93 Gooding Avenue Bristol, RI 02809 401-253-8949 401-253-8929 Fax		Links Secretary of State's Office http://www.sec.state.ri.us An excellent source of voter information. Department of Education: Vocational Education for Students with Disabilities http://www.ridoe.net/ Website Excerpts: Rhode Island has a long and proud history of ensuring that people with disabilities of all ages are provided with the support, care, and treatment they need. This has been particularly true for pre-school and school-aged children with disabilities. Rhode Island has had comprehensive and effective special educational programs and services for many years. DLT Labor Market Information http://www.dlt.ri.gov/lmi/jobseeker.htm Website Excerpts: Labor Market Information tailored to your needs as a jobseeker. What jobs are in demand? What jobs are drying up? How much does this job pay? Which industries are expanding or declining? *One-Stop Career Center/netWORKri* http://www.networkri.org/ Website Excerpts: netWORKri is Rhode Island's One-Stop Career Center System. It is a partnership of professional labor, training, and education organizations. There are six netWORKri Centers conveniently located throughout the state where jobseekers and employers are matched through quality employment programs and services. Whether you are a jobseeker looking for just the right job or an employer looking for qualified employees we have all the resources to make it easy for you… all at no cost! State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency http://www.ors.ri.gov/ Website Excerpt: The goal of the Office of Rehabilitation Services is to assist persons with disabilities to become employed and to live independently in the community. In order to achieve this goal, we work in partnership with the State Rehabilitation Council, RI Council on Assistive Technology, Governor's Advisory Council for the Blind & Visually Impaired, netWORKri, State Independent Living Council, and our customers, staff and community. Ticket to Work http://www.ors.ri.gov/TicketToWork.htm Website Excerpt: The Ticket to Work (referred to as the Ticket) is a new Social Security Program designed to give an individual with a disability, aged 18 to 64, who receive SSDI and/or SSI greater choice in getting the services they need to earn enough money from working so they will no longer need Social Security cash benefits. Education Preparing for College http://www.ribghe.org/col-prep.htm Website Excerpt: This web site is meant to be a resource for students, families, and educators to help make the most of the 6th through 12th grade years and beyond. It will help answer questions and provide the tools needed to understand and to take advantage of available opportunities in higher education. Youth Service Providers http://www.griworkforce.com/youthproviders.html Mission Statement: Workforce Partnership of Greater RI is to provide strategic leadership to meet the current and future human resource needs of Rhode Island's employers and to ensure a well-trained, self-sufficient and adaptable workforce. Programs and Services include needs assessment, goal-setting, grant writing assistance, and information & referrals to alternate resources for companies and business consortia. Advocacy and Legal Commission on Disabilities http://www.gcd.ri.gov/ Mission Statement: *The Commission’s objective is to ensure that all people with disabilities are afforded the opportunities to exercise all the rights and responsibilities accorded to citizens of this state and each person with a disability is able to reach his/her maximum potential in independence, human development, productivity and self-sufficiency. Court Access for Individuals with Disabilities* http://www.courts.state.ri.us/ada/defaultada.htm Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island Judiciary is committed to providing equal access to all services, programs, and proceedings in a manner that includes individuals with disabilities as much as possible, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other laws. Disability Law Book, Rhode Island http://www.gcd.ri.gov/RI_Laws/Table_of_Contents.htm Website Excerpt: This publication will provide a basic framework regarding the rights of Rhode Islanders with disabilities. This fundamental understanding of disability law is merely a starting point in the process of ensuring that these rights are preserved. RI Disability Law Center http://www.ridlc.org/ Website Excerpts: Rhode Island Disability Law Center (RIDLC) provides free legal assistance to persons with disabilities. Services include individual representation to protect rights or to secure benefits and services; self-help information; educational programs; and administrative and Job Accommodations RI Relay http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/communication/relay.php Excerpt from Website: RI Relay is a statewide relay service with the assistance of the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and includes relay service from deaf/hard of hearing caller to voice caller or from voice caller to deaf/hard of hearing caller and Internet Protocol (IP) and Video Relay Services. RI Sign Language Interpreter Referral Service http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/referral/ Excerpt from Website: The RI Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (RI CDHH) provides direct services in its operation of sign language interpreter referral services throughout the State of Rhode Island. legislative advocacy. The agency administers eight federally funded advocacy programs, each of which has its own eligibility criteria. Assistive Technology RI Technical Assistance Project (RITAP) http://www.ritap.org/ Excerpts from Website: RITAP is a collaborative effort of the Rhode Island Department of Education, Office of Special Needs and Rhode Island College. It provides practitioners, parents, and policymakers with the knowledge and resources necessary to increase their capacity to provide comprehensive and coordinated services to all children including those with disabilities that result in improved educational performance and enhanced life-long outcomes. TechAccess of Rhode Island http://techaccess-ri.org/ Excerpts from Website: TechACCESS of RI is a private, not for profit resource center that serves people with disabilities who are interested in assistive technology. Assistive Technology is any device which helps a person with a disability function better at home, work, school, or in the community. Information and Referral Services regarding assistive technology are available anytime by calling the Center. Talking Books Plus http://www.lori.ri.gov/tbp/ Excerpts from Website: Talking Books Plus is the Rhode Island Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped and functions as a public library for eligible persons with disabilities who reside in Rhode Island. It is part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress. Talking Books Plus is administered by the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), which is dedicated to providing equal access to library services and information for all Rhode Island citizens. Transportation RIPTA and Ride Paratransit Program http://www.ripta.com/contentmgr/showdetails.php/id/256 Excerpts from Website: RIPTA is dedicated to providing top-quality transportation services to all of our customers. That's why we've developed several programs to ensure that transit service is affordable and meets your travel needs. Here you'll find information on all of RIPTA's transit programs, special features, and seasonal services. Independent Living Ocean State Independent Living Center www.oscil.org Excerpt from Website: Ocean State Center for Independent Living (OSCIL) is a