resource manual for families and advocates of adults and children with special needs

65 Pages·2007·0.42 MB·English

RESOURCE MANUAL

FOR

FAMILIES AND ADVOCATES

OF

ADULTS AND CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Compiled by:

The Arc of Chester County
The Right to Education Task Force- #24
The Arc of Pennsylvania

Last Update 8/4/05

For changes, deletions or additions, or if you experience any difficulties with the listed resources, e-mail:
[email protected]
or call 610-696-8090, ext 338 and leave your message.

A copy of this manual is available as a free download from our website, www.arcofchestercounty.org.

(Please note that this is not an all-inclusive list, it is a work in progress. Also, it is a list for information purposes only and
is not intended to endorse any specific professional or therapeutic treatment, or any person or organization.)
TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEDERAL DEPARTMENTS OF EDUCATION AND RELATED SERVICES........................................................................3
PENNSYLVANIA STATE RESOURCES...............................................................................................................................4
THE LAW/SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW/INFORMATION.....................................................................................................6
ADVOCACY AND DISABILITY ORGANIZATIONS..............................................................................................................7
CHESTER COUNTY ADVOCATES/PARENT MENTORS..................................................................................................10
DISPUTE RESOLUTION......................................................................................................................................................10
LEGAL ASSISTANCE AND LAWYERS..............................................................................................................................10
CHESTER COUNTY SUPPORT GROUPS..........................................................................................................................12
INFORMATION/SUPPORT/EDUCATION............................................................................................................................13
SPECIFIC AREAS................................................................................................................................................................18
AGING...............................................................................................................................................................................18
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY.............................................................................................................................................18
AUDIOLOGISTS...............................................................................................................................................................20
BEHAVIOR SUPPORT.....................................................................................................................................................20
BILINGUAL SUPPORT.....................................................................................................................................................20
BOOKS/PUBLISHERS.....................................................................................................................................................21
CAMPS..............................................................................................................................................................................22
EARLY INTERVENTION...................................................................................................................................................23
EMERGENCY SERVICES................................................................................................................................................24
EMPLOYMENT.................................................................................................................................................................24
EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT................................................................................................................................25
EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR...........................................................................................................................................26
FOSTERCARE..................................................................................................................................................................26
FUNDING..........................................................................................................................................................................26
GIFTED..............................................................................................................................................................................27
HEALTH CARE.................................................................................................................................................................27
HOME EDUCATION ORGANIZATIONS..........................................................................................................................28
HOME NURSING/HOME HEALTH...................................................................................................................................29
HOUSING..........................................................................................................................................................................29
INCLUSION/LEAST RESTRICTIVE ENVIRONMENT.....................................................................................................30
INDIVIDUAL EDUCATION PLANS..................................................................................................................................31
INFORMAL SUPPORTS...................................................................................................................................................31
INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT...........................................................................................................................................32
INTRODUCTION TO THE SYSTEM.................................................................................................................................33
JUSTICE SYSTEM............................................................................................................................................................33
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PRACTICES IN SOUTHEASTERN PA............................................................................33
PEDIATRICIANS...............................................................................................................................................................34
PSYCHIATRISTS..............................................................................................................................................................34
PSYCHOLOGISTS............................................................................................................................................................35
QUALITY OF LIFE............................................................................................................................................................35
RECREATION...................................................................................................................................................................36
RESPITE...........................................................................................................................................................................37
SEARCH ENGINES..........................................................................................................................................................38
SENSORY INTEGRATION...............................................................................................................................................38
SIBLINGS..........................................................................................................................................................................38
SOCIAL SECURITY /DPW...............................................................................................................................................38
SOCIALIZATION...............................................................................................................................................................38
SPECIAL EDUCATION RESOURCES.............................................................................................................................39
SPIRITUALITY..................................................................................................................................................................45
STUDENT LOANS/FINANCIAL AID................................................................................................................................45
THERAPISTS....................................................................................................................................................................46
TRANSITION AND RELATED ISSUES...........................................................................................................................46
TRANSPORTATION.........................................................................................................................................................49
TOOLS, TOYS, COMPUTER PROGRAMS.....................................................................................................................49
TUTORING........................................................................................................................................................................49
US MILITARY....................................................................................................................................................................50
WAIVERS..........................................................................................................................................................................50
SPECIFIC DISABILITIES.....................................................................................................................................................50
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE.................................................................................................................................................50
ATTENTION DEFICIT/ HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER....................................................................................................50
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AUDITORY PROCESSING DISORDERS........................................................................................................................51
AUTISM SPECTRUM/ASPERGER/PDD..........................................................................................................................51
BRAIN INJURY.................................................................................................................................................................53
CEREBRAL PALSY..........................................................................................................................................................53
CHRONIC ILLNESS..........................................................................................................................................................54
CYSTIC FIBROSIS...........................................................................................................................................................54
DOWN SYNDROME.........................................................................................................................................................54
EPILEPSY.........................................................................................................................................................................55
FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME......................................................................................................................................55
HEARING IMPAIRED.......................................................................................................................................................55
LEARNING DISABILITIES AND DYSLEXIA...................................................................................................................56
MENTAL HEALTH............................................................................................................................................................57
MENTAL RETARDATION................................................................................................................................................60
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS...................................................................................................................................................61
MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY...............................................................................................................................................61
SENSORY INTEGRATION...............................................................................................................................................62
SOCIAL SKILLS...............................................................................................................................................................62
SOCIAL SKILLS GROUPS FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS.............................................62
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE.............................................................................................................................................63
SPINA BIFIDA...................................................................................................................................................................63
SPINAL CORD INJURY....................................................................................................................................................63
SPINAL MUSCULAR ATROPHY.....................................................................................................................................63
SUBSTANCE ABUSE.......................................................................................................................................................63
TOURETTE SYNDROME.................................................................................................................................................64
VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS/VISUAL PROCESSING/BLINDNESS......................................................................................64

