Empowering the human spirit since 1992, Adaptive Sports Connection is a 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated to serving children, veterans, and adults with disabilities through outdoor and therapeutic recreation and education.

We serve thousands of individuals with disabilities and their families every year in 44 counties in Ohio. With adaptive instructors, equipment, and over 600 volunteers, we utilize the power of sports to push what's possible. Our goal is to help people focus on their ABILITIES - unleashing the power within to enjoy life no matter the challenges they face.

Our mission is to break through limitations with adaptive innovation, ensuring people of all abilities the health benefits, freedom, and sense of belonging from recreation, education and outdoor experiences.

Ability Matters is a waiver (I/O, SELF, Level One) and Autism Scholarship Program provider agency that emphasizes community inclusion. We serve individuals with disabilities in Franklin and surrounding counties. With programs specifically tailored to each individual's needs. 

Ability Matters believes that everyone can benefit from community engagement, and that making meaningful contributions to society is a vital component of any person's livelihood. Employing care providers with specialized training and experiences, Ability Matters is able to accommodate a wide variety of social and behavioral needs.

Agape Care LLC  serves all individuals of any age with developmental disabilities with the best of our abilities. Agape Care LLC helps individuals live the highest quality of life by engaging them in various community events and activities that help support their independence. Our sister agency, Agape Care Home Health provides services for all individuals in need of nursing home level care at their homes. 

Adults with disabilities are highly vulnerable to housing insecurity. All In will address this housing crisis facing people with disabilities in Columbus with an innovative solution: stable, affordable housing in an inclusive community for people of all abilities and ages.  We’ll accomplish this by adapting an acclaimed intergenerational housing model, known as intentional neighboring, in which individuals and families of all ages, capabilities and strengths live in small, intentional communities of mutual support.   All In’s first such initiative to adapt this model is Columbus Inclusive Living (CIL).  

In communities like CIL, residents commit to being actively involved in helping their neighbors, in a manner appropriate to their abilities and interests, as an expectation of living in the community. Examples can be found in communities like Bridge Meadows in Portland, OR, and Bastion in New Orleans, which serve child welfare-involved families and wounded warrior veterans respectively.   

In Columbus, CIL will serve a different population and focus on generating key social outcomes for its residents as well as the larger community:

all R friends is the premier Day Support / Supported Employment provider in Central Ohio. With locations in Westerville, Dublin, Lewis Center, Gahanna, Grove City and Upper Arlington all R friends has a location for you! Non-medical transportation is provided to and from the facilities. With the goal of helping each individual become more independent, all R friends works on a wide variety of skills from job skills to life skills and everything in between. As a continuing education program, all R friends has helped individuals find employment and has also prepared individuals with the skills necessary to live on their own with staff assistance. all R friends is a very social setting and community integration is an integral part of the program.

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. We are forming a brand new league in Central Ohio. No experience required or desired. Just sign up to play..

The Alternative Center is an integrated community based day program for extraordinary people with extraordinary abilities. We work with adults with developmental disabilities and special needs. We pride ourselves in providing high quality care with a focus on security and dependability. 

The Alternative Center was founded in 2008 by Carol Peifer. Carol is blessed with a daughter with Downs Syndrome, and it was through this blessing that her passion for this work began. The Alternative Center’s vision is to be a place where each person’s abilities can be encouraged and strengthened through the love and commitment of our devoted staff and volunteers. We seek to show the world what we CAN do and WHO we truly ARE! Disability does not mean inability! Each person’s ideas, perspectives and input is valued and integral in making our community shine!

ARC Industries is a leading provider of Adult Day Programs and Employment Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities in Central Ohio. 

For High School Students, ARC hosts an Annual Summer Youth Program and provides Pre-Employment Transition Services throughout the school year. 

APSI (Advocacy & Protective Services, Inc.) is a private, non-profit agency dedicated to protecting the rights of Ohioans with developmental disabilities. We advocate for the people we serve by helping to make their desires and needs known, especially when they cannot speak for themselves or if they have no other advocate. We do this by providing a full array of guardianship and protective services to individuals age 18 or older.

