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Accessibility and Special Needs Resources

The Special Needs Resource Fair, hosted annually by the Forsyth County Public Library, brings families or individuals with special needs together with local services offering resources to assist and enrich the lives of those living with special needs.  Please enjoy the presentations from the 2020 Virtual Special Needs Resource Fair.

Government Agencies

Babies Can’t Wait

Tel: 770-531-4053
https://www.bcw-bibs.com/

Babies Can’t Wait is Georgia's statewide interagency service delivery system for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and their families.

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

Tel: 877-217-4462
https://dbhdd.georgia.gov

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is a state agency committed to helping Georgia’s citizen find behavioral health, developmental disability, and hospital services.

Forsyth County Health Department

Tel: 770-781-6900
http://www.forsythhd.com/

Part of the Georgia Department of Public Health, their mission is to help in preventing disease, injury and disability; promoting health and well-being; and preparing for and responding to disasters from a health perspective.

Forsyth County Schools Special Education Department

Tel: 770-887-2461
https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/page/659

Forsyth County Schools’ special education programs are founded upon the belief that all children are capable of learning and being successful in school experiences which are designed to develop academic, social, emotional, behavioral, and independence skills for active participation in their community.

Forsyth County Senior Services

Tel: 770-781-2178
http://forsythco.com/departments-offices/senior-services

Forsyth County Senior Services' mission is to be the focal point where older adults gather for services and activities that respond to their diverse needs and interests, enhance their dignity, support their independence, and encourage their involvement in their community.

Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office

Email: SOcommrelations@forsythco.com
http://www.forsythsheriff.org/communications

The Community Relations Unit serves to promote safety and education to the citizens and businesses of Forsyth County and is a vital component of the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. The FCSO Community Relations Unit is responsible for coordinating and delivering special classes and programs that work to educate the community and to better build the relationship between the community and the Sheriff’s Office.

Georgia Disaster Information for Special Needs

http://www.georgiadisaster.info/General%20Public/specialneeds.html

In the event of a disaster, you may have to take additional steps to protect yourself and your family in an emergency. This resource offers some specific disaster response considerations for persons with various disabilities and special needs.

Georgia Cares

Tel: 1-866-552-4464 opt 4
https://mygeorgiacares.org

GeorgiaCares is a public-private partnership, administered by the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Aging Services (DAS). GeorgiaCares provides free, unbiased and factual information and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers with health and drug plans. GeorgiaCares is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Georgia.

Georgia Crisis Line

Tel: 1-800-715-4225
App: My GCAL – allows call, text, or chat
https://www.georgiacollaborative.com/providers/georgia-crisis-and-access-line-gcal

GCAL is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to help you or someone you care for in a crisis. GCAL professionals will:

  • Provide telephonic crisis intervention services
  • Dispatch mobile crisis teams
  • Assist individuals in finding an open crisis or detox bed across the State
  • Link individuals with urgent appointment services

In addition, GCAL will help you to access a State Funded provider in your area in a non-emergency as well.

Georgia DHR Division of Aging Services

Tel: 404-657-5258 / 866-552-4464 x2
https://aging.georgia.gov/

The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Aging Services (DAS) supports the larger goals of DHS by assisting older individuals, at-risk adults, persons with disabilities, their families and caregivers to achieve safe, healthy, independent and self-reliant lives.

Georgia Emergency Preparedness Coalition

Tel: 866-552-4464 opt 4
https://ada.georgia.gov/helpful-resources/emergency-preparedness

The Georgia Emergency Preparedness Coalition for Individuals with Disabilities and Older Adults (Coalition) is a key component in statewide preparedness efforts. It consists of stake-holder agencies throughout Georgia.

Health Insurance Premium Payment Program (HIPP)

Tel: 678-564-1162 x2131
https://medicaid.georgia.gov/third-party-liability/health-insurance-premium-payment-program-hipp

Georgia Medicaid members who are employed may be eligible for health insurance premium assistance through a Medicaid program called the Health Insurance Premium Payment Program (HIPP).

