Local Community Resources

Easter Seals Alabama- consists of eight community rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier free recreational camp Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation.
Opelika, Al.- Easter Seals Achievement Center- 510 W Thomason Circle, Opelika, Alabama 36801; (334) 745-3501
Jackson’s Gap- Camp ASCCA Easter Seals- 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861; (256)825-9226 or 800-843-2267. A special place where campers with disabilities have the opportunity to express their individuality and independence within a carefully supervised setting. Their families also are provided with a chance to relax in the knowledge that over thirty years of experience goes into providing a safe environment where fun can be had by all. The activities offered at Camp ASCCA include horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, fishing, arts and crafts, repelling, zip-line, water tubing, archery and rifle range, mini-golf course, paved nature trails, and more. www.campascca.org

Montgomery- Easter Seals Central Alabama- 2125 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36116; (334)288-0240

RehabWorks 4 Kids- 2450 Village Professional Drive, Opelika. 528-1964. A service of East Alabama Medical Center. We offer pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapies to children 0-18 yrs of age with a variety of diagnoses including: cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders, developmental delay, receptive-expressive language delays/disorders, feeding/swallowing disorders, sensory integration disorders, torticollis, augmentative communication needs, & referrals to other community resources. Ongoing sensorimotor group: meets weekly for 6 weeks for children aged 4-9 who struggle with coordination, clumsiness, have poor core strength and poor gross motor skills, including ball skills. Obstacle courses, games and core strengthening activities are used in teaching these skills. For more info contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The Little Tree Preschool- 421 Opelika Rd., Auburn, (334)826-1847; www.learning-tree.org/preschools.html; The Little Tree Preschool’s mission is focused on improving the services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disabilities throughout Alabama. This is achieved by providing intensive, behavioral intervention (also known as ABA/Applied Behavior Analysis) in a setting with typically developing children serving as peer models. In addition to training students, The Little Tree Preschool’s offer an intensive training sequence for public school teachers in assessment, behavior management techniques, empirically validated teaching procedures, data collection and tracking progress. We support parents by providing weekly parent training and assistance dealing with issues in the home. Licensed by the Department of Human Resources and are approved to house 18 children in our classrooms, 9 typically developing children and 9 children with ASD or developmental delay. Classes Monday-Friday; 7:45 am- 3:00pm.

All for Children- 2290 Moores Mill Road, Suite 400, Auburn. (334)209-2009: www.all-forchildren.com; private practice providing the children of this area quality speech, language and literacy intervention.

American Cancer Society- Relay For Life of Lee County- www.relayforlife.org/leeal
Support Groups-Bossum Buddies: EAMC Health Resource Center – Opelika; (334) 288-3432
Caregiver Support: 8:30 am – 10:00am;Oak Park Dining Room,1365 Gatewood Drive, Auburn.3rd Thursday of the Month. For more information or to reserve your spot, contact: Cheri Rudgers (334) 826-1899.
TOUCH (Today Our Understanding of Cancer is Hope). This general cancer support group is for survivors and their family and caregivers.East Alabama Health Resource Center - Opelika (334) 288-3432

I Can Cope- EAMC Health Resource Center – Opelika; (334) 288-3432. General cancer educational program for recently diagnosed cancer patients.

Look Good…Feel Better- (334) 288-3432. Free program conducted by cosmetologists to improve appearance related side effects of cancer. Sessions conducted as cancer patients request services and as cosmetologists are available. Session dates: September 16, November 18, & January 20. Registration required.

American Cancer Society -Montgomery- 3054 McGehee Rd, Montgomery (334)288-3432.Offers free wigs, turbans, and hats to cancer patients. Appointments are not necessary.

