The Center for Hospital-based Specialties Core inpatient services, including emergency care, neonatal and pediatric critical care, general inpatient care, diagnostic imaging and radiology, and respiratory therapy, as well as multiple outpatient services.
The Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine. Treats illnesses involving a child’s psychological well-being, brain and nervous system.
The Center for Surgical Care. Surgeons perform more than 15,000 surgeries each year on infants, children and adolescents. Children’s surgeons perform laser surgery and employ many types of minimally invasive techniques.
Child Health Advocacy Institute identifies and studies threats facing children and develops and and implements interventions to improve pediatric health outcomes.
Children with Diabetes Foundation. Online community for kids, families and adults with diabetes.
Clearinghouse for Home and Community Based Services
Youth Leadership/Transition Toolkit/Guidebook pdf file
Youth Leadership/Transition Toolkit/Guidebook Word file. DVD also available
Coordinated School Health Model is a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention program. A coordinated school health program (CSHP) model has eight interactive components (1) Health Education; (2) Physical Education; (3) Health Services; (4) Nutrition Services; (5) Counseling and Psychological Services; (6) Healthy School Environments; (7) Health Promotion for Staff; and (8) Family/Community Involvement.
Community Services Locator Online Directory for finding community services for children and families. Service providers and families can use the directory to find health, mental health, family support, parenting, child care, and other services in their communities. Topics include education and special needs, health and wellness, mental health and well-being, family support, parenting, child care and early childhood education, and financial support.
Consortium for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education (CADRE) Has published a set of resources designed to guide implementation of the mediation regulations under IDEA ’97. Materials downloadable from site or available in print.
Council for Exceptional Children
Disability, Abuse and Personal Rights Project Dedicated to the personal rights of children and adults with disabilities, with a mission to prevent abuse of people with disabilities and protect others from abuses that lead to disability.
Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund National law and policy center which protects and advances the civil rights of people with disabilities through legislation, litigation, advocacy, technical assistance, and education and training of attorneys, advocates, persons with disabilities, and parents of children with disabilities.
Discover Camp On-line resource for parents of children with disabilities sending their child to camp for the first time. Answers questions from how to select a camp to what to consider when attending open houses and meeting with camp staff. Links to a database of camps accredited by the American Camping Association.
Easter Seals Disability Services Helps children and young adults with physical disabilities achieve their full individual potential and future independence. Easter Seal provides direct services, programs, research, advocacy and public education. Camping and leisure programs are available nationwide.
Eldercare Locator provides home and community-based services to hard-to-reach older persons. Among these services are nutrition, such as home-delivered meals or meals served in congregate settings, transportation, legal assistance and health promotion counseling and training. This National Family Caregiver Support Program, focuses on those caring for family members who are chronically ill or who have disabilities. The program also helps those who are caring for younger family members, such as grandchildren and those with mental retardation or developmental disabilities.
Ensuring Access, Equity and Quality for Students with Disabilities in School-to-Work Systems . Publication helps policymakers, administrators, educators, parents, attorneys, and advocates understand the complex area of the legal rights of youth with disabilities in school-to-work systems.
Entering the World of Work: What Youth with Mental Health Needs Should Know about Accommodations Fact sheet provides guidance to assist with a successful transition into the workforce by answering questions regarding disclosure, accommodations and resources.
Epilepsy Foundation Provides training programs and “seizure smart” resource kits for teachers to increase their sensitivity and knowledge about seizures and supplies a comprehensive “Students with Seizures” manual for school nurses. An entire section is devoted to teachers, providing them with seizure information and suggestions on how to talk to kids in the classroom after a child has a seizure.
Exceptional Parent Magazine Provides information, support, ideas, encouragement & outreach for parents and families of children with disabilities, and the professionals who work with them.
FACES: The National Craniofacial Association Organization for people with facial differences.
Family and Advocates Partnership for Education Informs and educates families and advocates about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1997 and promising practices.
FamilyCare America Resources for people providing care for elders and those with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
Family Caregiver Alliance Addresses the needs of families and friends providing long-term care at home. Offers national, state and local-level programs to support and sustain caregivers.
Family Center on Technology and Disability Provides information about assistive technology to organizations that work with families of children with disabilities.
FamilyConnect gives parents of children with visual impairments access to message boards where they can talk to other parents, videos featuring real-life families, parenting articles, a blog authored by a parent, a glossary of more than 30 eye conditions, and links to local resources. The site also features sections dedicated to multiple disabilities, technology, education, and every age group from infants to teens.
Family Doctor American Academy of Family Physicians has developed a web site designed to provide health information to the whole family, including teens. The teens section includes information about a number of childhood chronic health conditions, including sickle cell, cystic fibrosis, diabetes and cerebral palsy. Each brief condition specific entry includes information about “what doctors do” to treat the condition; and what teens can do to cope with the condition, and be healthier.
Family Village Global community integrates information, resources, and communication opportunities on the Internet for persons with cognitive and other disabilities, for their families, and for those that provide them services and support. Includes informational resources on specific diagnoses, communication connections, adaptive products and technology, adaptive recreational activities, education, worship, health issues, disability-related media and literature, and more.
Family Voices National grassroots network of families and friends, advocates for health care services that are family-centered, community-based, comprehensive, coordinated and culturally competent for all children and youth with special health care needs; promotes the inclusion of all families as decision makers at all levels of health care; and supports essential partnerships between families and professionals.
Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Growing Up with Spina Bifida: What Have We Learned Report from the North Carolina Office on Disability and Health summarizes the major findings of the spina bifida research study, “Quality of Life and Secondary Conditions in Individuals with Spina Bifida.”
Generation Hope provides presentations and materials to raise awareness and understanding about disabilities and chronic illnesses. Founded by the parent of a child with multiple disabilities, bullying of children with disabilities and their physical fitness are particular concerns.
Genetics Home Reference National Institutes of Health online portal offers parents and physicians consumer-friendly information on over 200 genetic disorders and related genes. The site features an illustrated tutorial that explains the basics of genetics and includes a glossary of genetics terms. The lay-friendly site is particularly helpful to parents whose newborns have been detected with a genetic condition, and are looking for easy-to-read information on specific conditions.
Health Care Transitions The Promising Practices in Health Care Transition Project at the Institute for Child Health Policy at the University of Florida.
Healthy and Ready to Work National Center Focuses on understanding systems, access to quality health care, and increasing the involvement of youth. It also includes provider preparation plus tools and resources needed to make more informed choices.
Heath Clearinghouse on Postsecondary Education for Individuals with Disabilities at George Washington University has information for students with disabilities, educators, families, and guidance counselors.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Partnership is dedicated to improving outcomes for students and youth with disabilities by joining state agencies and stakeholders through shared work and learning.
Institute for Family-centered Care Family-centered care is based on four principles:
1. People are treated with dignity and respect; 2. Health care providers communicate and share complete and unbiased information with patients and families in ways that are affirming and useful; 3. Patients and family members build on their strengths by participating in experiences that enhance control and independence; 4. Collaboration among patients, family members, and providers occurs in policy and program development and professional education, as well as in the delivery of care.
Kennedy Krieger Institute Internationally recognized facility in Baltimore, Maryland is dedicated to improving the lives of children and adolescents with pediatric developmental disabilities through patient care, special education, research, and professional training. The Institute’s clinical programs offer an interdisciplinary approach in treatment tailored to the individual needs of each child. Services include over 40 outpatient clinics; neurobehavioral, rehabilitation, and pediatric feeding disorders inpatient units; plus several home and community programs providing services to assist families.
KidAbility Commercial site with accessible, affordable resources and tools for children with disabilities.
Kids Together, Inc. This site is designed to provide helpful information and resources to enhance the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities, and communities as a whole.
Let’s Play Project Provides families with ways to play through the use of assistive technology. Site has articles, success stories and resources on using high and low tech tools.
Little League Challenger Division is a separate division of Little League Baseball to enable boys and girls with physical and mental disabilities, ages 5-18 or the completion of high school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide. Teams are set up according to abilities, rather than age, and can include as many as 15-20 players, who can participate in one of three levels: Tee-Ball, Coach-Pitch or Player Pitch.
Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities:
Partners in Education is a six-hour, self-directed online course to help parents with children with developmental disabilities better understand and maximize the benefits of special education services and inclusion for their children.
National Child Traumatic Stress Network provides information for parents and caregivers, military children and families, educators, the media, and other professionals. Distance learning is available for professionals and families. Special topics include natural disasters and terrorism.
National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth. Ensures that young people with disabilities have access to high-quality services to maximize their opportunities for employment.
National Consortium on Leadership and Disability for Youth is a youth-led resource, information, and training center for youth and emerging leaders with developmental disabilities, funded by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities.
National Dissemination Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities Maintains state resource lists of elected officials, state disability-related agencies, parent resource centers, and disability organizations.
National Family Caregivers Association .
National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health
National Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
We Can! Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity and Nutrition ideas/resources for families
National Indian Parent Information Center provides information on disability issues (especially the special education process) for Native family members who have children with disabilities and the professionals who work with them. The Center provides workshops on and off reservations to Tribes, Nations and Clans on Disability Laws and Parent Leadership. Services for families are at no cost to family members.
National Initiative for Children’s Healthcare Quality Brings children’s health care experts together with doctors, nurses, and other professionals to change the health care experience for children and their families and to close gaps in health care quality.
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
National Junior Disability Championships Program for children and youth, 7-21 years old, sponsored by Wheelchair and Ambulatory Sports USA, and the National Disability Sports Alliance. Competitions are held in Olympic-style events including track, field, pentathlon, boccia, swimming, archery, table tennis, 3-on-3 wheelchair basketball and weightlifting.
National Lekotek Center Contributes to knowledge about the link between play and early learning for children with special needs (those with disabilities or at risk of developmental delays). Develops and demonstrates innovative practices for promoting learning-oriented play within families and for providing family supportive services which help parents strengthen their parenting skills. Disseminates learning about play, toys, technology, and family support to: (1) Lekotek programs across the country; (2) families of children with special needs and professionals who work with them; (3) community and educational institutions which seek to successfully include children with special needs in their play-based programming; (4) manufacturers and retailers of play-oriented products; and (5) the general public through media and publications.
National Maternal and Child Health Oral Resource Center
National Mental Health Information Center Information on child and youth mental health issues.
National Parent Information Network Provides access to research-based information about the process of parenting, and about family involvement in education. This is a project of the Educational Research Information Center system, which is administered by the U.S. Department of Education.
