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Special Needs

 

Families with children that have special needs face unique challenges. In overcoming those challenges, exceptional children and their parents show optimism and deterination that is inspiring to all. Many resources are available in Mecklenburg and surrounding counties, including support groups, educational resources and adaptive sports programs.

Our 2007-2008 Special Needs Resource Guide below contains a comprehensive list of service providers and organizations dedicated to the advancement of children with learning disabilities and physical limitations.

Find out more in our Feature articles or by searching our Archives for Features, Category "Special Needs."

 
    

Special Needs Resource Guide for Children and Family Support

Local/Regional

Allegro Foundation

6600 Kirkstall Court
Charlotte, NC 28226

704-412-5229

www.allegrofoundation.net

A nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization that combines movement instruction with educational and medical expertise, creating a new vehicle to teach children with disabilities and enhance their quality of life. Services are provided to individuals with mental retardation, Down syndrome, orthopedic challenges (wheelchairs and walkers), cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, individuals with learning disabilities, children at-risk, and children with cancer.

Arc of Mecklenburg County, Inc.

2824 N. Davidson Street, Charlotte, NC 28205

(704) 332-4535

www.arcmeck.org

A volunteer advocacy organization funded through The United Way, memberships and contributions. Provides an information and referral service. Works with other private, public and professional organizations through volunteer committees to enhance the lives of people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. No fee for services.

Arc Of North Carolina

343 E. Six Forks Road Suite 320, Raleigh, NC 27609

(800) 662-8706

www.arcnc.org

The Arc of North Carolina is committed to securing for all people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work, and play. These services are designed to assist people with developmental disabilities live successful, meaningful lives. The Arc of North Carolina is an affiliated chapter of The Arc of the United States.

Arc of NC LIFE Guardianship Program

http://www.arcnc.org/services/life_guardianship/index_txt.shtml

Guardianship services for people with developmental disabilities. Services are provided with funds from the Department of Human Resources of North Carolina. Services for fee are also available.

Autism Services of Mecklenburg (ASMC)

5200 Park Rd., Suite 213, Charlotte, NC 28209

(704) 525-6772

www.asmcinc.com

ASMC provides a variety of residential and community based services for adults and children with autism and related communication handicaps and other developmental disabilities. Community based services are available in Mecklenburg County, Gaston, Lincoln, and Cleveland Counties, and the Piedmont Mental Health region (Cabarrus, Rowan, Stanly, and Union Counties).

Autism Society Of North Carolina

505 Oberlin Road Suite 230, Raleigh, NC 27605

(919) 743-0204

(800) 442-2762

http://www.autismsociety-nc.org/

The Autism Society of North Carolina is committed to providing support and promoting opportunities which enhance the lives of individuals within the autism spectrum and their families. The Autism Society of North Carolina strives to create a community where people within the autism spectrum and their families receive respect, services, and supports based on individual differences, needs, and preferences.

Boy Scouts of America

1410 E. 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204

(704) 333-5471

http://www.mccscouting.org/

A variety of programs for boys, including boys with disabilities, and a co-ed program.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools Programs

for Preschoolers with Disabilities and Exceptional Children

700 E. Stonewall Street, Suite 404, Charlotte, NC 28202

(980) 343-6960

http://www.cms.k12.nc.us/departments/exceptionalChildren/

Provides special education services to eligible preschoolers ages 3 and 4, as well as those 5 year olds who are not eligible for kindergarten. Eligibility evaluations are conducted primarily by the local Developmental Evaluation Center at the Carlton Watkins Center. Special education and related services are provided in a variety of locations throughout the county, including day care centers, private preschools, homes, some school sites and private agency center sites. TEACCH affiliated classes are available for preschoolers identified with autism.

Council For Children’s Rights

601 East 5th Street Suite 510, Charlotte, NC 28202

(704) 372-7961

www.cfcrights.org

The Council for Children’s Rights is an effective, non-profit agency dedicated to protecting the rights of our community’s children by representing children, their needs and their issues by providing a unified, comprehensive continuum of advocacy and legal services for children’s issues.

Down Syndrome Association of Charlotte

P. O. Box 34787, Charlotte, NC 28234

704/536 2163

http://dsacnc.org

Provides information to parents, professionals, and the public about Down syndrome, resources, etc.; supports families through information exchange and monthly meetings and outreach to new parents of children with Down syndrome.