Auburn University- Auburn University Autism Center was established in August 2003 with the vision of providing much needed services to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, their families, schools, and other agencies whose goal is to optimize the potential of individuals with autism. This vision translates into a model demonstration site for best practice; diagnostic services for children with autism spectrum disorder; training for families, teachers, and related professionals; outreach consultation; and research opportunities relative to effective intervention strategies. www.auburn.edu/autismcenter;
The Autism Center provides: a model demonstration site for best practice education of persons with autism spectrum disorder, diagnostic services for children with autism spectrum disorder, outreach consultation services for families, schools and agencies that serve people with autism spectrum disorder, training for families, teachers and related professionals, and research opportunities relative to effective intervention strategies for people with autism spectrum disorder.

Best Buddies- a non-profit organization helping to enrich the lives of those with an intellectual disability. We match up Auburn college students with those in the community with an intellectual disability and help their friendship grow. We have monthly socials/events for college buddies to bring their best buddies to, and it is a way to integrate the mentally disabled into our community and make them feel comfortable and loved. Kaitlyn Teresa Croughwell, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; Caroline Dunn, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . www.auburn.edu/bestbuddies

The Summer Learning Clinic is an intensive four-week program that the Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education offers for students with mild learning problems, learning disabilities, behavioral difficulties and/or autism spectrum disorders. Since 1990, over 2,900 such students have received individually designed tutorial instruction through this outreach program. Instruction for students ages 6-13 is offered in reading, math, and language arts, with emphasis on areas of concern for individual students. Doris Hill, 844-2004; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Margaret Flores, 844-2107; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or Carol Nelson, 844-9999; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
 

Speech and Hearing Clinic- Haley Center (334) 844-9600. offers screening tests for the general public free of charge each semester. The clinic performs audiological and speech-language evaluations, aural rehabilitation support and other clinical services for children and adults. Speech and language assessments related to language/speech delay, developmental delay, autism, cleft palate, stuttering, voice disorders, feeding/swallowing, and literacy. Auditory treatments include hearing aid selection and dispensing, assisted listening devices, and auditory rehabilitation. Support groups in our area: Auburn/Opelika Parkinson Disease Support Group: Dan Phillips, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or (334) 844-9631. Rebounders Stroke Support Group: Laura Willis, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or (334) 844-9529. Stuttering Awareness Group: Embry Burrus, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or (334) 844-9689

Motor Behavior Lab- in the Department of Health and Human Performance provides a motor development program for kindergarten children with low motor proficiency. (334) 844-4483

The Center for Disability Research and Service- 215 S. Donahue Dr. in the Dawson Building, Auburn University Campus. offering additional resources to improve the lives of Alabama citizens with significant disabilities. Housed in the Dawson Building, the center is an extension of the Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation, Counseling/School Psychology in the College of Education and will focus on developing initiatives in autism and developmental disabilities, assistive technology, program evaluation and employment and community support. Research relating to autism spectrum disorder will expand on the work previously conducted by the Auburn University Autism Center, which has been absorbed by the new center. In addition, the new center will collaborate on projects with the Auburn Transition Leadership Institute, which provides support to youths with disabilities by providing continuous improvement resources to assist with their transition to adulthood.

Autism Society of Alabama- The Autism Society of Alabama (ASA) responds daily to requests for information. 1-877-4AUTISM. Parent Support-ASA has support groups to address a variety of issues. Monthly meetings in a variety of settings throughout the state provide support and information, guest speakers, informative topics, and question and answer sessions. Lending Library- ASA has over 400 books and media on autism spectrum disorders that are available to our members. Items can be checked out through the office at 4217 Dolly Ridge Road, Birmingham, AL 35243. If you have books on autism that you are willing to donate or for info on our lending library, please call 1-877-4AUTISM. ASA collaborates with various state and local agencies to increase awareness in the community, schools, and in the medical and professional arenas to promote education, understanding, resources, and to encourage the early diagnosis of autism. October 7, 2011- 14th Annual FROG Affair. 6:00-10:00pm; WorkPlay, Birmingham, Al. Silent and live auctions, live music. Ticket info, Jennifer Robertson at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 251-259-5553.

