Resources By Topic | Minnesota Council On Disability

Here you will find links to external accessibility resources and other organizations listed by topic. Links to external resources are also listed alphabetically. For information produced by the Minnesota Council on Disability, visit Information and Assistance.

On this page:

Accessibility

Access Board
The Access Board is an independent Federal agency devoted to accessibility for people with disabilities. Created in 1973 to ensure access to federally funded facilities, the Board is now a leading source of information on accessible design. The Board develops and maintains design criteria for the built environment, transit vehicles, telecommunications equipment, and for electronic and information technology.

Access North
Access North is the Center for Independent Living of Northeastern Minnesota. It assists individuals with disabilities to live independently, pursue meaningful goals, and have equal opportunities and choices.

Accessible Medical Diagnostic Equipment
A number of research publications and federal reports document physical access barriers involving medical diagnostic equipment. This factsheet aims to inform health care providers about the laws and technical criteria that apply to accessible medical diagnostic equipment (MDE), in order to improve accessibility of MDE.

Accessible Meetings
Information to make meetings and presentations accessible. Guidelines and resources to help ensure that anyone can effectively participate in your meetings.

Accessible Technology Index – ADA.gov
Section of the ADA.gov site related to digital accessibility. Includes information on court cases related to digital accessibility and the ADA, technical assistance for institutions, additional regulations related to digital accessibility, and other federal accessible technology resources.

ADA.gov
ADA.gov is the official US Department of Justice website providing information and technical assistance on all aspects of the ADA.

Building Access Survey (Word)
This survey book highlights the code requirements of the Accessibility Chapter of the Minnesota State Building Code. It is designed to be used as an independent tool to determine the level of accessibility of an existing commercial building.

Building Access Short Survey (Word)
The Building Access Short Survey identifies the most common areas of a public accommodation that might require readily achievable barrier removal. Please consult the full Building Access Survey on this website for access information not covered by the Short Survey.

Closing The Gap
Closing the Gap provides professionals, parents and consumers with the information and training necessary to best locate, compare and implement assistive technology into the lives of persons with disabilities.

EquipALife
A nonprofit organization that provides access to life-changing equipment for people with disabilities.

FREEDOM Resource Center
Our mission is to work toward equality and inclusion for people with disabilities through programs of empowerment, community education, and systems change.

Great Lakes ADA Center
The Great Lakes ADA Center’s mission is to increase awareness and knowledge with the ultimate goal of achieving voluntary compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Provides guidance on the ADA and accessible information technology for the Great Lakes Region: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

Independent Lifestyles
Regional organization advocating on behalf of persons with disabilities providing social opportunities, PCA programs, and help moving out of nursing homes.

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL)
Dedicated to the full promotion of the Independent Living (IL) philosophy by supporting individuals with disabilities in their personal efforts to pursue self-directed lives.

Minnesota Association of Centers for Independent Living
Non-profit organization whose purpose is to advocate for the independent living needs of people with disabilities who are citizens of the State of Minnesota, to develop new resources, identify and provide access to existing resources which provide the services needed by persons with disabilities so that they may live independently in the situation and community of their choice.

Minnesota STAR Program
STAR informs Minnesotans about issues of assistive technology, opens the door to assistive technology for the citizens of Minnesota through state and federal legislation, works with state agencies and builds/maintains community collaborative and communication efforts.

Office of Accessibility – MN.IT Services
Minnesota state agencies seeking guidance on accessibility requirements can find what they need here. Topics include electronic documents, IT procurement, meetings, multimedia, websites and applications, IT accessibility standards, and social media.

Office of Behavioral Health, Disability, and Aging Policy
The Office of Behavioral Health, Disability, and Aging Policy (BHDAP) focuses on policies and programs that support the independence, productivity, health and well-being, and long-term care needs of people with disabilities, older adults, and people with mental and substance use disorders.

OPTIONS
Interstate Center for Independent Living promotes independence through services. Options offers: Information and Referral, Advocacy, Independent Living Skills, Peer Visiting, Community Education, and Outreach. Options has free loaner equipment for persons in need within the counties they serve.

Southeastern Minnesota Center for Independent Living (SEMCIL)
The Southeastern Minnesota Center for Independent Living, Inc., which was founded in 1981, is a non-profit organization that promotes independence.

SMILES
SMILES Center for Independent Living provides services to individuals with a range of disabilities. Individuals, with disabilities, family members, service providers, community organizations, agencies, and businesses turn to SMILES for information and assistance.

Southwestern Center for Independent Living (SWCIL)
The Southwestern Center for Independent Living (SWCIL) is a private, non-profit, consumer controlled, non-residential, community-based organization whose direction is determined by and for people with disabilities.

VSA Arts Minnesota
VSA Arts of Minnesota promotes quality, accessible arts experiences for people with all types of disabilities. In addition, VSA arts of Minnesota emulates the mission of the VSA arts national & international organization which “Promotes arts, education, and creative expression, involving children and adults with disabilities, thereby strengthening the human spirit and improving the quality of life for all”.

Addiction Recovery

Hazelden Betty Ford
For individuals, families, and communities struggling with addiction to alcohol and other drugs, Hazelden Betty Ford (a nonprofit organization) helps people transform their lives by providing the highest quality treatment and continuing care services, education, research, and publishing products available today.

Help.org – Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers
Help.org exists to empower people with all the resources and tools they need to start or continue on their journey of recovery. Addiction presents unique challenges for everyone, but with the help and support of other people, anyone can overcome.