Exceptional Children's Assistance Center (ECAC)

907 Barra Row, Suites 102/103, Davidson, NC 28036

(704) 892 1321

(800) 962-6817 Parent Info Line

www.ecac-parentcenter.org

A Parent Training & Information Center serving families of children birth through 21 with special needs. Services include individual assistance with educational issues, parent education workshops, a quarterly newsletter, lending library, and parent-to-parent support. No fee.

Family Support Network of Mecklenburg County

3500 Ellington St., Charlotte, NC 28211

(704) 336-7173

www.fsnmc.org

Parent-to-parent support and information for families of children with or at risk for developmental delays. Trained volunteer support parents provide emotional support and information from someone who's "been there." Weekly support meetings offered. Family Support Network is a local affiliate of Family Support Network North Carolina.  Local and National resources available.  Call for more information.

Genetics & Down Syndrome Clinic

Carolinas Medical Center

1100 Blythe Blvd./PO Box 32861, Charlotte, NC 28232

(704) 355-3159

Provides genetic evaluations, genetic counseling and laboratory testing for a variety of conditions associated with developmental disabilities. Provides information and education to assist families in understanding their child's condition and makes referrals to community programs, agencies and parent groups. Insurance, Medicaid and Children's Special Health Services (CSHS) accepted. Sliding scale possible with prior arrangement. Provides comprehensive team evaluation for children and adults with Down Syndrome.

Girl Scouts Hornet's Nest Council

7007 Idlewild Road, Charlotte, NC 28212

(704) 537-7974

www.hngirlscouts.org

Many programs and activities for girls, including girls with disabilities.

Governor's Advocacy Council for Persons with Disabilities

2113 Cameron Street, Bryan Building, Raleigh, NC 27605

(800) 821-6922

(888) 235-5535 TTY

http://www.gacpd.com/

Offers technical assistance in the legal rights of the disabled, reasonable accommodation, employment promotion; the arts and organizational development; client advocacy; administrative/legislative advocacy; administrative and legislative change; a disability hotline for Social Security Disability or SSI (1-800-772-1213); and is authorized by law to investigate the complaints of and pursue remedies on behalf of citizens with disabilities or parents of children with special needs. Staff members investigate complaints regarding: individual human and civil rights violations in the community and in institutional settings, human services delivery, educational services delivery, physical/ architectural accessibility, employment of people with disabilities in the public or private sector. No fee.

Governor Morehead Preschool Satellite Program

4401 Colwick Rd. Suite 504, Charlotte, NC  28211

704-947-1963

704-366-5093

http://www.ncoes.net/gms_preschool.shtml

The Governor Morehead Preschool (GMP) provides community-based early intervention and preschool services to children ages birth through five years with diagnosed visual impairments. Services are provided in collaboration with a variety of other agencies and interventionists to ensure that each child's unique and individual needs across all areas of development are being addressed.

Head Start

Bethlehem Center

2702 Norfolk Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203

(704) 333-0203

www.bethlehemcenter.org

A federally funded child development program for children 3-5 whose family income meets federal poverty guidelines. At least 10% of the enrollment are children with disabilities. Provides screening in speech, hearing, vision and dental needs, transportation, meals and snacks for all enrolled children. Children with special needs receive a variety of services including: speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, special education (provided by the Preschool Exceptional Children's Program of Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools) and mental health services per the child's IEP.

Learning Disabilities Association of Charlotte

P.O. Box 49306, Charlotte, NC 28277

(704) 542-0470

www.ldac.org

A non-profit, volunteer organization of parents and professionals working to increase public awareness and parent understanding of learning disabilities and ADD. Monthly speakers, in-depth workshops, a quarterly newsletter, a directory of local services and a 4-week academic summer program for K-8 students with LD/ADD. Monthly meetings are free. Registration fee for Saturday workshops.

Leisure and Recreation

Adaptive Sports and Adventure Program

Carolina Rehabilitation

1100 Blythe Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203

(704) 355-1062

www.carolinasrehabilitation.org

Offers a variety of programs and activities for physically challenged children and adults. Includes such things as wheelchair basketball, fishing, quad rugby, white water rafting, tennis, canoeing, kayaking, power soccer, sailing, water skiing, hand cycling, jet skiing, educational and social outings, and Winners on Wheels (a scouting type activity for youth who use wheelchairs). Many activities are free; some have fees.