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE IN THE RESOURCE LIBRARY AT THE ARC OF CHESTER COUNTY

FEDERAL DEPARTMENTS OF EDUCATION AND RELATED SERVICES

Client Assistance Program Center for Disability Law & Policy E-mail: [email protected], Web:
www.equalemployment.org, 215- 557-7112 (V/TTY), 1617 JFK Boulevard, Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA
19103
Developing Educational Standards State Education Departments-Education Law
www.edlaw.net/public/contents.htm
DHHS Inspector General’s Hotline [phone]
Disabled Sports www.dsusa.org, 301-217-0960, Nationwide sports rehab programs, incl.winter skiing and water
sports, fitness and special events.
Federal Resource Center for Special Education www.dssc.org/frc, The FRC supports a nationwide technical
assistance network to respond to the needs of students with disabilities, especially from under-represented
populations.
Medicare/Medicaid Complaint Line 1-800-368-5779
National Center for Cultural Competence www.gucdc.georgetown.edu, 1-800-788-2066,
Georgetown University, Child Development Center, 3307 M Street, NW, Suite 401, Washington, DC 20007-3935,
mission to increase the capacity of health care programs to design, implement and evaluate culturally competent
service delivery systems.
National Center on Physical Fitness and Disability (NCPAD) www.ncpad.org, 1-800-900-8086, Promotes the
substantial health benefits that can be gained from regular physical activity.
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NASDSE: National Association State Directors of Special Education www.ideapolicy.org
National Council on Disability (NCD) www.ncd.gov/, Independent federal agency led by 15 members appointed by
the president, and confirmed by the Senate, promoting policies, programs, practices and procedures that
guarantee equal opportunities to all individuals regardless of the nature or severity of their disability. Literature.
National Institute of Mental Health www.nimh.nih.gov/
Office for Civil Rights, US Department of Education www.ed.gov/offices/OCR/, 1-800-421-3481, Provides
information related to education and civil rights.
OSERS: Office of Special Education & Rehabilitative Services www.ed.gov/offices/OSERS In supporting No Child
Left Behind, and the New Freedom Initiative, OSERS provides a wide array of supports to parents and
individuals, school districts and states in three main areas: special ed, vocational rehab, and research.
Outdoor Explorations www.outdoorexp.org, 781-395-4999, Works to challenge perceptions and change lives of
people with and without disabilities thru shared activities in the outdoors.
Regional ADA/Technical Assistance Agency E-mail: [email protected], 301-217-0124, 1-800-949-
4232, Mid-Atlantic Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center Transcen, Inc., 451- Hungerford Dr.,
Suite 607, Rockville, MD 20850
Special education legislation links www.parentpals.com/1.0specialed/1.1geninfo/1.1.8legis.html
Supreme Court’s Website www.supremecourtus.gov
U.S. Department of Education www.ed.gov/ No Child Left Behind information and Special Education Information
U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) www.ideapractices.org, The IDEA
partnerships, working together for five years, inform professionals, families and the public about IDEA ’97 and
strategies to improve educational results for children and youth with disabilities.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources www.hhs.gov Information on physical and mental health.