Medicaid

Tel: 877-423-4746
https://medicaid.georgia.gov

Medical Assistance Plans is the largest Division within DCH. It administers the Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids® programs which provides health care for children, pregnant women, and people who are aging, blind and/or disabled.

Medicare

Tel: 800-633-4227
https://www.medicare.gov

Medicare is a health insurance program for: 

  • People age 65 or older.
  • People under age 65 with certain disabilities.
  • People of all ages with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant).

Peachcare for Kids

Tel: 877-427-3224
https://dch.georgia.gov/peachcare-kids

A comprehensive health care program for uninsured children living in Georgia. The health benefits include primary, preventive, specialist, dental care and vision care. PeachCare for Kids also covers hospitalization, emergency room services, prescription medications and mental health care.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Tel: 800-772-1213
https://www.ssa.gov/ssi

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes).  It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income and provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

Vocational Rehabilitation Service

Tel: 866-489-0001
https://gvs.georgia.gov/locations/cumming-vr-office

The Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency operates five integrated and interdependent statutory programs that share a primary goal - to help people with disabilities to become fully productive members of society by achieving independence and meaningful employment. The largest of the programs are Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program, Disability Adjudication Services, and Roosevelt Warm Springs/Cave Spring Center. Two other unique programs serve consumers with visual impairments: the Business Enterprise Program and Georgia Industries for the Blind.

Senior Services

Disability Resource Center

Tel: 770-534-6656
https://disabilityresourcecenter.org

DRC is a private, nonprofit organization designed to increase independence, access, and equal rights for everyone through the empowerment of people with disabilities. We are a part of a national network of over 400 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the United States created to assist and empower persons with disabilities.

Forsyth County Senior Services


Tel: 770-781-2178
https://www.forsythco.com/Departments-Offices/Senior-Services

Forsyth County Senior Services' mission is to be the focal point where older adults gather for services and activities that respond to their diverse needs and interests, enhance their dignity, support their independence, and encourage their involvement in their community.

Georgia Cares

Tel: 1-866-552-4464 opt 4
https://mygeorgiacares.org

GeorgiaCares is a public-private partnership, administered by the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Aging Services (DAS). GeorgiaCares provides free, unbiased and factual information and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers with health and drug plans. GeorgiaCares is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Georgia.

Georgia DHR Division of Aging Services

Tel: 404-657-5258
866-552-4464 x2
https://aging.georgia.gov/

The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Aging Services (DAS) supports the larger goals of DHS by assisting older individuals, at-risk adults, persons with disabilities, their families and caregivers to achieve safe, healthy, independent and self-reliant lives.

Georgia Emergency Preparedness Coalition

https://ada.georgia.gov/helpful-resources/emergency-preparedness

The Georgia Emergency Preparedness Coalition for Individuals with Disabilities and Older Adults (Coalition) is a key component in statewide preparedness efforts. It consists of stake-holder agencies throughout Georgia.

Georgia Memory Net

https://gamemorynet.org/resource_category/educational-resources/?menu=patient

This is a collection of information related to many aspects of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias. Materials include education for patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and anyone seeking knowledge, awareness, and support.

Legacy Link Area Agency on Aging

Tel: 770-538-2650
https://www.legacylink.org

Our mission as your area agency on aging is to foster an environment which enhances and facilitates independence and quality of life of older individuals and the community.

Suicide Hotline

Call or Text: 988
https://988lifeline.org

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

Crisis Services

Avita Community Partners

Tel: 678-374-3840
https://www.gamtns.org

Avita Community Partners is a resource for individuals and families in northeast Georgia experiencing the disabling effects of mental illness, developmental disabilities, and addictive diseases. Our goal is to assist in the development of safe, stable, meaningful lives for all.

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

Tel: 877-217-4462
https://dbhdd.georgia.gov

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is a state agency committed to helping Georgia’s citizen find behavioral health, developmental disability, and hospital services.

Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office

Email: SOcommrelations@forsythco.com
http://www.forsythsheriff.org/communications

The Community Relations Unit serves to promote safety and education to the citizens and businesses of Forsyth County and is a vital component of the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. The FCSO Community Relations Unit is responsible for coordinating and delivering special classes and programs that work to educate the community and to better build the relationship between the community and the Sheriff’s Office.

Georgia Disaster Information for Special Needs

http://www.georgiadisaster.info/General%20Public/specialneeds.html

In the event of a disaster, you may have to take additional steps to protect yourself and your family in an emergency. This resource offers some specific disaster response considerations for persons with various disabilities and special needs.

Georgia Crisis Line

Tel: 1-800-715-4225
App: My GCAL – allows call, text, or chat
https://www.georgiacollaborative.com/providers/georgia-crisis-and-access-line-gcal

GCAL is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to help you or someone you care for in a crisis. GCAL professionals will:

  • Provide telephonic crisis intervention services
  • Dispatch mobile crisis teams
  • Assist individuals in finding an open crisis or detox bed across the State
  • Link individuals with urgent appointment services

In addition, GCAL will help you to access a State Funded provider in your area in a non-emergency as well.

Georgia Emergency Preparedness Coalition

https://ada.georgia.gov/helpful-resources/emergency-preparedness

The Georgia Emergency Preparedness Coalition for Individuals with Disabilities and Older Adults (Coalition) is a key component in statewide preparedness efforts. It consists of stake-holder agencies throughout Georgia.

Suicide Hotline

Call or Text: 988
https://988lifeline.org

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

Teen Health and Wellness

https://teenhealthandwellness.com/static/hotlines

Teen Health & Wellness: Real Life, Real Answers is for educational purposes only. This website contains a list of hotlines, help lines, and information lines, organized by subject. These national organizations can also refer you to state and local services in your community.

Deaf/Hard of Hearing Services

Babies Can’t Wait

Tel: 770-531-4053
https://www.bcw-bibs.com/

Babies Can’t Wait is Georgia's statewide interagency service delivery system for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and their families.

Disability Resource Center

Tel: 770-534-6656
https://disabilityresourcecenter.org

DRC is a private, nonprofit organization designed to increase independence, access, and equal rights for everyone through the empowerment of people with disabilities. We are a part of a national network of over 400 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the United States created to assist and empower persons with disabilities.

Georgia School for the Deaf

Tel: 800-497-3371 / 678-710-8966 vid phone
https://www.gsdweb.org

The Georgia School for the Deaf offers high quality educational and extracurricular activities that prepare its graduates for further academic, social, and career success. This is achieved in a fully-accessible American Sign Language (ASL)/English bilingual environment, which recognizes ASL users as a distinct cultural and linguistic group. This fosters a positive self-acceptance and self-esteem, affording each student the ability to effectively navigate the world they encounter beyond their K-12 experience. As part of this lifelong learning philosophy, all staff and students consistently strive to improve their use of both ASL and written English.

Blind/Low Vision Services

Babies Can’t Wait

Tel: 770-531-4053
https://www.bcw-bibs.com/

Babies Can’t Wait is Georgia's statewide interagency service delivery system for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and their families.

Disability Resource Center

Tel: 770-534-6656
https://disabilityresourcecenter.org

DRC is a private, nonprofit organization designed to increase independence, access, and equal rights for everyone through the empowerment of people with disabilities. We are a part of a national network of over 400 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the United States created to assist and empower persons with disabilities.

Georgia Academy for the Blind

Tel: 478-751-6083
https://www.gabmacon.org/

The staff at Georgia Academy for the Blind is comprised of a team of professionals providing instruction in multiple areas for total immersion. Wrap-around services for instructional support, fine arts, athletics, work-based learning, assistive technology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, orientation and mobility skills, and expanded core curriculum skills, all work together for the transition to college and career readiness and high school graduation.  At the Georgia Academy for the Blind, we are ALL committed to providing instruction and independent living skills to establish each student’s highest level of independence. 