At A Steady Hand Ltd., it is our sole purpose to selflessly assist those in need by providing well-trained, highly experienced caregivers that truly care for the individuals we serve. It is our top priority to not only protect the health and safety of our consumers, but to facilitate personal growth in regards to achieving their maximum potential.  Our employees shall do so with an attention to detail and in a manner that respects the dignity and individuality of all who choose us as caretakers. A Steady Hand Supported Living Specialists understand the uniqueness of the individual, and will coordinate top-rate Homemaker Personal Care (HPC) services to provide a living environment that allows each individual to determine his or her own destiny.

Join us for your journey, we will not disappoint!

Autism Society Central Ohio (ASCO) is an affiliate of The Autism Society of America which was founded in 1965. ASCO has been improving the lives of all affected by autism for over 25 years, providing advocacy, education, information and referral, support and community in central Ohio

Autism Society Central Ohio (ASCO) serves the following counties: Franklin, Delaware, Licking, Fairfield, Pickaway, Logan, Madison, Union, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Champaign counties. 

Best of Friends has been servng the community of Delaware and Franklin County. We pride ourselves on quality care. Best of Friends staff are very responsible and have worked with the community since establishment of 2015.

We have great relationship with all team members meeting on a monthly basis. Feel free to come tour our location at 617 Sunbury Road Delaware, Ohio 43015 located next to Oakland Nursery. 

Bridges to Independence was founded in 1999 by Chris Ritchie and Bunny Ambro, who bring a combined 50 years of experience in providing services to people with developmental disabilities. Our agency currently provides quality I/O Waiver, Supported Living, and Level One services to approximately 97 people with developmental disabilities in Crawford, Delaware, Franklin, and Marion counties that range from a couple of hours each week providing assistance with banking, shopping or getting out in the community; to spending a few hours each day assisting with daily living skills or getting ready for work; to 24 hour supports to assist with daily living needs and the opportunity to live independently. We provide transportation to and from appointments, shopping and recreation.

Capabilities, LLC connects the dots between the person and their future. As Ohio’s largest private provider of career rehabilitation, we provide flexible, personalized rehabilitation services for people with disabilities. Started in 1997 by a former special education teacher and her husband, today a staff of over 200 employees work virtually and in thirteen office locations to support people with disabilities on their journeys toward independence.

Capabilities is sought after for our comprehensive services, focus on supported community employment, optimistic corporate culture, and one-on-one customer service. How can we help you connect the dots?

Our Core Services: Community Employment, Community Inclusion, Driving Services, Professional Training, Technology Services, Transition Services

Careforth serves Medicaid-eligible individuals and their families in select states. Check your eligibility by calling today or exploring programs in your state. You may be eligible for support and pay through Structured Family Caregiving if the person you are caring for is: 18 years or older, Related to you or a friend, Living in the same home as you, Eligible for Medicaid, Needs assistance with daily activities like getting dressed or eating

The Center for Disability Empowerment is a community based, non-residential Center for Independent Living (agency) driven by the choice and direction of people with disabilities. 

We provide support and resources for people with disabilities to be participants and contributors as they live, learn, worship, work and play alongside everyone in their community.

CDE provides information, resources and referrals for disability-related matters such as housing, transportation, employment, benefits and social services. We can connect you to agencies, vendors and to local, state and national organizations.

Central Ohio Parent Mentors

For more than 30 years, Ohio Parent Mentors have helped families navigate local and state special education processes and services so that children with disabilities can get the most out of their educational experience. Using our lived experience and an evidence-based approach, we work in collaboration with families, schools, and agencies to create the conditions for success for your child.

With our support as peers and trained mentors, parents will understand the special education process and become better advocates for their children. Ohio’s Parent Mentor Project offers all services free of charge to families.

For over 100 years, Columbus Speech & Hearing has been the leading nonprofit serving the communication needs of central Ohio and surrounding communities. Each year, we serve more than 8,000 central Ohio children and adults by providing audiology and hearing aid services, speech-language therapy sessions and evaluations, community outreach programs, American Sign Language classes and a Support Service Provider program. As a nonprofit, we serve all individuals – regardless of their ability to pay – because we believe that the ability to communicate and connect is vital to our health and well-being.

At Columbus State, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience college and train for a fulfilling career. We have designated two programs that are designed for students with intellectual or developmental disabilities: the Human Services Assistant or Early Childhood Aide certificates. And for students with intellectual disabilities, we offer the COMPETE program to provide additional services and support. 

Our Comprehensive Model for Postsecondary Education and Transition Enrichment (COMPETE) Program provides students who have an intellectual or developmental disability the opportunity to participate in the Human Services Assistant or Early Childhood Aide certificate programs, as well as experience college.  