Brain jogging & Camp Academia- 1507 Vernon Road, LaGrange, Ga. And 1022 2nd Avenue, Columbus, Ga. (706) 884-4492; www.campacademia.com; Areas of focus: Dyslexia, language processing deficiencies, ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorders and processing speed. Camp Academia has four primary programs designed to help your child achieve his or her potential:
Consultation / Testing Services– Full evaluation of your child’s strengths and weaknesses in learning utilizing both formal and informal methods and recommendations for charting their educational path.
Brainjogging– Camp Academia’s research-based learning tool is designed to enhance learning efficiency and proficiency by “exercising” weak areas of the brain.
Camps– Three-day residential camps and Summer Booster Sessions are designed to evaluate and prepare your child for the upcoming school year.

Cast Ministries.org- Auburn, Al. (334) 332-8411 and (334)821-1000. Amputee Support- If you or someone you love has suffered a loss of limb, we invite you to join our “team” as we learn to turn our weaknesses into our strengths. The Christian Amputee Support Team is committed to: “pursuing abundant life for amputees through the love of Christ.”

H.A.P.I.E.- Helping Auburn Parents -Intervening Early- 721 East University Drive, Auburn. 887-4950. A preschool program designed to deliver special education services to ages 3-5 years. Two playgroups offered: Morning Group- Monday-Thursday 7:45-10:15am and Afternoon Group- Monday-Friday 10:30am-1:30pm. For a child that is determined eligible (according to the Alabama Administrative Code-for Special Education), services are provided at no cost to the family, if the child receives these services as part of their specifically designed instruction. Peer Models are children that participate in the program without an Individualized Education Plan and provide appropriate behavior, play and language skills as a model in the learning process. Monthly fee for peer models.
 

Hospice of East Alabama Medical Center- 665 Opelika Road, Auburn, AL
(334) 826-1899; 1-800-303-4677
Hospice treats the whole person instead of the disease. Its focus is on the family as well as the individual. Hospice emphasizes quality of life rather than duration. The patient’s pain is treated aggressively, and suffering is recognized and dealt with by members of the interdisciplinary team. The patient’s final wishes are attended to, and efforts are made to allow terminally ill patients and their families to remain together in peace, comfort, and dignity as they experience the end of life. Hospice services extend to any location: a home, the hospital, an assisted living facility, Bethany House, or a nursing home. Our goal at Hospice of EAMC is to help our patients live fully by managing pain and symptoms so that their days are filled with more joy and comfort. We seek to provide patients and their families with physical, emotional, social and spiritual support throughout their journey. Hospice of EAMC now serves parts of eight counties within a 50-mile radius of its office in Auburn, AL. Hospice of EAMC is the only area hospice linked directly with the services and support of East Alabama Medical Center. We can offer seamless transitioning of patients from inpatient care to their own homes or to a nursing home if needed.

In His Hands: Special Friends Ministry- Lakeview Baptist Church. 1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn. 887-7094; www.lakeviewbaptist.org. Program designed to help families who have children with special needs be able to worship together while their children are shown and taught about the love of Christ by familiar adults. Our goal is to form teams of buddies for each special friend that will assist them on Sunday mornings. Buddies will volunteer on a weekly or monthly rotation. For more information or to sign your child up for a buddy, please contact Emily Waldrop 887-6624; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Carrie Fellows 821-3762; auburntiger7@netzero.

Little Learners Preschool – Autism Hope Center- 706-604-NEED. P.O. Box 6028, Columbus, Ga. Bob Babcock, Ph.D., Director. Model preschool program based on ABA. Accepts TRICARE’s ECHO demonstration program. Children from within Muscogee County and outside are accepted.

March of Dimes Alabama Chapter- Birmingham, Al. (205) 824-0103; www.marchofdimes.com; Central Division in Montgomery, Al. (334) 277-6910.

Opelika Lions Club- www.opelikalions.org. Service league providing support for diabetic awareness, sight conservation and The Miracle League Ball Field for Children with Disabilities.