Georgia Library Service for the Blind & Print Disabled (GLS)


Tel: 404-657-1452
https://gls.georgialibraries.org

Through the Georgia Library Service for the Blind & Print Disabled (GLS), Georgia Public Library Service provides library services for individuals who are blind and to those whose physical abilities require the use of books and magazines in audio format or in braille. Services are delivered through a network including two walk-in locations and a central distribution center.

Recreation Resources

Alternative Baseball

Tel: 770-313-1762
https://www.alternativebaseball.org

Alternative Baseball provides an authentic baseball experience for teens and adults (ages 15+) with autism and other disabilities for physical and social skills enrichment in life on and off the baseball diamond. In Alternative Baseball, games are played using professional league rules.

Aerie Experiences

Tel: 404-285-0467
https://aerieexperiences.com

Aerie Experiences is based just north of Atlanta, Georgia and serves children and families from across the Southeast and the United States. Aerie focuses on children, individuals and families navigating Aspergers, High Functioning Autism, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Neurobiological Disorders and other special needs.  Summer camp expeditions take place in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Social Adventure groups take place north of Atlanta at Chattahoochee River National Park. Teen Respite Weekends and Family Weekends take place in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. The day camp program take place in Johns Creek, Georgia.

FOCUS

Tel: 770-234-9111
https://focus-ga.org

FOCUS began in 1983 when two medically fragile children shared a hospital room. These children had no specific diagnosis, and their parents had little support or resources. Together, these parents founded FOCUS to help others find comfort, information, and hope. Through the years, FOCUS expanded to offer multiple programs to children, teens, and young adults with disabilities—AND to their families.

Forsyth County Parks and Recreation - Therapeutic Recreation

Tel: 678-455-8540
https://parks.forsythco.com/programs/therapeutic-recreation

Forsyth County Parks & Recreation Department offers therapeutic recreation programs for individuals with specific needs in order to develop leisure and recreation skills, enhance socialization, independence and overall quality of life.

Forsyth County Senior Services

Tel: 770-781-2178
https://www.forsythco.com/Departments-Offices/Senior-Services

Forsyth County Senior Services' mission is to be the focal point where older adults gather for services and activities that respond to their diverse needs and interests, enhance their dignity, support their independence, and encourage their involvement in their community.

Lekotek of Georgia

Tel: 404-633-3430
https://www.lekotekga.org/index.html

Our vision is a world where children with disabilities are included and empowered through play. Our mission is to facilitate the inclusion of children with disabilities into their families, schools and communities by providing accessible play, adapted toys, technology, information and resources.

Miracle League of Cumming/Forsyth County

https://www.miracleleaguecfc.com

The Miracle League of Cumming-Forsyth provides physically and mentally challenged children and adults a safe and spirited program in which they can hit, run, and catch on a baseball field – just like other kids. Miracle League offers a unique and memorable opportunity these children would not otherwise have.

Special Olympics Forsyth County

https://soforsyth.com

Special Olympics is the world’s largest sports organization for people with intellectual & physical disabilities with ~4.6 million Athletes in 170 countries.

The Mission is provide year-round sports, training, and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children & adults with intellectual disabilities.

The Goal of Special Olympics is to help persons with intellectual disabilities participate as productive and respected members of society.

Mental Illness Resources

Avita Community Partners

Tel: 678-374-3840
https://www.gamtns.org

Avita Community Partners is a resource for individuals and families in northeast Georgia experiencing the disabling effects of mental illness, developmental disabilities, and addictive diseases. Our goal is to assist in the development of safe, stable, meaningful lives for all.

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

Tel: 877-217-4462
https://dbhdd.georgia.gov

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is a state agency committed to helping Georgia’s citizen find behavioral health, developmental disability, and hospital services.

Georgia Crisis Line

Tel: 1-800-715-4225
App: My GCAL – allows call, text, or chat
https://www.georgiacollaborative.com/providers/georgia-crisis-and-access-line-gcal

GCAL is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to help you or someone you care for in a crisis. GCAL professionals will:

  • Provide telephonic crisis intervention services
  • Dispatch mobile crisis teams
  • Assist individuals in finding an open crisis or detox bed across the State
  • Link individuals with urgent appointment services

In addition, GCAL will help you to access a State Funded provider in your area in a non-emergency as well.