National Parent to Parent Network. National Parent-to-Parent organization for parents or care providers of a child with a disability, disorder, chromosomal abnormality or health condition. Matches parents or care providers with others whose children have the same or similar condition. Maintains database of over 18,000 families from 54 countries covering over 3500 disorders, very rare syndromes or conditions.
National Technical Assistance Center for Children’s Mental Health. Based at Georgetown University, this center serves both vulnerable children and their families, and influences local, national, and international programs and policy.
National Youth Leadership Network, sponsored by US Department of Education, National Council on Disability, Presidential Task Force on the Employment of Adults with Disabilities, Social Security Administration, US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and US Department of Labor.
Native American Diabetes Project Has developed a four-book children’s series about a bald eagle that lives in a fictional Indian village on the outskirts of a city. The eagle counsels kids about the healthy Indian old ways, such as a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and a life filled with physical activity.
One Place for Special Needs is a web site created by a parent familiar with the frustrations of trying to locate appropriate services. She is creating a national database of organizations and is recruiting therapists, tutors, special ed teachers, retired teachers, paraprofessionals, sitters/caregivers, students in the education/therapy/nursing fields, professionals in the medical and mental health field, vocational/social/life skills coaches and any people, organizations and businesses who help or offer services to those with special needs.
PACER Center Through its ALLIANCE and other national projects, this national center responds to thousands of parents and professionals each year. Based on the concept of parents-helping-parents, PACER expands opportunities and enhances the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and their families.
Research and Training Center on Family Support and Children’s Mental Health Based at the University of Portland, the Center increases knowledge of supports, services, and policies that build on family strengths; are community based, family driven, and youth guided; promote cultural competence; and are based on evidence of effectiveness.
Shaken Baby Alliance. Collaborates with community agencies and professionals to provide support for Shaken Baby Syndrome victim families (Including adoptive and foster parents), advocates for justice for SBS victims, and increases SBS awareness.
Think College U.S. Department of Education web site for students with intellectual disabilities, family members, and professionals. Provides a searchable database of postsecondary education programs that support youth with intellectual disabilities, a discussion board designed by students for others interested in sharing college experiences, “Choice for Everyone” Listserv for family members and a wide range of professionals, and a resource section of web-based resources and publications.
Toy Adaptation Network On the National Rehabilitation Awareness Foundation site: click on Link for “Toy Adaptation Network”. Provides rehabilitation-related facilities with resources to help children with disabilities experience play.
Toys for Kids with Special Needs. An on-line newsletter of Toy Directory.com.
Toys R Us Toy Catalog for Differently Abled Kids
Toy Tips. Com Unbiased information about toys and children’s products that build skills and enhance a child’s personal development.
U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights . Describes an individual’s educational rights under U.S. law and provides many resources for minority students and students with disabilities.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Healthy School Environments Assessment Tool (HealthySEATv2) is a fully customizable and easy to use software program designed to help school districts evaluate and manage all of their environmental, safety and health issues.
Siting of School Facilities An EPA-wide work group recently developed the draft of the Voluntary Model School Siting Guidelines.
Work Incentives Transition Network is a collaborative project funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs. The Network increases educators’, family members’, transition age students’, and advocates’ awareness of Social Security Work Incentives for school-aged youth with disabilities including the Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS), the Impairment Related Work Expense (IRWE), and the Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE).
American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine has a library and resources section.
BlazeSports America In partnership with National Recreation and Parks Association, offers high quality sports instruction, training and competition opportunities to children and adults with physical disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, have a neuro-muscular disability such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, have an amputation or a visual impairment or blindness. Sports include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair rugby, swimming and track and field. Other sports may be offered by individual BlazeSports Clubs.
Community Medical Center – Rehabilitation Institute (Missoula) Adults and children receive individualized treatment designed to meet their needs. Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians provide a full range of services on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Inpatient programs include pediatric rehabilitation; stroke; arthritis; brain injury; major multiple trauma; neuromusculoskeletal diseases; orthopedics; and spinal cord injuries.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Health and Wellness Promotes wellness for persons with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, post polio syndrome, amputations, and spinal cord injury, as well as all other persons with disabilities.
United Cerebral Palsy has online state resource guides for parents, news, and resources for adults on employment, health, recreation and leisure, housing and travel.
Communication Disorders/Deafness/Hearing Impairment:
Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf
American Sign Language Teachers Association membership organization of more than 1,000 ASL and Deaf Studies educators from elementary through graduate education as well as agencies.
American Society for Deaf Children believes that deaf or hard-of-hearing children are entitled to full communication access in their home, school, and community; and that language development, respect for the Deaf, and access to deaf and hard-of-hearing role models are important to assure optimal intellectual, social, and emotional development.
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Association of Late-Deafened Adults Late-deafness happens any time after the development of speech and language, often after adolescence. Usually a late-deafened adult (LDA) identifies with hearing society and is usually unable to understand speech without visual aids such as speech-reading, sign language, and/or Computer Aided Real-time Transcription. Late-deafness may be sudden or gradual as a result of inherited causes, accident, illness, medication, surgery, noise or other factors. LDAs share the common experience of having grown up in the hearing world and becoming deaf rather than being born deaf.
Canine Companions for Independence trains service dogs, skilled companion dogs, facility (educational, health, psychiatric, etc.) dogs, and hearing dogs. Also provides placement, training and follow-up for clients with disabilities.
