Support Groups & Organizations
Abilities Plus is a not-for-profit organization located in Kewanee, Illinois serving individuals of all ages with disabilities. Their mission is to promote opportunities that result in independence and active decision making for people with disabilities and their families.
1100 N. East Street
Kewanee, Illinois 61443
(309) 852-4626
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Adult Asperger’s Syndrome Support Group
Not currently active in the QC Area, however those interested can attend the Iowa City meeting held the 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month, 1:00-3:00p.m. at Uptown Bill’s Coffee House, 730 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City, IA. Those interested can contact Brian Bennett, bennbrian@gmail.com or southeastiowagrasp@gmail.com
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The Arc of Southeast Iowa is committed to being a leader in offering information, services and advocacy to individuals with developmental disabilities, their families and community; to promote informed choices and the realization of their goals relating to where and how they live, learn, work and play.
2620 Muscatine Ave
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
(319) 351-5017
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Autism Service Provider and Beyond
We integrate developmental foundations and behavior principles in order to create the best outcomes for all children and families that we serve. We provide in-home ABA, center-based intervention, and parent education and support groups. All of our programs are individualized to fit the needs of each learner and their family.
800 W. 5th Avenue Ste 104
Naperville, Illinois 60563
(630) 548-0749
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Autism Services Group (Formerly known as: Skill Sprout – Autism & Therapeutic Pediatric Services)
At ASG, we offer a large array of support, programs and services to help children and families facing the challenges of autism and other neuro-disabilities—all under one roof. This coordinated multidisciplinary approach saves time, reduces stress and supports each individual child and family in the best way possible. Services include diagnostic assessments, applied behavioral analysis, speech/language therapy, and social skills/counseling, along with a variety of family programs.
8500 N. Knoxville Avenue - Ste A.
Peoria, Illinois 61615
(309) 713-2841
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Autism Society of the Quad Cities
The Autism Society of the Quad Cities is a chapter of the Autism society of America www.autism-society.org. We serve Scott, Muscatine, and Clinton Counties in Iowa and Rock island, Henry, and Mercer Counties in Illinois. The Autism Society of the Quad Cities provides information, education, support, and advocacy in the Quad Cities and surrounding area to maximize the potential of persons with autism and those affected by autism.
P.O. Box 472
Bettendorf, Iowa 52722
(563) 386-6359
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Serving all communities in Iowa, Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. We do this through advocacy and support, increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism, and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.
Iowa
(515) 322-0143
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Autism, Behavioral & Educational Services
Our mission is to provide quality services and intervention strategies to children on the autism spectrum and their families. We strive to use the most advanced and evidence-based teaching strategies available. Our teaching techniques are based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. We aim to teach children skills that can be generalized across a variety of people and settings. Parent training is an essential part of our program that ensures the child continues to apply and hone those new skills throughout the day. We regularly coordinate our efforts with interdisciplinary team members such as teachers, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists.
151 W Lincoln Hwy
DeKalb, Illinois 60115
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Best Buddies is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment. At the college level, students are paired with citizens in the community with disabilities in hopes of establishing a lasting friendship. Throughout the year, the members of Best Buddies get together for group outings and various activities.
639 38th Street
Rock Island, Illinois 61201
(309) 794-7586
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By Your Side: Autism Podcast
BY YOUR SIDE Autism Podcast comes out on the first and third Monday of every month and is an interview show featuring open and honest conversations from therapists, parents, educators, authors, and experts in the autism field. BY YOUR SIDE provides therapeutic services in three different environments (in-center, in-home, school-based) in Northern IL offering ABA, ST, and OT. The BY YOUR SIDE podcast topics include therapy tips, coping skills, ideas, strategies, and plain ole heartfelt conversations from parents who live with autism in their lives.
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Every Child (formerly Child Abuse Council) is a bi-state, regional, non-profit agency with more than 40 years' experience providing child abuse prevention, education and treatment programs for children and families in the bi-state metropolitan area and surrounding communities. Our goals for every child served are (1) a safe and nurturing home; (2) a secure parent-child relationship; and (3) an environment supporting successful growth and development.
524 15th St.
Moline, Illinois 61265
(309) 736-7170
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Little Friends Center for Autism
At the Little Friends Center for Autism, we have the groundbreaking treatment programs and nationally respected staff to empower clients for life. Treatment starts at a diagnosis––when we create a comprehensive strategy for your child––and continues through social skills groups, applied behavior analysis, speech therapy and more. With a plan tailored to their strengths and needs, your child will develop the skills needed to flourish in our community.