Our agency was founded in December 2007 as a provider to individuals with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities. We are certified and governed by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities to provide services throughout the State of Ohio. We currently provide services in the following counties: Delaware, Franklin, and Hamilton.

Services include Adult Foster Care, Home and Community Based Services, Supported and Residential Living (Homemaker Personal Care),  American Sign Language (ASL) providers, and Residential Respite

COTA’s Mobility Services Department offers mainstream paratransit services to persons who cannot ride the fixed route bus services due to their disability. Mainstream is an origin to destination shared ride service serving Franklin County. 

COTA Mainstream is a shared-ride public transportation service providing origin-to-destination transportation for people whose functional limitations prevent them from riding COTA’s fixed-route buses for some or all of their trips. To use COTA Mainstream, you must complete an application, attend an interview assessment and meet eligibility criteria for the service. 

Creative Options offers adult day services onsite and through a Community Inclusion Program.

Designed to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving a lifetime of success through advocacy, inclusion and innovative options tailored to meet the needs of each individual. 

There are often times an individual requires a more creative option than what is currently offered. Not every individual fits into every environment. We specialize in out-of-the-box solutions to meet the needs of the individual. 

Creative Options, LLC currently serves individuals receiving funding from the Level One, SELF and Individual Options Waivers. 

Deaf Services Center, Inc. (DSC) empowers those faced with language barriers by promoting access to communication. Our resources help those who have hearing loss or are non-English users to fully access the English language in communicating with others. Additionally, DSC offers community resources in the form of youth programs, employment and pre-employment services, equipment assistance, early intervention, advocacy, case management services and much more. Visit our website at www.dsc.org for additional information.

Since 1967, the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities has overseen a countywide system of supportive services that focuses on ensuring health and welfare, accessing the community, and increasing opportunities for meaningful employment so that all people can live personally fulfilling lives.

In accordance with Ohio Revised Code § 2111.52, the Delaware County Guardianship Services Board was created in 2022 to administer a guardianship program serving mentally incompetent wards of Delaware County through appointments by the Probate Judge.

The Delaware County Guardianship Services Board shall serve the community as follows:1. Treat all persons with dignity. 2. Involve the individuals we serve to the greatest extent possible in all decision making. 3. Select the option that places the least restrictions on freedoms and rights of the individuals we serve. 4. Identify and advocate for goals, needs, and preferences of the individuals we serve. 5. Maximize the self-reliance and independence of the individuals we serve. 6. Keep confidential the affairs of the individuals we serve. 7. Avoid conflicts of interest and self-dealing. 8. Have the least amount of involvement, making the greatest impact, for the individuals we serve. 9. Comply with all laws and Delaware County Probate Court orders.

Delaware Career Center offers something for every type of student. Whether you learn better with real life, hands-on activities, you want to develop life skills to be prepared for life after high school, you want to get a jump start on college by earning college credits during high school or you want to be prepared for new and emerging careers, the Career Center has a program that’s right for you. 

Programs at the Career Center are focused on preparing you for post-secondary education and your future career. As a student, you will get hands-on experience that will help you make important life decisions as you continue on your career pathway. Many of our programs offer you the chance to earn industry certifications that will boost your college application and your resume. Some labs also offer the chance to earn college credits, saving you money on college tuition. 

Project SEARCH's mission is to provide education and training to young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a workforce and career development model that benefits the individual, workplace, and community. Project SEARCH is a national program started in Cincinnati, Ohio that has been in existence since 1991. To date, there are over 600 Project SEARCH sites in existence in 42 states in the U.S., England, Scotland, Ireland and Canada. Project SEARCH is a unique, business-led, one-year, work program that takes place entirely at the workplace. Project SEARCH is an international, trademarked and copyrighted program model.

DACC and the Alpha Group are very fortunate to partner with Ohio Health, Grady Memorial Hospital!

Delaware County Transit- Mobility Management

To meet the transportation needs of all residents of Delaware County; with specific emphasis on the needs of the ADA and Senior Citizen communities. We will assist the mobility challenged residents of our County by providing them with a means of transportation that increases their level of self-sufficiency and expands the scope of their mobility. We constantly strive to go above and beyond the standard of excellence of transit services for our customers. These services will be accomplished in an efficient manner, with the safety of our customers as our 1st priority; priding ourselves on delivering quality service to all residents of Delaware County.