The Exceptional Outreach Organization- Van Northcutt, 300 North Dean Road, Auburn. A non-profit organization, comprised of 8 board members, whose ultimate goal is to raise funds to sponsor and support Special Olympics of Lee County, City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Summer Camp, Best Buddies of Auburn University, Premier Athletics Shinning Stars Therapeutic Cheerleading Team and Friends for Life. February 18, 2012: 23rd Annual Love Your Heart Run/Crank Your Heart Ride. Chewacla State Park, Auburn. The premier fundraising event benefiting children and adults with special needs that participate in Lee County Special Olympics, Best Buddies of Auburn University, Premier Athletics Shinning Knights Therapeutic Cheerleading Team and Friends for Life. Participants may run or walk the event!

Storybook Farms- 300 Cusseta Road - Opelika, AL 36801 - (334) 444-5966. www.hopeonhorseback.org; The year-round equine assisted activities are tailored to serve children ages 2 years to young adults who are challenged with life-threatening illnesses, disabilities, mental and/or emotional trauma, and grief. The gentle nature of our horses provides hope and healing. In addition to our “hope on horseback” riding programs, Storybook Farm also provides weekly Enrichment Classes for local school system’s inclusive special education classes, “Forever Families” quarterly events for families created by adoption or fostering, as well as annual events such as Easter Eggstravaganza, SBF Horse Show, Fall Festival, and the Christmas Celebration. Fall Session Volunteer Training begins August 29, 2011. Fall Riding Sessions: September 12- November 10.

The Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind- Serving Lee County and the surrounding area. Missy Byrd (205)306-8800. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Alabama School for the Blind- 705 South Street East, Talladega, Al.(256) 761-3260

Alabama School for the Deaf- 205 South Street East, Talladega, Al. (256) 761-3278

Helen Keller School of Alabama- 1101 Fort Lashley Avenue, Talladega, Al. (256) 761-3377
The Marianna Greene Henry Special Equestrian Program- Talladega, Alabama has a covered indoor arena and a 3/4 mile Sensory Trail for students from preschool age to middle age for both therapeutic and recreational riding year round. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The East Alabama Mental Health- Mental Retardation Board, Inc.: Family and Children’s Services-2300 Center Hills Dr., Building II; Opelika, AL 36801; (334) 742-2112. A public non-profit corporation established in 1967. The Center is a comprehensive community mental health center that provides a continuum of services for persons with a serious emotional disturbance, developmental delay, mental illness, mental retardation, and/or substance abuse problem. Prevention, consultation, and education are important aspects of the Center’s service delivery system. Services are provided to persons living or working in Lee, Russell, Chambers, and Tallapoosa Counties and are prioritized to serve the most severely disabled and those least able to afford services.
 

CHINS Intervention Program-The Center provides a range of services for children residing in Lee County who have been, or are at risk of being adjudicated CHINS (Child in Need of Supervision). These children display behavior problems such as truancy, breaking curfew, and refusing to follow the rules at school and at home.

ABC Child Development Center- The ABC (Actively Believing in Children) Child Development Center provides intensive services for toddlers and preschool children with autism or pervasive developmental disorders in an integrated child care setting.

Godparent Project -The Godparent Project provides parenting education, life skills training, and referral to community resources for pregnant and parenting adolescents.
Special Deliveries-The Special Deliveries program provides parent education, support, and referral services for families of infants and toddlers. The program also provides intensive in-home family support services for at risk families of children ages 0 to 5.

Other programs-Substance Abuse Prevention Programs, Parent Power, In-School Programs, After-School and Summer Alternative Programs, Family Strengthening Programs, Mommy and Me, & ACATA: Alliance Counteracting Alcohol and Tobacco Advertising.

