Helpful Links
The following is a list of local and national resources our members may find helpful in supporting individuals with special needs.
National Catholic Education White Paper on Inclusion
Click below to listen to Bishop Johnston’s interview with Soren Petro as he was broadcasting live from our 2018 Play with FIRE Golf Tournament on Sports Radio 810
Local Resources
Cap4Kids is the Children’s Advocacy Project of Kansas City. Within this site you will find a user-friendly, comprehensive listing of many social service agencies that exist to improve the lives of families that need our help the most.
Challenger Football League is about the entire experience and transforming disabilities into abilities and achievements. With the assistance of Football Buddies, Challenger players will run, wheel, throw, catch, and score as in all football games. Even though no score is kept, and this is a non-competitive environment, it is extremely exciting and fulfilling for all!
Children’s TLC has been the premier preschool for children with disabilities in the Kansas City area for over 60 years. Our agency is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency providing educational and therapeutic services on a non-discriminatory basis.
Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (DESE) oversees special education, vocational rehabilitation, and independent living programs.
Going to College contains information about living college life with a disability. It’s designed for high school students and provides video clips, activities and additional resources that can help you get a head start in planning for college.
Heartstrings Community Foundation is an organization that assist adults with developmental disabilities to develop vocational skills, develop adult friendships in the community and live self fulfilling and productive lives.
Joshua Center for Neurological Disorders is a vital resource for both children and adults who are affected by Asperger Syndrome, Tourette Syndrome, High-functioning Autism, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar, Pervasive Developmental Disorder and other associated neurological disorders.
Lee Ann Britain Infant Development Center is a community outreach program of Shawnee Mission Medical Center provides vital support for children facing developmental disabilities. The center offers advanced therapy techniques to children, while providing support for the whole family.
Marian Hope Children’s Learning Center provides a nurturing environment where children feel safe and loved. Marian Hope Center offers a plethora of classes and services for the array of differential learners and learning diagnoses, including: autism spectrum disorders, childhood apraxia & other speech disorders, Down syndrome & other genetic disorders, dyslexia & other reading disorders, the varying specific language & learning disabilities, feeding disorders, sensory integration disorders, & motor disorders.
Special Olympics Missouri provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with mental disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.
Think College is designed to share what is currently going on, provide resources and strategies, let you know about training events, and give you ways to talk to others. The information is for transition aged students as well as adults attending or planning for college. It provides resources and tools for students, families, and professionals.
Maryville University — College for Students with Disabilities: A Guide for Students, Families, and Educators
Additional Resources:
Renters Rights for People with Disabilities
Managing Your Child’s Transition to Adulthood
Guide to Remodeling a Home for Adults with Special Needs
Special Needs Checklist: How Disability-Friendly is Your City?
Vocational Training for Adults with Special Needs