consumer controlled, community based, nonprofit organization established to provide a range of independent living services to enhance, through self direction, the quality of life of Rhode Islanders with significant disability and to promote integration into the community. PARI Independent Living Center www.pari-ilc.org Website Excerpt: PARI was incorporated in 1980 as a "consumer-directed" Independent Living Center. Our staff works with people with any kind of disability to identify goals and provide training, equipment, advocacy, and counseling to help them to achieve their goals. Housing Clearinghouse for Accessible Rental Housing http://www.oscil.org/housing_main.htm Website Excerpts: The Clearinghouse for Accessible Rental Housing makes possible the review of accessible rental property that is available in Rhode Island. Persons having a disability who are seeking accessible housing are encouraged to review site listings. Landlords who have accessible rental property can list available units on the web-site (free of charge) in order to connect with persons having disabilities who are looking for accessible rentals. Housing Resources http://www.rihomeless.com/housing_resources.htm *Website Excerpts:* Subsidized housing programs were established to provide safe, decent, affordable rental housing for low-income individuals, families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Subsidized housing programs include vouchers for people with disabilities. HUD http://www.hud.gov/local/index.cfm?state=ri **Website Excerpt: Find information on HUD homes for sale, HUD homebuying programs and subsidized apartment rental searches in Rhode Island.** Ocean State Center for Independent Living www.oscil.org Website Excerpt: EOSCIL has developed this site to assist persons having disabilities, their family and friends, service providers and the community at large with a variety of information that may help to break down the barriers to independence by lining up necessary community based services and supports. PARI Independent Living Center www.pari-ilc.org Website Excerpt: PARI staff works with people with any kind of disability to identify goals and provide training, equipment, advocacy, and counseling to help them to achieve their goals. Whether the consumer is seeking medical resources, new ways of performing activities of daily life, transportation, housing, or ways of becoming involved in the community. RI Housing http://www.rihousing.org/index.html Website Excerpts: As the state's principal housing agency, we help low- and moderate-income Rhode Islanders find houses and apartments they can afford. Get a low-interest loan to buy a house. Find an apartment you can afford. Get money to repair your home or remove hazardous material such as lead paint and asbestos. We even help developers build affordable apartments. RI Housing Network http://www.housingnetworkri.org/ *Website Excerpt:* The Housing Network of Rhode Island exists to provide a forum for communication and resource-sharing among non-profit housing developers and others who support their goals to facilitate the development and preservation of affordable housing by non-profits. Disability Agencies Aging and Disabilities Resource Center http://adrc.ohhs.ri.gov/ Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island website for elders and people with disabilities. Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/ Website Excerpt: To provide innovative leadership in public policy, advocacy, service delivery and accessibility throughout the Ocean State, RI CDHH ensures opportunities for each deaf and hard of hearing person to become an empowered, contributing citizen. Court Access for Individuals with Disabilities http://www.courts.state.ri.us/ada/defaultada.htm Mission Statement: The Rhode Island Judiciary is committed to providing equal access to all services, programs, and proceedings in a manner that includes individuals with disabilities as much as possible, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other laws. Department of Health http://www.healthri.org/ Website Excerpt: Promote the health and wellness of Rhode Islanders with disabilities, prevent secondary conditions resulting from disabilities and chronic health issues and to assure that health care and related services are accessible to all persons with disabilities. Department of Human Services http://www.dhs.ri.gov/ Mission Statement: The Rhode Island Department of Human Services’ mission is to provide a full continuum of quality services to those Rhode Islanders in need including children, adults, families, the disabled, the elderly and our state’s veterans. The Department is a full-service agency offering a broad spectrum of high quality programs, services and benefits to help promote family and individual self-sufficiency and economic independence by maximizing opportunity and potential. Department of Mental Health, Retardation & Hospitals http://www.mhrh.state.ri.us/ Mission Statement: The mission of MHRH is to fulfill its statutory responsibilities to fund, plan, design, develop, administer and coordinate a system of services for identified citizens of Rhode Island with specific disabilities. MHRH is dedicated to achieving the best possible results for its consumers and the taxpayers of Rhode Island within its legislated, annual budget. Developmental Disabilities Council http://www.riddc.org/ Website Excerpts: The Rhode Island Developmental Disabilities Council promotes ideas that will enhance the lives of people with developmental disabilities. Under our federal enabling legislation we must stay abreast of and share information about new programs and services and important issues, trends and ideas that are of concern to people with developmental disabilities, families, service agencies, business and community leaders, legislators and policy makers. In this sense our web site connects people with the information they need to make positive changes in their lives or to develop a frame of reference for decision making. Disability Determination Process http://www.ors.ri.gov/DisabilityDetermination.htm#DDProcess Website Excerpts: Determines the medical eligibility of children and adult who are Rhode Island Residents with disabilities and are applying for cash benefits via Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)(Title II) and/or the Supplementary Security Income (SSI)(Title XVI). Although the DDS is fully funded by the Federal Government, the state agency is responsible for developing medical evidence and determining whether the claimant is or is not disabled or blind under the law. Disability & Health http://www.health.state.ri.us/family/index.php Mission Statement: The Division of Family Health strives to preserve, protect and promote the health and development of all children, youth and their families with a goal of reducing and preventing diseases and disabilities. Disability Law Book http://www.gcd.ri.gov/RI_Laws/Table_of_Contents.htm Website Excerpts: This publication will provide a basic framework regarding the rights of Rhode Islanders with disabilities. This fundamental understanding of disability law is merely a starting point in the process of ensuring that these rights are preserved. Governor's Advisory Council for the Blind http://www.ors.ri.gov/Governors_Advisory_Council_for_the_Blind.htm Website Excerpt: Governor's Advisory Council for the Blind duties include: advising the Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired regarding the programs provided by the agency, continuing to participate in a working relationship with the State Rehabilitation Council and the Statewide Independent Living Council., providing oversight responsibility to the Independent Living Program for