcalf, Monroe, Todd, Simpson, Warren. Plus: Bowling Green Independent, Caverna Independent, Glasgow Independent, Russellville Independent.

Kentucky Department of Education: Special Education Services

300 Sower Blvd., 4th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4970 veronica.sullivan@education.ky.gov

This site includes information on all aspects of special education programs in public schools. Comments and suggestions are welcomed. If you need further assistance with finding information on special education programs in Kentucky’s public schools, please contact us. www.education.ky.gov/specialed/excep/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Department of Education

300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-2000 / education.ky.gov

Kentucky PTA

148 Consumer Lane, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 Frankfort, Ky., 40602-0654 (502) 226-6607 / support@kypta.org www.kypta.org

Kentucky State University Office of Accessibility and Disability Services

400 E. Main St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 Hathaway Hall Office, Suite 107 (502) 597-6041 / phillip.clay@kysu.edu

The vision of the Office of Disability Services is to provide equal access and opportunities throughout the campus to individuals who have a disability, for academic and social success.

www.kysu.edu/academics/disability-svcs/index.php

Kentucky Supported Higher Education Partnership (859) 257-2304 / johnny.collett@uky.edu erin.fitzgerald@uky.edu / https://kshep.hdiuky.org

KSHEP is a network of Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) across the state offering inclusive higher education programs for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, such as Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) programs.

CTP programs support students with intellectual disabilities who want to continue academic, or career and technical instruction at an IHE to better prepare for competitive integrated employment and independent living. Participating IHEs are Murray State University, Northern Kentucky University, Bluegrass Community & Technical College, University of Kentucky, Owensboro Community & Technical College, and Western Kentucky University.

Maysville Community and Technical College Accessibility Services

1755 U.S. Hwy. 68, Maysville, Ky., 41056 (606) 759-7141

MCTC assures equal access through services and accommodations for students with disabilities. https://maysville.kctcs.edu/about/student-life/studentsupport-services/accessibility-services.aspx

Morehead State University Disability Service

Adron Doran University Center, Suite 202 Morehead, Ky., 40351 / (606) 783-5188 m.litton@moreheadstate.edu

This office ensures that the university’s programs, activities, services and the campus itself are accessible to all students and visitors. moreheadstate.edu/student-support/disability-services/

Northern Kentucky University

Student Accessibility Services

Nunn Drive, Student Union, Suite 303 Highland Heights, Ky., 41099 (859) 572-5282 / osa@nku.edu

NKU provides learner-centered assistance and resources to students with disabilities in their transition to Northern Kentucky University. inside.nku.edu/disability.html

University of Kentucky

Disability Resource Center

725 Rose St., Multidisciplinary Science Building, Suite 407, Lexington, Ky., 40536 (859) 257-2754 / drc@uky.edu

The DRC provides services to the University community so students with disabilities have an equal opportunity to fully participate in all aspects of University life. www.uky.edu/DisabilityResourceCenter

University of Louisville

Disability Resource Center

119 Stevenson Hall, Louisville, Ky., 40292 (502) 852-6938 / askdrc@louisville.edu

In recognition of disability as an important part of the diversity of the community, the DRC fosters an inclusive campus climate through education, service, collaboration and outreach to the University of Louisville community. www.louisville.edu/disability

Western Kentucky University

Student Accessibility Resource Center

1906 College Heights Blvd., Suite 21052 Downing Student Union, First Floor, 1074 Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 745-5004

The goal of the SARC is to ensure that all students with disabilities are provided access to all facets of the Western Kentucky University experience; to facilitate and coordinate support services and programs that enable students with disabilities to maximize their educational potential; and to increase awareness among all members of the University so that students with disabilities are able to achieve academic success based on their abilities, not their disabilities. www.wku.edu/sarc

Epilepsy Alliance Ohio

895 Central Ave., Suite 550, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 (513) 721-2905 / (877) 804-2241 eao@epilepsy-ohio.org www.epilepsy-ohio.org

Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana Kosair Charities Centre, 982 Eastern Parkway Louisville, Ky., 40217 / (502) 637-4440 (866) 275-1078 / www.efky.org

Dyslexia Association of the Pennyrile 538A Noel Ave., Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 (270) 885-5804 / www.hopkinsvilledyslexia.com

International Dyslexia Association

1829 Reisterstown Road, Suite 350, Pikesville, Maryland, 21208 / (410) 296-0232 https://dyslexiaida.org

International Dyslexia Association – Ohio Valley Branch ohiovalleybranchofida@gmail.com

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. ohv.dyslexiaida.org

LD Online

WETA, 3939 Campbell Ave., Arlington, Va., 22206 ldonline@weta.org

The world’s leading website on learning disabilities and ADHD. / www.ldonline.org

Learning Disabilities Association of Kentucky 4083 Elmwood Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40207 (502) 473-1256 / LDAofKY@gmail.com

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. www.LDAofky.org

Progressive Educational Program, Inc.

Cress Certified

212 Venture Way, Somerset, Ky., 42503 (606) 677-2514

contact@progressiveeducationalprogram.com

Dyslexia Tester. Specializing in tutoring children with Dyslexia. / www.progressiveeducationalprogram.com

• LEGAL & FUTURE’S PLANNING •

Children’s Law Center

Covington Office: 1002 Russell St. Covington, Ky., 41011 / (859) 431-3313 info@childrenslawky.org

Lexington Office:

215 W. Short St., Suite 205, Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 253-3353 / info@childrenslawky.org

Provides free legal services for children with educational disabilities, and performs research and policy work, training and education in this area. www.childrenslawky.org

Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children

Kentucky CASA Network

1640 Lyndon Farm Court, Suite 108 Louisville, Ky., 40223 / (502) 238-2154

CASA volunteers are everyday citizens appointed by judges to advocate for the safety and well-being of abused and neglected children. Last year in Kentucky, more than 800 CASA volunteers advocated for the best interest of nearly 3,000 children in Kentucky. CASA has 20 offices throughout the state. To locate one in your area, visit the web site below. / www.kentuckycasanetwork.org

David A. Morris

Banner Wealth and Legacy Planning

448 W. Main St., Suite 200, Danville, Ky., 400422 (859) 516-1024 / dmorris@kingswoodus.com

Financial strategies for families with children with special needs.