LifeSpan Services (Various Locations)

LifeSpanEnrichment Clanton Road

200 Clanton Road, Charlotte, NC 28217

(704) 944-5100

LifeSpan Education Services Charlotte

601 North Graham Street, Charlotte 28202

(704) 333-7107

LifeSpan Enrichment Kalynn Street

3127 Kalynne Street, Charlotte, NC 28208

(704) 393-5916

LifeSpan Enrichment Providence Road

Elizabeth Lee Senior Center, Providence United Methodist Church

2810 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28211

(704) 367-0499

www.lifespanservices.org

The Afternoon Enrichment Program: Educational and enrichment activities to children and adults M-F at locations throughout Charlotte from 2:30-6 p.m. A full-day schedule is offered during school workdays and minor holidays. Other educational services: CMS, Pre-School Inclusion Services, Developmental Day Services, Vocational Training Programs. Many more services for children and families available.

Little Stars Support Group

(704) 877-3751

lknlittlestars@yahoo.com

Little Stars is a group of parents networking to share information on special needs parenting and resources.  This group is not disability or age specific. 

Metrolina Association for the Blind

704 Louise Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204

(704) 372-3870

www.mabnc.org

A private North Carolina non-profit agency that has provided services to blind and visually impaired people since 1934. A member of the United Way since 1938, MABNC provides rehabilitation and accessible Braille services.

Muscular Dystrophy Association

5950 Fairview Rd., Suite 320, Charlotte, NC 28210

(704) 567-2912

www.mda.org

MDA is a national, non-profit organization working to find effective treatments and cures for over 40 neuromuscular diseases.  In addition to funding over 200 international research projects every year, MDA provides local services to those with neuromuscular diseases and their families.  These services include support groups, educational seminars, aid in the purchase of durable medical equipment, summer camps for youngsters and multi-disciplinary clinics.  Please call for more information.

NC Division of Services for the Blind Technology Resource Center

305 Ashe Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27606

(800) 846-5860

Adaptive equipment for large-print, speech and Braille access. Includes: scanners, closed circuit TV's, note takers and laptop computers with Braille and voice output. Training in use is made available to eligible individuals.

NC Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped

N.C. Department of Cultural Resources

State Library of North Carolina

1811 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27635

(919) 733-4376 TDD

(888) 388-2460

www.statelibrary.dcr.state.nc.us/lbph/lbph.htm

Provides books and magazines in large print, Braille or tape to people whose visual loss or other physical disability keep them from accessing regular printed materials. No fee for services.

NC Lions Foundation

PO Box 39, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673

(800) 662-7401

http://www.nclf.org/

Provides recreational opportunities for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, including Camp Dogwood at Lake Norman and a fishing tournament at Nags Head. Call Services for the Blind in Mecklenburg for info.

Preschool Services

Dr. Carlton G. Watkins Center

3500 Ellington Street, Charlotte, NC 28211

(704) 336-7100

www.ncei.org

To help preschool children birth to 3 years and their families who are at high risk for developmental delays to grow and develop. Services Provided: assessments, treatment, case management, consultation/education, inclusion training and inclusion aides for eligible children in regular daycare/preschool. Fees charged for some services based on a sliding fee scale.

Programs for Accessible Living (PAL)

5801 Executive Center Drive Suite 101, Charlotte, NC 28212

(704) 537-0550 (V or TDD)

http://www.paladvocates.org/

Provides information and referral, peer counseling, independent living skills training, and individual and systems advocacy for people with all types of disabilities. Provides consultation and training on ADA at a fee-for-service (no fees charged to people with disabilities).

Special Olympics North Carolina

2400 Park Road, Suite B, Charlotte, NC 28203

(800) 358-6276

(704) 358-1935

www.sonc.net

Volunteer committee effort to provide training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with mental retardation, including: soccer, bocce, bowling, golf, roller-skating, tennis, figure and speed skating, basketball, skiing, softball, power lifting, track and field, aquatics, motor activities, volleyball and equestrian.

Spectrum Developmental Services

11816 Churchfield Lane, Charlotte, NC 28277

(704) 969-2575

http://www.spectrumdevelopmental.com/

Spectrum Developmental Services is committed to providing quality services to our clients and their families by incorporating behavioral methodologies with an emphasis on a positive approach to assist each individual to achieve his/her maximum potential while encouraging trust, respect, individual choice, and the need for autonomy.