the Elderly Blind, and for the operation of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Governor's Commission on Disabilites http://www.gcd.ri.gov/ Mission Statement: The Commission’s objective is to ensure that all people with disabilities are afforded the opportunities to exercise all the rights and responsibilities accorded to citizens of this state and each person with a disability is able to reach his/her maximum potential in independence, human development, productivity and self-sufficiency. Rehabilitation Council http://www.ors.ri.gov/SRC.htm Mission Statement: The Rehabilitation Council will work with ORS to assure that all Rhode Islanders with disabilities are able to obtain and keep meaningful and satisfying employment. RI Council on Assistive Technology http://www.atap.ri.gov/ricat.htm Website Excerpts: RICAT is actively involved in legislative and other initiatives that will increase access to assistive technology for Rhode Islanders. Assistive technology is any tool, equipment or service designed to help you develop, maintain, or improve your ability to function in all aspects of your life. Assistive technology helps people of all ages who may have a broad range of disabilities or limitations. RI Council of Community Mental Health Organizations http://www.riccmhc.org/ Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island Council of Community Mental Health Organizations (RICCMHO) is a responsive resource comprised of eight private, non-profit community mental health organizations in Rhode Island. Established in 1979, the Council is an effective conduit through which member organizations channel their collective expertise to form a united voice of public advocacy for all persons with mental illness. RI Relay http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/communication/relay.php Website Excerpt: RI Relay is a statewide relay service with the assistance of the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing includes relay service from deaf/hard of hearing caller to voice caller or from voice caller to deaf/hard of hearing caller and Internet Protocol (IP) and Video Relay Services. Sign Language Interpreter Referral Service http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/referral/ Website Excerpt: RI CDHH's Interpreter Referral Service does not charge a fee for referrals. Interpreters are available for a variety of settings that require communication access such as public events, employment, trainings/workshops, doctor visits, mental health services, health care facilities, classrooms, meetings, cultural events, courts, religious activities, governmental agencies and functions (legislative sessions, hearings, inaugurations, town hall meetings), theatrical performances, and many more. Rhode Island Statewide Independent Living Council http://www.risilc.org/ Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island Statewide Independent Living Council (RISILC), a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation, fosters full access to, and equal participation in, the services, benefits, and enjoyments of the community by individuals with disabilities. State Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired http://www.ors.ri.gov/SBVI.htm Website Excerpt: The purpose of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired is to provide eligible individuals with visual impairments the opportunities and support that will enable them to become independent, active, self-sustaining members of their community. Recreation Access to Adventure http://access2adventure.net/ Mission Statement: Access to Adventure's goal is to improve the quality of life for persons with physical disabilities in southern New England thorough sports, recreation and adventure travel. Challenge Cycling http://www.bike-on.com/challengecycling/ccevents.html Website Excerpt: Take a look at Challenge Cycling's schedule of cycling trips. Find information on handcycling rentals, special interests, and recommended cycle shops. Shake-a-Leg http://www.shakealeg.org/ Mission Statement: Shake-A-Leg's Mission is to provide traditional and complimentary therapeutic services that facilitate the development of independent living skills for individuals from all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds who have experienced spinal cord injury and related central nervous system dysfunction. Special Olympics http://www.specialolympicsri.org/ Website Excerpts: Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities by 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. UCP Adaptive Arts Program http://store.ucpri.org/catalog/default.php Website Excerpt: Adaptive arts provide a special freedom of expression & creativity for people with disabilities. In some cases, this form of independence is the only means by which the feelings of those with cognitive and physical challenges may be expressed. Adaptive Artists utilize special devices and physical therapies to overcome their challenges. Often artists of true talent, even genius, are discovered! VSA arts of RI http://ri.vsarts.org/ Website Excerpts: VSA arts of Rhode Island creates high quality programs in the literary, performing, and visual arts for inclusive audiences throughout the state. Through its collaborations with partners from the arts, cultural, disability, and educational communities, VSA arts of Rhode Island increases public awareness of the creative talents of people with disabilities, integrating their achievements into Rhode Island's mainstream community to provide cultural experiences for all. Advocacy in Action http://www.aina-ri.org/ Website Excerpt: Advocacy in Action is Rhode Island’s statewide self-advocacy organization. Self-Advocacy is an organized, international movement in which people who have a developmental disability, along with families and friends, Speak-up, Become Leaders, Work Together and Make a Difference on issues that are important to them. Aids Project RI http://www.aidsprojectri.org/ Mission Statement: AIDS Project Rhode Island is a private nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a non-judgmental safe environment where people affected by HIV can access resources to make informed decisions regarding their quality of life, and to stop the transmission of HIV through advocacy, prevention, and education programs. ALS Association RI Chapter http://www.alsari.org/alsari/ Website Excerpts: Once ALS is diagnosed the patient and family face a multitude of physical, emotional and financial needs. To provide assistance through their ALS journey, the Rhode Island Chapter of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association provides patient services and support. Autism Project of RI http://theautismproject.org/ Website Excerpt: The Autism Project of Rhode Island provides the information educators, parents and professionals need to help our kids maximize their potential and become interesting, participating members of society. Blackstone Valley Chapter ARC http://www.bvcriarc.org/ Website Excerpts: The Arc of Blackstone Valley is a private nonprofit organization incorporated in 1955 to provide services and supports to persons with mental retardation and their families. Our business is helping people learn... we teach skills to persons with mental retardation and related disabilities and provide opportunities for the use of those skills in the community. Brain Injury Association of RI http://65.242.98.185/RI/index.htm Mission Statement: To prevent brain injury and to enhance the lives of those affected by brain injury. Cancer Council http://www.ricancercouncil.org/index.php Mission Statement: The Rhode Island Cancer Council is a State supported community program whose mission is to help lower cancer's toll in our State. We have helped thousands of Rhode Islanders to find resources vital to deal with their cancer, learn what can be done to prevent cancer and ways to detect it early. The Rhode Island Cancer Council achieves its mission by providing programs in Public Education, Professional Education, and Public Information. Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder http://www.chadd.org/ Website Excerpts: Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) is a national non-profit organization representing individuals with AD/HD, for education, advocacy and support. The organization is composed of dedicated volunteers providing resources and encouragement to parents, educators and professionals on a grassroots level. Corliss Community http://www.corliss.org/ Mission Statement: The mission of the Corliss Institute is to provide social and rehabilitative services to deaf persons with diverse disabilities in a manner which empowers them to live, learn, and work successfully as integrated members of the community. Cranston ARC http://www.cranstonarc.org/ Website Excerpts: The Cranston ARC believes everyone has abilities, and can be contributing members of the community. We will do whatever it takes so people with disabilities gain greater independence, and lead fulfilling and productive lives. The Cranston ARC works to empower people with differing abilities to claim and enjoy their rights to dignity and respect. Down Syndrome Society of RI http://www.dssri.org/ Website Excerpts: The Down Syndrome Society of Rhode Island (DSSRI) is dedicated to promoting the rights, dignity and potential of all individuals with Down Syndrome through advocacy, education, public awareness, and support. We offer quarterly membership meetings (open to the public), quarterly newsletters, a lending library, public awareness activities and conferences as well as support and personal assistance on educational and medical issues. Epilepsy Foundation of Mass. and RI http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/local/massri/ Mission Statement: The Epilepsy Foundation will ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; and will prevent, control and cure epilepsy through research, education, advocacy and services. Family Voices http://www.familyvoices.org/st/RI.htm Website Excerpts: Family Voices at the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) works to effect systems change for families of children and youth with special health care needs in our state. We partner with many state and community agencies, family organizations, Medicaid and Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island to support smooth transitions to managed care for children with special health care needs. Hear-RI.org http://www.hear-ri.org/ Website Excerpt: Visit Hear-RI to learn about hearing loss and hearing loss prevention. Kent County ARC http://www.kentcountyarc.org/ Website Excerpts: Kent County ARC’s mission is to promote an enhanced quality of life, social integration, and support for individuals of all ages affected by mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. KC ARC works to empower communities and individuals to promote wellness through prevention which includes: public awareness, education, public policy, and research. Learning Disabilities http://www.ldonline.org/finding_help/local_org/rhode_island.html Website Excerpt: Find links, addresses and phone contact information for Rhode Island State Resources, State Government Agencies, Federally Funded Programs, Parent and Professional Organizations and Technology. National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of RI http://www.namiri.org/ Website Excerpts: NAMI-RI is an independent organization which provides support to people with mental illness and their friends or family members. It also educates professionals and the public about mental illness, and advocates for improved services for all people with mental illness. Mental Health Association of Rhode Island http://www.mhari.org/ The mission of the Mental Health Association of Rhode Island is to promote mental health, prevent mental illness, and improve mental health services through advocacy, education, and research. The goal is to make mental health care achievable, affordable, and accessible for all Rhode Islanders. National Multiple Sclerosis Society, RI Chapter http://www.nationalmssociety.org/rir/home/ Mission Statement: The mission of the National MS Society is to end the devastating effects of Multiple Sclerosis. The Rhode Island chapter provides services and programs to approximately 21,000 people affected by MS throughout Rhode Island. PAL http://www.pal-ri.org/palpage.cfm Website Excerpt: PAL is committed to supporting families, individuals with disabilities and their network of friends in their effort to achieve their own personal dreams and to assume a social role of respect and dignity as a valued member of their community. Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities http://www.ric.edu/uap/index.htm Mission Statement: The mission of the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities is to promote the community membership of individuals with disabilities in school, work and society. RI Association of the Deaf http://members.aol.com/Earnesto/RIAD.html Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island Association of the Deaf (RIAD) provides support and active advocacy for Deaf and Hard of Hearing citizens of Rhode Island. RI Disability Law Center http://www.ridlc.org/ Website Excerpt: Rhode Island Disability Law Center (RIDLC) provides free legal assistance to persons with disabilities. Services include individual representation to protect rights or to secure benefits and services; self-help information; educational programs; and administrative and legislative advocacy. The agency administers eight federally funded advocacy programs, each of which has its own eligibility criteria. RI Parent Information Network http://www.ripin.org/ Website Excerpts: The Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) is a statewide, nonprofit agency that provides information, training, support and advocacy to parents seeking help for their children. RIPIN is the home of five projects that are made up of 11 programs and services for families with children in RI, including families of children with special needs. Self Help for Hard of Hearing http://www.shhhsargents.homestead.com/index.html Website Excerpt: *A friendly organization offering support and advocacy to those who have a hearing loss.* Self Help for Hard of Hearing People http://www.hearingloss.org/ Mission Statement: SHHH exists to open the world of communication for people with hearing loss through information, education, advocacy and support. Self Help for Hard of Hearing People is the nation’s largest organization for people with hearing loss. Talking Books Plus http://www.lori.ri.gov/tbp/ Website Excerpts: Talking Books Plus is the Rhode Island Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped and functions as a public library for eligible persons with disabilities who reside in Rhode Island. It is part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress. Talking Books Plus is administered by the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), which is dedicated to providing equal access to library services and information for all Rhode Island citizens. United Cerebral Palsy of RI www.ucpri.org Website Excerpts: UCP of RI's goals include... Recognizing the value of people's contributions and potential; Encouraging their expanding possibilities and exploration of choices; Focusing on individual needs, wants, dreams and Enriching lives through creatively encouraging meaningful community involvement.