Elder Law Lawyers

McClelland & Associates, PLLC

Lexington: 2443 Sir Barton Way, Suite 325 Lexington, Ky., 40509 / (859) 543-0061

Fort Mitchell: 300 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 102 Fort Mitchell, Ky., 41017 / (859) 823-2300

Specializing in aspects of elder law and special needs planning.

www.elderlawlawyers.com

Kentucky Division of Protection and Permanency

275 E. Main St., 3E-A, Frankfort, Ky., 40621 (502) 564-6852

If you believe a child is being abused or neglected, call the Protection and Permanency office in your county or the Toll Free Child Protection Hot Line. (877) KYSAFE1 or (877) 597-2331. chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dcbs/dpp/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Office of Victims Advocacy

1024 Capital Center Drive, Suite 200 Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 696-5312

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. https://ag.ky.gov/about/Office-Divisions/OVA/Pages/default. aspx

Kentucky Protection & Advocacy

11 Mill Creek Park, Suite 100, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-2967 / (800) 372-2988

The 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. www.kypa.net

Life Plan of Kentucky, Inc.

230 Lexington Green Circle, Suite 120 Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 523-2323

Life Plan is a pooled special needs trust serving people with disabilities and their families in Kentucky who have countable resources in excess of $2,000 and need to maintain their eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid. People can open an account with Life Plan where the funds can be professionally managed, and then requests can be made for expenses that improve the quality of the person’s life. Life Plan provides Trustee services for both individuals with disabilities as well as family members who wish to plan for the future. www.lifeplanofky.org

Nick Wallace, Financial Planner

Northwestern Mutual

330 E. Main St., Suite 300, Lexington, Ky., 40507 (859) 302-1223 / Nick.Wallace@nm.com

Provides financial planning, life insurance and investments for special needs families to fund special needs trusts and retirement. nickwallace.nm.com

Resource List 2026

• MEDICAL AND THERAPY SERVICE PROVIDERS •

Associates in Pediatric Therapy

Bowling Green Area: 1053 Lovers Lane

Bowling Green, Ky., 42103 / (270) 807-0335

Bullitt County: 1707 Cedar Grove Road

Shepherdsville, Ky., 40165 / (502) 203-1354

Elizabethtown: 529 Westport Road

Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 / (270) 807-0316

Louisville Area: 11840 Commonwealth Drive

Louisville, Ky., 40299 / (502) 203-1918

Louisville Area: 1800 Neville Dr., Louisville, Ky., 40216 (502) 203-1396

Lexington Area: 261 Ruccio Way, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 279-0252

Masonic Home: 3761 Johnson Hall Drive

Masonic Home, Ky., 40041 / (502) 293-1695

Murray Area: 208 S. 6th St., Murray, Ky., (270) 279-7470

Northern Kentucky: 51 Cavalier Blvd., Suite 230, Florence, Ky., 41042 / (859) 279-0143

Oldham County: 6400 Crestwood Station

Crestwood, Ky., 40014 / (502) 203-1887

Shelby County: 90 Howard Dr., Shelbyville, Ky., 40065 (502) 233-9074

Woodford County: 202 Frankfort St., Suites 103 & 104, Versailles, Ky., 40383 / (859) 212-9705

APT’s unique appeal is that it offers a family approach with multiple pediatric services including Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Developmental Intervention and Audiology to the patient and family in a team approach. APT strives to provide therapy in a variety of locations that are appealing to the patient and family. www.kidtherapy.org

Blue Sprig ABA Therapy Center

2464 Fortune Dr., Suite 195 Lexington, Ky., 40509 / (859) 899-9200

The goal is to help children reach their full potential. The team is dedicated to your child’s care, utilizing evidencebased Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment strategies to help children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) increase communication, develop independence and learn important life skills. BlueSprig accepts most major insurance plans, and our team is devoted to helping you navigate the terms of your insurance policy. / bluesprigautism.com

Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky

7321 New La Grange Road, Suite 100 Louisville, Ky., 40222 / (502) 493-0609

BIAK seeks to share its philosophy, experience and skills with survivors, family members, students, caregivers, administrators, health professionals, legislators, the lay community and all those who desire to make a difference in the lives of individuals with brain injuries and their families. www.biak.us

2026 Resource List

Brain Injury Association of America – Kentucky Chapter (800) 444-6443 / braininjuryinfo@biausa.org

BIAA-KY’s mission is to advance awareness, research, treatment and education and to improve the quality of life for all people affected by brain injury. / https://biaaky.org

Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital

2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 254-5701

https://encompasshealth.com/cardinalhillrehab

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Center for Infants and Children with Special Needs

3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229 (513) 636-4200 / TTY (800) 344-2462

www.cincinnatichildrens.org/patients/child/special-needs/ getting-started/about

Early Intervention & Consultation Services, LLC

Leitchfield: 635 S. Main St., Leitchfield, Ky., 42754 (270) 287-0656

Vine Grove: 298 Medley Court, Vine Grove, Ky., 40175 (270) 352-1133

Owensboro: 527 Allen St., Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (270) 240-1842

Mt. Washington: 673 N. Bardstown Road

Mt. Washington, Ky., 40047 / (502) 251-5551

EICS, founded in 2010, is a pediatric therapy clinic that offers Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, ABA/Applied Behavior Analysis (for those with autism). EICS also offers mental health counseling and case management. EICS has a licensed psychological associate who provides evaluations for different diagnoses such as autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities and behavioral disorders, etc. EICS also offers Michelle P. Waiver services such as Positive Behavior Supports and Community Living Supports. Please call the location nearest you for more information regarding the services offered at that clinic. www.eicsky.com

Easterseals Bluegrass

1900 Richmond Road, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 399-6270 / https://eastersealsbg.org

Easterseals Western Kentucky

The Lori Center for Autism 619 North 30th St., Paducah, Ky., 402001 (270) 444-7898

www.easterseals.com/westkentucky/programs-and-services/ autism-asd-services/lori-center/

Easterseals West Kentucky Adult Center

1908 N. 14th St., Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 443-1200

www.easterseals.com/westkentucky/connect-locally/servicecenter-locations/west-kentucky-adult-services-paducah.html

Easterseals West Kentucky Child Development Center

801 N. 29th St., Paducah, Ky., 42001 (270) 444-9687

Promotes healthy and active lifestyles for people with physical disabilities through education, exposure to adaptive equipment and adaptive recreation experiences in the

community. / www.easterseals.com/westkentucky

Edelson and Associates, PSC

Louisville: 10509 Timberwood Circle, Suite 250 Louisville Ky., 40223 / (502) 423-1151

Lexington: 230 Lexington Green Circle, Suite 420 Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 287-0760

Neuropsychological, ADHD, learning disability, autism and psychological disorder evaluations. www.edelsonandassociates.info

Frazier Rehabilitation Institute

University of Louisville Health

220 Abraham Flexner Way Louisville, Ky., 40202 / (502) 582-7400

Known for world-class care in comprehensive acute rehab, Frazier Rehab Institute provides extensive therapy across a number of specialties for inpatient and outpatient rehab needs.

https://uoflhealth.org/locations/frazier-rehabilitation-institute/

HealthPoint Family Care

1401 Madison Ave., Covington, Ky., 41011 (859) 655-6100

HealthPoint Family Care’s vision is a community where everyone has access to quality, affordable health care. The mission is to be the best provider of health services through compassion and innovation. www.healthpointfc.org/location/covington

For more Kentucky locations, visit https://healthpointfc.org/contact-us/

Heartfelt Solutions

1717 Alliant Ave., Suite 14, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 915-8343 Option 1

Dedicated to improving the quality of life and increasing independence for individuals by providing effective personcentered and evidence-based health services. Those services include adult day training, community living supports, respite, person-centered coaching, supported employment, community access and ABA Therapy for individuals with autism. / www.hfssupportservices.com

Horn and Associates in Rehabilitation

2412 Greatstone Point, Lexington, Ky., 40504 4127 Todds Road, Lexington, Ky., 40509 (859) 224-4081

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. / www.horntherapy.com

Kentucky Children’s Hospital

University of Kentucky, 800 Rose St., Fourth Floor, Lexington, Ky., 40536 / (859) 323-5000

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. https://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/kentucky-childrens-hospital

Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies

982 Eastern Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40217

(502) 635-6397

9810 Bluegrass Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 584-9781

Since 1959, the Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies has been helping children with special needs. Each week the Center provides outpatient PT, ST and OT services to 300 children facing challenges such as autism, Down syndrome, spina bifida and cerebral palsy. The Center also has a pediatric dietician and psychologist on staff to work with families. / www.kidscenterky.org

The Kidz Club

Bowling Green: 1347 Ky., Highway 185, Suite 2 Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 746-0333

Erlanger: 527 Watson Road, Erlanger, Ky., 41018 (859) 727-0700

Lexington: 2200 Regency Road

Lexington Ky., 40503 / (859) 224-0799

Louisville: 7140 Preston Highway

Louisville, Ky., 40219 / (502) 368-9318

Louisville: 225 N. 25th St., Louisville, Ky., 40212 (502) 365-2426

Louisville: 1517 Gagel Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40216 (502) 409-5316

The Kidz Club is a Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) facility. A PPEC is a link in the continuum of care for children that provides daily skilled nursing care, enrichment activities, therapies and other supports. Since 1996, families and providers have trusted The Kidz Club PPEC to provide the safest, highest quality nursing care in a fun, stimulating environment for children from birth to under 21 years of age who have a medical complexity. The Kidz Club has locations in Kentucky, Florida and Texas. Services are covered by Medicaid. No out-of-pocket cost to families. www.thekidzclub.com

The Kid SpOt Center (Pediatric Therapy)

Campbellsville: 50 Gene Cash Road

Campbellsville, Ky., 42718 / (270) 465-7768

Elizabethtown: 107 Financial Drive

Elizabethtown, Ky., 42701 / (270) 763-8225

Bowling Green: 980 Morgantown Road, Bowling Green, Ky., 42104 / (270) 495-1312

Somerset: 200 Tower Circle, Somerset, Ky., 42503 (606) 416-5139

The Kid SpOt Center provides supports to families of children with disabilities. Services include Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Positive Behavior Supports, ABA, Mental Health Counseling, Community Living Supports, Social Skills, Targeted Case Management, Medication Management and Neuropsychology Evaluations. www.thekidspotcenter.com

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. www.kraskaandassociates.com

Marshall Pediatric Therapy

Lexington: 3499 Blazer Parkway, Suite 170

Lexington, Ky., 40509 / (859) 327-3033

Nicholasville: 799 Brannon Road

Nicholasville, Ky., 40356 / (859) 224-2273

Georgetown: 117 East Jefferson St. Georgetown, Ky., 40324 / (502) 316-6180

Richmond: 1013 Center Drive

Richmond, Ky., 40475 / (859) 444-5330

Offers physical, occupational, and speech therapy, mental health services, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for Central Kentucky. The practice accepts EPSDT, most private insurance plans, participates with Kentucky's Early Intervention System (formerly First Steps), and offers payment plans.

https://marshallpediatrictherapy.com

Multiple Sclerosis Society

Indiana-Kentucky-Tennessee Chapter www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/TNS