Support Works

500 East Morehead St. Suite 222, Charlotte, NC 28202

(704) 331-9500

www.supportworks.org

Support Works helps people find and form support groups and research medical information.

TADPOLE

205 G West E. Street, Butler, NC 27509

(888) 288-7948

www.tadpole.org

Generations-Tadpole Assistive Technology Lending Library lends and delivers low-tech assistive technology devices, adaptive toys and equipment, adaptive leisure and recreational items, supplemental educational material and computer software.  Our inventory is FREE to consumers, families and support professionals within the state of North Carolina.  Anyone working with individuals meeting the criteria is eligible to borrow items and receive free shipping.  The loan period for registered borrowers is three weeks.  United Parcel Service provides door-to door pick up and delivery to specified residential, school and business addresses. 

The NC Assistive Technology Project

1200 Blythe Blvd., The Rankin Building, Charlotte, NC 28203

(704) 566-2899 (voice/TTY)

http://www.fullcirclecare.org/index.shtml

http://www.fullcirclecare.org/resources/disabilityresources/ncatp.htm

Services: Demonstration center for assistive technology devices, including augmentative/ alternative communication, activities of daily living, toys, vision and hearing, job accommodation, recreation/leisure, mobility aids and computer access. Technical assistance, training and awareness activities, information and referral, resource library, statewide bulletin board for people with disabilities. No fee for services.

Therapeutic Recreation Division

Mecklenburg Co. Park and Recreation

2219 Tyvola Road, Charlotte, NC 28210

(704) 527-0237

www.parkandrec.com

Offers Little League, Bowling, Beep Ball and over 250 recreational programs for residents with a disability within Mecklenburg Co. Programs vary from competitive sports, skill development and social skills to many programs designed for particular events, themes or just good old-fashioned fun! All the Therapeutic Recreation programs are held throughout the community, utilizing the recreation facilities and parks owned and operated by Mecklenburg Co. Park and Recreation, as well as commercial facilities.

United Cerebral Palsy Development Center

716 Marsh Road, Charlotte, NC 28209

(704) 522-9912

An inclusive school for children, ages 1 through 5, with cerebral palsy or similar neurological handicapping conditions, using a developmental approach and reverse mainstreaming. Parent training is offered to families through a parent support group that meets monthly. Children's families are charged a fee based on ability to pay for children up to the 3rd birthday. After the third birthday, children's services during the school year are funded through the local school system.

United Way Information and Referral Services

301 South Brevard Street, Charlotte, NC 28202

1-866-744-7778

http://www.uwcentralcarolinas.org/

An information and referral line through the United Way for any type of need. No fee.

National/Websites

AAIDD

444 North Capitol St. NW, Suite 846, Washington, D.C. 20001

(800) 424-3688

www.aamr.org

AAID promotes progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

Down syndrome information network

http://information.downsed.org/

The Down Syndrome Network aims to provide high quality, comprehensive information resources, and communication and collaboration services to support and inform families, facilitate collaboration and communication, and to enhance public understanding of Down syndrome.

Information and Referral Line

(800) 897-7494

A non-crisis resource line dedicated to providing accurate information and insight for today's mental health community.

National Association for Down Syndrome

P.O. Box 206 Wilmette, IL 60091

(630) 325-9112

www.nads.org

NADS’s mission is to ensure that all persons with Down syndrome have the opportunity to achieve their potential in all aspects of community life.  NADS offers information, support, and advocacy.

Search Beyond Adventures

(800) 800-9979

www.searchbeyond.com

Not a local resource, but worth including. Offers over 150 tours for persons of all ability levels year round. Trips available by bus, air, Amtrak, cruise ship, sailboat and canoe! Customized and wheelchair accessible tours available. Call for brochure. Fees vary.

Social Security Disability Hotline

(800) 772-1213

www.ssa.gov

Trips, Inc.

PO Box 10885, Eugene, OR 97440

(800) 686-1013

http://www.tripsinc.com/

Travel agency offering a variety of tours designed for people with disabilities in the US and Europe. Fees vary according to tour chosen.


Charlotte Mecklenburg School Programs

CMS offers an education for exceptional children. For a full list of CMS inclusion schools, click here on the link below.

CMS inclusion schools

 

 

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