Disability Rights Ohio is designated under federal law as the system to protect and advocate the rights of people with disabilities and as the Client Assistance Program (CAP) under the Rehabilitation Act.  Through CAP and our Education Team, we can assist individuals transitioning from adolescence to adult life and preparing for a successful future.

Disability Rights Ohio provides legal advocacy and rights protection to a wide range of people with disabilities. This includes assisting individuals with problems such as abuse, neglect, discrimination, access to assistive technology devices, special education, housing, employment, voting, community integration, and rights protection issues within the juvenile and criminal justice systems.

 Dreamshine is an innovative year round Adult Day Support, including job, community engagement, and transportation. Our campus is located on a lush 2.5 acres with 3 beautiful buildings: Our Log Cabin, Waterfront Lodge and Pirate Ship Building. We feature a stocked pond for fishing, a fruit tree orchard, vegetable and herb garden, hot tub, woods, koi pond, and so much more!​ We recently just expanded and purchased a 5 acre property with gardens, fruit trees and plenty of outdoor space for adventures!

Dreamshine was Founded in 2007 by Amy and Mark Minard, a brother and sister team. The vision was born out of a passion for creating and maintaining an amazing program and beautiful environment based upon creating incredible options for each individual with developmental disabilities, focusing on incredible options tailored to the person first/centered, for each individual Dreamshine is honored to serve, & most important...to have fun!!!!

Dreams on Horseback 

We conduct a variety of programming for all age groups and all abilities. Our programs include therapeutic riding, equine assited learning, alzheimer’s sensory experiences, vocational training, military programs, field trips, team building and more.

The City of Dublin Recreation Services department provides a variety of programs to suit the interests and needs of individuals of all ages and all abilities. The adaptive recreation team provides social, life skill, fitness, and special interest area programs year-round. Reasonable accommodations will also be made for individuals to participate in any Recreation Services program. 

Contact Meaghan Campbell, Adaptive Recreation Coordinator, at 614.410.4574 or mmcampbell@dublin.oh.us to complete an inquiry of needs and find the right program for you.

Dungarvin's Adult Day Program is a unique alternative to everyday workshops in that we promote individual’s health and wellness on a daily basis through participation in physical activities, sporting events, and community integration.

During the fall you can catch us on the soccer field, on a nature hike in one of Columbus’ metro parks, or on a shopping excursion.  In the winter months you can find us at the bowling alley, going to various nature centers and museums.  This is also a great time of year to utilize the library to read a good book or practicing up on our computer skills.

Spring and summer are our favorite months. We will be lounging at a public pool, lake, or splash pad.  We also might be playing basketball, whiffle ball, bat mitten, or playing 18 holes of miniature golf.

No matter the season, we will be engaging in an activity that builds our sense of self-determination and self-worth by challenging ourselves to conquer tasks that people think we cannot do!

For over 100 years Easterseals has been the indispensable resource for people and families challenged by disability.  Easterseals Central and Southeast Ohio is the champion for people of all abilities by delivering support, providing guidance and offering new pathways so that all people can successfully navigate life’s complexities both big and small. We work hard everyday to eliminate barriers in our community and help individuals reach their full potential to live a fully inclusive life! 

ECHO Residential.  ECHO stands for "Everyone Can Have Opportunity" which sums up our philosophy of providing supports. Before "self-determination" became an official policy it was ECHO's policy to promote each individual's opportunities for a full and rewarding life and individual life choices. From the time ECHO began with one individual in Delaware County in1992, our reason for being was not just to run a business but to run this kind of business the right way for the right reasons. We have grown from one owner/support specialist and one individual in one county to a much larger organization today, remaining faithful to and supporting this philosophy of opportunity for those we serve. Helping to promote independence, it's our job to work ourselves out of a job!

ElevateDD is a statewide organization focused on increasing authentic inclusion for people with developmental disabilities by amplifying voices, supporting families, illuminating opportunities, and launching innovative solutions.

Learning Aid Ohio’s mission is to connect families with tutors to help students stay on track toward their unique academic goals, specific to their individual needs and based on the curriculum their traditional teachers set. In support of that mission, we provide students on an Individualized Education Program (IEP) funding for in-person, supplemental learning support.