NorthKey Community Care

Multiple locations in Northern Kentucky (859) 578-3200 / (877) 331-3292

NorthKey is paving the way to a community that is healthy in mind and spirit in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas with a comprehensive continuum of mental health, developmental disability and substance abuse care. www.northkey.org/services/developmental-disabilitiesservices

Norton Children’s Development Center

– Novak Center

411 E. Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 588-0850

Norton Children’s Development Center, affiliated with the UofL School of Medicine, provides pediatric developmental-behavioral care for children with a wide range of developmental and behavioral conditions. Services include multidisciplinary evaluations for diagnosing complex disorders of behavior and development; feeding therapy; neuropsychological evaluations; behavior therapy with parent coaching; and medication management. https://nortonchildrens.com/services/developmentalbehavioral-pediatrics

Norton Children’s Hospital

231 E. Chestnut St., Louisville, Ky., 40402 (502) 629-6000

Norton Children’s Hospital is a 253-bed teaching facility and serves as a referral center for central and western Kentucky and southern Indiana. The hospital is also the primary pediatric teaching hospital for the University of Louisville health sciences program. Each year there are approximately 8,000 admissions, 50,000 Emergency Department visits and 10,500 outpatient clinic visits. nortonchildrens.com/location/hospitals/norton-childrenshospital

Passport Health Plan

5100 Commerce Crossings Drive, Louisville, Ky., 40229 (844) 847-9951

Passport Health Plan is a Medicaid managed care plan that has been coordinating health services to qualified members since 1997. Passport is community-based and provider-sponsored, and the only non-profit Medicaid health

plan available to members in Kentucky. The mission is to “improve the health and quality of life of our members,” which Passport follows every day through exceptional customer service, a large provider network, and case and disease management programs.

www.molinahealthcare.com/members/ky/en-us/Pages/ home.aspx

Pediatric Occupational Therapy & Parent Coaching (OT Time)

127 West Fourth St., Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 682-4451 / www.ottimetoday.com

OT Time provides school-based, occupational therapy services as well as parent coaching services. Parent coaching is an adult learning strategy where a plan is collaboratively developed that considers the family’s values and lifestyle. Parents or guardians learn problem-solving skills to create positive environments for themselves and their children to allow for participation in valued activities.

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

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. / www.rmhclexington.com

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kentuckiana 550 South First St., Louisville, Ky., 40202 (502) 581-1416

RMHCK provides essential services like temporary lodging during medical treatment to assist in removing barriers, strengthening families, and promoting healing when children need healthcare. / https://rmhc-kentuckiana.org

Shriners Children Lexington

110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, Ky., 40508 (859) 266-2101

Shriners Children Lexington has a mission to provide the highest quality care to children with orthopedic or neuromusculoskeletal disorders and diseases within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment.

https://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/locations/shriners-hospital

SKY Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Mandy Ashley, DMD, MsEd, MS (270) 715-5437

Bowling Green: 234 Natchez Trace Ave., Bowling Green, Ky., 42103

Glasgow: 104 Hippocrates Way, Glasgow, Ky., 42141

Hopkinsville: 280 Burley Ave., Hopkinsville, Ky., 42240 Dentistry for children and teens with special needs. www.skypediatricdentistry.com

Square One Specialists in Child and Adolescent Development

6440 Dutchmans Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 896-2606 / info@squareonemd.com

Comprehensive medical, psychological, psychiatric, educational, and speech-language evaluations are offered to help understand differences that impact children’s and adolescents’ development, behaviors and emotions. www.squareonemd.com

University of Louisville Department of Pediatrics

571 South Floyd St., Suite 432 Louisville, Ky., 40202 / (502) 629-5437

Provides center-based and outreach diagnostic evaluations and treatment to infants and children with, or at risk for, developmental disabilities, autism, organic behavior disorders (ADHD) and learning disabilities. Serves children and adolescents with developmental disabilities and/or feeding disorders. Comprehensive care of children with inborn errors of metabolism is provided through medical and dietary management and enzyme infusion.

https://louisville.edu/medicine/departments/pediatrics/ divisions/developmental-behavioral-genetics

Wendell Foster Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF)

815 Triplett St., Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (270) 689-1738

CORF offers Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies. Services include the evaluation and treatment of people of all ages, from birth through adulthood. CORF therapists specialize in treating developmental and intellectual disabilities, as well as rare disorders. Depending on coverage, Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance may pay for expenses related to the services.

https://wendellfoster.org/outpatient-therapies

• MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS •

360 Mental Health Services

1517 Nicholasville Road, Suite 302 Lexington, Ky., 40503 / (859) 948-9471 drtim@360mentalhealth.com

Dr. Tim Houchin is one of only approximately 200 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. www.360mentalhealth.com

Build Inclusion, Inc.

3138 Custer Drive, Suite 100, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 321-5597 / www.buildinclusion.org

Build Inclusion promotes intentional inclusion, access, and opportunities through meaningful employment opportunities, community and family education, and inclusive, civic engagement. Build Inclusion facilitates success for individuals in transition to adulthood in preparing for and fully participating in this next stage of their lives. Person-Centered Planning through the Liberty Plan, and Clinical Social Work services are also available for the ID/DD population.