93 Gooding Avenue

Bristol, RI 02809

401-253-8949

401-253-8929 Fax

Links

Secretary of State's Office

http://www.sec.state.ri.us

An excellent source of voter information.

Department of Education: Vocational Education for Students with Disabilities
http://www.ridoe.net/
Website Excerpts: Rhode Island has a long and proud history of ensuring that people with disabilities of all ages are provided with the support, care, and treatment they need. This has been particularly true for pre-school and school-aged children with disabilities. Rhode Island has had comprehensive and effective special educational programs and services for many years.

DLT Labor Market Information
http://www.dlt.ri.gov/lmi/jobseeker.htm
Website Excerpts: Labor Market Information tailored to your needs as a jobseeker. What jobs are in demand? What jobs are drying up? How much does this job pay? Which industries are expanding or declining?

One-Stop Career Center/netWORKri
http://www.networkri.org/
Website Excerpts: netWORKri is Rhode Island's One-Stop Career Center System. It is a partnership of professional labor, training, and education organizations. There are six netWORKri Centers conveniently located throughout the state where jobseekers and employers are matched through quality employment programs and services. Whether you are a jobseeker looking for just the right job or an employer looking for qualified employees we have all the resources to make it easy for you… all at no cost!

State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
http://www.ors.ri.gov/
Website Excerpt: The goal of the Office of Rehabilitation Services is to assist persons with disabilities to become employed and to live independently in the community. In order to achieve this goal, we work in partnership with the State Rehabilitation Council, RI Council on Assistive Technology, Governor's Advisory Council for the Blind & Visually Impaired, netWORKri, State Independent Living Council, and our customers, staff and community.

Ticket to Work
http://www.ors.ri.gov/TicketToWork.htm
Website Excerpt: The Ticket to Work (referred to as the Ticket) is a new Social Security Program designed to give an individual with a disability, aged 18 to 64, who receive SSDI and/or SSI greater choice in getting the services they need to earn enough money from working so they will no longer need Social Security cash benefits.

Education

Preparing for College
http://www.ribghe.org/col-prep.htm
Website Excerpt: This web site is meant to be a resource for students, families, and educators to help make the most of the 6th through 12th grade years and beyond. It will help answer questions and provide the tools needed to understand and to take advantage of available opportunities in higher education.

Youth Service Providers
http://www.griworkforce.com/youthproviders.html
Mission Statement: Workforce Partnership of Greater RI is to provide strategic leadership to meet the current and future human resource needs of Rhode Island's employers and to ensure a well-trained, self-sufficient and adaptable workforce. Programs and Services include needs assessment, goal-setting, grant writing assistance, and information & referrals to alternate resources for companies and business consortia.

Advocacy and Legal

Commission on Disabilities
http://www.gcd.ri.gov/
Mission Statement: The Commission’s objective is to ensure that all people with disabilities are afforded the opportunities to exercise all the rights and responsibilities accorded to citizens of this state and each person with a disability is able to reach his/her maximum potential in independence, human development, productivity and self-sufficiency.

Court Access for Individuals with Disabilities
http://www.courts.state.ri.us/ada/defaultada.htm
Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island Judiciary is committed to providing equal access to all services, programs, and proceedings in a manner that includes individuals with disabilities as much as possible, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other laws.

Disability Law Book, Rhode Island
http://www.gcd.ri.gov/RI_Laws/Table_of_Contents.htm
Website Excerpt: This publication will provide a basic framework regarding the rights of Rhode Islanders with disabilities. This fundamental understanding of disability law is merely a starting point in the process of ensuring that these rights are preserved.

RI Disability Law Center
http://www.ridlc.org/
Website Excerpts: Rhode Island Disability Law Center (RIDLC) provides free legal assistance to persons with disabilities. Services include individual representation to protect rights or to secure benefits and services; self-help information; educational programs; and administrative and

Job Accommodations

RI Relay
http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/communication/relay.php
Excerpt from Website: RI Relay is a statewide relay service with the assistance of the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and includes relay service from deaf/hard of hearing caller to voice caller or from voice caller to deaf/hard of hearing caller and Internet Protocol (IP) and Video Relay Services.

RI Sign Language Interpreter Referral Service
http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/referral/
Excerpt from Website: The RI Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (RI CDHH) provides direct services in its operation of sign language interpreter referral services throughout the State of Rhode Island.

legislative advocacy. The agency administers eight federally funded advocacy programs, each of which has its own eligibility criteria.

Assistive Technology

RI Technical Assistance Project (RITAP)
http://www.ritap.org/
Excerpts from Website: RITAP is a collaborative effort of the Rhode Island Department of Education, Office of Special Needs and Rhode Island College. It provides practitioners, parents, and policymakers with the knowledge and resources necessary to increase their capacity to provide comprehensive and coordinated services to all children including those with disabilities that result in improved educational performance and enhanced life-long outcomes.

TechAccess of Rhode Island
http://techaccess-ri.org/
Excerpts from Website: TechACCESS of RI is a private, not for profit resource center that serves people with disabilities who are interested in assistive technology. Assistive Technology is any device which helps a person with a disability function better at home, work, school, or in the community. Information and Referral Services regarding assistive technology are available anytime by calling the Center.

Talking Books Plus
http://www.lori.ri.gov/tbp/
Excerpts from Website: Talking Books Plus is the Rhode Island Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped and functions as a public library for eligible persons with disabilities who reside in Rhode Island. It is part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress. Talking Books Plus is administered by the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), which is dedicated to providing equal access to library services and information for all Rhode Island citizens.

Transportation

RIPTA and Ride Paratransit Program
http://www.ripta.com/contentmgr/showdetails.php/id/256
Excerpts from Website: RIPTA is dedicated to providing top-quality transportation services to all of our customers. That's why we've developed several programs to ensure that transit service is affordable and meets your travel needs. Here you'll find information on all of RIPTA's transit programs, special features, and seasonal services.

Independent Living

Ocean State Independent Living Center
www.oscil.org
Excerpt from Website: Ocean State Center for Independent Living (OSCIL) is a consumer controlled, community based, nonprofit organization established to provide a range of independent living services to enhance, through self direction, the quality of life of Rhode Islanders with significant disability and to promote integration into the community.