Vinland Center
Since 1990, Vinland Center has been providing drug and alcohol addiction treatment for individuals with brain injuries and cognitive impairments. Our highly trained staff can meet the needs of individuals with substance addictions, mental health issues, and cognitive impairments.

Advocacy

Alzheimer’s Association – Minnesota and North Dakota Chapter
The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association of Minnesota-North Dakota is to improve the lives of all individuals, families and care partners throughout their journey with Alzheimer’s and related diseases by providing leadership, support, education, advocacy and research.

American Association for People with Disabilities
The largest national nonprofit cross-disability member organization in the United States, dedicated to ensuring economic self-sufficiency and political empowerment for the more than 56 million Americans with disabilities. AAPD works in coalition with other disability organizations for the full implementation and enforcement of disability nondiscrimination laws, particularly the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

American Association on Health and Disability
AAHD’s mission is to support health promotion and wellness initiatives for people with disabilities at the federal, state and local level, reduce the incidence of secondary conditions in people with disabilities, as well as reduce health disparities between people with disabilities and the general population.

American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service.

American Diabetes Association
The mission of the Association is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. To fulfill this mission, the American Diabetes Association funds research, publishes scientific findings, provides information and other services to people with diabetes, their families, health professionals and the public.

American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to reduce disability and death from cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

American Kidney Fund
The American Kidney Fund provides direct financial assistance to kidney patients in need and education for those with and at risk for kidney disease. The Fund educates kidney patients, their families and the general public about kidney disease-and its prevention and treatment.

American Lung Association – Local Offices
Minnesota Chapter of the ALA. The mission of the American Lung Association is to prevent lung disease and promote lung health.

Amputee Coalition of America
The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) is a national, non-profit amputee consumer educational organization representing people who have experienced amputation or are born with limb differences.

Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation is the only national not-for-profit organization that supports the more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions with advocacy, programs, services and research.

Attention Deficit Disorder Association
Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) provides information, resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) lead better lives.

Autism Society of Minnesota
The Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) is an organization of families, educators, care givers, and professionals committed to supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). It was chartered in 1971 as a chapter of the Autism Society of America, the collective voice of the autism community in over 240 chapters nationwide.

Cerebral Palsy Guidance
Cerebral Palsy Guidance was created to provide answers and assistance to parents of children with cerebral palsy. Our goal is to reach as many members of the cerebral palsy community as possible, building up a network of support, as well as providing necessary assistance. We cover cerebral palsy from all angles–from symptoms, causes, and treatment, to daily living information, such as communication and transitioning to adulthood articles.

Children and Youth with Special Health Needs (CYSHN)
Minnesota Children with Special Health Needs (CYSHN) is a public program which seeks to improve the quality of life for children with special health needs and their families.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
The mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is to assure the development of the means to cure and control cystic fibrosis and to improve the quality of life for those with the disease.

Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund
The Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, Inc. (DREDF) is a national law and policy center dedicated to protecting and advancing the civil rights of people with disabilities through legislation, litigation, advocacy, technical assistance, and education and training of attorneys, advocates, persons with disabilities, and parents of children with disabilities.

Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota
The Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota is a non-profit organization focused on enhancing the quality of life of those affected by seizures. The Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota is an affiliate of the national Epilepsy Foundation.

Hemophilia Foundation of Minnesota/Dakotas
Nonprofit organization working to meet the needs and enhance the quality of life for persons who live with hemophilia, related genetic bleeding disorders, and their complications.

Hennepin CTIC
Connects youth/young adults with disabilities and their families to community resources in Hennepin County. Works to empower them to strengthen advocacy skills in order to navigate their life plan.

Huntington’s Disease Society of America
National non-profit voluntary health agency dedicated to finding a cure for Huntington’s Disease. Provides support, information and educational services to improve the lives of those affected by HD, offers resources and guidance for HD families, and promote and support research to find a cure for HD.

Lupus Foundation of America
The Lupus Foundation of Minnesota provides educational materials; offers a source of hope, strength, empowerment and comfort; and supports research focused on finding the cause of and cure for lupus.

March of Dimes
The March of Dimes has led the way to discover the genetic causes of birth defects, to promote newborn screening, and to educate medical professionals and the public about best practices for healthy pregnancy.

Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance
A nonprofit organization dedicating to creating a better future through brain injury prevention, research, education and advocacy.

Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan
The Olmstead Plan is a broad series of key activities our state must accomplish to ensure people with disabilities are living, learning, working, and enjoying life in the most integrated setting. The Plan will help achieve a better Minnesota for all Minnesotans, because it will help Minnesotans with disabilities have the opportunity, both now and in the future to: live close to their family and friends; live more independently; engage in productive employment; and participate in community life.

Muscular Dystrophy Association
The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a voluntary health agency – a dedicated partnership between scientists and concerned citizens aimed at conquering neuromuscular diseases that affect more than a million Americans.

National Ataxia Foundation
The National Ataxia Foundation is a nonprofit, membership-supported organization established in 1957 to help ataxia families. The Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of persons affected by ataxia through support, education, and research.

National Center on Physical Activity and Disability
The mission of the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability (NCPAD) is to promote substantial health benefits that can be gained from participating in regular physical activity.

National Kidney Foundation
The National Kidney Foundation, Inc., a major voluntary health organization, seeks to prevent kidney and urinary tract diseases, improve the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases, and increase the availability of all organs for transplantation.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society supports MS research, offers services for people with MS, provides professional education programs and furthers MS advocacy efforts.