National Alliance on Mental Illness

Tel: 770-234-0855
https://namiga.org

The mission of NAMI Georgia is to empower affiliates to create communities where all affected by mental illnesses find hope, help, and acceptance through support, education, and advocacy.

Teen Health and Wellness

https://teenhealthandwellness.com/static/hotlines

Teen Health & Wellness: Real Life, Real Answers is for educational purposes only. This website contains a list of hotlines, help lines, and information lines, organized by subject. These national organizations can also refer you to state and local services in your community.

Suicide Hotline

Call or Text: 988
https://988lifeline.org

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

Support Services Resources

Avita Community Partners

Tel: 678-374-3840
https://www.gamtns.org

Avita Community Partners is a resource for individuals and families in northeast Georgia experiencing the disabling effects of mental illness, developmental disabilities, and addictive diseases. Our goal is to assist in the development of safe, stable, meaningful lives for all.

Babies Can’t Wait

Tel: 770-531-4053
https://www.bcw-bibs.com/

Babies Can’t Wait is Georgia's statewide interagency service delivery system for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and their families.

Brightstone Transitions

Tel: 802-345-1983
http://brightstonetransitions.com

Brightstone is an individualized, young adult transitional program, located in Gainesville, Ga.  We are not a campus or facility, but rather a community integrated, coaching and mentoring model serving neurodiverse young men and women ages 18 to 30.

Coast to Coast Discount Prescription Card

Tel: 800-931-8872
https://www.coast2coastrx.com

Coast2CoastRx Card is a free prescription coupon card provided by community governments. Cardholders save on both brand name and generic drugs.

Creative Enterprises

Tel: 678-894-8960
https://www.creativeenterprises.org/about

Incorporated as a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) Community Rehabilitation Program in 1979, we provide employment opportunities along with social and life skills training to individuals with disabilities. This is accomplished through on and off-site work training, job placement assistance, educational programs and community involvement events; along with a variety of additional resources.

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

Tel: 877-217-4462
https://dbhdd.georgia.gov

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is a state agency committed to helping Georgia’s citizen find behavioral health, developmental disability, and hospital services.

Disability Resource Center

Tel: 770-534-6656
https://disabilityresourcecenter.org

DRC is a private, nonprofit organization designed to increase independence, access, and equal rights for everyone through the empowerment of people with disabilities. We are a part of a national network of over 400 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the United States created to assist and empower persons with disabilities.

FOCUS

Tel: 770-234-9111
https://focus-ga.org

FOCUS began in 1983 when two medically fragile children shared a hospital room. These children had no specific diagnosis, and their parents had little support or resources. Together, these parents founded FOCUS to help others find comfort, information, and hope. Through the years, FOCUS expanded to offer multiple programs to children, teens, and young adults with disabilities—AND to their families.

FODAC

Tel: 770-491-9014
https://www.fodac.org

FODAC’s mission is to provide durable medical equipment (DME) such as wheelchairs and hospital beds at little or no cost to individuals with disabilities and their families. We seek to enhance the quality of life for people of all ages who have any type of illness or physical disability. Since 1986, FODAC has collected and distributed more than 50,000 wheelchairs!

Food Allergy Kids of Atlanta

Tel: 404-512-7983
https://www.foodallergykidsatl.org

Food Allergy Kids of Atlanta (FAKA) is a nonprofit organization guided by medical professionals, experts, advocates, and parents. We help create safer environments for individuals affected by food allergies, empower our members, support vulnerable populations, and help advance food allergy research.

Forsyth County Health Department

Tel: 770-781-6900
http://www.forsythhd.com/

Part of the Georgia Department of Public Health, their mission is to help in preventing disease, injury and disability; promoting health and well-being; and preparing for and responding to disasters from a health perspective.

Forsyth County Schools Special Education Department

Tel: 770-887-2461
https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/page/659

Forsyth County Schools’ special education programs are founded upon the belief that all children are capable of learning and being successful in school experiences which are designed to develop academic, social, emotional, behavioral, and independence skills for active participation in their community.