PENNSYLVANIA STATE RESOURCES

Best Buddies www.bestbuddiespennsylvania.org, Dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual
disabilities by providing opportunities for one:one friendships and integrated employment opportunities.
Bureau of Commissions, Elections & Legislation, Department of State 717-787-5280, Can provide election
calendars for election dates and dates for filing petitions to run for office. Office maintains the election finance
records candidates must file relation to campaign contributions.
Chief Clerk Offices- Senate: 717-787-7163, Room 89 East Wing of new capital bldg., House: 717-787-5280, Room
129 main capital bldg. Can provide information of the calendar and the votes on bills or amendments as well as
copies of House & Senate Journals.
Client Assistance Program [email protected], 215-557-7112 Center for Disability Law and Policy, 1617 JFK Blvd.,
Suite 800, Phila, Pa 19103
Commonwealth Directory 717-787-5109, The State Book Store, Department of General Services, Commonwealth of
Pa, Commonwealth Keystone Building, 400 North Street, Harrisburg PA, 17120. Published annually in August,
names, phone numbers, fax numbers and addresses of all the Departments and Government Offices in the
Commonwealth and the General Assembly.
Commonwealth Information Center (CIC) www.state.pa.us/, 1-800-932-0784, Helps to answer questions about PA
State Government, also collect public comments and forward that information to the appropriate state offices, also
maintains several databanks that include telephone listings for Commonwealth employees, departments,
Commissions, offices and bureaus, also has telephone listings for agency help lines.
Consultline-Special Education 1-800-879-2301
Developmental Disabilities Planning Council www.paddc.org, 717-787-6057, DD Planning Council Forum Building,
Room 569, Commonwealth Ave, Harrisburg, PA 17120-0001
Developmental Fitness Company www.developmentalfitness.com/home.asp, Facilitates the wellness movement of
those with developmental disabilities.
Early Intervention Programs for Infants and Toddlers Ages Birth through 2 717-783-5764, Bureau of Program
Development and Policy, Office of Mental Retardation Health and Welfare Building, Room 302, Harrisburg, PA
17120
Early Intervention Programs: Ages 3 through 5 717-783-6913, 333 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17126-0333
General Assembly www.legis.state.pa.us, Provides a tremendous amount of information including copies of bills
Introduced, and House and Senate Calendars.
History of Senate and House Bills Provides directory of all bills introduced by category as well as for each member,
and the action taken on the bill to date, available in the document rooms. Updated regularly.
Legislation Document Room B34 & 35, lover level of main capital building. Can have copies sent to you by your
Legislator/Senator. Always ask for the bill number and the current printer’s number.
Legislative Calendars List of all the bills or resolutions being considered by the full House or Senate. Available in the
Document rooms or the Chief Clerk Offices. Printed each day the chamber is in session.
Legislative Reference Bureau 717-787-4223, Room 641 main capital building. Most current reports on bill status and
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adopted legislation.
Office for Deaf and Hearing Impaired Department of Labor and Industry, 1308 Labor and Industry Building, Harrisburg,
PA, PA 1712
Office of Mental Health www.dpw.state.pa.us/Disable/MentalHealthSAervices, 717-787-6443, Department of Public
Welfare, Health and Welfare Building, Room 502, Commonwealth Avenue and Forster Street, Harrisburg, PA
17120
Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Bureau of Consumer and Family Affairs, 2nd Floor
Beechmont Bldg., Harrisburg, PA 17105
Director 717-772-7827
Division of Grievance and Appeals 717-772-7862-
Division of Consumer and Family Relations 717-772-7853
Office of Mental Retardation 717- 787-3700, Department of Public Welfare, Health and Welfare building, Room 302,
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Office of State Coordinator of Vocational Education for Students with Disabilities 717- 787-5293, Technical Prep
and Career Related Services Section Department of Education, Bureau of Vocational-Technical Education 333
Market Street, 6th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17126-0333
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Dept of Labor/ Industry, Special Programs, 1313 Labor and Industry Bldg,
Harrisburg, PA 17120
PA Bureau of State Parks www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/recreation/accedd/aspx, Information about accessibility
for park users.
PA Center for Adapted Sports Contact www.centeronline.com
PA Dept of Education www.pde.state.pa.us, www.pde.psu.edu, 717-783-6913, 717-783-6113, Department of
Education, 333 Market St., 7th floor, Harrisburg, Pa 17126-0333, Links to special education topics and
The BasicEd Circulars (BECs)
PA Dept of Education Complaints re: enrollment and residency, Contact: Sarah Pearce, Dir., School Services Unit,
PDE. Fax: [phone], Phone: [phone]
PA Dept of Education – Profiles. www.PaProfiles.org, Find out about your child’s school enrollment, resources,
staffing and performance in statewide assessments.
PA Dept of Public Welfare www.dpw.state.pa.us, Links to Office of MR and to the MR Bulletins.
PA Educ. of Children in the Arts Network, Inc. (PECAN,Inc) www.pecaninc.net, 717-469-0537, Statewide referral
system to connect children with activities and instruction related to their interests.
PA Governor Honorable Edward G. Rendell Web: www.state.pa.us, E-mail: [email protected], 717-787-2500,
225 Main Capitol Building, Harrisburg, PA 17120
PA Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities 717-783-8917, 717-787-5232, 909 Green St,
Harrisburg, PA 17102
PA Senate Directory www.pasen.gov
PA Special Education Mediation Services (PASEMS) 800-992-4334, 717-541-4960, 6340 Flank Dr, Suite 600,
Harrisburg, Pa 17112-2764
PA State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council Email: [email protected] web: www.paddc.org
717 787-6057,DD Planning Council, 569 Forum Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17120,
Resource/information on legislative and policy issues related to developmental disabilities. Can download “A
Slice of PIE” (quarterly communication from the Policy Information Exchange) – an excellent source for
information on state and national policy.
PA State Mental Health Agency 717 787-6443, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Dept. of Public
Welfare, Health & Welfare Bldg., Room 502, P.O. Box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675
PA State Mental Health Representative for Children and Youth 717- 783-8335, 717-772-7828, Family and Consumer
Affairs, Office of Mental Health, Department of Public Welfare Beechmont Bldg., #32, 2nd Floor, PO Box 2675,
Harrisburg, PA 17105
Programs for Children with Disabilities: Ages 3-5 E-mail: [email protected], 717-783-6879, Bureau of Special
Education, Department of Education Division of Early Intervention, 333 Market Street, 7th Floor, Harrisburg, PA
17126-0333
Programs for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities: Ages Birth through 2 717 783-7213 Children’s Services
Division, Office of Mental Retardation, Department of Public Welfare, P.O. box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675
Programs for Children with Special Health Care Needs E-mail: [email protected], 717 783-5436, 1-800
852-4453, Children’s Rehab Services, Dept. of Health, Room 724, P.O. Box 90, Harrisburg, PA 17108
Protection and Advocacy Agency E-mail: [email protected], 717 236-8110, 1-800-692-7443 (V/TTY), PA Protection &
Advocacy Inc, 116 Pine Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Special Kids 1- 800-986-4550,1901 Old Homestead Ln., Lancaster PA 17605
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State Agency for the Visually Impaired 717-787-6176, 1-800-622-2842 (in PA) Department of Labor and Industry,
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Blindness/ Visual Services, 1300 Labor and Industry Building, 7th & Foster
Street, Harrisburg, PA 17120 or 17102
State Education Agency Rural Representative 717- 787-8022, Advisory Service, Department of Education, 333 Market
Street, 6th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17126
State Mental Health Representative for Children and Youth 717- 772-7828, Bureau of Consumer and Family Affairs,
Beechmont Building, #32, 2nd Floor, P.O. Box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105
State Mental Retardation Program E-mail: [email protected], 717-787-370, Dept of Public Welfare, Health &
Welfare Bldg., Room 512, PO Box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675
State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency E-mail: [email protected], 717- 787-5244, Office of Voc. Rehab.,
Department of Labor & Industry1300 Labor & Industry Bldg., Seventh and Forster Streets, Harrisburg, PA 17120
U.S. Senator Honorable Arlen Specter (R) Web: www.senate.gov/~specter, E-mail:
[email protected], 202-224-4254, United States Senate, 711 Hart Senate Office Building,
Washington, DC 20510-3802
U.S. Senator Honorable Rick Santorum (R) Web: http://santorum.senate.gov, E-mail:
http://santorum.senate.gov/emailrjs.html, 202-224-6324, United States Senate, 120 Russell Senate Office
Building, Washington, DC 20510-3804