Neurofibromatosis, Inc
NF, Inc. is a national, tax-exempt, charitable organization whose mission is to create a community of support for those affected by NF, through education, advocacy, coalitions, and supporting research for treatments and a cure.

Rainbow Health
Rainbow Health (formerly JustUs Health) envisions a Minnesota where people from diverse gender, sexual, and cultural communities experience health and wellness in powerfully inclusive environments.

Spina Bifida Association
The Spina Bifida Association of America (SBAA) serves the 70,000 adults and children who live with spina bifida. Since 1973, SBAA has served as the nation’s only voluntary health agency dedicated to enhancing the lives of those with spina bifida and those whose lives they touch.

United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is the leading source of information on cerebral palsy and is a pivotal advocate for the rights of persons with any disability. As one of the largest health charities in America, the UCP mission is to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities through an affiliate network.

Americans with Disabilities Act

ADA.gov
ADA.gov is the official US Department of Justice website providing information and technical assistance on all aspects of the ADA.

ADA Minnesota
ADA Minnesota provides Minnesota citizens with disabilities, family members, service providers, businesses, communities, government, universities and colleges assistance in implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act. ADA MN is a program within the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living.

ADA National Network
The ADA National Network provides information, guidance and training on how to implement the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in order to support the mission of the ADA to “assure equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for individuals with disabilities.”

Minnesota Department of Human Rights
The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) is a neutral state agency that investigates charges of illegal discrimination, ensures that businesses seeking state contracts are in compliance with equal opportunity requirements, including the ADA, and strives to eliminate discrimination by educating Minnesotans about their rights and responsibilities under the state Human Rights Act.

Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology – Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute
Assistive Technology (AT) is a crucial part of Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. We believe that through technology intervention all things are possible. Whether you are interested in computer access or a simple talking clock, we have the program to fit your needs.

Assistive Technology Department at Gillette Children’s Hospital
The Assistive Technology Department (ATD) at Gillette Children’s designs and creates customized orthoses (braces), powered wheelchair controls, artificial limbs (prosthetics), augmentative communication devices, protective headgear, custom seating and wheelchair modifications.

AT Lab – SEMCIL
SEMCIL’s AT Lab house’s a variety of vision, mobility, computer and related peripherals, and daily living devices. The program is available to anyone who identifies as having a disability and offers AT lab tours, device demonstrations, short term loans, and assistive technology assessments. For environmental adaptations, SEMCIL’s Access Program offers accessibility evaluations, modifications, and modular and temporary ramps for new and existing homes and business.

Closing the Gap
Focuses on assistive technology for children and adults with special needs through its bi-monthly newspaper, Resource Directory, annual international conference, extensive Web site and on-line service, Solutions.

EquipALife
EquipALife is a nonprofit organization that provides access to life changing equipment for people with disabilities. They create a lifeline to financial assistance, education, information and resources throughout Minnesota. EquipALife helps Minnesotans with disabilities by increasing self-sufficiency at work, home, at school and in the community.

Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. JAN’s consultants offer one-on-one guidance on workplace accommodations, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related legislation, and self-employment and entrepreneurship options for people with disabilities.

Lighthouse Center for Vision Loss
Fostering Independent and Vibrant Lives for Individuals with Vision Loss. Vision loss does not have to stand in the way of the life you want to live – help is available. If you or someone you love has low vision or blindness, know that you are not alone.

Metropolitan Regional Arts Council (MRAC)
MRAC serves audiences in Minnesota’s seven-county metropolitan region through grants, services, and technical assistance to the arts communities of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington counties.

Minnesota Guide to Assistive Technology
Assistive technology (AT) helps people of all ages with disabilities, including older adults with functional needs, increase, maintain, and improve independence at home, school, work, and in their communities. The purpose of this site is to increase awareness of assistive technology and provide information to help with the consideration, selection, and use of assistive technology whenever and wherever it will be used.

Star Technology Exchange Program
The Star Technology exchange program is a free online service for people looking to donate, sell or buy previously owned assistive technology.

Telephone Equipment Distribution (TED) program
The TED Program provides telephone equipment to people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, speech impaired or have a physical disability and need adaptive equipment in order to use the phone. The equipment is loaned out at no cost as a long-term loan. Available equipment include Captel phones, light flashing ring signalers, TTYs, amplified telephones, loud ringers, hands free speakerphones and more.

Trace Research and Development Center
The mission of the Trace Center: “To prevent the barriers and capitalize on the opportunities presented by current and emerging information and telecommunication technologies, in order to create a world that is as accessible and usable as possible for as many people as possible.”

Using Assistive Technology To Succeed At School And Work
Assistive technology promotes greater independence by helping people complete tasks that they could not do on their own, or had great difficulty doing. This page is the gateway for you to learn more about assistive technology and how it can help you, a family member, or coworker, or friend live a more fulfilling life.

American Council of the Blind
The Council serves as a national organization of blind people; elevating the social, economic and cultural levels of blind people; improving educational and rehabilitation facilities and opportunities; cooperating with the public and private institutions and organizations concerned with blind services; encouraging and assisting all blind persons to develop their abilities and conducting a public education program to promote greater understanding of blindness and the capabilities of blind people.

Blind, Inc.
Teaches the skills that blind people need to become independent and employable such as Braille, home management, the use of the white cane, and computers with screen reading software, etc.