140 N. Wright Street
Naperville, Illinois 60540
(630) 305-4196
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We provide ABA therapy, Speech Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Counseling services in home, in clinic or at private school/childcare settings. Expanding to the QC this summer!
1870 W. Winchester Road Suite 203
Libertyville, Illinois 60048
(847) 816-7200
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The National Autism Association is a nonprofit organization focused on addressing urgent issues that families and individuals in the autism community often face, including wandering/elopement, suicidality, bullying, restraint/seclusion, abuse, mistreatment, and discrimination. Project Found provides grants and fundraising suggestions to support autism safety initiatives, such as providing GPS trackers for children with autism who may be at risk for wandering.
National Autism Association
One Park Avenue, Suite 1
Portsmouth, Rhode Island 2871
877.622.2884
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Parent Empowerment Groups
Advocacy, educational consulting, and informational conferences.
Eldridge, Iowa `
(563) 484-9402
parentempowermentgroups@gmail.com
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PURPOSE. is not school, church, or law enforcement affiliated and is different from mainstream educational, mental health, and wellness systems. Through a variety of alternative therapy practices and coaching strategies, it is the goal of PURPOSE to empower individuals to identify, define, and express their innate strengths to maintain Life-Balance, Confidence for Learning, and Ongoing Wellness.
1800 7th Ave, Ste 301
Moline, Illinois 61265
309-798-0511
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Quad Cities Tri- County Transition Planning Committee
The Quad City Tri-County Transition Planning Committee is comprised of community, school, and agency representatives who serve to coordinate information and respond to the needs of individuals with disabilities in our communities. Our Vision Statement To create formal and informal support systems that enhance the quality of life experienced by all individuals. Our Goals 1. To provide information to individuals, parents, and service providers regarding available community supports, as well as support to access these services. 2. To provide a forum for agencies and educators to share information and clarify agency roles. 3. To identify the strengths and deficits in transition service provision to ensure comprehensive services are available.
4670 11th Street East Moline IL 61244 309-796-2500
East Moline, Illinois 61244
309-796-2500
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Regional Autism Assistance Program
The Iowa Regional Autism Assistance Program (RAP) provides community-based clinical consultation, multidisciplinary care planning recommendations, and family to family support for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. RAP team members who work with families include advanced registered nurse practitioners, registered nurses and family navigators. They use standardized tools to identify children at risk for ASD and help families find diagnostic services. RAP teams also help families access community-based services and supports to help meet their needs and goals. RAP also provides technical assistance and training on evidence-based screening and assessment tools to medical home providers, Area Education Agencies, and other early intervention community providers.
The University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine Stead Family Department of Pediatrics Division of Child and Community Health Child Health Specialty Clinics 100 Hawkins Drive, 246 CDD
Iowa city, Iowa 52242
1-866-219-9119 Ext. 2
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RI Arsenal Exceptional Family Member Program
The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) provides comprehensive support to family members with special needs. EFMP takes an all-inclusive approach to coordinate military and civilian community, educational, medical, housing, and personnel services to help Soldiers and their Families with special needs.
3438 Rodman Avenue Bldg. 110
Rock Island, Illinois 61201
309-782-4736
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ribbonsforkellsey, inc. is committed to providing direct services to those living with Epilepsy and Autism. HOPE (Helping Other People with Epilepsy) and CARE (Creating Autism Resources for Everyone)!
P.O. Box 1402
Milan, Illinois 61264
(309) 429-7512
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Robert Young Mental Health Center
Full continuum of behavioral health services including outpatient therapies, inpatient psychiatric services, partial hospitalization, continuing care, and chemical dependency treatment services. 24 hours a day, seven days a week crisis intervention services for those people experiencing psychiatric emergencies, those under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or those who simply need to talk to someone about the stresses affecting their lives.
4600 3rd Street
Moline, Illinois 61265
309-779-2031
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Royal Ball Autism Support Groups
Emotional support, resource referrals, and autism connections. Autism Moms Support Group meets on the 4th Thursday of every month at 6:30pm.
331 4th Street West
Milan, Illinois 61264
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The inspiration for the Royal Ball Run for Autism organization stems from the now 1 in 59 children who are diagnosed with autism each year. We will be running to celebrate their achievements, their courage, and their future! Our goal is to increase awareness of autism and to support (and celebrate!) families and children touched by autism. Proceeds from the Royal Ball Run for Autism support local programs dedicated to autism treatment and awareness. In our first seven years, the Royal Ball Run for Autism has invested more than $200,000 in local autism programs thanks to the tremendous support of our participants, partners and sponsors. In addition to local autism programs, Royal Ball Run for Autism has developed The Royal Guide.