The Sunshine Class- Farmville Baptist Church, 3607 AL. Hwy. 147 N., Auburn. 887-7361. Specially adapted for individuals with special needs to truly shine! We personalize the Bible and encourage a close and intimate relationship with Jesus through Bible stories, life experiences, prayer, and praise. Class meets downstairs in room 108 every Sunday morning from 10:00 - 11:30. For more information on the class and other possibilities for individuals with disabilities, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Recreation and Social Events

Opelika Parks and Recreation-
Basketball: Practice and enjoy organized games. Beginning September 26. Time: 1:00-3:00p.m. No fee. Contact David Scott with Opelika Parks and Recreation; Covington Center, 705-5550

Christmas Ball: December 9; 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Program is designed to provide a social outlet for mentally challenged adults. Sponsored by: Opelika Parks & Recreation and EAMH-MR. Fee: $5. David Scott with Opelika Parks and Rec. Covington Center.

Expressions of a BraveHeart Program: Sponsored by Auburn University Social Work Program and the Opelika Parks and Recreation, Expressions of a BraveHeart is a fine arts program for youth and young adults (11-21 yrs. old) with special needs. Classes are held on Mondays from 5:30-7 p.m. and the program starts on Monday, Sept. 12 and continues on the following dates: Sept. 26, Oct. 10 & 24, Nov. 7 & 14 (Art Exhibit and Final Performance) and Dec. 5 for the Christmas/Holiday Party. A performance and art exhibit will be held on Nov. 14 and a Celebration and Holiday Party on Dec. 5. If you have questions, please contact Angie Burque, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or John Huling, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Classes meet from 5:30-7 p.m.

Special Olympics Swim Team: Participants must be 8 years of age or older and have an intellectual disability. The team will practice on Mondays from 4:30-5:30pm at the Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center. The first practice will be November 7, 2011. Mandy Johnson, SportsPlex Aquatics Director, is head coach. For more information please contact John Huling at 705-5560 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
 

The Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutics Program- offers recreational activities, programs/leagues, social activities and field trips for citizens who have mental and physical disabilities. We provide an opportunity for children and adults to build friendships in a fun, encouraging environment. The programs are designed to strengthen and “show off ” the participants’ abilities, rather than their disabilities. All programs are free, unless otherwise noted.
The Therapeutics Program also supports and works with the Lee County and State of Alabama Special Olympics programs. If you are interested in finding out more information regarding our Therapeutics Program, please contact Alison Hall at 501-2940.

2011 Fall Therapeutic Program Schedule:
Monday – Bowling (Adult Athletes Only), 1 – 3 p.m., Sept. 12 – Nov. 14, Auburn Lanes
Monday – Special Olympics Swim Practice, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Starts Nov. 7, 2011, Opelika SportsPlex
Monday – Shining Knights Cheer Team Practice, 6 – 7 p.m., Aug. 22 – Nov. 16, Premier Athletics
Thursday – Bingo, Fun & Games, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Sept. 8 – Nov. 10, Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center
Thursday – Zumba Dance & Fitness, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Sept. 8 – Nov. 10, Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center
Friday – Special Olympics Basketball Practice, 3:30 – 4:45 p.m., Sept. 9 – Nov. 18, Frank Brown Recreation Center

Best Buddies Game Night- Tuesday, October 18; 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Dean Road Recreation Center, Auburn. Join us for a night full of games, pizza, friendship and fun! Cosponsored by the AU Chapter of Best Buddies, game night will feature bingo and prizes, Uno, Checkers, and much, much more. We will provide pizza, drinks and snacks. Alison Hall 501-2930. Fee: Free to the public; however, you must pre-register with Kaitlyn Croughwell, President of Best Buddies- This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Shining Knights Cheer Team- Premier Spirit Academy and Auburn Parks and Recreation are proud to sponsor the Shining Knights Cheer Team. Formed in 2006, the Shining Knights are a competitive cheerleading team consisting of Special Need girls and boys, ages 7 and up. The cheerleaders travel and compete against other special needs teams from around the country. There are currently more than 65 special needs teams in 23 states. The Shining Knights practice each Monday from 6pm to 7pm, beginning Aug. 22, 2011. If this sounds like something your athlete would enjoy, please contact Frank Baugh at 821-7300 for more information.
 

Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour- December 9. Meet at Dean Road Recreation Center. Get in the holiday spirit! We will meet at the Dean Road Recreation Center to make Christmas cards for our service men and women and enjoy pizza before heading out to the tour. Free to the public. Pre-registration required. Dana Stewart, 501-2930.

Zumba Dance & Fitness for our Therapeutics Program- Join certified instructor Mrs. Dana and exercise and groove to Latin style music, including the Salsa, Cha-Cha, Rock ‘n Roll and Merengue! This is a great class for all of our therapeutics group because it strives to improve balance, strength, flexibility and most importantly, the heart, but it’s done at a much lower intensity. It’s just as much fun, just not as fast! This is a great class to listen to great music, move a little and socialize with your peers. There is no fee, but YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER AT DEAN ROAD RECREATION CENTER prior to the start of class. The class will be held on Thursdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. For more information, please contact Dana Stewart at 501-2930.

Upcoming 2011-2012 Events Calendar:
Sept. 12: Expressions of a BraveHeart program begins!
Sept. 30-Oct. 1: ARPA Lock-in Swim Meet, Opelika SportsPlex, For more info. contact John Huling at 705-5560.
Oct. 8: Auburn Police Officers Fundraiser for Lee County Special Olympics – Golf Tournament, Auburn Links. For more information, contact Capt. James Tatum at 501-3110.
Oct. 18: Best Buddies Game Night – 6-8:30 p.m., Dean Road Rec. Center
Nov. 7: Special Olympics Swim Team Practices begin today!
Nov. 19: JamFest: Shining Knights Competition, Gwinnett Center, GA
Dec. 9: Holiday Tour and Crafts Night – Time: TBA, Meet at Dean Road Rec. Center
Dec. 10: Christmas Showcase: Shining Knights Competition, Auburn, AL
Jan. 14, 2012: COA: Shining Knights Competition, Birmingham Convention Center, AL
Jan. 21, 2012: WSA: Shining Knights Competition, BJCC, Birmingham, AL
Feb. 18, 2012: Love Your Heart Run / Crank Your Heart Ride, Kiesel Park, Auburn, AL
Feb. 18 & 19,2012: Cheer Sport Nationals: Shining Knights Competition, GWCC, Atlanta, GA
March 3 & 4,2012: LIVE: Shining Knights Competition, Gwinnett Center, Gwinnett, GA
March 31st & April 1, 2012: WSA: Shining Knights Competition, Sandestin Beach Resort, FL
April 3, 2012: TR Easter Egg Hunt & Cookout, Kiesel Park

The Miracle League of East Alabama- “Every Child Deserves A Chance to Play Baseball.” West Ridge Park, Opelika. The Miracle League is an organization that provides the opportunity for persons of ALL AGES with cognitive or physical disabilities to play baseball. Giving ability a chance The Billy Hitchcock Miracle Field Complex — the largest of its kind in the country — will serve disabled people of all ages and their families from the East Alabama and West Georgia area. The complex is located alongside the other baseball fields and the playground area at West Ridge Park. The playground includes slides, tunnels, a sandbox and swings — even a tire swing — all completely accessible for the disabled. The baseball field includes a dugout, a handicap-accessible announcers’ box, as well as picnic tables and a pavilion.

Recreation Camps

Easter Seals Camp ASSCA
(256)825-9226; www.campascca.org. Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and mental disabilities. Providing weekend and week long sessions- open year-round. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more.

Camp Newhope & Camp Newsong- (205)877-2224; www.alfoundationforoncology.org/campnewsong.php; A free program open to all grieving children in Alabama. Camp sessions are held at the YMCA Hargis Retreat in Chelsea, Alabama for children ages 6-18.
 

Camp Shocco for the Deaf- 1314 Shocco Springs Road, Talladega, AL. (256) 761-1100;
www.campshocco.org; This camp gives every hearing impaired student, ages 8-high school, an opportunity to have an unforgettable week of fun, games, and spiritual growth. Not only that, they learn the essence of teamwork, while also developing their own unique abilities and talents that can often be overlooked. There is no language barriers, therefore, they are never excluded.