DeafDigest weekly newsletter featuring articles, ads, and employment postings for the deaf community.
Deaf Doc Developed by a medical doctor who has been deaf from birth, this site offers free, reliable healthcare information, both directly and indirectly, for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (D/HOH) community. Deaf Doc has separate areas for the D/HOH community, interpreters, healthcare and educational providers and institutions and others. The site offers a Medical Video Dictionary, which is both signed and captioned.
Deaf Globetrotters Travel provides certified sign language interpreters to accommodate travelers on all escorted tours.
Deafness Research Foundation Leading source of private funding for basic and clinical research in hearing science. Site has a directory of state resources.
Deaf Professional Network promotes career development and networking opportunities for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
Deaf Wellness Center, University of Rochester Medical Center. Produced My Body, My Responsibility, an open-captioned videotape about women’s health issues. All dialogue is spoken and signed in ASL.
Deaf Women United focuses on advocacy, education and outreach. It does not provide direct services, but initiated and created a network of individuals and organizations that represent and serve Deaf women. DWU provides leadership to and empowers Deaf women all over the country by the creation of a support system that will enhance their lives.
Described and Captioned Media Program Provides a free-loan media program of over 4,000 open-captioned titles (videos, CD-ROM, and DVD) available to deaf and hard of hearing persons, blind and visually impaired persons, teachers, parents, and others with no rental, registration, or postage fees. Several hundred titles are also streamed on the DCMP web site. DCMP also provides a print/online clearinghouse of information and materials on the subject of captioning available to consumers, agencies, businesses, and schools. The clearinghouse maintains a database of described and captioned media available for purchase.
Flathead Deaf Club A group of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing people who meet regularly for social and recreational activities on the first Saturday of each month.
Hands and Voices Nationwide non-profit organization dedicated to supporting families and their children who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as the professionals who serve them. This parent-driven, parent/professional collaborative group is unbiased towards communication modes and methods. The membership includes those who are deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing impaired and their families who communicate orally, with signs, cue, and/or combined methods.
Hearing Exchange Online community for people with hearing loss. Has e-newsletter, parent resources, events calendar, books, and chat rooms.
Hearing Loss Association of America provides information, education, advocacy and support.
Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults National rehabilitation program serving youth and adults who are deaf-blind.
International Hearing Dog, Inc.Trains and places hearing dogs with persons who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, with and without multiple disabilities, at no charge to the recipient.
Intertribal Deaf Council Preserves and carries out traditions, languages and cultures of First Nations deaf, deaf-blind and hard of hearing people. Provides information exchange, traditional and education activities, and awareness activities for non-Native and/or non-deaf people.
Montana Association for the Deaf Advocates for the social, legal, educational, and economic welfare of Montanans with deafness.
Montana Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services The non-profit “Deaf Center” is a division of the Montana Association of the Deaf.
Montana School for the Deaf and Blind Residential and day school which provides educational opportunities to students, preschool through high school, at its Great Falls campus. MSDB is also a statewide resource center which provides information and technical support through its Outreach Program to students attending school in their local districts.
Montana Speech-Language and Hearing Association
National Aphasia Association is a nonprofit organization that promotes public education, research, rehabilitation and support services to assist people with aphasia and their families.
National Association of the Deaf Advocates for policy and procedural changes that benefit Americans who are deaf or have impaired hearing.
National Black Deaf Advocates is the official voice of Black deaf and hard of hearing Americans—a community that has historically been neglected in terms of provision of equal access to education, employment and social services.
National Consortium on Deaf-Blindness is a comprehensive source of information and resources for families and teachers on deaf-blindness, technical assistance, and personnel training.
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.
National Softball Association of the Deaf
National Technical Institute for the Deaf World’s first and largest technological college for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Also prepares individuals to work in fields related to deafness and encourages research designed to enhance the lives of deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
National Theatre of the Deaf produces high-quality theatrically challenging work; performs these original works in a style that links American Sign Language with the spoken word; seeks, trains and employs Deaf artists; offers its work to as culturally diverse and inclusive an audience as possible; provides community outreach activities that educate and enlighten the general public.
National Weather Service provides information on how a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s weather radio can be used as an emergency warning tool for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Northeast Technical Assistance Center Improves educational access and enhances postsecondary education opportunities for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
PEPNet is a national network of regional centers that provides resources, information, in-service training, and expertise to enhance educational opportunities for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families. PEPNet works with services providers in 2-year and 4-year colleges, universities, secondary education programs, community rehabilitation programs, continuing education programs, adult basic education programs, and vocational and technical training programs.
Questions and Answers about Deafness and Hearing Impairments in the Workplace and the Americans with Disabilities Act Fact sheet from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Communication Enhancement is a collaborative research group dedicated to the development of effective augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technology. AAC refers to ways (other than speech) that are used to send a message from one person to another.
