BY DIAGNOSIS
Often as a parent of a child with special needs, we can feel alone and don’t know where to look for help. We start googling and aren’t sure that what we see is going to work out for our family's needs. The RCS PAC continually collects and shares resources that have helped us. Here are some resources which we have found helpful in advocating for our children. We hope they make this sometimes daunting task a little less chaotic for you too.
AUTISM
Improving the quality of life for individuals with autism through education, access to comprehensive services, community awareness, inclusion efforts, and coordinated advocacy.
Downloadable resources with advice on the interactions between autistic people and policing, public safety, and criminal justice professionals.
Teens and Young Adults with Autism & Asperger Syndrome are invited to have fun and enjoy social and recreational events in Troy, Michigan.
Committed to improving the lives of all affected by autism across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan.
Providing therapeutic, behavioral and support services that improve the quality of life for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.
Michigan Parent, Advocate & Attorney Coalition (MiPAAC)
The MiPAAC powered by Autism Alliance of Michigan is a newly statewide group focused on student-centered advocacy. MiPAAC aims to educate families of children with special education needs on specific topics relevant to their advocacy efforts.
Mid-Michigan Autism Association (MMAA)
The Mid-Michigan Autism Association (MMAA) is made up of local people working to improve the quality of life for individuals and families living with developmental disability in Mid-Michigan.
Oakland University Center for Autism
Promotes understanding and awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) to improve quality of life for people impacted by ASD.
Provides innovative programs for teachers and programming for individuals and their families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING
Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Pediatric Audiology Links to Services
EHDI-PALS is a web-based searchable national directory. It helps families, healthcare professionals, and state public health organizations to find pediatric audiology expertise for children ages birth to five. The website provides information about childhood hearing to support families and professionals through the process of screening, diagnosis, and intervention.
Provides camps and programs for children with special needs.
Oakland Schools Deaf and Hard of Hearing Facebook Group
In order to be added into the group, families must first "follow" the general Oakland Schools Facebook group.
DOWN SYNDROME
Down Syndrome Guild of Southeast Michigan
The DSG's mission is to provide support, resources, and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and caregivers with the aim of increasing educational and employment opportunities for them as well as increasing community awareness of their unlimited potential.
Families Exploring Down Syndrome
Focuses on educating medical providers, nurturing new parents, and fostering engagement among families with community events.
National Down Syndrome Society
The leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome.
MENTAL HEALTH
Association for Children’s Mental Health
Provides information, support, resources, referral and advocacy for children and youth with mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders and their families.