Children and Family Counseling Associates (859) 733-9241

Harrodsburg: 100 S. Main St., Harrodsburg, Ky., 40330

Danvillle: 416 South Fourth St., Danville, Ky., 40422 Lexington: 713 Millpond Road, Suite 13

2026 Resource List

Lexington, Ky., 40514

Lancaster: 79 Public Square, Lancaster, Ky., 40444

Richmond: 415 Leighway Drive, Unit 5 Richmond, Ky., 40475

Bardstown: 175 East John Rowan Blvd., Bardstown, Ky., 40004

Children and Family Counseling Associates has been serving adults, children, schools and families in Central Kentucky for more than 20 years. CAFCA provides a wide variety of mental health services, including individual and group therapy, psychological evaluations and assessments, EMDR therapy, after-school programs, adult day training, case management and more. / www.cafcainc.com

Lexington Counseling & Psychiatry

Offices in Lexington, Richmond and Frankfort (859) 338-0466

Counseling and therapy for individuals, families and relationships. www.counselinglexingtonky.com/?msclkid=9c90bf58c13e 14400c22daf0ff086c91

Louisville ADHD / Dr. F. Allen Walker

11405 Park Road, Suite 220, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 384-ADHD (2343) / www.louisvilleadhd.com

Mental Health America

500 Montgomery St., Suite 820, Alexandria, Va., 22314 (703) 684-7722

MHA is the nation’s leading community-based non-profit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans. The work is driven by a commitment to promote mental health as a critical part of overall wellness, including prevention services for all; early identification and intervention for those at risk; integrated care, services and supports for those who need it; with recovery as the goal. www.mhanational.org

Regional Offices:

Mental Health America of Kentucky 1588 Leestown Road, Suite 130 #279 Lexington Ky., 40511 / (859) 684-7778 mhaky@mhaky.org / www.mhaky.org

Mental Health America of Northern Kentucky & Southwest Ohio

1002 Monmouth St., Newport, Ky., 41071 (859) 431-1077 / https://mhankyswoh.org

NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) 4301 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300, Arlington, Va., 22203 (703) 524-7600

NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. / www.nami.org

NAMI Kentucky

1351 Newtown Pike, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (800) 950-NAMI (6264) / Information@namiky.org www.namiky.org

Regional Offices:

Bowling Green

Serving Logan, Simpson, Allen, Monroe, Metcalf, Barren, Warren, Edmonson and Hart Counties (270) 725-0481 / bowlinggreennami@gmail.com

https://bowlinggreennami.org

Buffalo Trace

Serving Bracken, Mason, Robertson, Fleming, and Lewis

Counties / www.facebook.com/maysvillenami (606) 759-4010 / sharon_darnell@outlook.com

Butler County

Serving Butler County (270) 999-0633 / chavens4295@gmail.com

Danville

Serving Boyle and Mercer Counties / (859) 608-1728

Heartland

Serving Hardin County / information@namiky.org

Lexington

Serving Lexington (859) 272-7891 / namimail@namilex.org www.namilexington.org

Louisville

Serving Louisville (502) 588-2008 / namilou@namilouisville.org https://namilouisville.org

Madison County

Serving Madison County / information@namiky.org

Morehead

Serving Eastern Kentucky (606) 548-4513 / c.mauriello@moreheadstate.edu

www.facebook.com/NAMIMorehead40351

Murray

Serving Calloway County (270) 748-6133 / brenda.benson@murraystate.edu

Northern Kentucky

Serving Boone, Carroll, Kenton, Campbell, Owen, Gallatin, Pendleton and Grant Counties (513) 436-0010 / danei@naminky.org

Owensboro

Serving Owensboro / information@namiky.org

Paducah

Serving Paducah (270) 558-5173 / counseling@jfwilsonwellnesscenterllc.org

Winchester/Clark County

Serving Clark County (859) 556-0670 / bebe1@bellsouth.net www.facebook.com/NAMIWinchesterClarkCounty/

New Vista

Regional Office: 1351 Newtown Pike, Lexington, Ky., 40511 / (859) 253-1686 / (859) 272-7483

24-hour help line (800) 928-8000

New Vista serves children and adults in 17 Central Kentucky counties through mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental disability and primary care services. Individuals and families receive services at the location nearest to them. New Vista has four anchor centers providing a full range of services in Boyle, Fayette, Madison and Scott Counties. The anchor centers are surrounded by satellite offices in neighboring counties. www.newvista.org

• MISCELLANEOUS •

NuMotion

Bowling Green

1960 Louisville Road, Suite 3A

Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 904-4934

Lexington 973 Beasley St., Suite 130, Lexington, Ky., 40509

(859) 225-3624

Louisville

11380 Bluegrass Parkway, Jeffersontown, Ky., 40299 (502) 266-9061

With a strong local focus, NuMotion aims to be the most responsive and innovative complex wheelchair company with which to do business. / www.numotion.com

Superior Van & Mobility

Lexington

761 E. New Circle Road, Lexington, Ky., 40505 (859) 710-9073

Louisville

1506 Lakeshore Court, Louisville, Ky., 40223 (502) 576-2236

Covington

3813 Winston Ave., Covington, Ky., 41015 (859) 780-5450

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. www.superiorvan.com

• SCHOOLS •

Academy for Individual Excellence

3101 Bluebird Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 267-6187 / awroblewski@Aiexcellence.com www.aiexcellence.com

Child Development Center of the Bluegrass

290 Alumni Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40503 (859) 218-2322 / www.cdcbg.org

Five-Star rated preschool for children with and without disabilities. Services provided include assessment, evaluations, and speech, physical and occupational therapy.

Christian Academy of Louisville/Providence School

700 S. English Station Road, Louisville, Ky., 40245 (502) 244-3225 ext 1020

Mindy Crawford: (502) 244-3225 ext. 1020

CAL/Providence School serves students preschool through 12th grade within an inclusive environment to promote language, physical, cognitive, social and spiritual goals. Students receive additional small group instruction to address individual goals. Curriculum and structure are designed to promote spiritual, cognitive, adaptive, social, language, motor and self-help skills. A Family Service Plan/ FSP is written with each family specific to the needs of their child. The school works in relationship with Down Syndrome of Louisville.

https://caschools.us/english-station/down-syndromeprovidence-school/

The dePaul School

1925 Duker Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 459-6131

Teaching students with learning differences how to learn, how to become independent, and how to become successful. / www.depaulschool.org

Growing Together Preschool, Inc.

599 Lima Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (859) 255-4056

Has offered 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; and physical, occupational and speech therapy. Teachers have experience working with children of varying abilities and advantages, and integrating recommended therapeutic practices into the classroom.