Forsyth County Senior Services

Tel: 770-781-2178
https://www.forsythco.com/Departments-Offices/Senior-Services

Forsyth County Senior Services' mission is to be the focal point where older adults gather for services and activities that respond to their diverse needs and interests, enhance their dignity, support their independence, and encourage their involvement in their community.

Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office

Email: SOcommrelations@forsythco.com
http://www.forsythsheriff.org/communications

The Community Relations Unit serves to promote safety and education to the citizens and businesses of Forsyth County and is a vital component of the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. The FCSO Community Relations Unit is responsible for coordinating and delivering special classes and programs that work to educate the community and to better build the relationship between the community and the Sheriff’s Office.

Forsyth Autism and Special Needs Support Group

https://powerupforsyth.com

Our purpose as a group is to connect the parents, grandparents, or other caregivers of children or adults with special needs. We want to network resources, ideas and insight. We are here to share and learn from each other. We are also here to encourage each other. We want you to know the word “HOPE”.

Georgia Advocacy Office

Tel: 800-537-2329
http://thegao.org

GAO’s Mission: To organize our resources and follow our values and legal mandates in ways which substantially increase the number of people who are voluntarily standing beside and for people in Georgia who have significant disabilities and mental illness.

Georgia Cares

Tel: 1-866-552-4464 opt 4
https://mygeorgiacares.org

GeorgiaCares is a public-private partnership, administered by the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Aging Services (DAS). GeorgiaCares provides free, unbiased and factual information and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers with health and drug plans. GeorgiaCares is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Georgia.

Georgia Crisis Line

Tel: 1-800-715-4225
App: My GCAL – allows call, text, or chat
https://www.georgiacollaborative.com/providers/georgia-crisis-and-access-line-gcal

GCAL is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to help you or someone you care for in a crisis. GCAL professionals will:

  • Provide telephonic crisis intervention services
  • Dispatch mobile crisis teams
  • Assist individuals in finding an open crisis or detox bed across the State
  • Link individuals with urgent appointment services

In addition, GCAL will help you to access a State Funded provider in your area in a non-emergency as well.

International Dyslexia Association Georgia

Tel: 404-256-1232
https://ga.dyslexiaida.org

The International Dyslexia Association Georgia Branch is here to serve the needs of families, educators, and professionals concerned with struggling readers. IDA Georgia is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals living with dyslexia, a learning difference that affects up to 20% of the U.S. population, as well as their families and the communities that support them. Our goal is to provide essential evidence-based research information about assessment, diagnosis, resources, and appropriate educational intervention. We offer information and referral, community outreach events, professional education conferences, and teacher training opportunities to increase public awareness and remediation of dyslexia.

National Alliance on Mental Illness

Tel: 770-234-0855
https://namiga.org

The mission of NAMI Georgia is to empower affiliates to create communities where all affected by mental illnesses find hope, help, and acceptance through support, education and advocacy.

Parent to Parent

Tel: 800-229-2038
https://www.p2pga.org

Our Vision: To be the source of choice for support, information, education, and leadership development for Georgians with disabilities or special health care needs, ages birth to 26, and their families.

Quality Care for Children

Tel: 877-255-4254
https://www.qualitycareforchildren.org

For 40 years, Quality Care for Children's mission has been to ensure Georgia’s infants and young children reach their full potential by helping:

  • Child care programs provide nutritious meals and educational care to young children so they are ready for success in school.
  • Parents access quality child care so that they can attend college or succeed in the workplace.

