RESOURCES
RESOURCES
Compiling a resource list for individuals with autism and other disabilities can provide invaluable support, guidance, and community connections. Here’s a curated list covering a broad spectrum of needs, from educational materials to advocacy groups, and including helpful websites.
Educational and Therapeutic Resources
1) Autism Speaks
Offers extensive resources on autism, including toolkits for newly diagnosed families, school resources, and adult services.
2) The Autism Society
Provides resources for individuals and families, including information on education, advocacy, and community support.
3) Understood
Focuses on support for individuals with learning and attention issues, offering practical advice, tools, and a supportive community.
4) The Arc
Advocates for the rights and full participation of all children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
5) Wrightslaw
Offers information about special education law and advocacy for children with disabilities, including articles, cases, and legal resources.
Employment and Career Development
6) Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
Provides free advice on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues, helping people with disabilities enhance their employability.
7) Autism Jobs
A portal by Autism Speaks dedicated to connecting job seekers on the autism spectrum with employers eager to hire people with diverse abilities.
Social Skills and Community
8) Wrong Planet
A web community designed for individuals with autism, ADHD, and other neurological differences. Offers forums, articles, and resources to foster social skills and support.
9) Meetup
While not specifically for individuals with disabilities, Meetup can be a great resource to find and create local support or interest groups for neurodivergent individuals.
Assistive Technologies
10) AssistiveWare
​Specializes in developing assistive technology, such as communication apps for individuals who are non-verbal or have complex communication needs.
Health and Wellness
11) Special Olympics
Offers sports training and competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, providing opportunities for physical fitness, joy, and community.
Health and Wellness
12) Family Voices
A national organization that advocates for healthcare services that are family-centered, community-based, comprehensive, and culturally competent for all children and youth with special healthcare needs.
13) Sibling Support Project
Dedicated to the life-long and ever-changing concerns of millions of brothers and sisters of people with special health, developmental, and mental health concerns.
Educational Support and Learning Resources
14) Khan Academy
Offers a wide range of free online courses for students of all ages. Their personalized learning resources are suitable for learners with diverse educational needs.
15) LD Online
Provides resources on learning disabilities and ADHD, offering educational strategies, research, and an active community forum.
Communication and Language Development
16) American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
Offers resources on communication disorders, including tools and information for individuals with autism and their families.
17) Talking Mats
Specializes in communication aids to support understanding and decision-making for people with communication difficulties.
Mental Health and Emotional Support
18) Child Mind Institute
Provides articles, guides, and support for families on a variety of mental health issues, including autism-specific challenges.
19) The National Autistic Society
The UK-based society offers support, local groups, and an extensive resource section for autistic people and their families.
Transition to Adulthood and Independent Living
20) Autism After 16
Dedicated to providing information and analysis of adult autism issues, with a focus on the transition to adulthood and independent living.
21) The College Autism Network (CAN)
Works to support students with autism attending college through research, advocacy, and providing information to students, parents, and colleges.
Recreational Activities and Social Engagement
22) Autism Friendly Spaces
Partners with businesses and organizations to create autism-friendly events and environments, including theater performances, museum visits, and more.
23) Asperger/Autism Network (AANE)
Works with individuals, families, and professionals to help people with Asperger Syndrome and similar autism spectrum profiles build meaningful, connected lives.
Technology and Innovation
24) Cognixion
Provides assistive technology for communication, designed for individuals with a wide range of cognitive and physical disabilities.
25) Model Me Kids®
Offers social skills training videos for children, adolescents, and young adults with Autism, Asperger Syndrome, and developmental delays.
Financial Assistance and Planning
26) Special Needs Alliance
A national organization comprising attorneys committed to helping individuals with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who serve them.
27) ABLE National Resource Center (ABLE NRC)
Provides comprehensive information on ABLE accounts, which are tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities.