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 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
Many 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) to improve the 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. It 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.
Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access
The Center is dedicated to making environments and products more usable, safer, and healthier in response to the needs of an increasingly diverse population.
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.
FREEDOM Resource Center
Our mission is to work toward equality and inclusion for people with disabilities through 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. The Center 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)
MCIL is dedicated to the full promotion of the Independent Living philosophy by supporting individuals with disabilities in their efforts to pursue self-directed lives.
Minnesota Association of Centers for Independent Living
The Association is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to advocate for the independent living needs of people with disabilities. We develop and identify resources to help people live 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 and 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 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
The Southeastern Minnesota Center for Independent Living, Inc., which was founded in 1981, is a nonprofit 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
The Southwestern Center for Independent Living is a private, nonprofit, consumer-controlled, non-residential, community-based organization whose direction is determined by and for people with disabilities.
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 in Minnesota
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 it. This guide helps the many residents of Minnesota struggling with substance abuse and addiction find affordable treatment that will put them on the path to recovery. It works to inform the general public about the dangers of substance abuse in Minnesota.
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
Accessing supports for seniors and people with disabilities
This resource Connects youth and young adults with disabilities and their families to community resources in Hennepin County. Works to empower them to strengthen advocacy skills to navigate their life plan.
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
AAPD is 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 to fully implement and enforce 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; and 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 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 at risk for kidney disease. The Fund educates kidney patients, families, and the general public about kidney disease 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, nonprofit amputee consumer educational organization representing people who have experienced amputation or are born with limb differences.
Arc Minnesota
The Arc Minnesota is a private, nonprofit, statewide voluntary organization dedicated to ensuring people with developmental disabilities participate fully in their communities.
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
Chartered in 1971 as a chapter of the Autism Society of America, the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) is an organization of families, educators, caregivers, and professionals committed to supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
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 nonprofit 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
The Foundation is a 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.
Huntington’s Disease Society of America
The Society is a national nonprofit voluntary health agency dedicated to finding a cure for Huntington’s Disease (HD). We provide support, information, and educational services to improve the lives of those affected by HD; offer 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 America 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 causes of congenital disabilities, promote newborn screening, and educate medical professionals and the public about best practices for a healthy pregnancy.
Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance
The Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a better future through brain injury prevention, research, education, and advocacy.
Minnesota Olmstead Implementation Office
The Minnesota Olmstead Implementation Office (OIO) is a team of people who work with the Olmstead Subcabinet. The OIO team has two main jobs: (1) They track the State’s progress on the Olmstead Plan goals and report the results to the Olmstead Subcabinet and the public. (2) They help people with disabilities, their families, and supporters to give ideas about how to make the Olmstead Plan better.
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 Health, Physical Activity and Disability
The National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD) is a public health practice and resource center on health promotion for people with disability. NCHPAD seeks to help people with disability and other chronic health conditions achieve health benefits through increased participation in all types of physical and social activities, including fitness and aquatic activities, recreational and sports programs, adaptive equipment usage, and more.
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 multiple sclerosis (MS) research, offers services for people with MS, provides professional education programs, and furthers MS advocacy efforts.
Neurofibromatosis Network
The Neurofibromatosis Network is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and was founded in 1988 by a group of people who were in some way affected by neurofibromatosis (NF). We are the leading national organization advocating for federal funding for NF research and building and supporting NF communities. The NF Network’s goal is to eradicate the health issues, pain, isolation and uncertainty that the diagnosis of NF inflicts.
Rainbow Health
For nearly 40 years we have been advocating for and serving the LGBTQ+ community, those living with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), and all folks facing barriers to equitable healthcare.
Spina Bifida Association
The Spina Bifida Association of America (SBAA) serves 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’s mission is to advance the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of people with disabilities through an affiliate network.
Americans with Disabilities Act
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 electronic and information technology.
Accessible Technology Index – ADA.gov
Section of the ADA.gov site related to digital accessibility. It 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.
ADA Minnesota
ADA Minnesota (ADA MN) 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.”
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. The Center provides guidance on the ADA and accessible information technology for the Great Lakes Region: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
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.
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. SEMCIL’s Access Program offers accessibility evaluations, modifications, and modular and temporary ramps for new and existing homes and businesses.
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.
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. The Center provides guidance on the ADA and accessible information technology for the Great Lakes Region: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
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 Vital Living
The Lighthouse Center for Vital Living offers comprehensive training and technology services for individuals with vision loss and other disabilities or challenges to independence. We offer technology instruction specific to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Through our Assistive Technology Library, we can also loan or demonstrate a wide variety of devices. Training services and assessments are offered at our Center, in clients’ homes or workplaces, or remotely. To find out what is possible, call Chris at 218-624-4828 or fill out a referral form.
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 Assistive Technology for All
The System of Technology to Achieve Results Program has developed a site for its loanable devices featuring images of the devices and links to manufacturer websites. The site allows users to create an account, track the history of items they have borrowed, request loans, request demonstrations, and complete surveys.
Minnesota Guide to Assistive Technology
Assistive technology 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.
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 and maintains community collaborative and communication efforts.
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 Center
The Trace Research & Development Center is a part of the College of Information Studies at the University of Maryland. Founded in 1971, Trace has been a pioneer in the field of technology and disability, known for high-impact research and development.
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.
Blind Services
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.
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.
Lighthouse Center for Vital Living
The Lighthouse Center for Vital Living offers comprehensive training and technology services for individuals with vision loss and other disabilities or challenges to independence. We offer technology instruction specific to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Through our Assistive Technology Library, we can also loan or demonstrate a wide variety of devices. Training services and assessments are offered at our Center, in clients’ homes or workplaces, or remotely. To find out what is possible, call Chris at 218-624-4828 or fill out a referral form.
Minnesota State Academy for the Blind
The Minnesota State Academies exist to provide an accessible, standards-based education for students who are blind, including those with additional disabilities for success in an ever-changing world.
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 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 Print Disabled – Library of Congress
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress, administers a free national library program that provides Braille and recorded materials to people who cannot see regular print or handle print materials.
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.
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 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
This division of the 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
The Minnesota State Academies exist to provide an accessible, standards-based education for students who are deaf, including those with additional disabilities for success in an ever-changing world.
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
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.
DeafBlind Services Minnesota
DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM) advances the independence of children and adults with combined hearing and vision loss. The only program of its kind in the country, DBSM brings one-to-one support to deafblind individuals of all ages, throughout Minnesota. Our trained support service providers work with adults, while our interveners teach communication skills to infants, children, and youth.
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.
National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled – Library of Congress
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress, administers a free national library program that provides Braille and recorded materials to people who cannot see regular print or handle print materials.
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 see themselves as part of a larger disability rights movement and connect themselves to other civil and human rights struggles.
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD)
AAIDD promotes progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Arc Minnesota
The Arc Minnesota is a private, nonprofit, statewide voluntary organization dedicated to ensuring people with developmental disabilities participate fully in their communities.
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 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 Office of the Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities 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 provided by trained staff. 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.
Senior Linkage Line
Senior LinkAge Line® is a free telephone information and assistance service that 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 – Benefits for People with Disabilities
The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities.
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)
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
We are 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
The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) understands the many challenges still facing individuals with disabilities and their families. Therefore, 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.
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 US 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.
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 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.
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.
Disability:IN
Disability:IN is the leading nonprofit resource for business disability inclusion worldwide. Our network of over 400 corporations expands opportunities for people with disabilities across enterprises. Our central office and 25 Affiliates serve as the collective voice to effect change for people with disabilities in business.
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 US 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.
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.
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.
Labor Standards – Department of Labor and Industry
The Labor Standards division protects workers’ rights 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
Lifetrack Resources serves three program areas in the Twin Cities area: Rehabilitation Therapies, Early Childhood and Family Services, and Employment Services.
Midwest Special Services, Inc.
We provide vocational and day training services for adults with disabilities in the Twin Cities area, including the Day Training and Habilitation (DT&H) program. Other employment services include job placement and training programs.
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 is a private, nonprofit 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 Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy provides national leadership by developing and influencing disability employment-related policies and practices affecting an increase in the employment of people with disabilities.
Persons with a Disability: Labor Force Characteristics Summary – US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Employment status of the civilian non-institutional population by disability status and occupation.
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.
Health Care
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.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 – Minnesota Department of Health
Information, recommendations, and guidance for the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) from the Minnesota Department of Health.
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.
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.
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.
Minnesota Department of Health
Protecting, maintaining, and improving the health of all Minnesotans.
Partners in Community Supports
An unlicensed service option for people who receive home and community-based services. Consumer-directed community supports provide a person with support, care, and assistance that prevents institutionalization and allows a more inclusive community life.
Sexual Violence Prevention Program
The Minnesota Department of Health and many partners are working together on initiatives and activities as part of the state plan to prevent sexual violence in Minnesota. For more information call 651-201-5410.
Shriner’s Hospital for Children
The Shriner’s Hospital for Children is a leading children’s hospital providing high-quality pediatric orthopedic care.