Communication Services – SSB
The Communication Center in the Minnesota State Services for the Blind provides books, newspapers, magazines and other printed materials in alternate formats for people who are blind, visually impaired, DeafBlind or who have other disabilities that make it difficult for them to read print. The services help people stay informed, in-touch with their communities, entertained, and to meet their education and employment goals. Services are provided to anyone with a qualifying visual or physical disability.

Minnesota State Academy for the Blind
Includes an online student application, information about the school, and resources for students, parents, and alumni.

Minnesota State Services for the Blind
Provides a variety of resources and services for Minnesotans who are blind or visually impaired.

National Federation of the Blind
The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is the nation’s largest membership organization of blind persons. The purpose of the National Federation of the Blind is two-fold, to help blind persons achieve self-confidence and self-respect and to act as a vehicle for collective self-expression by the blind.

National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
Through a national network of cooperating libraries, National Library Service administers a free library program of braille and audio materials circulated to eligible borrowers in the United States by postage-free mail.

Vision Loss Resources
Vision Loss Resources’ mission is to assist people who are blind or visually impaired in achieving their full potential and to enrich the lives of all persons affected by blindness or vision loss.

Communication

Minnesota Relay
Learn all about the program that provides telecommunications assistance directly to Minnesota’s deaf, hard-of-hearing, speech or mobility impaired citizens. Information on how to participate in these programs.

Deaf Services

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the professional, scientific, and credentialing association for more than 118,000 members and affiliates who are audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists.

Communication Service for the Deaf (CSD)
A private, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing broad-based services, ensuring public accessibility and increasing public awareness of issues affecting deaf and hard of hearing individuals.

Commission of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Minnesotans (MNCDHH)
Information on services, office locations, and resources for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Minnesota Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division – DHS
Department of Human Services provides services and information to help Minnesotans who are deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing and their families.

Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf
Includes an online student application, information about the school, and resources for students, parents, and alumni.

National Association of the Deaf
The mission of the National Association of the Deaf is to promote, protect, and preserve the rights and quality of life of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America.

DeafBlind Services

DeafBlind Services Minnesota
DeafBlind Services Minnesota is dedicated to serving deafblind children, adults, and their families throughout the state of Minnesota. DBSM serves over 100 DeafBlind children and adults and their families each year.

Developmental Disabilities

Advocating Change Together (ACT)
Advocating Change Together (ACT) is a grassroots disability rights organization run by and for people with developmental and other disabilities. ACT’s mission is to help people across disabilities to see themselves as part of a larger disability rights movement and make connections to other civil and human rights struggles.

American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
AAIDD promotes progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Developmental Disabilities Resource Center
The Center’s Mission is to provide leading-edge services that create opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and their families to participate fully in the community.

Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota
It is the mission of the Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota to provide information, resources and support to individuals with Down syndrome, their families and their communities.

Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities
Provides information, education, and training to build knowledge, develop skills, and change attitudes that will lead to increased independence, productivity, self determination, integration and inclusion (IPSII) for people with developmental disabilities and their families.

National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) is a national, member-driven organization consisting of 55 State and Territorial Councils. NACDD places high value on meaningful participation and contribution by Council members and staff of all Member Councils, and we advocate and continually work towards positive system change on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Office of the Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities
The OMHDD is an independent state agency responsible for “[p]romoting the highest attainable standards of treatment, competence, efficiency, and justice for persons receiving services for mental illness, developmental disabilities, chemical dependency, or emotional disturbance in children.”

Digital Accessibility

Refer to our Digital Accessibility page for resources.

Disability Benefits

Disability Benefits 101
Disability Benefits 101 helps people with disabilities learn how income may impact benefits so they can make informed choices, reduce fears, and ensure work is part of the plan. Contact them by phone at 1-866-333-2466. A live chat option is also available.

Disability Hub MN
Disability Hub MN (formerly Disability Linkage Line) is a free statewide resource network that helps people with disabilities solve problems, navigate the system and plan for their future. Discover options and tools for managing health, benefits, work, housing and more.

LinkVet
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) offers the LinkVet call center (formerly Veteran Linkage Line) provided by trained staff. During business hours, MDVA staff will provide information on veterans’ benefits, healthcare, education, and reintegration. The line will roll to Crisis Connection counselors for 24-hour, seven days a week coverage (including holidays) for immediate crisis intervention and psychological counseling. For more information call 1-888-546-5838.

Minnesota Department of Human Services – People with Disabilities
The Minnesota Department of Human Services helps people meet their basic needs by providing or administering health care coverage, economic assistance, and a variety of services for children, people with disabilities and older Minnesotans.

Military Veteran Benefits Options – National Council for Aging Care
From the beginning, we have served as a resource to help seniors and their families learn more about the specifics of planning for their later years. If you’re a veteran approaching retirement age, you should be aware of a host of other resources waiting to assist you as you leave the working world.

Senior Linkage Line
Senior LinkAge Line® is a free telephone information and assistance service, which makes it easy for older adults and their families to find community services. With a single call, people can find particular services near them or get help evaluating their situation to determine what kind of service might be helpful. For more information call 1-800-333-2433.

Social Security Disability
The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. While these two programs are different in many ways, both are administered by the Social Security Administration and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program.

Work Incentives Connection
The Work Incentives Connection is a program of Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota, serving people with all types of disabilities throughout Minnesota. The Connection provides answers about the impact of work on benefits, so that people with disabilities can see their choices and take advantage of life’s opportunities. This includes promoting policy changes that encourage the employment of people with disabilities.