THE LAW/SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW/INFORMATION

AllLaw www.allLaw.com Text of state and federal laws that can be downloaded and other information related to the
law and the legal profession.
Bridges4Kids www.bridges4kids.org
Center for Disability Law and Policy www.equalemployment.org, Advocacy services for individuals involved in
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation or Blind Visual Services.
Center for Educational Rights www.edlaw.net – Focuses on Sp Ed law and related topics.
Citizens Alliance to Uphold Special Education (CAUSE) www.causeonline.org, 517-706-2287, 2365 Woodlake, Ste.
100, Okemos, MI 48864.
CONNECT Information Service www.iu.k12.pa.us/special/toll-free.shtml , Toll Free: 1-800- 692-7288, Fax: 717- 657-
5983, 6340 Flank Drive, Suite 600, Harrisburg, PA 17112. Web site on state and federal special education, social
security and SSI, disabilities issues and resources, recreation, transportation, etc.
Consult Line – Special Education 1-800-879-2301 (M-F 8-4pm), A service of PDE; help for families and advocates of
children with special needs about school-related concerns, special education regulations, and the complaint
systems.
Council for Exceptional Children www.ideapractices.org Free monthly online newsletter about IDEA & IDEA
Practices, Extensive links related to IDEA Basic Education Circulars.
Council of Parent Attorneys & Advocates (COPAA) www.copaa.net, Has a listing of parent attorneys and advocates
and links to state and federal special education laws.
Educational Rights – EDLAW www.edlaw.net
Education Law Center-PA-Philadelphia www.elc-pa.org, E-mail: [email protected], 215- 238- 6970, Fax: 215- 625-
9589, TTY: 215-238-5892. Provides information sheets, publications and links related to special ed law. (Spanish
Materials)
Education Law Center-PA-Pittsburgh www.elc-pa.org, E-mail: [email protected], Phone & TTY: [phone], Fax:
412- 391-4496
Families and Advocates Partnership for Education (FAPE) www.fape.org, 1-888-248-0822, 8161 Normandale Blvd,
Minneapolis, MN 55437-1044
Find Law www.findlaw.com Allows access to both state and federal law and law related resources.
IDEA Laws www.nichcy.org
IDEA Local Implementation by Local Administrators (ILIAD) www.ideapractices.org, 877-CEC-IDEA, 866-915-
5000, 1110 North Glebe Rd, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22201-5704
Juvenile Law Center [email protected], 215-6250551, 215-625-9589 (fax), toll-free in PA 1-800-875-8887
1315 Walnut St, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19107-4798
Law, Health Policy & Disability Center www.disability.law.uiowa.edu, A bi-weekly e-publication that aims to inform
disability advocates, scholars, and service providers of the most current issues in disability law, policy, research,
best practices and breaking news.
Legal Aid of Chester County West Chester, Pa 610-436-9150
National Health Law Program, Inc. www.healthlaw.org – Serves as a legal services national support center
specializing in health issues for low-income people, minorities, people with disabilities, and the elderly. Advocacy,
litigation, referral, research, and training.
PA Health Law Project www.phlp.org
PA Legislature www.legis.state.pa.us – Access to a database of PA legislation.
PA Protection and Advocacy 1-800-692-7443, 717-236-8110, The mission is to provide advocacy in a culturally
6
competent manner for eligible individuals to obtain the rights and benefits to which they are entitled. Information
and referral, technical assistance, case advocacy, systemic advocacy, issue resolution, training, legal referral.
Parent Education Network www.parentednet.org, E-mail: [email protected], 717- 600-0100, 1-800-522-
5827 (V/TTY), 1-800-441-5028 (Spanish) PEN is a statewide coalition in PA of parents of children representing a
range of disabilities and ages. Provides links/resources/info on special needs issues. PEN produces parent
education publications in Spanish and English and provides trainers for parent workshops.
Pennsylvania Dept of Education www.pde.psu.edu
Public School Reform Network www.psrn.org, 717-238-7171, 717-238-7552 (FAX), PSRN works to restore PA’s
promise of an excellent education for each and every child. We work with state policy makers and local
homemakers, with teachers and the taught, with the professionals and professors – with all who are willing to roll
up their sleeves and improve our public schools. Newsletter available.
Ragged Edge Magazine www.raggededgemagazine.com, Includes an article examining lawsuits and the ADA.
Reed Martin, JD/ Connie Matthews, Special Education Law www.reedmartin.com, Matthews Media, LLC PO Box
4003, Morgantown, WV 26504-4003, Mission is lessening discrimination against children with disabilities by
providing parents and school personnel tools for advocacy.
The School Report www.HomeFair.com, Check up on school districts in PA and across the country.
US Dept. of Education www.ed.gov/offices/OSERS/OSEP/index.html, Home page for EDPUBS – Free copy of IDEA
and Federal Register can be ordered along with other IDEA related government publications.
US Dept. of Health and Human Services www.acf.dhhs.gov
Wright’s Law – Special Education www.wrightslaw.com, Up to date information about effective advocacy for
children with disabilities, including case law, and strategies for effective parent-teacher partnerships.