Special-Care Dental Clinics
The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) operates special-care dental clinics in key regions of the state for patients whose conditions make it difficult for them to obtain dental care from other providers. Patients with developmental and intellectual disabilities, severe and persistent mental illnesses, and traumatic brain injuries are eligible to receive treatment at the clinics.
Housing
Accessible Space, Inc.
Accessible Space provides accessible, affordable housing, supportive living opportunities, and rehabilitation services for adults with physical disabilities and brain injuries. They also offer services for 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.
Housinglink
Housinglink is an online directory of affordable rental housing.
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.
The Boulevard
The Boulevard is a disability resource directory of products and services for people with disabilities, the elderly, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. The site includes information on accessible housing, medical equipment, accessible vehicles, and more.
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.
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 – Facebook
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
National Organization on Disability
The National Organization on Disability is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes the full participation and contributions of America’s 56 million people with disabilities in all aspects of life.
Senior Linkage Line
Senior LinkAge Line® is a free telephone information and assistance service that 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.
World Institute on Disability
The World Institute on Disability is a nonprofit research, public policy, and advocacy center dedicated to promoting the civil rights and full societal inclusion of people with disabilities. The World Institute on Disability’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
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.
LawHelp Minnesota Disability
LawHelp provides legal answers, 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
Legal Aid Services is a nonprofit corporation that provides free legal advice and representation to low-income people who live in Northeastern Minnesota.
Legal Information Institute: Disability Law Information
This site is a database of legal information maintained by Cornell University. The disability section includes a broad overview of ADA and disability policy linked 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
Find Your State Legislator
Find your state and national legislators.
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 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.
Minnesota House of Representatives
The official site of the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Minnesota Senate
The official site of the Minnesota state Senate.
My Bill Tracker
Allows you to create a personalized legislative bill tracker with email notifications.
National Council on Disability
The National Council on Disability (NCD) is an independent federal agency making recommendations to the President and Congress to enhance the quality of life for all Americans with disabilities and their families. NCD is composed of 15 members appointed by the President and confirmed by the US Senate.
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, nonprofit agency established in 1938. It provides comprehensive mental health services to Carlton, Cook, Lake, and southern St. Louis counties.
Mental Health Minnesota
We are a nonprofit agency that responds to the needs of individuals with mental illnesses and their family members. We offer 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.
Office of the Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities
The Office of the Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities 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.”
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 believes that every individual is an independent spiritual being, regardless of ability.
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.
Minnesota Accessible Activities Calendar
This Minnesota Accessible Activities Calendar lists events happening around the state with accessible services or accommodations, such as audio description (AD) for people who are blind or have low vision, American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreting for people who are deaf, captioning for people who are hard of hearing, sensory-friendly accommodations, and artists with disabilities or disability-related topics.
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 Friends is a nonprofit agency that creates unique educational, recreational, and social opportunities for people of all ages with mental and physical developmental disabilities.
We Can Ride, Inc.
We Can Ride is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-based organization whose mission is to connect horses and humans to transform the lives of people with disabilities and meet the evolving needs of our growing community. We Can Ride is a Premier Accredited Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy Center with PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International).
Wilderness Inquiry
Wilderness Inquiry is a nonprofit organization that focuses on getting people from all walks of life to personally experience the natural world. Many trips are especially geared toward individuals with disabilities.
Seniors with Disabilities
Assisted Living in Minnesota
Written by a group of medical professionals, Assisted Living in Minnesota serves 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 contains a set of assisted living guides provided by volunteers designed to help you make informed and educated decisions.
Complete Guide for Veteran Seniors – Aging.com
We serve 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.
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) with 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
The Spinal Cord Society is a large grassroots organization linked by over 200 chapters, a monthly Newsletter, and thousands of members throughout North America and 24 other countries. Its goal is to cure 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 – US 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 US 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.
Persons with a Disability: Labor Force Characteristics Summary – US 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
Center on Knowledge Translation for Disability and Rehabilitation Research
The purpose of the Center on Knowledge Translation for Disability and Rehabilitation Research (KTDRR) is to make it easier to find, understand, and use the results of research that can make a positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities.
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. The Center provides guidance on the ADA and accessible information technology for the Great Lakes Region: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
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 is a nonprofit 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.
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 cannot use regular fixed-route buses due to a disability or health condition.
Metro Transit
Metro Transit is the public transportation provider in the seven-county metro area.
Minnesota Department of Transportation
Our mission is to plan, build, operate and maintain a safe, accessible, efficient and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people to destinations and markets throughout the state, regionally and around the world.
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
Complete Guide for Veteran Seniors – Aging.com
We serve 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.
Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs – Health & Disability
The Minnesota Department 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.
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.
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.