Education

Center for Applied Special Technology
CAST is a nonprofit organization that works to expand learning opportunities for all individuals, especially those with disabilities, through the research and development of innovative, technology-based educational resources and strategies.

Center for Parent Information & Resources
Your central hub of information and products created for the network of Parent Centers serving families of children with disabilities.

Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute
Nationally-known, not-for-profit rehabilitation and resource center for people with physical disabilities, brain injuries, speech or vision impairments, or hearing loss. Comprehensive services include physical rehabilitation, wellness and fitness, aquatics, mental health and family support services, vocational training, driver assessment and training, community living skills and assistive technology, camping and recreational programs among others.

National Center for Learning Disabilities
The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) works to ensure that the nation’s 15 million children, adolescents and adults with learning disabilities have every opportunity to succeed in school, work and life. NCLD provides information to parents, professionals and individuals with learning disabilities, promotes research and programs to foster effective learning, and advocates for policies to protect and strengthen educational rights and opportunities.

Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS)
OSERS is committed to improving results and outcomes for people with disabilities of all ages. OSERS supports programs that serve millions of children, youth and adults with disabilities. OSERS is comprised of the Office of the Assistant Secretary (OAS) and three program components: the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), and the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA).

PACER Center
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. With assistance to individual families, workshops, materials for parents and professionals, and leadership in securing a free and appropriate public education for all children, PACER’s work affects and encourages families in Minnesota and across the nation.

Emergency Preparedness

America’s PrepareAthon!
America’s PrepareAthon! is a grassroots campaign to prepare individuals, organizations, and communities for specific hazards through group discussions, drills, and exercises.

American Red Cross
Official Website of the American Red Cross.

Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery – Minnesota Dept. of Health
The Emergency Preparedness & Response section of the Health Partnerships Division coordinates preparedness activities and assists Minnesota Department of Health staff, local public health agencies, hospitals, health care organizations, tribes and public safety officials in their efforts to plan for, respond to and recover from public health emergencies.

Emergency Preparedness and Response – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CDC works 24/7 to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are chronic or acute, curable or preventable, human error or deliberate attack, CDC fights disease and supports communities and citizens to do the same.

Homeland Security and Emergency Management
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management helps Minnesotans prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters and works to keep Minnesota secure from acts of terrorism.

Influenza (Flu) – CDC
Information on understanding and preventing the spread of flu viruses. From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Official website of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Ready.gov
Launched in February 2003, Ready is a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to emergencies including natural and man-made disasters. The goal of the campaign is to get the public involved and ultimately to increase the level of basic preparedness across the nation.

Employment

ADA.gov – Title I (Employment) Information
Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 prohibits private employers, State and local governments, employment agencies and labor unions from discriminating against qualified individuals with disabilities in job application procedures, hiring, firing, advancement, compensation, job training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.

CareerForce
We’re Minnesota’s career development and talent matching resource. We guide people toward rewarding careers, connect individuals to opportunities and help employers find the workers they need to grow and thrive. (Formerly Vocational Rehabilitation Services)

Disability Benefits 101 (Minnesota)
DB101 helps people with disabilities learn how income may impact benefits so they can make informed choices, reduce fears, and ensure work is part of the plan.

Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN)
Earn supports employment in recruiting, hiring, retaining, and advancing qualified individuals with disabilities through confidential, no cost consultation and technical assistance, customized training, online resources and links to state and local resources.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

Executive Order 14-14, Providing for Increased State Employment for Individuals with Disabilities
Executive Order 14-14 tasks Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) with developing best practices for the recruitment and retention for individuals with disabilities. The strategies developed are to ensure that state employment of individuals with disabilities reaches its goal of 7%.

Great Lakes ADA Center – Employment
The ADA prohibits covered employers from discriminating against individuals with disabilities in the full range of employment-related activities, from recruitment to advancement, to pay and benefits.

Labor Standards – Department of Labor and Industry
Labor Standards protects the rights of workers and educates employers and employees about their rights and responsibilities under Minnesota employment laws. Topics include wage theft, pregnancy and parental leave, nursing mothers, youth rules (including minimum wage), and more.

Lifetrack Resources – Employment Services
Lifetrack helps people with disabilities find and keep valuable employment in the community.

Midwest Special Services, Inc.
Provides vocational and day training services for adults with disabilities in the Twin Cities area. Day Training and Habilitation (DT&H) program is based at five different twin cities locations. Other employment services include job placement and training programs.

Minnesota Business Leadership Network
The Minnesota Business Leadership Network (BLN) is an employer-led endeavor that promotes best employment practices and enhances competitive employment opportunities for skilled candidates with disabilities.

Minnesota Department of Human Rights
The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) is a neutral state agency that investigates charges of illegal discrimination, ensures that businesses seeking state contracts are in compliance with equal opportunity requirements, and strives to eliminate discrimination by educating Minnesotans about their rights and responsibilities under the state Human Rights Act.

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)
DEED facilitates an economic environment to produce jobs and improve the quality of the state’s workforce. These actions support the economic success of Minnesota individuals, businesses, and communities by providing opportunities for growth.

Minnesota Employment Training and Technical Assistance Support Center
The mission of Minnesota Employment Training and Technical Assistance Support Center (MNTAT) is to design and broker state of the art person-centered employment training and technical assistance to increase the participation of all Minnesotans, especially people with disabilities, in the workforce.

National Organization on Disability
The National Organization on Disability (NOD) is a private, non-profit organization that promotes the full participation and contributions of America’s 56 million people with disabilities in all aspects of life.