PARI Independent Living Center
www.pari-ilc.org
Website Excerpt: PARI was incorporated in 1980 as a "consumer-directed" Independent Living Center. Our staff works with people with any kind of disability to identify goals and provide training, equipment, advocacy, and counseling to help them to achieve their goals.

Housing

Clearinghouse for Accessible Rental Housing
http://www.oscil.org/housing_main.htm
Website Excerpts: The Clearinghouse for Accessible Rental Housing makes possible the review of accessible rental property that is available in Rhode Island. Persons having a disability who are seeking accessible housing are encouraged to review site listings. Landlords who have accessible rental property can list available units on the web-site (free of charge) in order to connect with persons having disabilities who are looking for accessible rentals.

Housing Resources
http://www.rihomeless.com/housing_resources.htm
Website Excerpts: Subsidized housing programs were established to provide safe, decent, affordable rental housing for low-income individuals, families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Subsidized housing programs include vouchers for people with disabilities.

HUD
http://www.hud.gov/local/index.cfm?state=ri
Website Excerpt: Find information on HUD homes for sale, HUD homebuying programs and subsidized apartment rental searches in Rhode Island.

Ocean State Center for Independent Living
www.oscil.org
Website Excerpt: EOSCIL has developed this site to assist persons having disabilities, their family and friends, service providers and the community at large with a variety of information that may help to break down the barriers to independence by lining up necessary community based services and supports.

PARI Independent Living Center
www.pari-ilc.org
Website Excerpt: PARI staff works with people with any kind of disability to identify goals and provide training, equipment, advocacy, and counseling to help them to achieve their goals. Whether the consumer is seeking medical resources, new ways of performing activities of daily life, transportation, housing, or ways of becoming involved in the community.

RI Housing
http://www.rihousing.org/index.html
Website Excerpts: As the state's principal housing agency, we help low- and moderate-income Rhode Islanders find houses and apartments they can afford. Get a low-interest loan to buy a house. Find an apartment you can afford. Get money to repair your home or remove hazardous material such as lead paint and asbestos. We even help developers build affordable apartments.

RI Housing Network
http://www.housingnetworkri.org/
Website Excerpt: The Housing Network of Rhode Island exists to provide a forum for communication and resource-sharing among non-profit housing developers and others who support their goals to facilitate the development and preservation of affordable housing by non-profits.

Disability Agencies

Aging and Disabilities Resource Center
http://adrc.ohhs.ri.gov/
Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island website for elders and people with disabilities.

Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/
Website Excerpt: To provide innovative leadership in public policy, advocacy, service delivery and accessibility throughout the Ocean State, RI CDHH ensures opportunities for each deaf and hard of hearing person to become an empowered, contributing citizen.

Court Access for Individuals with Disabilities
http://www.courts.state.ri.us/ada/defaultada.htm
Mission Statement: The Rhode Island Judiciary is committed to providing equal access to all services, programs, and proceedings in a manner that includes individuals with disabilities as much as possible, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other laws.

Department of Health
http://www.healthri.org/
Website Excerpt: Promote the health and wellness of Rhode Islanders with disabilities, prevent secondary conditions resulting from disabilities and chronic health issues and to assure that health care and related services are accessible to all persons with disabilities.

Department of Human Services
http://www.dhs.ri.gov/
Mission Statement: The Rhode Island Department of Human Services’ mission is to provide a full continuum of quality services to those Rhode Islanders in need including children, adults, families, the disabled, the elderly and our state’s veterans. The Department is a full-service agency offering a broad spectrum of high quality programs, services and benefits to help promote family and individual self-sufficiency and economic independence by maximizing opportunity and potential.

Department of Mental Health, Retardation & Hospitals
http://www.mhrh.state.ri.us/
Mission Statement: The mission of MHRH is to fulfill its statutory responsibilities to fund, plan, design, develop, administer and coordinate a system of services for identified citizens of Rhode Island with specific disabilities. MHRH is dedicated to achieving the best possible results for its consumers and the taxpayers of Rhode Island within its legislated, annual budget.

Developmental Disabilities Council
http://www.riddc.org/
Website Excerpts: The Rhode Island Developmental Disabilities Council promotes ideas that will enhance the lives of people with developmental disabilities. Under our federal enabling legislation we must stay abreast of and share information about new programs and services and important issues, trends and ideas that are of concern to people with developmental disabilities, families, service agencies, business and community leaders, legislators and policy makers. In this sense our web site connects people with the information they need to make positive changes in their lives or to develop a frame of reference for decision making.

Disability Determination Process
http://www.ors.ri.gov/DisabilityDetermination.htm#DDProcess
Website Excerpts: Determines the medical eligibility of children and adult who are Rhode Island Residents with disabilities and are applying for cash benefits via Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)(Title II) and/or the Supplementary Security Income (SSI)(Title XVI). Although the DDS is fully funded by the Federal Government, the state agency is responsible for developing medical evidence and determining whether the claimant is or is not disabled or blind under the law.

Disability & Health
http://www.health.state.ri.us/family/index.php
Mission Statement: The Division of Family Health strives to preserve, protect and promote the health and development of all children, youth and their families with a goal of reducing and preventing diseases and disabilities.

Disability Law Book
http://www.gcd.ri.gov/RI_Laws/Table_of_Contents.htm
Website Excerpts: This publication will provide a basic framework regarding the rights of Rhode Islanders with disabilities. This fundamental understanding of disability law is merely a starting point in the process of ensuring that these rights are preserved.