ADVOCACY AND DISABILITY ORGANIZATIONS

ADAPT of Philadelphia E-mail: [email protected]
Action Alliance for Parents of the Deaf 610-825-4568, 3033 Mathers Mill Rd., Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
Advocates for Disabled Americans 856-216-7373
American Association of People with Disabilities www.aapd-dc.org
American Society for Deaf Children Web: www.deafchildren.org, Email: [email protected], 1-800-942-2732, PO Box
3355, Gettysburg, PA 17325, Advocates sign language communication.
AMICUS for Children, Inc. Web: www.amicusforchildren.org, Email: [email protected], 1023 Old Swede
Rd., Douglasville, PA 19518
Arc of the United States www.thearc.org , 1-800-433-5255, 1010 Wayne Ave., Ste. 650 Silver Springs,
MD 20910, Advocacy associations for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
Arc of Pennsylvania www.thearcpa.org, 717 234-2621 or 1-800- 692-7258, Building #2 Suite 221, 2001 North Front
Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102
Arc of Bucks County 215-974-0800, PO Box 755 Newtown, PA 18940.
Arc of Chester County www.arcofchestercounty.org, 610-696-8090, FAX [phone], 900 Lawrence
Dr., West Chester, PA 19380
ARC of Delaware County (DelARC) 61 0-325-3950, 3544 West Chester Pike, Suite 203, Newtown Square, PA
19073
ARC of Montgomery County (MARC) 610-265-4700, Continental Plaza, 1010 W 9th Ave, King of Prussia, PA
19406
ARC of Philadelphia County 215-229-4550, 2350 W. Westmoreland St., Phila., PA 19140
Associations of Service Providers Implementing IDEA Reforms in Education (ASPIRE), www.ideapractices.org,
877-CEC-IDEA, 866-915-5000, 1110 North Glebe Rd, Suite 300, Arlington VA 22201-5704
Building Advocacy, Resources & Community (BARC) Web: www.barcprograms.org, Email:
[email protected]
Center for Law and Education www.cleweb.org, Activist oriented web site that addresses broad educational and
political concerns of children with special needs and their families.
Chester County Interagency Coordinating Council 610-344-6265
Children’s Defense Fund www.childrens.org
Children’s OnLine Privacy Protection Act www.coppa.org, has a listing of parent attorneys and advocates and links
to state and federal special education laws.
Citizen Advocacy of Chester County www.thecommunitycoalition.org
Client Assistance Program Web: www.equalemployment.org, E-mail: [email protected], , 215- 557-7112
(V/TTY), Center for Disability Law & Policy, 1617 JFK Boulevard, Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Consultline – PA Department of Education - Bureau of Special Education www.pde.state.pa.us, 1-800-879-2301,
Telephone resource line for families of school age children with special needs and others. A special education
advisor answers questions about regulations and procedural non-compliance concerns. Phone & TTY accessible.
CORDERO Support Office 1-800-222-7372, Offers assistance if your child has been waiting more than 30 days for
appropriate education placement.
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Council for Exceptional Children www.CEC.Sped.org
Disabilities Law Project www.dlp-pa.org, 1-800-692-7443
Disability Resources www.DisabilityResources.org, Provides a resource list for every state. Click on “Pennsylvania”
for a comprehensive list of resources in your state.
Disability Rights Advocacy Group, Inc. (DRAG) www.draginc.com, 215-477-4956
Division for Early Childhood www.dec-sped.org, Advocates for individuals who work on behalf of families of special
needs children 0-8 years.
Education Law Center, www.elc-pa.org, E-mail: [email protected], 215-238-6970, 215-625-9589, Provides technical
assistance and advice to lawyers, advocates and parents on all aspects of Special Education Law. Speakers are
available for workshops, training sessions and meetings for parents and professions. Written materials are
available to individuals and groups both through mail and through the website. The ELC analyses important state
and national proposals affecting educational services. Direct representation may be provided in cases where
issues affect a large number of students or result from illegal policies. No fee for services.
Families and Advocates Partnership for Education (FAPE) www.fape.org, Aims to inform and educate families and
advocates about IDEA and promising practices.
Inclusive Education Resources www.quasar.ualberta.ca/ddc/incl/inclusion.html
Independent Living Research www.ilru.org, Creating opportunities for independence for people with disabilities
through research, education and consultation.
Juvenile Law Center www.jlc.org, 215-625-0551
Laurel House Web: www.laurelhouseonline.orgdefault.htm, E-mail: [email protected], 1-800-
642-3150, Norristown, PA. Information and advocacy regarding violence against people with disabilities.
Law, Health Policy & Disability Center www.disability.law.uiowa.edu, A bi-weekly e-publication that aims to inform
disability advocates, scholars, and service providers of the most current issues in disability law, policy, research,
best practices and breaking news.
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) Clearinghouse 800-573-3383, 160 N. Wacker Dr., 4th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606