SISU

Tel: 404-256-1232
https://www.mysisu.org

SISU (formerly Challenged Child and Friends) offers an integrated learning environment where children from 6 weeks to 6 years with special needs learn and interact alongside their typically developing peers.  We believe in fostering a courageous approach to life nurturing every child to reach his or her full potential. There is a unique spark in every child pushing him or her to accomplish more than ever dreamed possible.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Tel: 800-772-1213
https://www.ssa.gov/ssi

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes).  It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income and provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

Suicide Hotline

Call or Text: 988
https://988lifeline.org

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

Talk About Curing Autism (TACA)

https://tacanow.org/local-chapters/southeast/georgia

TACA Georgia holds Autism Learning Seminars, Coffee Talks, and family events throughout the year. Our seminars feature educational speakers on important topics for ASD families. Our Coffee Talks and family events provide more settings where families can informally network, share resources and speak with seasoned parents.

Teen Health and Wellness

https://teenhealthandwellness.com/static/hotlines

Teen Health & Wellness: Real Life, Real Answers is for educational purposes only. This website contains a list of hotlines, help lines, and information lines, organized by subject. These national organizations can also refer you to state and local services in your community.

Tools for Life

Tel: 404-894-0541
https://gatfl.gatech.edu/index.php

Tools for Life, Georgia's Assistive Technology Act Program, is dedicated to increasing access to and acquisition of assistive technology (AT) devices and services for Georgians of all ages and disabilities so they can live, learn, work, and play independently and with greater freedom in communities of their choice.

Understood.org

https://www.understood.org

We’re dedicated to growing and shaping a world where everyone who learns and thinks differently feels supported at home, at school, and at work; a world where people with all types of disabilities have the opportunity to enjoy meaningful careers; a world where more communities embrace differences.

United Way of Forsyth County

Tel: 770-781-4110
https://www.unitedwayforsyth.com

The stability and strength of our community depends on our ability to meet people’s needs and to encourage their self-sufficiency.  The scope of problems such as substance abuse, illiteracy, and homelessness is so great that no one agency can solve them alone.  Through UWFC, we can mobilize many individuals, agencies, and resources to tackle some of our community’s toughest problems.

Vocational Rehabilitation Service

Tel: 866-489-0001
https://gvs.georgia.gov/locations/cumming-vr-office

The Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency operates five integrated and interdependent statutory programs that share a primary goal - to help people with disabilities to become fully productive members of society by achieving independence and meaningful employment. The largest of the programs are Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program, Disability Adjudication Services, and Roosevelt Warm Springs/Cave Spring Center. Two other unique programs serve consumers with visual impairments: the Business Enterprise Program and Georgia Industries for the Blind.

Educational Resources

Alexsander Academy

Tel: 770-777-0475
https://alexsanderacademy.org

Alexsander Academy is a fully-accredited and specialized school designed to engage children with learning differences and special needs in ways that encourage academic success and social and emotional independence. 

Brightstone Transitions

Tel: 802-345-1983
http://brightstonetransitions.com

Brightstone is an individualized, young adult transitional program, located in Gainesville, Ga.  We are not a campus or facility, but rather a community integrated, coaching and mentoring model serving neurodiverse young men and women ages 18 to 30.

Creative Enterprises

Tel: 678-894-8960
https://www.creativeenterprises.org/about

Incorporated as a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) Community Rehabilitation Program in 1979, we provide Employment opportunities along with social and life skills training to individuals with disabilities. This is accomplished through on and off-site work training, job placement assistance, educational programs and community involvement events; along with a variety of additional resources.

Disability Resource Center

Tel: 770-534-6656
https://disabilityresourcecenter.org

DRC is a private, nonprofit organization designed to increase independence, access, and equal rights for everyone through the empowerment of people with disabilities. We are a part of a national network of over 400 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the United States created to assist and empower persons with disabilities.

FOCUS

Tel: 770-234-9111
https://focus-ga.org

FOCUS began in 1983 when two medically fragile children shared a hospital room. These children had no specific diagnosis, and their parents had little support or resources. Together, these parents founded FOCUS to help others find comfort, information, and hope. Through the years, FOCUS expanded to offer multiple programs to children, teens, and young adults with disabilities—AND to their families.

Food Allergy Kids of Atlanta

Tel: 404-512-7983
https://www.foodallergykidsatl.org

Food Allergy Kids of Atlanta (FAKA) is a nonprofit organization guided by medical professionals, experts, advocates, and parents. We help create safer environments for individuals affected by food allergies, empower our members, support vulnerable populations, and help advance food allergy research.