Governor's Advisory Council for the Blind
http://www.ors.ri.gov/Governors_Advisory_Council_for_the_Blind.htm
Website Excerpt: Governor's Advisory Council for the Blind duties include: advising the Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired regarding the programs provided by the agency, continuing to participate in a working relationship with the State Rehabilitation Council and the Statewide Independent Living Council., providing oversight responsibility to the Independent Living Program for the Elderly Blind, and for the operation of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Governor's Commission on Disabilites
http://www.gcd.ri.gov/
Mission Statement: The Commission’s objective is to ensure that all people with disabilities are afforded the opportunities to exercise all the rights and responsibilities accorded to citizens of this state and each person with a disability is able to reach his/her maximum potential in independence, human development, productivity and self-sufficiency.

Rehabilitation Council
http://www.ors.ri.gov/SRC.htm
Mission Statement: The Rehabilitation Council will work with ORS to assure that all Rhode Islanders with disabilities are able to obtain and keep meaningful and satisfying employment.

RI Council on Assistive Technology
http://www.atap.ri.gov/ricat.htm
Website Excerpts: RICAT is actively involved in legislative and other initiatives that will increase access to assistive technology for Rhode Islanders. Assistive technology is any tool, equipment or service designed to help you develop, maintain, or improve your ability to function in all aspects of your life. Assistive technology helps people of all ages who may have a broad range of disabilities or limitations.

RI Council of Community Mental Health Organizations
http://www.riccmhc.org/
Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island Council of Community Mental Health Organizations (RICCMHO) is a responsive resource comprised of eight private, non-profit community mental health organizations in Rhode Island. Established in 1979, the Council is an effective conduit through which member organizations channel their collective expertise to form a united voice of public advocacy for all persons with mental illness.

RI Relay
http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/communication/relay.php
Website Excerpt: RI Relay is a statewide relay service with the assistance of the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing includes relay service from deaf/hard of hearing caller to voice caller or from voice caller to deaf/hard of hearing caller and Internet Protocol (IP) and Video Relay Services.

Sign Language Interpreter Referral Service
http://www.cdhh.ri.gov/referral/
Website Excerpt: RI CDHH's Interpreter Referral Service does not charge a fee for referrals. Interpreters are available for a variety of settings that require communication access such as public events, employment, trainings/workshops, doctor visits, mental health services, health care facilities, classrooms, meetings, cultural events, courts, religious activities, governmental agencies and functions (legislative sessions, hearings, inaugurations, town hall meetings), theatrical performances, and many more.

Rhode Island Statewide Independent Living Council
http://www.risilc.org/
Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island Statewide Independent Living Council (RISILC), a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation, fosters full access to, and equal participation in, the services, benefits, and enjoyments of the community by individuals with disabilities.

State Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
http://www.ors.ri.gov/SBVI.htm
Website Excerpt: The purpose of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired is to provide eligible individuals with visual impairments the opportunities and support that will enable them to become independent, active, self-sustaining members of their community.

Recreation

Access to Adventure
http://access2adventure.net/
Mission Statement: Access to Adventure's goal is to improve the quality of life for persons with physical disabilities in southern New England thorough sports, recreation and adventure travel.

Challenge Cycling
http://www.bike-on.com/challengecycling/ccevents.html
Website Excerpt: Take a look at Challenge Cycling's schedule of cycling trips. Find information on handcycling rentals, special interests, and recommended cycle shops.

Shake-a-Leg
http://www.shakealeg.org/
Mission Statement: Shake-A-Leg's Mission is to provide traditional and complimentary therapeutic services that facilitate the development of independent living skills for individuals from all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds who have experienced spinal cord injury and related central nervous system dysfunction.

Special Olympics
http://www.specialolympicsri.org/
Website Excerpts: Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities by 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.

UCP Adaptive Arts Program
http://store.ucpri.org/catalog/default.php
Website Excerpt: Adaptive arts provide a special freedom of expression & creativity for people with disabilities. In some cases, this form of independence is the only means by which the feelings of those with cognitive and physical challenges may be expressed. Adaptive Artists utilize special devices and physical therapies to overcome their challenges. Often artists of true talent, even genius, are discovered!

VSA arts of RI
http://ri.vsarts.org/
Website Excerpts: VSA arts of Rhode Island creates high quality programs in the literary, performing, and visual arts for inclusive audiences throughout the state. Through its collaborations with partners from the arts, cultural, disability, and educational communities, VSA arts of Rhode Island increases public awareness of the creative talents of people with disabilities, integrating their achievements into Rhode Island's mainstream community to provide cultural experiences for all.

Advocacy in Action
http://www.aina-ri.org/
Website Excerpt: Advocacy in Action is Rhode Island’s statewide self-advocacy organization. Self-Advocacy is an organized, international movement in which people who have a developmental disability, along with families and friends, Speak-up, Become Leaders, Work Together and Make a Difference on issues that are important to them.

Aids Project RI
http://www.aidsprojectri.org/
Mission Statement: AIDS Project Rhode Island is a private nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a non-judgmental safe environment where people affected by HIV can access resources to make informed decisions regarding their quality of life, and to stop the transmission of HIV through advocacy, prevention, and education programs.

ALS Association RI Chapter
http://www.alsari.org/alsari/
Website Excerpts: Once ALS is diagnosed the patient and family face a multitude of physical, emotional and financial needs. To provide assistance through their ALS journey, the Rhode Island Chapter of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association provides patient services and support.

Autism Project of RI
http://theautismproject.org/
Website Excerpt: The Autism Project of Rhode Island provides the information educators, parents and professionals need to help our kids maximize their potential and become interesting, participating members of society.

Blackstone Valley Chapter ARC
http://www.bvcriarc.org/
Website Excerpts: The Arc of Blackstone Valley is a private nonprofit organization incorporated in 1955 to provide services and supports to persons with mental retardation and their families. Our business is helping people learn... we teach skills to persons with mental retardation and related disabilities and provide opportunities for the use of those skills in the community.

Brain Injury Association of RI
http://65.242.98.185/RI/index.htm
Mission Statement: To prevent brain injury and to enhance the lives of those affected by brain injury.