Scottish Rite Childhood Language Disorders Clinics:
Eugene F. Herman Scottish Rite Childhood Language Disorders Clinic
Scottish Rite Temple
514 14th St. West
Billings, MT 59102
Telephone: (406) 259-1680
Fax: (406) 259-1777
srldc@wtp.netScottish Rite Childhood Language Disorders Clinic
Scottish Rite Temple
1304 13th Street South
Great Falls, MT 59405-4611
Telephone: (406) 727-1088
Fax: (406) 452-2063Western Montana Scottish Rite Childhood Language Disorders Clinic
The University of Montana Curry Health Center
634 Eddy Avenue
Missoula, MT 59801
Telephone: (406) 243-5261 or or 406-243-5467
Fax: (406) 243-4730
lucy.hartpaulson@mso.umt.edu or rosemary.johnson@mso.umt.edu
Teaching Research Division, Western Oregon University. Resources and training for children and adults with deaf-blindness, their families, and the professionals who serve them.
Telecommunications for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Inc National advocacy organization focuses on equal access issues in telecommunications and media for people who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, late-deafened, or deaf-blind.
American Academy of Periodontology provides information for individuals with diabetes.
Awakening the Spirit: Pathways to Diabetes Prevention & Control The American Diabetes Association works with organizations such as the Indian Health Service to develop and disseminate educational materials and participate in advocacy activities that encourage Congress to continue funding diabetes education programs in tribal communities.
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital – Diabetes Center
Children with Diabetes Foundation. Online community for kids, families and adults with diabetes.
Community Medical Center – Diabetes Management Program (Missoula)
Diabetes at Work can help businesses and managed care companies assess the impact of diabetes in the workplace, and provide intuitive information to help employees manage their diabetes and take steps toward reducing risks for related complications, such as heart disease. Provides information, tip sheets, tools, resources, etc. Information is also available in Spanish.
Diabetes Library Online. Information on diabetes, dieting, fitness and nutrition.
Diabetes Prevention Program’s Lifestyle Balance Fat Counter lists fat grams and calories for more than 1,500 foods, including regional foods from all parts of the U.S.
Large print version: Lifestyle Balance Fat Counter (Word document)
Large print version: Lifestyle Balance Fat Counter (pdf document)
DiabetesXChange.org is an online clearinghouse for promising diabetes -related community-based programs, university-sponsored initiatives, corporate wellness programs, and government projects.
Foot Physicians.com Sponsored by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, this site provides instructions for proper foot and ankle care, is a dependable source for information on common conditions and their treatments, information on foot and ankle surgery and how to locate a local surgeon in your area.
Livingston Healthcare Diabetes Education (Livingston)
National Diabetes Program at the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Federation of the Blind Sponsors the Diabetes Action Networkand publishes Voice of the Diabetic newsletter.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
National Diabetes Education Program has information and resources for people with diabetes, providers, family members, communities, employers, etc. Free publications are available.
Native American Diabetes Project works with Native American communities to help people eat healthy foods and increase exercise. Has developed a four-book children’s series about a bald eagle that lives in a fictional Indian village on the outskirts of a city. The eagle counsels kids about the healthy Indian old ways, such as a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and a life filled with physical activity.
Northern Montana Hospital – Diabetes Care (Havre) Diabetes Educators provide the Take Control quality self-management program, recognized by the American Diabetes Association. This program builds confidence and encourages people with diabetes to achieve and maintain good health, and helps them prevent complications.
St. Vincent Healthcare – Diabetes Center (Billings) Interdisciplinary team includes nurses, dietitians, physicians, pharmacists, physical therapists, a counselor and an American Diabetes Association representative. Eight members of the Diabetes Team are Certified Diabetes Educators.
American Association on Health and Disability Contributes to national, state, and community efforts to prevent additional health disparities between people with disabilities and the general population.
Cornucopia of Disability Information. CODI serves as a community resource for consumers and professionals by providing disability information in a wide variety of areas. The information addresses local (Buffalo & Western New York), state, national and international audiences.
Disaboom.com Disability community site for anyone touched by a functional limitation or disability. Offers a career center, media room, discussion forums, advice on how to stay healthy and active, classifieds, accessibility reviews of businesses and restaurants, and social networking.
Health Promotion for Women with Disabilities . This web site addresses issues shared by women with disabilities, regardless of the cause of their disability. Although not all information will apply to all women, the information can be useful to women who are interested in learning more about their own health and about ways to improve their health and quality of life
New Directions for Living Well with a Disability Based at The University of Montana Rural Institute, this 8-week Health Promotion Workshop teaches tools that help people with disabilities continue to do the things they enjoy. Topics include goal setting, problem solving, optimistic thinking, avoiding depression, healthy communication, information seeking, nutrition, physical activity, advocacy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Facilitate — Learn more about how to facilitate a Living Well with a Disability group.
Participate — Locate Montana’s Living Well trainings!.
Montana DPHHS Disability Services Division:
Montana Tobacco Quit Line: Offers free phone counseling and nicotine patches. Call 866-485-7848.
Online Health Resources Directory Includes a section on disabilities.
Project MED (Medication EDucation for Consumers) Medication information booklets, published by the Nisonger Center, provide patients with understandable information about the medications they are taking. Booklets are available in English and Spanish, and are designed for children, adolescents, and people with mental retardation, autism, reading difficulties, and/or severe mental illness. Each booklet costs $1.50, plus shipping and handling. Ordering information and sample pages are on the web site.
Disability Solutions A DOE (Disability Owned Enterprise) established to offer an holistic approach to providing the necessary resources to both individuals and corporates to allow disability full integration into the workplace and society.
National Down Syndrome Congress provides information, advocacy and support concerning all aspects of life for individuals with Down syndrome.
