Special Needs Resources & Sites
Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts – 781-891-6270; www.afamaction.org
Public advocacy organization offering resources regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder. Click “links” for support centers in your area.
Autism Coalition of Massachusetts – www.autismcoalitionofma.com
A network of local organizations that support individuals and their families by sharing resources and working as a collective voice on policy change.
Autism Society, Massachusetts – 781-237-0272, ext. 17; www.autism-society-massachusetts.org
The local chapter of this national organization offers information on autism news and research, local treatment services, a calendar of events and more. It is also a “point-of entry” for people newly diagnosed with autism or new to the area and in need of referrals and resources.
Federation for Children with Special Needs – 617-236-7210; 800-331-0688 (in Mass.); www.fcsn.org
Advocacy, resources and information for parents and professionals.
Home Modification Loan Program – 617-204-3739; www.mass.gov/mrc/hmlp
Facilitated by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, this program helps individuals with disabilities to fund access and safety modifications to their homes.
Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston – 617-558-6508; www.bostonjcc.org
Offer a full array of special needs programs for children and adults.
Learning Disabilities Worldwide – www.ldworldwide.org
Professional organization for researchers, educators and clinicians that supplies information and resources.
Massachusetts Branch of the International Dyslexia Association – 617-650-0011; www.dyslexia-ma.org
Provides recommended reading materials for parents of kids with dyslexia, conducts professional development workshops and more.
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind – 617-727-5550; www.mass.gov/mcb
Provider of services that promote independence and community participation.
Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing – 617-573-1600; www.mass.gov/mcdhh
Services for deaf and hard of hearing, including interpreting, case management and technology.
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education – 781-338-3000; www.doe.mass.edu
The State’s education website with information on special education, standardized testing, public schools and related topics.
Massachusetts Office on Disability – 617-727-7440; 800-322-2020 (in Mass.); www.mass.gov/mod
Information and support concerning community, government and individual services for those with disabilities. Its primary mission is to ensure access.
Special Needs Advocacy Network – 508-655-7999; www.spanMass.org
Offers support and referrals to Massachusetts special needs advocates and provides special education workshops and training.