Adult Literacy Ohio is a self-directed, literacy focused program designed to meet adult learners where they are at to develop increased confidence and literacy skills to enhance community navigation, quality of life, and workforce development. In support of that mission, we provide adults with developmental disabilities with funding to access one-on-one tutoring support for improved reading, writing, or communication skills.

The Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESC) provides school districts and schools with professional development, technology, human resource, and administrative supports, and direct student services that help improve student learning, enhance the quality of instruction, expand equitable access to resources, and maximize operating and fiscal efficiencies.  

The ESC of Central Ohio has partnered with area institutions of higher education to give Central Ohio students with disabilities an opportunity to explore, develop and refine skills necessary to enter competitive employment. Students focus on individualized transition plans to achieve future adult living and career aspirations. The Campus Based Transition Program consists of the following classrooms: WINGS, STEP and Project Plus. Project Search is an additional program offered by the ESC of Central Ohio

Food for Good Thought provides transition and employment services for those with autism and other development disabilities. Our one of a kind transition program, EveryBody Works is based on a local college campus and provides a college like experience, while providing paid internships simulating real life work experience. Additional services offered include case management services and employment placement services. 

The mission of Franklin County Family and Children First Council(FCFC) is to increase the access, capacity and effectiveness of services for the most vulnerable Franklin County youth and their families. We provide Multisystem service collaboration for families & children with complex needs, Help Me Grow Early Intervention Service Coordination, Partnership 4 Success collective Impact designed to organize, align and mobilize stakeholders & providers, and Building Better Lives community-wide initiative with school and community brain-based, resilience and equity centered training, school-based coaching and community based consultation to help children, families and communities understand the impact that complex developmental trauma has on a child's brain, learning and behavior-and to adopt strategies that support healthy brain development. 

The Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities (FCBDD) is a county agency providing supports to children and adults who have developmental disabilities. Services are provided to residents of Franklin County, Ohio 

Helping people to live, learn and work in our community.

Supporting parents and family members with life-long services where needed.

Supporting a caring community with cost effective services.

Functional Training Services is a Central Ohio agency specializing in employment development and support services for persons with disabilities. Programs we offer include: job development, job coaching, in-house and community-based work training experiences, as well as summer internship programming for transition students. FTS transitional youth programs provide participants the opportunity to be exposed to various employment environments, learn valuable work skills and obtain essential information in order to better plan and prepare for success following high school.

Goodwill Day Services provides small group, community based services at a 1 staff per 4 person ratio. There are several small hub sites throughout Franklin County. People in a group work together to develop a calendar that includes volunteering, community rec centers, libraries, metro parks, shopping, exploring, and social activities. Goodwill Day Services also has an Art Studio for people that want to focus on developing artistic skills and learning about the process of selling artwork.

Other programs and services offered by Goodwill Columbus include Workforce Development for specific employment training and job search, Work and Community Services for sheltered training and addressing emotional regulation,  Supported Living for residential support, and Evening Education and Recreation.

Greenleaf is a vocational rehabilitation agency for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment located in Columbus, Ohio. We bring together qualified job candidates with local employers to forge mutually beneficial working relationships.

Greenleaf Job Training Services is excited to announce new services through our Empowering Employment Program. Empowering Employment provides free group or individual workshop style lessons to individuals with disabilities, designed to enhance knowledge and confidence to pursue their employment goals. Some of the employment offerings include Job Exploration, Self-Advocacy, Workplace Readiness, and Job Search Skills. We also offer monthly social skills workshops to help address common employment concerns such as breakroom etiquette or maintaining personal space at work.  

For more information, please contact -admin.asst@greenleafjts.com

Hand to Hand operates an adult day program located in Westerville, OH. We provide a supportive environment to help our participants grow and develop new skills. We focus on community inclusion, developing life skills and encouraging social relationships. Hand to Hand advocates for our friends and love watching them grow. We offer a small setting with 1:2 supervision to ensure that all participants are safe and cared for. 

Our hours are Monday-Friday, 9am-2pm. We offer transportation to and from the program as well as community outings. We can schedule a tour of our facility if you are interested, please call 614-806-2821 or email handtohandhomecare@gmail.com

Excel is Hattie Larlham’s day support program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Northeast and Central Ohio.

Our Excel identity is a representation of the core elements that we’ve built into our day programs from the very beginning: exploration, connection, engagement, and learning. We are, as we have always been, deeply invested in the happiness and achievement of the adults who attend our programs. Together, under a unified and energized brand, our day programs in Northeast and Central Ohio continue to deliver on our commitments to the people we serve, represented by a name that highlights the culture and values we have thoughtfully fostered at our day programs.