Forsyth County Health Department

Tel: 770-781-6900
http://www.forsythhd.com/

Part of the Georgia Department of Public Health, their mission is to help in preventing disease, injury, and disability; promoting health and well-being; and preparing for and responding to disasters from a health perspective.

Forsyth County Schools Special Education Department

Tel: 770-887-2461
https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/page/659

Forsyth County Schools’ special education programs are founded upon the belief that all children are capable of learning and being successful in school experiences which are designed to develop academic, social, emotional, behavioral, and independence skills for active participation in their community.

Georgia Academy for the Blind

Tel: 478-751-6083
https://www.gabmacon.org/

The staff at Georgia Academy for the Blind is comprised of a team of professionals providing instruction in multiple areas for total immersion. Wrap-around services for instructional support, fine arts, athletics, work-based learning, assistive technology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, orientation and mobility skills, and expanded core curriculum skills, all work together for the transition to college and career readiness and high school graduation.  At the Georgia Academy for the Blind, we are ALL committed to providing instruction and independent living skills to establish each student’s highest level of independence. 

International Dyslexia Association Georgia

Tel: 404-256-1232
https://ga.dyslexiaida.org

The International Dyslexia Association Georgia Branch is here to serve the needs of families, educators, and professionals concerned with struggling readers. IDA Georgia is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals living with dyslexia, a learning difference that affects up to 20% of the U.S. population, as well as their families and the communities that support them. Our goal is to provide essential evidence-based research information about assessment, diagnosis, resources, and appropriate educational intervention. We offer information and referral, community outreach events, professional education conferences, and teacher training opportunities to increase public awareness and remediation of dyslexia.

Jacob’s Ladder School

Tel: 770-998-1017
https://www.jacobsladdercenter.com

Jacob’s Ladder is a fully accredited Pre-K thru 12th grade non-profit, private school with our Compass program serving adults with different abilities in gaining executive and vocational skills. Our brain-based approach allows students to work at their highest challenge points while enjoying our 15-acre campus.

SISU

Tel: 404-256-1232
https://www.mysisu.org

SISU(formerly Challenged Child and Friends) offers an integrated learning environment where children from 6 weeks to 6 years with special needs learn and interact alongside their typically developing peers.  We believe in fostering a courageous approach to life nurturing every child to reach his or her full potential. There is a unique spark in every child pushing him or her to accomplish more than ever dreamed possible.

The Cottage School

Tel: 770-641-8688
https://cottageschool.org

Building a sense of self for students with special learning needs through academic and experiential programming, The Cottage School prepares individuals for fulfillment of their true potential as confident, productive, and independent adults.

Accessibility Resources

Caroline’s Cart

http://www.carolinescart.com

Caroline’s Cart was created for special needs individuals. It provides caregivers a viable option to transport a special needs individual through a store while shopping, without the impossible task of having to maneuver a wheelchair and a traditional shopping cart at the same time.

Disability Resource Center

Tel: 770-534-6656
https://disabilityresourcecenter.org

DRC is a private, nonprofit organization designed to increase independence, access, and equal rights for everyone through the empowerment of people with disabilities. We are a part of a national network of over 400 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the United States created to assist and empower persons with disabilities.

FOCUS

Tel: 770-234-9111
https://focus-ga.org

FOCUS began in 1983 when two medically fragile children shared a hospital room. These children had no specific diagnosis, and their parents had little support or resources. Together, these parents founded FOCUS to help others find comfort, information, and hope. Through the years, FOCUS expanded to offer multiple programs to children, teens, and young adults with disabilities—AND to their families.

FODAC

Tel: 770-491-9014
https://www.fodac.org

FODAC’s mission is to provide durable medical equipment (DME) such as wheelchairs and hospital beds at little or no cost to individuals with disabilities and their families. We seek to enhance the quality of life for people of all ages who have any type of illness or physical disability. Since 1986, FODAC has collected and distributed more than 50,000 wheelchairs!