“Making Your Case” www.partnersinpolicymaking.com/makingyourcase A free internet-based inter-active self-
paced learning program available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. By taking part in this 3 hour learning
program, participants will be better able to : effectively “tell their story” to policymakers; identify which
policymakers would be most helpful in bringing about positive change; write effective letters and e-mails; conduct
productive meetings with policymakers; give effective testimony and answers to questions; and organize with
others to address important issues.
Mental Health/Mental Retardation Office – Chester County 610-3446265
Minority Advocacy Notebook 202-467-5730 ext 41, From the Bazelon Center for MH Law: selected materials and
models from their manual on outreach and advocacy for African Americans and Latinos with mental disabilities.
Ms. Wheelchair Pennsylvania www.mswheelchairpa.org
National Coalition for Parent Involvement in Education www.ncpie.org, IDEA and FAPE links.
National Council on Independent Living www.ncil.org, Advocacy/info/resources/publications/links.
National Parent-to-Parent Support and Information System, Inc. (NPPSIS) www.nppsis.org, International
organization that strengthens, supports, and empowers families by establishing one-to-one, parent to parent
contacts and helps parents to access services and resources for children with special needs.
Nuvisions for Disabled Artists, Inc http://home.att.net/~hbedelstein
PA Action Coalition for Autism Services (PACAS) www.autismlink.com/pacoalition, PACAS’s mission is to craft
and advocate for identification of children with autism and development of flexible, individualized, seamless
services. We support an individualized approach where parents are an integral part of treatment choices.
PA Developmental Disabilities Council www.paddc.org, 717-787-6057, Room 569 Forum Building, Commonwealth
Ave., Harrisburg, Pa 17120
Collective Advocacy Grants support voluntary, citizen-based advocacy activities aimed at changing social
conditions or governmental systems affecting people with developmental disabilities. For information Contact
717-772-4127, For other funding opportunities go to the website and click on “funding”.
PA Health Law Project 1-800-931-7457 (Help Line), 1-800-274-3258 www.phlp.org, PHLP monitors all legal and
administrative developments that affect the disabilities community and disseminates the information in newsletters
and bulletins to hundreds of disabilities advocacy groups throughout the state PHLP provides advice and direct
assistance to PA residents with developmental disabilities through its help line.
PA Parents and Caregivers Resource Network (PPCRN) www.ppcrn.org, A statewide cross disability, grassroots,
network that supports parents’ and caregivers’ efforts to help their children and adult family members with
developmental disabilities. For information about developmental disabilities, special education concerns,
consultation for developing parent groups or information about our workshops for parents regarding special
education, adult services or the History of the Right to Education and/or the Disability Movement.
Project Office/Central Region 1-888-572-7368
Eastern Region 1-888-205-4915
Western Region 1-888-890-5665
Mini Money Grant Program for Parent Groups 1-800-838-4156
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PA Protection and Advocacy, Inc .(PP&A) E-mail: [email protected], Web: www.ppainc.org , 717- 236-8110, 1-
800- 692- 7443, TDD:717 236-8110, 116 Pine St., Harrisburg, PA 17101
Children’s Project 1-800-583-6007, Forensic Project 1-800- 710-8308
PA School Reform Network www.psrn.org, 717-238-7171
PA Sportsman for the Disabled, Inc. 724-539-3095, Advocacy for accessibility for all outdoor recreations, including
hunting and fishing.
Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights – PACER www.pacer.org/index.htm, The mission of PACER
Center is to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and
their families, based on the concept of parents helping parents.
Parent Education Network www.parentednet.org, 717-845-9722 (V/TDD), 1-800-522-5827 (V/TDD)
333 East 7th Avenue, York, PA 17404, PEN is a statewide coalition of parents whose children represent a range
of disabilities and ages; they offer consultation and parent guidance regarding early intervention and special
education, conduct workshops and much more.
Parent Exchange www.parentsexchange.web.com, 215-242-9501, Information, referral, and advocacy services for
parents and caregivers of children with disabilities and professionals who work with our families. Founded in
1986 by parents, our main goal is to help parents avoid the need to recreate the wheel every time they
encountered an issue. Through support and training families gain the knowledge, skill, and determination to
advocate for their children and make the best choices for their families.
Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania www.parenttoparent.org, 1-800-986-4550, Parent to parent is a network created
by families for families of children and adults with special needs; they connect families in similar situations with
one another so that they may share experiences, offer practical information and/or support.