Office of Disability Employment Policy
The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) provides national leadership by developing and influencing disability employment-related policies and practices affecting an increase in the employment of people with disabilities.

Opportunity Partners
Opportunity Partners provides personalized employment, housing and educational opportunities to 1,300 individuals with developmental disabilities, brain injury, autism and other special needs.

Persons with a Disability: Labor Force Characteristics Summary – U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Employment status of the civilian non-institutional population by disability status and occupation.

Zippia Employment Resource Guide
Information about employment laws, how to interview, and how to finding accommodating companies.

Health Care

Abbott Northwestern Hospital
Abbott Northwestern Hospital is the largest not-for-profit hospital in the Twin Cities area. Each year, the hospital provides comprehensive health care for more than 200,000 patients and their families from the Twin Cities area and throughout the Upper Midwest.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Administers the Medicare program and works in partnership with the states to administer Medicaid, the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), and health insurance portability standards.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Association of Minnesota
Nonprofit organization working to improve the quality of life for persons affected by Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia by promoting public awareness, providing support services and funding medical research.

Emotions Anonymous
Emotions Anonymous is a twelve-step organization, similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. EA members are from many walks of life and are of diverse ages, economic status, social and educational backgrounds. The only requirement for membership is a desire to become well emotionally.

HealthCare.Gov
At Healthcare.gov, the government provides helpful information about health care reform. The site offers help finding insurance options, guidelines on prevention, a web tool for comparing hospitals, and an explanation of health care reform.

Partners in Community Supports (PICS)
An unlicensed service option for people who receive home and community-based services. CDCS provides a person with support, care, and assistance that prevents institutionalization and allows a more inclusive community life.

Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Twin Cities
The Shriner’s Hospitals for Children/Twin Cities is a leading upper Midwest children’s hospital providing high quality pediatric orthopedic care. Located on the east side of the Mississippi River between Minneapolis and St. Paul, the hospital is a short term, 40-bed facility that combines quality medical care with innovative education and research.

St. Mary’s Medical Center (Duluth)
Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center, one of Essentia Health’s many Catholic facilities, is northeastern Minnesota’s largest hospital. St. Mary’s Medical Center’s healing environment combines advanced technology with patient- and family-centered care.

Housing

Accessible Space, Inc.
Provides accessible, affordable housing, supportive living opportunities and rehabilitation services for adults with physical disabilities and brain injuries, as well as seniors.

Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota
ARRM leads the advancement of community-based services that support people with disabilities in their pursuit of meaningful lives. Founded in 1970 by a group of private providers, ARRM is a network of 130 providers supporting over 30,000 people with disabilities.

Center for Universal Design
The Center for Universal Design (CUD) is a national information, technical assistance, and research center that evaluates, develops, and promotes accessible and universal design in housing, commercial and public facilities, outdoor environments, and products.

Human Rights

Minnesota Department of Human Rights
The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) is a neutral state agency that investigates charges of illegal discrimination, ensures that businesses seeking state contracts are in compliance with equal opportunity requirements, and strives to eliminate discrimination by educating Minnesotans about their rights and responsibilities under the state Human Rights Act.

Information and Referral

Access Press
Access Press strives to be the predominant source of independent, comprehensive news and information that enlightens, empowers and improves the quality of life of people living with or associated with all forms of disability throughout the upper Midwest.

AboutAssistedLiving.org
Written by a group of medical professionals, AboutAssistedLiving.org is meant to serve as a resource for anyone looking for information on placing themselves or a loved-one into an assisted living or elder care facility.The site is comprised of a set of assisted living guides provided by volunteers that are designed to help prepare you so you can make an informed and educated decision when it comes to care.

The Boulevard
A disability resource directory of products and services for the physically challenged, elderly, caregivers and healthcare professionals. Includes information on accessible housing, medical equipment, accessible vehicles, and more.

Disability Minnesota
Disability Minnesota provides a single entry point to over 100 Minnesota state agency programs, products, and services that are devoted to the range of disability issues. We also provide access to laws, statutes, and regulations in pertinent disability-related areas.

Disability Viewpoints – CTV
A monthly TV show dedicated to highlighting the abilities of those living with a disability. From the latest in assistive technology to local and national legislative updates.

Inclusion Daily Express
Your quick, once-a-day look at disability rights, self-determination and the movement toward full community inclusion around the world.

Internet Resource for Special Children
The IRSC is a nonprofit website, which has been providing parents, educators, medical professionals, and caregivers with information regarding children with disabilities and other health-related disorders since 1996.

MinnesotaHelp.info
This site is designed for older adults, people with disabilities, caregivers, and families. The network will provide information to individuals, families, and caregivers who need personalized assistance to find and access the long-term care services they need. This service is available free of charge.

Minnesota State Interagency Committee (MnSIC)
Provides information and resources to anyone involved with the design and implementation of an interagency coordinated system for delivering services to children and youth with disabilities ages birth through 21 and their families.

National Health Information Center
The National Health Information Center (NHIC) is a health information referral service. NHIC puts health professionals and consumers who have health questions in touch with those organizations that are best able to provide answers.

Program Resources – Office of Disability Employment Policy
Connection to online resources from the Federal Government for people with disabilities.

World Institute on Disability
The World Institute on Disability (WID) is a nonprofit research, public policy and advocacy center dedicated to promoting the civil rights and full societal inclusion of people with disabilities. WID’s work focuses on four areas: employment and economic development; accessible health care and Personal Assistance Services; inclusive technology design; and international disability and development.