Home Health Connection offers reliable and affordable home care solutions throughout Central Ohio. 

Our highly-skilled, dedicated, and professional staff create a strong bond with our clients rooted in respect and manifested in love. 

For nearly thirty years, we have allowed our clients to live with dignity and maintain independence. We are excited to help you on the path to wellness!

Does your beloved family member need more support than you can provide? Homewatch CareGivers of Columbus, Ohio, offers compassionate, reliable home care in Columbus. We can fulfill your family’s needs by providing everything from occasional companion care to daily dementia care, plus senior transportation in Columbus, Ohio. We are dedicated to offering Columbus senior care services to improve each client’s quality of life.

Is your loved one living with specific developmental disabilities? Many families in this situation require assistance with specific tasks, like navigating social situations or completing personal hygiene responsibilities. Our disabled in-home care services will provide your loved one with the extra support they need to thrive. Learn more about our developmental disability services. Click here to learn more about Developmental Disabilities today. 

Hummingbird House is a place where students can work on personalized academic and functional skill acquisition.  We offer one on one tutoring as well as small group workshops and social groups based on individual interests and needs.  Our student centered services allow for academic enrichment, additional skill practice and exploration. 

Safety is the foundation of success.

The IMPACT:Ability program teaches people with disabilities, schools, and nonprofits to understand and prevent abuse.

Studies conducted by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the National Institute of Justice, and numerous independent researchers show that people with disabilities are more likely to experience abuse than people without disabilities.

We help People with Disabilities learn to Protect and Stand Up for Themselves.

Generally implemented in on  - going group settings, though also can be implemented one   - on - one. 

Life Builders' mission and vision is to support individuals in leading self-directed lives. By continually focusing on the individuals and their hopes and dreams, Life Builders remains person-centered at the core. Life Builders enhances the lives of adults with developmental disabilities by providing opportunities to create inclusion within the community. Life Builders offers a diverse range of volunteer activities and is always open to creating personalized options. Members are offered an array of community activities based on the season and location.

The Night League was created in 2005 out of the traditional Miracle League to accommodate teenagers and adults. Games are played Tuesday and Thursday evenings under the lights at the Miracle League Field in Dublin. Three special event nights are played on select Sundays throughout the summer schedule.

Typically, players do not utilize buddies in the Night League. Wooden and aluminum bats are used along with soft-core baseballs as opposed to the plastic bats and balls used in the Saturday League. The players occupy all the positions in the field; coaches and players do the pitching.

Games usually last 60-90 minutes. Games are typically 2 or 3 innings. Every player is announced as they come to bat and every player bats and scores each inning as well as having the opportunity to play the field on defense. The games are filled with lots of fun and sportsmanship.

Morningview Care Center Community Services is a HPC provider and Adult Day Services provider.  We provide Homemaker/Personal Care Services and Transportation Services to individuals with a wide range of disabilities under IO waiver and supported living programs in Franklin and Delaware County of Ohio.

At MVNU, we believe every person is uniquely created to contribute to the growth of God's kingdom with their unique skills, talents, and personalities. The IGNITE Program was developed to help students with intellectual disabilities discover their calling through an individualized, integrated college experience.

In the two-year, four semester residential program, IGNITE students will gain skills in the areas of independence, self-determination, and employment in a supportive Christian environment.

The NCCSD is the only federally-funded national center in the U.S. with information and resources for future and current college students with disabilities, including those in part-time programs and graduate students. We work with students, their families, teachers, professors, and anyone with questions about disability and higher education. Check out the CEDAR Database of all college/university disability services office contacts; the DREAM (Disability Rights, Education, Activism, and Mentoring) student group - run by disabled students, for disabled students; technical assistance - get answers to your questions about college and disabilities; and publications and tip sheets to help students and prospective students. All resources can be found on our webpage and questions can be emailed to nccsd@ahead.org. 

NCH CASD- Nationwide Children's Hospital's Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders Adolescent Transition Program provides services to adolescents and young adults (ages 12-22) and their families as they prepare for the transition to adulthood. Youth served include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or intellectual disability (ID).

Our team includes psychologists, behavior analysts, counselors/social workers, transition specialists, resource clinicians and behavior technicians who specialize in caring for autistic individuals. We offer services in office, at home, within the community and school settings, and by telehealth.