Parents Helping Parents: The Parent Directed Family Resource Center for Children with Special Needs
www.php.com, Medical Equipment, adapted equipment, and other tools to assist with special needs, family
resource center and parent training and information center.
Parents Involved Network of Pennsylvania www.pinofpa.org, PIN is an organization that assists parents or
caregivers of children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders.
Parents Union for Public Schools, Inc. 215-991-9724, 228 W Chelten Ave., Phila., PA 19144, Assist with educational
issues for children with disabilities in the five-county area.
Policy in Policymaking, Temple University, Institute on Disabilities 215-204-9395
Pennsylvania ADA Coalition www.psu.edu/dept/aaoffice/PADAC, 1-866-874-5885
Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence www.pcadv.org, 1-800-537-2238, 1-800-553-2508 (TTY)
The POWER Network 1-800-325-4963, For families of adults with developmental disabilities who have concerns about
disabilities, services, or who are interested in forming parent groups or want information about workshops about
the MR system.
Policymaker Partnership www.ideapolicy.org, 877-IDEA-INFO, 800 Diagonal Rd, Suite 320, Alexandria, VA
22314-2840
Reed Martin, JD www.reedmartin.com, Comprehensive site that addresses Special Ed issues. On line
discussion/special ed chat nights, books, tapes, workshops.
Regional ADA & IT Technical Assistance Center www.adainfo.org, 301-217-0124, 1-800-949-4232
Right to Education Office 1-800-222-3354, 1-800-654-5984 (TTY) The REO coordinates and monitors PA’s Special
Education due process system, and guides parents, advocates, school districts and intermediate units through the
due process system. The local Task Force was set up by a court order in 1972 to assist in improving education for
all school-age persons with mental retardation. In 1975, the Right to Education was extended by State
regulations to include learning disabilities, physical handicaps, emotional difficulties and hearing, visual, speech,
and language impairment. The local task force also makes recommendations to improve, strengthen, expand and
monitor programs and services, speaks on behalf of special education students and communicates their needs
and problems, takes positions to influence decision makers in schools and other agencies providing special
education programs. State and Local Task Forces work with families of special needs children. Each Task Force
includes parents and professionals who can offer assistance to families with questions about services. The Task
Force exists to help families and school districts work together to ensure the integrity and delivery of special
education services to eligible students.
Bucks County Right to Education Task Force Contact Audrey Stein, 1800-770-4822 x 2139, This task force
meets the second Monday of every month. Childcare is provided. This task force meets at the Bucks
County IU #2705 Shady Retreat Road, Doylestown, PA
Chester County Right to Education Task Force www.righttoed.org Voicemail 610-696-8090 x 348 or call IU
at 484-237-5048, Chair: Kathy Carney, [email protected], 610-932-6025, Meets second Thursday of
the Month at the Chester County IU, 9:30-11:30am.The goal of this task force is to make
recommendations to improve, strengthen, expand, and monitor programs and services; to speak on
behalf of special education students and communicate their needs and problems; and to take positions to
influence decision makers in schools and other agencies providing special education programs.
Delaware County Right to Education Task Force [email protected], Meets first Tues. of the
Month at Del. Co. IU Board Room, 6th and Olive St, Media, PA
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Montgomery County Right to Education Task Force Contact: Lisa 610-539-8550 x 112, Meets every other
month.
Rise Above [email protected], 610-202-5448, Linda Jarrett-Armiger, M.Ed., Consultive resources for families.
The program’s programs assist children experiencing difficulty with academics, classroom skills, homework, self-
concept, self advocacy, friendships, organization, distractibility, and study skills.
Speaking for Ourselves Web: www.speaking.org, E-mail: [email protected], 502 W.Germantown Pike,
Suite 550, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462, 610-825-4595, Mission is to find a voice for ourselves, teach
the public about the needs and wishes and potential of people with disabilities, speak out on important
issues and support each other thru sharing, leadership development and helping and encouraging each
other.
Special Ed Law www.edlaw.net
Special Education Advocate www.wrightslaw.com
Special Kids Network 1- 800-986-4550, 1901 Old Homestead Ln., Lancaster PA 17605
The U.S. Government Accountability Office http://www.gao.gov/atext/d04879.txt The office reports its finding on
how the U.S. Department of Education monitors state compliance with the IDEA Act.
Visions for Equality 215-032-3349
Waiting List Campaign 1-877-372-WAIT (9248)
Wrights Special Education Law www.wrightslaw.com, Comprehensive web site with excellent links and free
newsletter. Books, workshops.