National Down Syndrome Society uses education, research and advocacy to ensure that all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
Dystonia Medical Research Foundation The Foundation advances research into the causes and treatments of this neurological disorder, builds awareness of dystonia in the medical and lay communities, and sponsors patient and family support groups and programs.
Benefis Healthcare – Neurology & Neurodiagnostics (Great Falls) Benefis Healthcare provides comprehensive neurological services for Northcentral Montana, treating head trauma, stroke, and acute and chronic diseases of the brain and nerve system, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amputation and spinal-cord injury. Surgeons at Benefis perform a wide range of brain and spinal surgeries, including highly specialized operations to curtail severe epilepsy. Special facilities include: Spine Institute; Stroke Center; Montana Epilepsy Program; Sleep Center; Dedicated neurodiagnostic lab; Inpatient rehabilitation unit (acute care); Therapy Center (outpatient).
Epilepsy Foundation Works to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; and supports research, education, advocacy and services tol prevent, control and cure epilepsy.
Project MED (Medication EDucation for Consumers) Medication information booklets, published by the Nisonger Center, provide patients with understandable information about the medications they are taking. Booklets are available in English and Spanish, and are designed for children, adolescents, and people with mental retardation, autism, reading difficulties, and/or severe mental illness. Each booklet costs $1.50, plus shipping and handling. Ordering information and sample pages are on the web site.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/Fetal Alcohol Effect
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Family Resource Institute
Heart and Circulatory Conditions:
American Heart Association AHA web site provides prevention and treatment information, resources, and links for people at risk for cardiovascular conditions, the general public, and health care professionals/researchers.
Mended Hearts is a national nonprofit organization affiliated with the American Heart Association. It facilitates positive patient-care experiences through partnerships with 460 hospitals and rehabilitation clinics and offers services to heart patients through visiting programs, support group meetings and educational forums. The following Montana facilities have chapters:
- St. Vincent Healthcare (Billings)
- Bozeman Deaconess Hospital
- Benefis Healthcare – Heart and Vascular Institute (Great Falls)
- St. Peter’s Hospital – Cardiac Rehabilitation (Helena)
- International Heart Institute of Montana (Missoula)
American Stroke Association is a division of the American Heart Association that focuses on reducing risk, disability and death from stroke through research, education, fund raising and advocacy. Web site provides sections for patients and professionals.
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital: Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation & Adult Health & Wellness
offers individualized Cardiac Rehabilitation and Cardiac Support & Education to individuals with diagnosed illnesses or multiple cardiovascular risk factors. The Vascular Intervention Lab doctors and technicians perform diagnostic procedures and minimally invasive interventional treatments, such as stents, angioplasty, and atherectomy for several cardiac conditions.
Children’s National Medical Center: The Center for Heart, Lung and Kidney Disease
Community Medical Center – Montana Heart Center (Missoula)
Community Medical Center – Rehabilitation Institute (Missoula) Adults and children receive individualized treatment designed to meet their needs. Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians provide a full range of services on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Inpatient programs include pediatric rehabilitation; stroke; arthritis; brain injury; major multiple trauma; neuromusculoskeletal diseases; orthopedics; and spinal cord injuries.
Community Medical Center – Community Bridges Program (Missoula) comprehensive day treatment and residential services for individuals who have had a brain injury or have other neurological diagnoses.
International Heart Institute of Montana (Missoula) brings together a recognized team of cardiologists, heart surgeons, nurses and researchers to perform advanced cardiac procedures and to search for new and improved ways to treat heart disease. IHI has clinics in Missoula, Kalispell, Hamilton, Helena and Anaconda. IHI physicians also provide medical consultations in other western Montana communities.
Kalispell Regional Medical Center – Cardiac Care
Livingston Healthcare Cardiac Rehabilitation (Livingston)
Montana Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Montana Cardiovascular Health Program:
Billings Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Large print format (Word file)
Bozeman Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Large print format (Word file)
Great Falls Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Large print format (Word file)
Helena Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Large print format (Word file)
Kalispell Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Large print format (Word file)
Missoula Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Large print format (Word file)
The Burden of Heart Disease and Stroke in the Big Sky State, 2007
Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program
National Aphasia Association is a nonprofit organization that promotes public education, research, rehabilitation and support services to assist people with aphasia and their families. Aphasia is often associated with stroke.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
We Can! Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity and Nutrition ideas/resources for families
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
National Stroke Association Provides info on stroke prevention, recovery, treatment and clinical trials. Lists area support groups.
Nicotine Anonymous Non-Profit 12-Step Fellowship of men and women helping each other live nicotine-free lives.
Online Guide to Quitting includes tobacco cessation resources, expert advice and support, referrals to local resources, tools for individuals and professionals, and more.
St. Peter’s Hospital – Cardiology Clinic (Helena)
St. Patrick Hospital and Health Sciences Center – Primary Stroke Center (Missoula)
St. Vincent Healthcare – New Hope Rehabilitation Center (Billings) Specializes in rehabilitation of people who have experienced a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple trauma, neurological disorder (including Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Guillian Barre). an orthopedic condition, amputation, arthritis and osteoporosis. St. Vincent Healthcare – Headway Program is a treatment program for people who have an acquired brain injury caused by an external physical force or trauma from a motor vehicle accident, assault, or fall; or as the result of internal damage from a stroke, tumor, or chemical exposure.
