Resources

Links to organizations that support adults with developmental disabilities, transportation resources, recreation programs, support, and other community services. 

1. Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities: The Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Cuyahoga DD) provides services, resources, and support for people with developmental disabilities. They help individuals connect with community programs, employment services, transportation, and other opportunities that promote independence and inclusion. (https://www.cuyahogadd.org/ )

2. Lorain County Board of Developmental Disabilities: The Lorain County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Lorain County DD) provides services, resources, and support for people with developmental disabilities. They help individuals connect with community programs, employment services, transportation, and other opportunities that promote independence and inclusion. (https://www.murrayridgecenter.org/)

3. I'm Possible Games & Studio: I'm Possible Games & Studio is a welcoming community program that offers creative and social opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Participants can enjoy activities such as arts and crafts, games, karaoke, and special events while building friendships in a fun and inclusive environment. (https://im-possiblegamescafe.com/)

4. Lifeworks Autism Resources: Lifeworks Autism Services provides programs and support for individuals with autism and their families. Their services focus on building life skills, promoting independence, and creating opportunities for community involvement and personal growth. (https://lifeworksautism.org/)

5. Empowered Community Services: Offers day support, employment services, and community-based programs for adults with developmental disabilities. (https://www.pickempowered.com/)

6. Best Buddies Ohio: Creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, leadership development, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. (https://www.bestbuddies.org/ohio/)

7. Autism Society of Greater Cleveland: Provides support groups, educational programs, social events, and resources for individuals with autism and their families. (https://www.asgc.org/)

8. Special Olympics Ohio: Offers year-round sports training, competitions, and social opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. (https://sooh.org/)

9. Empower Sports: Empower Sports provides inclusive sports and fitness programs for athletes of all abilities, including individuals with developmental disabilities. Their programs offer opportunities to build skills, stay active, make friends, and be part of a welcoming team environment. (https://www.empowersports.org/)

10. Rec2Connect: offers group recreation and aquatic therapy services for children and adults with special needs. Their programs are centered on individual needs and target a variety of social motor and life leisure goals. (https://rec2connect.org/)

11. We Thrive Together: We Thrive Together is an Ohio nonprofit that offers free virtual social, educational, and recreational programs for people of all abilities. Through Zoom events, games, classes, and social activities, participants can build friendships, stay connected, and have fun from home. (https://wethrivetogether.org/)

12. Atypically Social: Atypically Social provides social opportunities for adults with autism and developmental disabilities. Through events and activities, they help individuals connect with others, build friendships, and feel more included in their communities. (https://atypicallysocial.org/)

13. The High Five Club: The High 5 Club offers monthly social outings for teens and adults with learning differences ages 15-50. The High 5 Club's events are announced via email. Contact Tina Dick to be added to the mailing list. 

Contact

Person: Tina Dick

Phone: 440.749.9077

Email: tinad080916@gmail.com

14. A Place 2B Me: A place that allows you to be you–and to help others with and without disabilities contribute to our diverse and thriving community. (https://www.aplace2bme.com/)

15. Aspies: Aspies Greater Akron is an all volunteer organization dedicated to assisting those on the Autism Spectrum. Our volunteers serve people in Summit, Stark, Tuscarawas, Portage, Wayne, Medina, and Cuyahoga counties. Information, education, and support is available to anyone interested in Autism spectrum disorders. (https://www.aspies.org/)

16. Autism Akron Adult Social Club: The Adult Social Club is for ages 18 and over and offers a way for you to connect and make friends with other adults with ASD who share interests and life’s challenges. Meetings are in-person with meet-ups occurring at a variety of locations. (https://autismakron.org/social-clubs/adult-social-club/)

17. The Arc of Ohio: Advocates for the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities while connecting families with resources. (https://www.thearcofohio.org/)

18. Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD): Provides statewide information on services, eligibility, providers, and resources for Ohioans with developmental disabilities. (https://dodd.ohio.gov/)

19. Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD): Helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep employment through vocational rehabilitation and related services. (https://ood.ohio.gov/)