CHESTER COUNTY ADVOCATES/PARENT MENTORS

Arc of Chester County, Education Advocate Connie Mohn, [email protected], 610-696-8090
ext239, One-on-one advocacy services, assistance at meetings, and training.
Autism Alliance of Chester County-Autism Network Coordinator Brenda Eaton, 484-237-5354, Addresses needs,
concerns and initiatives for individuals with autism and their families.
Chester County Intermediate Unit- Parent Mentor Maryann Amici, [email protected], 610-524-5123, The parent
mentor works one-on-one with parents to assist you in acquiring the services your child needs to find success in
school, and will provide training in the Special Education Process to your group/organization.
Colvin, Patricia – Chester Co. Advocate 215-242-4200x220, UCPA-Phila, Elks Home Service Program
Jaskulski, Christine 610-495-6386, Former MARC Education Advocate, developed the Special Education Manual and
Workbook for MARC, Fee for Service.
Lewis, Marie E-mail: [email protected], 610-527-5272, Fax: [phone], Developmental/Neurological Case
Manager/Special Education Advocate - 842 Summit Grove Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, Fee for Service.
NAMI – Chester County Marilyn Baker, 610-296-0377
New Hope Educational Services 484-883-4324, Fee for Service
PACS – Phoenixville Area Community Services Talk with Advocate One-on-One. Contact PACS at 610-933-1105 or
Connie Mohn at 610-696-8090 to schedule an appointment.
Parent Involved Network (PIN) www.pinofpa.org, Family Advocate, Karen Brenneman, [email protected],
610-998-9390, 1-800-688-4226, ext 551

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Consortium for Appropriate Dispute Resolution (CADRE) www.directionservice.org/cadre
National Center on Dispute Resolution Encourages the use of mediation and other collaborative strategies to resolve
disagreements about special education and early intervention programs. Provides technical assistance with
mediation and dispute resolution.
Office for Dispute Resolution - PA Special Education Mediation Service www.pattan,k12.pa.us/isp/odr, 1-800-992-
4334, 1-800-654-5984 (TTY), 717 541-4960, ext. 3301, 3324, 3306, SEMS helps parents, schools and agencies
resolve educational concerns for students with disabilities. A mediator trained in special education and mediation
techniques assists the parties in resolving their concerns. This mediation service is free to all parties.

LEGAL ASSISTANCE AND LAWYERS

Chamovitz, Richard, Attorney At Law, 4 Winding Way, Radnor, PA 19087, voice/fax [phone], cell 610-283-
4950
Client Assistance Program, Center for Disability Law & Policy www.equalemployment.org, 215-557-7112
Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) www.copaa.net, COPAA is an independent, nonprofit, tax-
exempt organization of attorneys, advocates, and parents established to improve the quality and quantity
of legal assistance for parents of children with disabilities.
Dennison, Charles, Esq., 610-544-2722, 107 Rutgers Ave., S-3, Swarthmore, PA 19081
Direction Service www.directionservice.org, Consortium for appropriate dispute resolution.
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