Legal Assistance

LawHelp Minnesota Disability
LawHelpMN.org provides answers to legal questions, contact information for legal aid offices, links to courthouses and local community organizations. Disability topics include ADA, Medicare, Social Security, Workers’ Compensation, and more.

Lawyer Referral Directory
Minnesota State Bar Association Attorney Referral Services

Legal Aid Services of Northeastern Minnesota
Nonprofit corporation that provides free legal advice and representation to low income people who live in Northeastern Minnesota.

Legal Information Institute: Disability Law Information
Database of legal information maintained by Cornell University. Disability section includes broad overview of ADA and disability policy, with links to specific government statutes.

Minnesota Disability Law Center
The Minnesota Disability Law Center (MDLC) addresses the unique legal needs of persons with disabilities. MDLC provides free civil legal assistance to individuals with disabilities on legal issues that are related to their disabilities.

Legislative

2015-2016 Minnesota Legislature Directory (PDF)
Directory of the members of the Minnesota House of Representatives and Minnesota Senate.

Find your State Legislator
Find your state and national legislators as well as links to their websites.

Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
Broad-based coalition of more than 100 organizations of persons with disabilities, providers and advocates, dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities.

Minnesota House of Representatives
The official site of the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Minnesota House of Representatives Information
Provides information about the Minnesota House of Representatives, its members, and laws.

Minnesota Senate
The official site of the Minnesota state Senate.

Minnesota Senate Information
Provides information about the Minnesota Senate, its members, and laws.

My Bill Tracker
Allows you to create a personalized legislative bill tracker with email notifications.

National Council on Disability
An independent federal agency making recommendations to the President and Congress on issues affecting the 54 million Americans with disabilities.

Office of the Revisor of Statutes
Since its founding in 1939, the office has served as the compiler of Minnesota Statutes and is the official publisher of Minnesota Statutes, Laws, and Rules.

Session Weekly
A non-partisan publication reporting on legislative action at the MN House of Representatives.

Mental Health

Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law
The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law is a national legal advocate for people with mental disabilities. Through precedent-setting litigation and in the public policy arena, the Bazelon Center works to advance and preserve the rights of people with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities.

Human Development Center
The Human Development Center (HDC) is a private, non-profit agency established in 1938. It provides comprehensive mental health services to residents of Carlton, Cook, Lake and southern St. Louis counties.

Mental Health Minnesota
Nonprofit agency that responds to the needs of individuals with mental illnesses, and their family members. Offers individual advocacy case services, community support referrals, educational materials, workshops and community presentations, Best Mental Health Practices in the Workplace, suicide prevention training, family support groups, and public policy advocacy.

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) – Minnesota
Minnesota chapter of NAMI – Advocates justice, dignity, and respect for all people affected by mental illness.

Recreation and Sports

Accessible Outdoors – Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR)
Information on access to state parks, trails, and other outdoor resources, as well as hunting and fishing licenses for people with disabilities.

Camphill Village Minnesota
Camphill Village Minnesota is an intentional community of approximately 60 people, including adults with developmental disabilities. The community is based on the belief that every individual, regardless of ability, is an independent spiritual being.

CLIMB Theater Company
An educational touring children’s theatre company based in Minnesota. Performances teach young people to respect each other, themselves, and their environment.

Confidence Learning Center
Confidence Learning Center, often referred to as Camp Confidence, is a year-round center for persons with developmental disabilities. Specializing in recreation and outdoor education, the Confidence Learning Center serves persons of all ages and abilities.

Flying Wheels Travel, Inc
Full service travel agency specializing in travel for people with disabilities since 1970. Serves customers all over the US and provides assistance for travel destinations worldwide.

Special Olympics Minnesota
Special Olympics Minnesota is founded on the belief that people with intellectual disabilities can, with proper instruction and encouragement, learn, enjoy, and benefit from participation in individual and team sports, adapted as necessary to meet the needs of those with intellectual and physical disabilities.

True Friends
True is a non-profit agency that creates unique educational, recreational and social opportunities for people of all ages with mental and physical developmental disabilities.

We Can Ride, Inc.
The We Can Ride program, founded in 1982, offers therapeutic horseback riding and cart driving to disabled children and adults. We Can Ride is an accredited, nonprofit, tax-exempt member of the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA). We Can Ride follows strict operating standards to provide reputable, safe, and enjoyable therapeutic riding.

Wilderness Inquiry
Wilderness Inquiry (WI) is a non-profit organization that focuses on getting people from all walks of life to personally experience the natural world. Many trips are especially geared for individuals with disabilities.

Seniors with Disabilities

Paying for Assisted Living: Financial Assistance for Senior Living
Our goal is to help families find the means to pay for senior care by providing objective information and interactive tools on our ad-free, easy-to-use and comprehensive website.

Veterans Assisted Living Assessment and Benefits – Caring.com
Veterans returning from active duty face a unique set of challenges – especially if they have been injured. Following years of service and the resulting wear and tear on the body and mind, it is not uncommon for veterans to require assistance with activities of daily living. Fortunately for veterans and their caregivers, there are assisted living options that can help make the long-term care process smoother for all involved.

Service Animals

Can Do Canines
Can Do Canines trains and places high-quality assistance dogs for people with disabilities, and provides them free of charge. They train five types of assistance dogs to help with: hearing loss, mobility challenges, seizure disorders, childhood autism and people living with Type 1 diabetes. Can Do Canines is a nonprofit organization that has been in business since 1989 and has trained and placed more than 700 assistance dog teams. For information call 763-331-3000 or learn more at their website.