Tobacco Information and Prevention Source at the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome Educational Foundation, Inc.
Learning and Behavior Disabilities:
ADDitude Magazine is dedicated to serving people and families with AD/HD. Every issue has inspiring stories, expert advice, parenting and coaching tips as well as all the up-to-date information on treatment and health issues related to AD/HD.
American Council on Rural Special Education
American School Counselor Association Web site has articles for parents and back-to-school tips.
Association for Positive Behavior Support International organization dedicated to the advancement of positive behavior support and its application with children, adolescents, and adults who have problem behavior.
Association of Educational Therapists Educational therapists provide a broad range of individualized educational interventions for children and adults with learning disabilities and other learning challenges.
Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information, resources and networking to adults with AD/HD and to the professionals who work with them.
Attention Deficit Disorder Resources National non-profit organization helps people with ADD or ADHD achieve their full potential through education, support and networking opportunities. The site offers reading material, teleclasses and membership information.
Bellevue College OLS/Venture Program in Bellevue, Washington, offers an Associate Degree in Occupational and Life Skills for individuals with learning, cognitive and intellectual disabilities.
Bookshare Provides accessible books in digital formats for people with print disabilities.
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder CHADD improves the lives of people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder through education, advocacy and support. Members qualify for a benefits package to help fight the high costs of prescription drugs, vision and eyecare expenses.
Choice Magazine Listening Free service for adults unable to read standard print due to visual, learning or physical disabilities. Six times each year CML assembles 8-hour tapes of unabridged selections of articles, short stories and poems from 100 publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, Esquire, Gourmet, Sports Illustrated, literary magazines and others.
Council for Exceptional Children
Council for Learning Disabilities promotes effective teaching and research. CLD is composed of professionals who represent diverse disciplines and who are committed to enhance the education and life span development of individuals with learning disabilities.
International Dyslexia Association Web site has factsheets, frequently asked questions, and links to books and other resources.
International Reading Association Has links to resources for beginning readers, adolescent readers, reading comprehension, struggling learners and teacher education.
LD Online website with information and resources for individuals with learning disabilities and ADHD.
Learning Disabilities Association of America Supports people with learning disabilities, their parents, teachers and other professionals at the national, state and local levels. Provides information on learning disabilities, practical solutions, and a comprehensive network of resources.
M.I.N.D. Institute – University of California-Davis International, multidisciplinary research organization, committed to excellence, collaboration and hope, striving to understand the causes and develop better treatments and ultimately cures for neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, fragile X syndrome and learning disorders.
National Association of School Psychologists
National Center for Learning Disabilities Web site offers a Parent Center, an Advocacy Center, and specific sections on Early Literacy & Learning, Grades K-8, and High School & Adulthood.
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) Supports programs that educate children with special needs, provides rehabilitation services for youth and adults with disabilities, and supports research to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Office of Special Education Programs Technical Assistance and Dissemination Network.
Online Academy on Positive Behavioral Support Funded by the Office of Special Education Programs in the US Department of Education. Includes 7 modules of online instruction related to providing positive behavioral support.
Tool Kit on Teaching and Assessing Students With Disabilities Provides up-to-date guidance on designing and implementing high-quality assessments for students with disabilities. Includes a set of technical assistance products that offer practical, research-based approaches to the challenges schools are facing in the areas of assessment, instruction, behavioral interventions and use of accommodations for students with disabilities.
Project MED (Medication EDucation for Consumers) Medication information booklets, published by the Nisonger Center, provide patients with understandable information about the medications they are taking. Booklets are available in English and Spanish, and are designed for children, adolescents, and people with mental retardation, autism, reading difficulties, and/or severe mental illness. Each booklet costs $1.50, plus shipping and handling. Ordering information and sample pages are on the web site.
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic Non-profit volunteer organization is educational library for people with visual impairments, dyslexia and/or physical disabilities which prevent them from effectively reading standard print.
Sensory Integration Network Resource Center Dedicated to bringing current sensory integration resources and information to families, consumers and professionals.
Think College U.S. Department of Education web site for students with intellectual disabilities, family members, and professionals. Provides a searchable database of postsecondary education programs that support youth with intellectual disabilities, a discussion board designed by students for others interested in sharing college experiences, “Choice for Everyone” Listserv for family members and a wide range of professionals, and a resource section of web-based resources and publications.
Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome Educational Foundation, Inc.
Vision for Learning Web site of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development is concerned with the needs of the 25% of children who have undiagnosed vision problems which can interfere with learning and lead to academic and/or behavioral problems.
American Adaptive Badminton Association is the competitive branch for amputees, wheelchair users, and others with disabilities who want to play recreationally and/or compete in regional, national and International competitions.
Amputee Coalition of America Sponsors the National Limb Loss Information Center and publishes First Step: A Guide to Adapting to Limb Loss.
Benefis Healthcare – Montana Orthopedic and Rehabilitative Care (Great Falls) treats injuries, diseases and conditions of the bones, joints, muscles, nervous system and brain. MONARC patients may exhibit sports injury, workplace injury, trauma, stroke, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amputation, spinal-cord injury, or other conditions.
BlazeSports America In partnership with National Recreation and Parks Association, offers high quality sports instruction, training and competition opportunities to children and adults with physical disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, have a neuro-muscular disability such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, have an amputation or a visual impairment or blindness. Sports include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair rugby, swimming and track and field. Other sports may be offered by individual BlazeSports Clubs.