GTP collaborates with the Early Childhood Mental Health Specialists at New Vista, Wildwood Music Therapy and Dr. Elizabeth McLaren from Nurture Development. GTP is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, rated 4 STARS through KY ALL STARS, and offers a Kentucky Proud farm to preschool menu. www.gtplex.org

The Kidz Club

Bowling Green: 1347 Kentucky Hwy. 185, Suite 2

Bowling Green, Ky., 42101 / (270) 746-0333

Erlanger: 527 Watson Road

Erlanger, Ky., 41018 / (859) 727-0700

Lexington: 2200 Regency Road

Lexington Ky., 40503 / (859) 224-0799

Louisville: 7140 Preston Highway

Louisville, Ky., 40219 / (502) 368-9318

Louisville: 225 N. 25th St. Louisville, Ky., 40212 / (502) 365-2426

Louisville: 1517 Gagel Ave.

Louisville, Ky., 40216 / (502) 409-5316

The Kidz Club is a Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) facility. A PPEC is a link in the continuum of care for children that provides daily skilled nursing care, enrichment activities, therapies and other supports. Since 1996, families and providers have trusted The Kidz Club PPEC to provide the safest, highest quality nursing care in a fun, stimulating environment for children from birth to under 21 years of age who have a medical complexity.

The Kidz Club has locations in Kentucky, Florida and Texas. Services are covered by Medicaid. No out-of-pocket cost to families. / www.thekidzclub.com

KORE Academy

Tates Creek Christian Church

3150 Tates Creek Road, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 971-7129

School for children with learning differences for grades K-12. / www.koreacademy.org

Langsford: Reading Transformed

2520 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Ky., 40205 (502) 473-7000

The Langsford difference – what separates the program from traditional “tutoring” programs – is that at Langsford professionals determine and address the underlying learning processes that cause learning difficulties. Langsford helps people of all ages who are doing well in school but exerting disproportion effort, as well as those who have been considered learning disabled or dyslexic. www.langsford.com

The Lexington School’s The Learning Center

1050 Lane Allen Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504

(859) 278-0501 / shinard@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.

www.thelexingtonschool.org/the-learning-center

Meredith-Dunn School

3023 Melbourne Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40220 (502) 456-5819

dcrowe@meredithdunnschool.org

Serving families in the Louisville Metro area for over 50 years. Offering prescriptive, multi-sensory instruction for children with learning differences.

www.meredithdunnschool.org

The Provision School & Family Counseling Center

301 Harvard Drive, Lexington, Ky., 40517 (859) 396-0644

The Provision School is a faith-based, non-profit, therapeutic learning environment that encompasses the benefits of counseling services and individualized education for students of varying needs and abilities.

www.theprovision.org

Sproutlings Pediatric Day Care & Preschool

Kosair Charities Center

3800 Tom Larimore Lane, at Masonic Home Louisville, Ky., 40041 / (502) 753-8222

Sproutlings is a dual-licensed program and has spaces for medically fragile children and children in traditional day care or preschool. Staffed by Registered Nurses, Certified Nursing Assistants, teachers and teacher aides, and caring for a wide variety of medical conditions. Medicaid and private insurance are accepted. / www.SproutlingsDayCare.com

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 / dstrothman@summit-academy.org

Summit Academy is an independent, non-profit K-12 school in Louisville. Summit Academy provides a transformative educational experience for students who learn differently by cultivating each student’s academic, social and emotional success in a vibrant and compassionate environment.

Summit provides a place where each student’s learning challenges are understood and met using a whole child approach; a place where the school celebrates and develops children’s strengths, as well as addressing their area of difficulty. It’s a safe place where each young learner is

treated and educated as an individual – in an atmosphere of caring and respect that allows students to succeed. www.summit-academy.org

• SERVICE DOGS •

Paws With Purpose

(502) 689-0804 / info@PawsWithPurpose.org

Founded in 2003, Paws with Purpose (PwP) is a nonprofit organization that provides highly skilled Assistance Dogs as partners to children and adults with physical disabilities or other special needs. Dogs provide comfort and companionship, help to break down social barriers, and perform many tasks that help their partners lead more independent lives. Based in Louisville, PwP is proud to provide these highly trained companions to individuals living within a 35-mile radius of Louisville. www.pawswithpurpose.org

SERVICE PROVIDERS (COMMUNITY AND RESIDENTIAL)

For a complete list of Service Providers licensed in Kentucky please see: https://providerdirectory.dbhdid.ky.gov/

BrightSpring Health Services

805 N. Whittington Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40222 (502) 394-2100

Provider of comprehensive home and community-based health services to complex populations in need of specialized care. / www.brightspringhealth.com

Cedar Lake

9901 Linn Station Road, Suite 901 Louisville, Ky., 40222 / (502) 495-4946

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. / www.cedarlake.org

Easterseals Redwood

71 Orphanage Road, Ft. Mitchell, Ky., 41017 (859) 331-0880 / www.eastersealsredwood.org

A non-profit organization funded by United Way, Redwood guides children and adults with multiple and severe disabilities to achieve independence and to reach their highest potential

2026 Resource List

throughout their lives, by providing enriching educational, therapeutic and vocational services.

Mattingly Edge

1930 Bishop Lane, Suite 1001, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 451-6200

Mattingly Edge cultivates partnerships that enable people with disabilities to thrive at work, at home and in relationships. The mission is based on the belief that people with disabilities have the right to the same privileges and responsibilities as other citizens. Communities are better when everyone is included. “Real Jobs. Real Homes. Real Friends. Real Lives.” www.mattinglyedge.org

New Perceptions

1 Sperti Drive, Edgewood, Ky., 41017 (859) 344-9322

This non-profit organization has been dedicated to enriching lives of those with intellectual/developmental disabilities since 1952. newperceptions.org

New Vista

Regional Office: 1351 Newtown Pike, Lexington, Ky., 40511 (859) 253-1686 / (859) 272-7483

24-hour help line (800) 928-8000

New Vista serves children and adults in 17 Central Kentucky counties through mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental disability and primary care services. Individuals and families receive services at the location nearest to them. New Vista has four anchor centers providing a full range of services in Boyle, Fayette, Madison and Scott Counties. The anchor centers are surrounded by satellite offices in neighboring counties. newvista.org

Options Unlimited Inc.