Helping Paws
Helping Paws is a volunteer-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to further the independence of people with physical disabilities (other than blindness or deafness) through the use of service dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA
Many people with disabilities use a service animal in order to fully participate in everyday life. The Department of Justice answers questions about how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to service animals.

The Fair Housing Act and Assistance Animals
The Fair Housing Act (FHA) is a federal law that prevents discrimination against tenants in their homes. Assistance animals are in a different legal classification than pets who are not assistance animals, which is why pet restrictions and fees are waived for them.

Spinal Cord Injury

Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center
The Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center (PRC), a program of the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation (CRPF), was created in 2002 to provide a comprehensive, national source of information for people living with paralysis and their caregivers to promote health, foster involvement in the community, and improve quality of life.

Paralyzed Veterans of America
The Paralyzed Veterans of America, a congressionally chartered veterans service organization founded in 1946, has developed a unique expertise on a wide variety of issues involving the special needs of our members- veterans of the armed forces who have experienced spinal cord injury or dysfunction.

Spinal Cord Society
SCS is a large grass roots organization linked by over 200 chapters, a monthly Newsletter, and thousands of members throughout North America and 24 other countries. Its goal is cure of spinal cord injury paralysis. It is an organization of the spinal cord injured, their families and friends, and dedicated scientists and physicians who are aiming at the ultimate goal of cure through improved treatment and research.

United Spinal Association
United Spinal Association was founded in 1946 by veterans with spinal cord injuries to help enable members, as well as others with disabilities, to lead full and productive lives.

Statistics

Disability – U.S. Census Bureau
The Census Bureau collects and presents information on a number of disability related statistics.

Explore Census Data
Data.census.gov is the new platform to access data and digital content from the U.S. Census Bureau. The vision for data dissemination through data.census.gov is to improve the customer experience by making data available from one centralized place so that data users spend less time searching for data content and more time using it.

Persons with a Disability: Labor Force Characteristics Summary – U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Employment status of the civilian non-institutional population by disability status and occupation.

World Health Organization – Disabilities
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to ensuring the highest attainable level of health for all people.

World Report on Disability – World Bank
This World Bank Dataset is from the World Report on Disability. It provides estimates of disability prevalence (in percentages) and of years of health lost due to disability (YLD), by country.

Tax Information

Living and Working with Disabilities – IRS (PDF)
This publication presents basic information about existing tax credits and benefits that may be available to qualifying taxpayers with disabilities, parents of children with disabilities, and businesses or other entities wishing to accommodate persons with disabilities.

Tax Credits – DEED
Information on tax credits and deductions for businesses who hire people with disabilities.

Taxpayers with Disabilities – Minnesota Revenue (PDF)
Individuals who are disabled, and those who care for people with disabilities, may have questions about their Minnesota income tax obligations as well as other benefits avaliable in Minnesota. This fact sheet will help to answer questions about tax benefits and how to claim them.

Technical Assistance

Institute on Community Integration
Located at the University of Minnesota, ICI’s mission is to improve the community services and social supports available to individuals with developmental and other disabilities, and their families. Conducts research and provides professional training and technical assistance.

National Association of ADA Coordinators
The National Association of ADA Coordinators (NAADAC) is a non-profit organization founded in 1992 by a group of public and private sector professionals, who saw a need to educate entities regarding both the requirements and the opportunities of the ADA.

National Center for the Dissemination of Disability Research
Large online database with information on a wide array of topics, including assistive technology, employment, technical assistance, and universal design.

National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities
We are the center that provides information to the nation on disabilities in children and youth; programs and services for infants, children, and youth with disabilities; IDEA, the nation’s special education law; No Child Left Behind, the nation’s general education law; and research-based information on effective practices for children with disabilities.

Waisman Center
The Waisman Center is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge about human development, developmental disabilities, and neurodegenerative diseases throughout the lifespan. The center is one of nine national facilities that includes a Mental Retardation Developmental Disabilities Research Center and a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.

Transportation

Center for Transportation Studies – University of Minnesota
The Center for Transportation Studies is the hub for transportation research and education at the University of Minnesota. It supports research in many disciplines, cultivates the transportation workforce, and shares new thinking with various stakeholders and audiences.

Federal Transit Administration – Office of Civil Rights
The Office of Civil Rights is responsible for ensuring public transit providers comply with all nondiscrimination requirements. The office provides technical assistance and training and conducts complaint investigations and onsite compliance reviews to ensure public transit providers fulfill civil rights requirements.

Metro Mobility
Metro Mobility is a shared public transportation service for certified riders who are unable to use regular fixed-route buses due to a disability or health condition. Rides are provided for any purpose.

Metro Transit
The public transportation provider in the seven county metro.

Minnesota Department of Transportation
The Minnesota Department of Transportation has a website dedicated to discussing transit coordination in Minnesota.

Transit in Minnesota – Department of Transportation
Transit provides alternatives to driving alone and allows people to reduce their energy consumption, live independently and participate fully in Minnesota’s communities and economy.

Transportation – Disability Minnesota
Transportation resources provided by Disability Minnesota.

Travel

Refer to our Travel Resources page.

Veterans with Disabilities

Health & Disability – MN Dept. of Veterans Affairs
MN Dept. of Veterans Affairs is responsible for administering and highlighting a number of health and disability-related programs for Minnesota Veterans and their families. These include benefits and services in the areas of disability claims, outreach, dental, optical, special needs, homelessness prevention, and health information.