Camp Smile-a-Mile -1-888-500-7920; www.campsam.org; Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin, Al. Year round challenging, recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients, their families as well as young adult survivors from Alabama at no cost. Our purpose is to provide these patients, families and survivors with avenues for fellowship, to help them cope with their disease, and to prepare them for life after cancer.

Camp Sugar Falls & Camp Seale
Harris- (205)402-0415; www.southeasterndiabetes.org. provides our kids with the chance to learn about effective diabetes management, while at the same time allowing them to interact with other children living with this same illness.

Frog Camp- The Autism Society of Alabama. Camp ASCCA, Jackson’s Gap. Ages 6-18 years and their families. Scholarships available.
www.autism-alabama.org

Lakeshore Foundation- (205) 313-7400; www.lakeshore.org; Offers a wide range of fitness, recreation, athletic and education programs to children and adults who experience diagnostic conditions including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, amputation, and visual impairment.

Alabama Resources

ADA Center- Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. (334) 613-3471 (Montgomery office); (205) 290-4540 (Birmingham office); (800) 205-9986 (Alabama’s Toll Free Hotline for ADA Information); www.rehab.state.al.us/ada
DBTAC - Southeast ADA Center; 1419 Mayson Street, Atlanta, GA 30324; (800) 949-4232; www.sedbtac.org

Alabama’s Early Intervention System Birth through 2- Department of Rehabilitation Services/ Division of Early Intervention- Montgomery, Al. (800) 543-3098; www.rehab.alabama.gov/ei

Blind or Visually Impaired, Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind-
www.AIDB.org

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind- Mobile , AL; (251) 432-7777
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services-Montgomery, AL; (334) 281-8780

Career & Technical Education - Alabama State Department of Education- Montgomery, AL; (334) 242-9111; www.alsde.edu/

Children with Disabilities: Ages 3 through 5- Contact Special Education. Transition Services/ Special Education Services -Alabama

State Department of Education- Montgomery, AL; (334) 242-8114 ; www.alsde.edu

Developmental Disabilities -Alabama Department of Mental Health-Montgomery, Al. (334) 242-3107 or (334) 242-3701; www.mh.alabama.gov/
 

Developmental Disabilities Council-Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities -Montgomery, AL .(800) 232-2158; http://acdd.org
 

Governor’s Office on Disabilities- Montgomery , AL. (334) 353-0353 or (888) 879-3582

Mental Health Rep. for Children/Youth- Office of Children’s Services/ Alabama Department of Mental Health-Montgomery, AL. (334) 353-7110; www.mh.alabama.gov

Protection and Advocacy- Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP)-The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL. (800) 826-1675 ; www.adap.net

Respite Care- is temporary short-term relief for caregivers of individuals with special needs such as: developmental and physical disabilities or other chronic illnesses that are related to health concerns, medical fragility, or for those at risk of abuse and neglect.

Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network-Anniston, AL; (256-237-3683) http://alabamarespite.org
Birmingham, AL (205)991-0927; 1-866-RESTALA ; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Special Education Services- Alabama Department of Education- Montgomery, Al. (800) 392-8020; www.alsde.edu/

Special Format Library- Alabama Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. 6030 Monticello Drive , Montgomery, AL 36130-6000; (800) 392-5671; http://statelibrary.alabama.gov/

Special Health Care Needs - Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services/ Children’s Rehabilitation Service- Montgomery , AL;
(800) 441-7607 ; www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs

Technology- STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response for Alabamians with Disabilities)-Montgomery, AL; (800) 782-7656 ; www.rehab.alabama.gov/star

The American Speech - Language-Hearing Association- is committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. http://www.asha.org/public/

University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities- Civitan International Research Center-University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham, AL 35294-0021; (800) 822-2472; www.circ.uab.edu

Vocational Rehabilitation- Department of Rehabilitation Services- Montgomery, Al. (334) 281-8780; www.rehab.alabama.gov/vrs