205 Castlerock Drive, Shepherdsville, Ky., 40165 (502) 955-7271 / t.carr@optionsunlimitedinc.org

Changing lives by helping people with disabilities become as independent as possible. Services include supported employment, school transitions program/Pre-ETS, TLC training program at UPS, adult day program, deaf and hard of hearing. Serving Bullitt, Shelby, Spencer and Jefferson Counties. / www.optionsunlimitedinc.org

Pathways Administration: 1212 Bath Ave., Ashland, Ky., 41101 (606) 329-8588

Carter County Outpatient: 840 Interstate Drive, Grayson, Ky., 41143 / (606) 474-5151

Pathways assists in obtaining individual and familydetermined supports for persons who have developmental disabilities or intellectual disabilities. Goals are to serve and enhance opportunities for making choices that promote inclusion as a valued citizen in all meaningful phases of community life.

www.pathways-ky.org

R.E.A.C.H of Louisville

Supports for Community Living

501 Park Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40208 (502) 585-1911

R.E.A.C.H. provides an exemplary Supports for Community Living program with support for individuals and families through highly qualified support staff, which includes

psychologists, social workers, crisis support managers, recreational specialists and special educators. www.reachoflouisville.com

STRIDE

150 Maryland Ave., Winchester, Ky., 40391 (859) 744-0370

STRIDE serves individuals who have a learning or developmental disability and are at least 16 years of age. Daily programming includes cooking classes, dances, Special Olympic activities, daily living skills classes and much more in an effort to improve the quality of life for participants. All participants are expected to live up to their responsibilities at home, work and in the STRIDE program. Motto: “We have an obligation to expect the best out of our participants and try to help them to continue to improve their skills.”

www.strideky.org

Wendell Foster

815 Triplet St., Owensboro, Ky., 42303 (270) 683-4517

Wendell Foster’s mission is to empower people with disabilities to realize their dreams and potential. For 76 years, Wendell Foster has provided residential living options to children and adults with developmental disabilities. Residential services include 24-hour medical care in the Intermediate Care Facility (ICF), community living options through Supports for Community Living (SCL), and independent living, both on Wendell Foster’s campus and in the community. Wendell Foster works with families to find the setting that best fits the needs of their loved one.

https://wendellfoster.org

Zoom Group

1904 Embassy Square Blvd., Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 581-0658

Zoom Group has provided supports for individuals with disabilities for over 30 years. Zoom Group’s mission is to assist persons with disabilities to explore, create, and realize their journey. Zoom Group strives to create a community that is enriched by including and valuing persons with disabilities. www.zoomgroup.org

• SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND HEARING •

Central Kentucky Interpreter Referral, Inc.

212 South Second St., Danville, Ky., 40422 (859) 236-9888 / VP (859) 439-0070

easytoreserve@gmail.com

CKIR is a leading provider of interpreting services in Kentucky, including American Sign Language and Spanish interpreting services. CKIR is a not-for-profit agency that provides in-person and remote interpreting services (if applicable). CKIR employs professional, certified and licensed interpreters for a variety of settings, which include, but not limited to, general community, medical, mental health, industrial, education, religious, and social services. www.ckira.org

Heuser Hearing Institute

117 E. Kentucky St., Louisville, Ky., 40203 (502) 584-3573

With multiple locations in and around Louisville, Heuser Hearing Institute (HHI) is a multi-specialty non-profit campus promoting the needs of children and adults with disorders of hearing and balance. The organization has served Louisville and many of the surrounding Kentucky and Indiana communities since 1948. www.thehearinginstitute.org

Kentucky School for the Deaf

303 South Second St., Danville, Ky., 40422 (859) 239-7017 / (859) 239-7006

Ensures that children and youth who are deaf or hard of hearing have educational opportunities to develop their potential to become educated, life-long learners and productive citizens.

www.ksd.k12.ky.us

Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

632 Versailles Road, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 573-2604 / (800) 372-2907

VP: (859) 239-7006 / kcdhh@ky.gov

www.kcdhh.ky.gov

Kentucky Hands & Voices

P.O. Box 43914, Louisville, Ky., 40253 (888) 398-5030 / info@kyhandsandvoices.org

Hands & Voices is a non-profit, parent-driven national organization dedicated to supporting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The organization is non-biased about communication methodologies and believes that families can make the best choices for their child if they have access to good information and support. The group consists of parents of ASL signers, cued speech users, kids with cochlear implants and total communicators. www.kyhandsandvoices.org

Kentucky Speech-Language-Hearing Association

838 East High St., Suite 263, Lexington, Ky., 40502 (800) 837-2446 / khsaoffice@khsa.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 supports professionals in speech-language pathology and audiology by promoting the highest standards for service providers. www.ksha.info

The Hearing and Speech Center

350 Henry Clay Blvd., Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 268-4545

Provides diagnostic, therapeutic and educational services for individuals with hearing, speech and language impairments. https://hscky.org

St. Rita School for the Deaf

1720 Glendale Milford Road, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45215 (513) 771-7600 www.srsdeaf.org

Resource List 2026

• SPINA BIFIDA •

Cardinal Hill Center for Outpatient Services

2050 Versailles Road, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 254-5701

https://encompasshealth.com/locations/cardinalhillrehab

Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies

982 Eastern Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 635-6397

9810 Bluegrass Parkway, Louisville, Ky., 40299 (502) 584-9781

Since 1959, the Kids Center for Pediatric Therapies has helped children with special needs. Each week the Center provides outpatient PT, ST, and OT services to 300 children facing challenges such as autism, Down syndrome, spina bifida and cerebral palsy. The Center also has a pediatric dietician and psychologist on staff to work with families. www.kidscenterky.org