NCH Project Search Project SEARCH is an intensive 9-month internship program that provides training, education and workforce development for students with disabilities. The goal is to help prepare students for competitive, integrated employment.

The Nationwide Children’s Hospital Project SEARCH program is specially designed for Central Ohio students in their last year of high school who have Autism and/or Intellectual Disability with Complex Social and Communication Needs.  

New Story Schools’ Transitions Program is an alternative high school program in Columbus, Ohio, that provides educational and behavioral programming with a focus on post-secondary transition. The program supports the needs of young adults up to 22 years old with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and behavioral health diagnosis. 

Students enrolled in New Story Schools’  Transitions Program can expect to:                          • Receive individualized and tailored support in small group settings aligned with their Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals. • Gain employability, social, and daily living skills with a specific focus on independent living and workplace readiness through simulated environments, opportunities for repeated practice, and robust vocational assessment tools.     • Experience support from a highly qualified and passionate team composed of a behavior technician, registered behavioral technician, intervention specialist, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).• Seniors that have met graduation requirements are able to participate in their graduation ceremony and then can defer diploma to continue services in the transitions post-secondary training and education program. The Transitions program focuses on a pathway to workplace readiness and/or life skills needed beyond high school. .

Nisonger Programs (ACE)

Autism college experience (Ace!) is a part of Nisonger Center’s Learning and Interpersonal Development Services (LIDS) which is made up of Aspirations Ohio, Next Chapter Book Club, and TOPS.  Ace! promotes success among enrolled college students with autism and social communication challenges through a range of comprehensive services. These include planning and coaching sessions, intakes/assessments, counseling, and various social groups and activities. Ace! participants receive support in many facets of college life, such as developing academic, social, and self-advocacy skills; advocating with peers, college staff, and instructors; facilitating a connection with career services and exploration; enhancing executive functioning skills; and developing independent living skills.

Nisonger Programs (TOPS) 

The TOPS Program is a 2- and 4-year Workforce Development Certificate program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities that focuses on 4 transition areas:

Academics

Career Development

Independent Living

Self-Determination

The TOPS program is not a degree-granting program but a catalyst for employment and/or a bridge to degree-granting programs.

Nisonger Programs (Aspirations)

Aspirations Ohio is a part of the Nisonger Center’s Learning and Interpersonal Development Services (Autism College Experience and Next Chapter Book Club). Established in 2002 by The Ohio State University’s Nisonger Center and the Department of Neurology, Aspirations is a group-based social skills and support program that supports adolescents and adults (15-30 years) with autism spectrum disorder and their families.

Nisonger Programs (Next Chapter Book Club)

Next Chapter Book Club (NCBC) is a book club for anyone 18 years old and over, no matter your reading ability.

Book clubs include up to 8 adults with disabilities and 2 trained volunteers who help as much as needed. Club members meet weekly for one hour to get to know each other and take turns reading a book they’ve chosen. There is no cost to join!

Each Next Chapter Book Club meets weekly, on the same day, at the same time, at the same place. Meeting places include bookstores, cafés, and public libraries throughout Franklin County, OH.

NCBC staff will talk with you about the day, time, and location of your book club. Or let us know if you want to be in a virtual club on Zoom.

The Lifespan Transitions Center works to equip communities to support the successful and unique transition of individuals with disabilities to ensure they can live their best lives for their whole lives.

We do this by being agency-neutral, outcome-focused, and person-centered in offering resources, training, and technical assistance to create successful support systems that incorporate community living and employment.

The Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (OCECD) is a statewide nonprofit organization that serves families of infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities in Ohio, educators and agencies who provide services to them. OCECD works through the coalition efforts of over 40 parent and professional disability organizations and over 70 individual members which comprise the Coalition. OCECD has also been funded since 1984 to serve as the Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) for the state of Ohio from the federal government, U.S. Dept of Education, Office for Special Education Programs. OCECD’s programs help parents become informed and effective representatives for their children in all educational settings. In addition, youth are assisted to advocate for themselves. Through knowledge about laws, resources, rights and responsibilities, families are better able to work with agencies to ensure that appropriate services are received for the benefit of their sons and daughters. 

Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council 

Ohio DD Council staff and stakeholders work together to identify a problem or need that should be addressed for Ohioans with developmental disabilities. These issues are agreed upon by Council members and identified in the Ohio DD Council's Five-Year State Plan. The State Plan is used to offer specific grant projects to create systems change and promote independent living in an inclusive community for Ohioans with developmental disabilities.