331 4th Street West
Milan, Illinois 61264
309-781-0815
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Founded in 1990, the Sibling Support Project is the first national program dedicated to the life-long and ever-changing concerns of millions of brothers and sisters of people with special health, developmental, and mental health concerns.
16120 NE 8th Street
Bellevue, WA 98008
425-362-6421
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Special Needs Families of the Quad Cities
Facebook “Closed Group” Under Special Needs Families of the QCA. “We are parents and caregivers to children with special needs. Our children are all ages, with a wide variety of challenges - illness, cancer, accidents, birth defects, neurological conditions, premature birth, learning or physical disabilities, mental health issues, and attention deficit(hyperactivity ) disorder or more. All are welcome here as we support each other. Please remember to respect the privacy of our members and keep discussions confidential.”
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St. Ambrose University Accessibility Resource Center
At SAU, all students get the chance to demonstrate their academic abilities. Our Accessibility Resource Center does not lower course standards or alter degree requirements. It does offer services and reasonable accommodations intended to reduce the effects a disability may have on your performance in a traditional academic setting. Services include academic advising, advocacy, alternative exam arrangements, assistive technology, books in alternative formats, assistive listening devices, learning disability specialists, note takers, screening and referrals, sign language interpreters, other accommodations, and staff can serve as a liaison with outside agencies. SAU's Accessibility Resource Center goes beyond federal law to provide strong programming and support services, and has been nationally recognized. This spring, collegechoice.net ranked SAU as one of the 50 Best Disability Friendly Colleges and Universities in the U.S.
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The purpose of the group is to provide a safe space where people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can increase their capacity for self-determination. Our support and self-advocacy group is open to people 18 and older who have any autism spectrum diagnosis, or who suspect they may be on the spectrum and want to learn more about it. No formal diagnosis is necessary. There is no charge for participation in this group. Family members are also invited.
228 W. Miller Street
Springfield, Illinois 62703
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The Arc of the Quad Cities Area is an independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with its headquarters located in Rock Island, Illinois. Founded in 1952, The Arc mission is to empower people with disabilities to believe in their own unique abilities and achieve their full potential by providing quality, innovative services that focus on advocacy, independence, employment, meaningful community life and personal happiness. Through residential options, day programming, work services, and advocacy efforts, The Arc serves the needs of individuals throughout the Quad Cities Area. The Arc’s programs are designed for individuals of all skill levels and offer a variety of options for individuals with developmental and other disabilities. Programs Include: Residential Services, Work Services, Community Employment Services, Assistive Technology, Developmental Training, Autism Spectrum Disorder Services, Community Support Day Programs, and Transition Supports.
The Neurodiversity Podcast with Emily Kircher-Morris
The Neurodiversity Podcast, hosted by Emily Kircher-Morris, explores a wide range of topics related to neurodiversity, giftedness, and twice-exceptional learners. Launched in 2018, the podcast features insightful conversations with neurodivergent individuals, educators, psychologists, and other experts. Each episode highlights the unique strengths and challenges of neurodivergent people, aiming to broaden the definition of what is considered "normal."
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The University of Iowa REACH Program is a transition certificate program for college students with disabilities, such as autism, intellectual disabilities, and learning disabilities. UI Reach provides a Big Ten college experience and empowers young adults to become independent members of the community. Coursework, campus life, and career experiences prepare students to reach their full potential. UI REACH also offers alumni events.
University of Iowa
240 S. Madison Street
S229 Lindquist Center
Iowa City, Iowa 52242
319-384-2127
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Understood is a comprehensive, free online resource to support parents of kids with learning and attention issues and empower them to help their children thrive in school and in life. Created by 15 nonprofit partners, Understood provides personalized resources, free daily access to experts, a safe community of parents and much more. Our goal is to help the millions of parents whose children, ages 3–20, are struggling with learning and attention issues. We want to empower them to understand their children’s issues and relate to their experiences. With this knowledge, parents can make effective choices that propel their children from simply coping to truly thriving.
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Annually offers a fall weekend retreat for 20 AEA 9 families with a child with a disability. The aim of the weekend retreat is to provide support, information, relaxation, and opportunities to interact with other families with similar circumstances.
972 N. Lincoln
Davenport, Iowa 52805
(563) 349-2960
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Young Adult Support Group YES Group
Young Adult Support Group Social support group for young adults with autism. It is called the YES! Support Group (Young, Exuberant, Spectrumites). It meets the first Friday of each month at 6:30 p.m. with locations changing depending on the activity. There is no charge to attend
St. Ambrose University, 1320 W. Lombard St.,
Davenport, Iowa 52804
(563) 333-6279