Spina Bifida Association of Kentucky Kosair Charities, 982 Eastern Parkway, Suite 18 Louisville, Ky., 40217 (502) 637-7363 / srichardson@sbak.org

The Spina Bifida Association of Kentucky is a resource center for children, their families and adults affected by Spina Bifida. SBAK teaches parents how to be the best advocate for their child, and helps children and adults overcome physical, cognitive and social challenges to become successful and independent. The mission is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and enhance the lives of all those affected. / www.sbak.org

Shriners Children Lexington

110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, Ky., 40508 (859) 785-1540 / (859) 222 9507

Shriners Children Lexington has a mission to provide the highest quality care to children with orthopedic or neuromusculoskeletal disorders and diseases within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment. www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/locations/lexington

VISION

Bluegrass Council of the Blind, Inc.

2265 Harrodsburg Road, Suite 102, Lexington, Ky., 40504 (859) 259-1834

BCB is a non-profit serving the needs of adults who are blind or visually impaired in Central Kentucky. BCB services are free to clients and available to any clients affected by vision loss, including family, friends and professionals working with people with low to no vision. The primary service area includes Fayette and surrounding counties, including Anderson, Bourbon, Clark, Jessamine, Madison, Montgomery, Scott and Woodford counties. However, BCB also provides information and services to persons in other counties, upon request and as available resources permit. www.bcbky.org

Cincinnati Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired

2045 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202 (513) 221-8558 / info@cincyblind.org

Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) is a private, non-profit organization offering comprehensive vision rehabilitation services for people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. cincyblind.org/about

Clovernook Center for the Blind/Visually Impaired 7000 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio 45231 (513) 522-3860 / fd@clovernook.org

Clovernook has proudly served women, men and children for more than 100 years. This rich history provides the backdrop for today’s progressive and caring campus-like environment where the Center remains dedicated to adults and youth who are blind or visually impaired. clovernook.org

Kentucky Vocational Rehabilitation Blind Services Division

Mayo-Underwood Building

500 Mero St., 4th Floor NE, Frankfort, Ky., 40601 (502) 564-4440 / (800) 372-7172

The mission is to provide opportunities for employment and independence to individuals with visual disabilities. The Division serves Kentuckians who are visually impaired or blind and assists individuals in obtaining and maintaining employment, economic self-sufficiency and independence with complete integration into society. The Blind Services Section provides statewide services to all 120 counties and has 10 field offices located throughout Kentucky in Ashland, Bowling Green, Covington, Elizabethtown, Lexington, Louisville, Owensboro, Paducah, Prestonsburg and Somerset. https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/seeking-services/ Blind-Services/Pages/Blind-Services-Division.aspx

Kentucky School for the Blind

Division of the Ky. Department of Education

1867 Frankfort Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 897-1583

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

Kentucky School for the Blind Outreach Services

Available Statewide

1867 Frankfort Ave., Louisville, Ky., 40206 (502) 897-1583 ext. 7714

Outreach works in partnership with the Educational Cooperatives to facilitate expansion of regional services. KSB Outreach Consultants are assigned to each of the Educational Cooperatives as points of contact for services and programs offered by KSB. The Director of Special Education within local school districts may make referrals for services to the assigned KSB Outreach Consultant for their cooperative or by contacting KSB Director of Outreach. The Outreach department supports proficient student performance by assisting local school districts, including KSB and the Kentucky School for the Deaf, in reducing barriers to learning associated with a vision loss. It also provides students access

to the general curriculum, the Kentucky Core Academic Standards, and Expanded Core Curriculum for Students with Visual Impairments. / www.ksb.k12.ky.us/outreach-1

Neuro-Visual Performance Institute

(Formerly Children’s Vision and Learning Center) 105 Crossfield Drive, Suite B, Versailles, Ky., 40383 (859) 879-0089

In addition to general optometric services, this office 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. https://neurovisualperformanceinstitute.com

NFB-NEWSLINE® KENTUCKY (877) 410-4008

A Project of the National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky. Free audio information service to people who cannot use regular newsprint. More than 500 publications are now available, including more than 80 magazines, and national and International news. Spanish-language newspapers are also available. https://nfbnewsline-ky.org

Radio Eye

Lexington: 162 Old Todds Road, Suite 280 Lexington, Ky., 40509 / (859) 422-6390 (800) 238-5193 / info@radioeye.org

Radio Eye broadcasts the reading of current news, public service and general interest programming to listeners and others who are blind and print-disabled. Radio Eye, which serves Lexington, Louisville and parts of Eastern Kentucky, strives to produce high-quality programming designed to help the listening audience lead enriched, productive and independent lives. / www.radioeye.org

Silver Circles, Inc.

2396 New Shepherdsville Road, Bardstown, Ky., 40004 (859) 489-7773

Catherine C. Barnes, Director & Irlen Diagnostician

The Irlen Method uses colored overlays and precision tinted filters, worn as glasses, to reduce or eliminate perceptual difficulties and light sensitivity. www.silvercirclesinc.com

Visually Impaired Preschool Services (VIPS)

Greater Louisville

1906 Goldsmith Lane, Louisville, Ky., 40218 (502) 636-3207 / (888) 636-8477

Central Kentucky

350 Henry Clay Blvd., Lexington, Ky., 40502 (859) 276-0335 / (888) 254-8477

The mission of Visually Impaired Preschool Services 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. / www.vips.org n

ties through full integration and inclusion in the economic, political, social, cultural, and educational mainstream of United States society.

The Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities will create systemic change in the Commonwealth of Kentucky that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve full citizenship and inclusion in the community through advocacy, capacity building and systemic change. The CCDD will enable individuals with developmental disabilities to exercise self-determination, be independent, be productive, and be integrated and included in all facets of community life.