Career and Technical Education- Montgomery, Al. (334) 242-9111; www.alsde.edu/

Disability-Specific Organizations

Asthma & Allergies- Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America. 800-727-8462, www.aafa.org

Attention Deficit Disorder-To identify an ADD group in your state or locality, contact either: Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). (800) 233-4050 (Voice mail to request information packet); www.chadd.org

Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)- (800) 939-1019; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ;
www.add.org
 

Autism- Autism Society of Alabama- 4217 Dolly Ridge Road; Birmingham, AL 35243; (877) 4-AUTISM; (205) 951-1364; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; www.autism-alabama.org

Blind/Visual Impairments- American Foundation for the Blind- (800) 232-5463; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; www.afb.org

Cerebral Palsy- United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham- (800) 654-4483; www.ucpbham.com

Down Syndrome- Down Syndrome Alabama- Birmingham; (205)988-0810; www.downsyndromealabama.org

Epilepsy- Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama-
Mobile, AL- (800) 626-1582; www.epilepsyfoundation.org/

Food Allergies- The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network- www.foodallergy.org; October 1-FAAN Walk for Food Allergies. Brook Run Park (Dunwoody), 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Atlanta, Ga. 9:00am. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Head Injury-Alabama Head Injury Foundation- Hoover, AL. (800) 433-8002 ; www.ahif.org

Intellectual & Developmental

Disabilities- The Arc of Alabama, Inc., Montgomery, AL. (866) 243-9557 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; www.thearcofalabama.com

Learning Disabilities -Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama-Montgomery, AL. (334) 277-9151; www.ldaal.org

Mental Health- NAMI Alabama-Montgomery, AL. (800) 626-4199; www.namialabama.org

Speech and Hearing- Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama; (256) 325-8885; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it www.alabamashaa.org

Spina Bifida- Spina Bifida Association of Alabama- Madison, Al. (256) 325-8600;
www.sbaofal.org

Tourette Syndrome-Tourette Syndrome Association Mid-South Regional Office-Auburn, AL .(334) 502-0055; http://tsa-usa.org/TSANatlLocal/Chapters/Midsouth.htm

United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Inc.- Mobile, AL. (888) 630-7102; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; www.ucp.org/ucp_local.cfm/160

Organizations for Parents

Exceptional Parent Magazine-
www.eparent.com; Publishes monthly magazine for parents of children with disabilities and professionals providing services to children and families.
 

Family Voices of Alabama- encourage families to develop individual partnerships with their children’s care providers, and to look for opportunities to impact systems change by working collaboratively with the many agencies in the state that care about services for children and youth with special needs. Susan Colburn (334) 293-7041; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; www.familyvoices.org

FighterMom™ is a program for any mom who not only cares for a child with a demanding disease or health condition, but who wants to get organized to defeat that condition by raising money, winning publicity, working with researchers, and making her case in Washington. www.fightermom.org
 

Food Allergy Support Group of East Alabama - www.foodallergysupporteastal.org; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

May Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders- Pathways Educational Series: Guiding families after an autism diagnosis. 6298 Veterans Pkwy, Suite 9B. Columbus, Ga. 706-571-7771. This FREE education series runs for eight consecutive weeks. Meetings last 90 minutes. Childcare is provided. The first four weeks are designed for parents of children newly diagnoses with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The second four weeks are designed for parents struggling to manage problem behaviors at home.

Parent to Parent USA- provide emotional and informational support to families of children who have special needs most notably by matching parents seeking support with an experienced, trained ‘Support Parent’. www.p2pusa.org

Parent Training and Information Center / Early Intervention Family Alliance - Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)- Wetumpka, AL (866) 532-7660 www.alabamaparentcenter.com

Partners in Policymaking- Partners in Policymaking of Alabama- Montgomery, AL. (800) 846-3735; http://acdd.orgThe Epilepsy

Foundation Parents Website- www.epilepsyandmychild.org/

The Sibling Support Project- a national effort dedicated to the life-long concerns of brothers and sisters of people who have special health, developmental, or mental health concerns. www.siblingsupport.org