Cancer Council
http://www.ricancercouncil.org/index.php
Mission Statement: The Rhode Island Cancer Council is a State supported community program whose mission is to help lower cancer's toll in our State. We have helped thousands of Rhode Islanders to find resources vital to deal with their cancer, learn what can be done to prevent cancer and ways to detect it early. The Rhode Island Cancer Council achieves its mission by providing programs in Public Education, Professional Education, and Public Information.

Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
http://www.chadd.org/
Website Excerpts: Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) is a national non-profit organization representing individuals with AD/HD, for education, advocacy and support. The organization is composed of dedicated volunteers providing resources and encouragement to parents, educators and professionals on a grassroots level.

Corliss Community
http://www.corliss.org/
Mission Statement: The mission of the Corliss Institute is to provide social and rehabilitative services to deaf persons with diverse disabilities in a manner which empowers them to live, learn, and work successfully as integrated members of the community.

Cranston ARC
http://www.cranstonarc.org/
Website Excerpts: The Cranston ARC believes everyone has abilities, and can be contributing members of the community. We will do whatever it takes so people with disabilities gain greater independence, and lead fulfilling and productive lives. The Cranston ARC works to empower people with differing abilities to claim and enjoy their rights to dignity and respect.

Down Syndrome Society of RI
http://www.dssri.org/
Website Excerpts: The Down Syndrome Society of Rhode Island (DSSRI) is dedicated to promoting the rights, dignity and potential of all individuals with Down Syndrome through advocacy, education, public awareness, and support. We offer quarterly membership meetings (open to the public), quarterly newsletters, a lending library, public awareness activities and conferences as well as support and personal assistance on educational and medical issues.

Epilepsy Foundation of Mass. and RI
http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/local/massri/
Mission Statement: The Epilepsy Foundation will ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; and will prevent, control and cure epilepsy through research, education, advocacy and services.

Family Voices
http://www.familyvoices.org/st/RI.htm
Website Excerpts: Family Voices at the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) works to effect systems change for families of children and youth with special health care needs in our state. We partner with many state and community agencies, family organizations, Medicaid and Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island to support smooth transitions to managed care for children with special health care needs.

Hear-RI.org
http://www.hear-ri.org/
Website Excerpt: Visit Hear-RI to learn about hearing loss and hearing loss prevention.

Kent County ARC
http://www.kentcountyarc.org/
Website Excerpts: Kent County ARC’s mission is to promote an enhanced quality of life, social integration, and support for individuals of all ages affected by mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. KC ARC works to empower communities and individuals to promote wellness through prevention which includes: public awareness, education, public policy, and research.

Learning Disabilities
http://www.ldonline.org/finding_help/local_org/rhode_island.html
Website Excerpt: Find links, addresses and phone contact information for Rhode Island State Resources, State Government Agencies, Federally Funded Programs, Parent and Professional Organizations and Technology.

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of RI
http://www.namiri.org/
Website Excerpts: NAMI-RI is an independent organization which provides support to people with mental illness and their friends or family members. It also educates professionals and the public about mental illness, and advocates for improved services for all people with mental illness.

Mental Health Association of Rhode Island
http://www.mhari.org/
The mission of the Mental Health Association of Rhode Island is to promote mental health, prevent mental illness, and improve mental health services through advocacy, education, and research. The goal is to make mental health care achievable, affordable, and accessible for all Rhode Islanders.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, RI Chapter
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/rir/home/
Mission Statement: The mission of the National MS Society is to end the devastating effects of Multiple Sclerosis. The Rhode Island chapter provides services and programs to approximately 21,000 people affected by MS throughout Rhode Island.

PAL
http://www.pal-ri.org/palpage.cfm
Website Excerpt: PAL is committed to supporting families, individuals with disabilities and their network of friends in their effort to achieve their own personal dreams and to assume a social role of respect and dignity as a valued member of their community.

Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities
http://www.ric.edu/uap/index.htm
Mission Statement: The mission of the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities is to promote the community membership of individuals with disabilities in school, work and society.

RI Association of the Deaf
http://members.aol.com/Earnesto/RIAD.html
Website Excerpt: The Rhode Island Association of the Deaf (RIAD) provides support and active advocacy for Deaf and Hard of Hearing citizens of Rhode Island.

RI Disability Law Center
http://www.ridlc.org/
Website Excerpt: Rhode Island Disability Law Center (RIDLC) provides free legal assistance to persons with disabilities. Services include individual representation to protect rights or to secure benefits and services; self-help information; educational programs; and administrative and legislative advocacy. The agency administers eight federally funded advocacy programs, each of which has its own eligibility criteria.

RI Parent Information Network
http://www.ripin.org/
Website Excerpts: The Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) is a statewide, nonprofit agency that provides information, training, support and advocacy to parents seeking help for their children. RIPIN is the home of five projects that are made up of 11 programs and services for families with children in RI, including families of children with special needs.

Self Help for Hard of Hearing
http://www.shhhsargents.homestead.com/index.html
Website Excerpt: A friendly organization offering support and advocacy to those who have a hearing loss.

Self Help for Hard of Hearing People
http://www.hearingloss.org/
Mission Statement: SHHH exists to open the world of communication for people with hearing loss through information, education, advocacy and support. Self Help for Hard of Hearing People is the nation’s largest organization for people with hearing loss.

Talking Books Plus
http://www.lori.ri.gov/tbp/
Website Excerpts: Talking Books Plus is the Rhode Island Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped and functions as a public library for eligible persons with disabilities who reside in Rhode Island. It is part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress. Talking Books Plus is administered by the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), which is dedicated to providing equal access to library services and information for all Rhode Island citizens.

United Cerebral Palsy of RI
www.ucpri.org
Website Excerpts: UCP of RI's goals include... Recognizing the value of people's contributions and potential; Encouraging their expanding possibilities and exploration of choices; Focusing on individual needs, wants, dreams and Enriching lives through creatively encouraging meaningful community involvement.