The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) oversees a statewide system of services that supports over 100,000 people with developmental disabilities, their families, and support teams.  DODD focuses onthe health and safety of people with developmental disabilities and increasing access and opportunities for community participation and integration.

In Ohio, services and supports, as well as eligibility determinations, are all managed at the county level.  The local county board of developmental disabilities is the place to start for accessing needs and coordinating which services can best support you or your family.

Ohio Family to Family Health Information Center (Ohio F2F) is a federally funded, family-staffed program that assists families of children and youth with special health care needs, and the professionals who serve them, in navigating healthcare and other service systems. Ohio F2F focus on empowerment and advocacy of families and children through peer support, education, and information dissemination.

Ohio Self Determination Association (OSDA) is a non-profit policy organization that promotes self-determination for all persons with disabilities and their families throughout Ohio by focusing on the following concepts: Responsibility, Dignity and Respect, Fiscal Conservatism, Control, Citizens in their Community, Contribution, Relationships, Dreaming and Choice. OSDA believes individuals with disabilities should have the freedom to plan their own lives and to pursue things that are important to them.

Project STIR™ is advocacy/leadership training designed to provide people with disabilities and their allies with the tools to advocate for themselves, work with others in advocacy and gain leadership experiences.

Open Arms was originally founded in 2011 in Chicago, Illinois, as a provider of senior services. Shortly after, the owner, at the age of 21, moved back to the Columbus, Ohio area to care for his brother that has developmental disabilities. Through those experiences, the owner saw the overwhelming need for good, quality residential and vocational services within this field. The focus then shifted from senior care to caring for and providing opportunities to those with developmental disabilities. In 2013, individuals receiving OAHS residential services were looking for places to work, but nothing was available that fit their unique set of needs or offered decent wages. They had bills to pay. They had hopes and dreams of a better lifestyle. OAHS then developed a system that gave individuals the ability to learn a vocation while earning a living. We could also pay them competitive wages, offer benefits, and offer opportunities for advancement. Over the course of a few years, our services quickly expanded to other life areas that include entertainment, education, and expeditions. Presently, we continue to grow in the types of services we provide, in the geographic areas we serve, and in the number of individuals that we positively impact on a daily basis.

Open Door provides waiver-based, in-home support that maximizes independence, encourages personal growth, and helps achieve goals. We also have intermediate-care facilities at Park West and Johnstown which help individuals grow and achieve their goals. We have multiple day program opportunities. We believe in the transformative power of the arts and are committed to fostering personal and artistic growth and deepening community connection. Located in Grandview Heights, Ohio, Open Door Art Studio & Gallery serves as a creative space for a diverse group of working artists. Open Door Stage & Screen delivers performances envisioned, written, and produced by our talented troupe of actors, creators, and musicians. Offering one-on-one and small group adult day support, Career, Activity, & Community gives individuals with disabilities the opportunity to live their own powerful life story. Open Door now offers remote supports. Work with our team of experts to form a remote support plan that is personalized to help you thrive.

PALS Chrysalis Health is built on the foundation of physical activity and life skills (PALS). Our numerous person-centered programs are designed to create opportunities and success for the individuals with disabilities that we work with. Our programs offer individuals the necessary tools they need to be active members of the community and maintain a high quality of life. 

 Pathways to Independence of Central Ohio is a 501(c)(3) non profit doggy daycare and boarding facility.  We provide opportunities for individuals with various disabilities to connect with our community in a purposeful, meaningful, and intentional environment. We strive to enrich our employees and our community by allowing a path for individuals with disabilities to be accepted and valued within our community

Pathways to Independence of Central Ohio is a nonprofit agency providing mentoring and job placement to recent high school graduates and young adults with disabilities in Columbus, Ohio and surrounding areas. At Pathways to Independence, we strive to give employment and transition opportunities to individuals with disabilities that utilize their individual skills and interests. Pathways to Independence aspires to give individuals the ability to enrich their lives and their community through career participation.

PBJ Connections provides professional behavioral health therapy to children (ages 6 and up), adults and families through horses, counseling and nature. PBJ Connections offers teletherapy, office therapy, wellness programs and equine (horse) assisted psychotherapy from Pataskala, Johnstown and Galena.