National Amputation Foundation, Inc. Offers valuable assistance to civilian amputees and veterans of WW I, WW II, Korea, the Vietnam Conflict, Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom.
National Amputee Golf Association
Northwestern University Prosthetics Research Laboratory and Rehabilitation Engineering Research Program develops creative applications to improve the quality of life for persons who use prostheses (limb replacements) and orthoses (assistive systems).
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Health and Wellness Promotes wellness for persons with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, post polio syndrome, amputations, and spinal cord injury, as well as all other persons with disabilities.
St. Vincent Healthcare – New Hope Rehabilitation Center (Billings) Specializes in rehabilitation of people who have experienced a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple trauma, neurological disorder (including Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Guillian Barre). an orthopedic condition, amputation, arthritis and osteoporosis.
U.S. Handcycling Federation is an association of individuals and organizations who share a common goal of health, fitness, and well-being for cyclists of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Handcycling is a form of adaptive cycling that enables athletes of all abilities to ride a “bike” exclusively using the upper body.
Lung and Breathing Conditions:
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
American Lung Association. Provides information on asthma, living with lung disease, tobacco control, and occupational and environmental risks.
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
Benefis Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation (Great Falls) – The Peak Health & Fitness Center
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital: Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation & Adult Health & Wellness helps patients improve their perceived breathing capacity, increase strength and endurance, and manage stress and anxiety.
Center for Asbestos-related Disease is located in Libby, Montana, and is a national center of excellence in addressing healthcare issues associated with Libby amphibole (previously called tremolite) asbestos.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease International Provides information on emphysema, chronic bronchitis and chronic asthma.
Kalispell Regional Medical Center – Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Livingston Healthcare Cardiopulmonary Services (Livingston)
Montana Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program
National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Nicotine Anonymous Non-Profit 12-Step Fellowship of men and women helping each other live nicotine-free lives.
Online Guide to Quitting includes tobacco cessation resources, expert advice and support, referrals to local resources, tools for individuals and professionals, and more.
Tobacco Information and Prevention Source at the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Mental Illness: See Resources on Emotional and Mental Health
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
All About Multiple Sclerosis Web site provides a detailed description of multiple sclerosis, an archive of news stories about MS, an MS encyclopedia and a large links section of annotated and rated links. It lists famous people with multiple sclerosis and provides personal accounts, poems and essays by people with MS.
Benefis Healthcare – Montana Neurology and Neurosciences (Great Falls) Benefis Healthcare provides comprehensive neurological services for Northcentral Montana, treating head trauma, stroke, and acute and chronic diseases of the brain and nerve system, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amputation and spinal-cord injury. Surgeons at Benefis perform a wide range of brain and spinal surgeries, including highly specialized operations to curtail severe epilepsy. Special facilities include: Spine Institute; Stroke Center; Montana Epilepsy Program; Sleep Center; Dedicated neurodiagnostic lab; Inpatient rehabilitation unit (acute care); Therapy Center (outpatient). The American Parkinson’s Disease Association’s Information & Referral Center for Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming is based at Benefis.
BlazeSports America In partnership with National Recreation and Parks Association, offers high quality sports instruction, training and competition opportunities to children and adults with physical disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, have a neuro-muscular disability such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, have an amputation or a visual impairment or blindness. Sports include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair rugby, swimming and track and field. Other sports may be offered by individual BlazeSports Clubs.
Choice Magazine Listening Free service for adults unable to read standard print due to visual, learning or physical disabilities. Six times each year CML assembles 8-hour tapes of unabridged selections of articles, short stories and poems from 100 publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, Esquire, Gourmet, Sports Illustrated, literary magazines and others.
Community Medical Center – Rehabilitation Institute (Missoula) Adults and children receive individualized treatment designed to meet their needs. Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians provide a full range of services on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Inpatient programs include pediatric rehabilitation; stroke; arthritis; brain injury; major multiple trauma; neuromusculoskeletal diseases; orthopedics; and spinal cord injuries.
Meeting Life’s Challenges Free bi-monthly electronic magazine for people living with chronic illness
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
MSAA Northwest Regional Office (Serves Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington, Wyoming)
Sue Pencoske, Director
600 Central Plaza, Suite #13
Great Falls, Montana 59401
(800) 532-7667, ext.131
(406) 454-2758 or (406) 454-2763
(406) 454-2767 Fax
E-mail: northwest@msaa.com
National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation Provides support group directory, toll-free helpline, internet helpline, library, home care assistance, assistive equipment and online forums: “Ask the Doctor”, “MS Friends Peer-to-Peer”, and “MS Frontiers” (for travelers with MS).
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Montana Chapter, National Multiple Sclerosis Society Web site provides information about multiple sclerosis, local programs and services, current research and treatments, current events and activities, fundraising and volunteer opportunities.
National MS Society helps support an Aquatic Swim Program in Great Falls at the Natatorium. For further information about this opportunity, call the Billings office at 800-344-4867, option 2.
New Mobility Magazine News and expert advice on health, advocacy efforts, travel, sexuality, transportation, and more for readers with mobility impairments.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Health and Wellness Promotes wellness for persons with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, post polio syndrome, amputations, and spinal cord injury, as well as all other persons with disabilities.
St. Vincent Healthcare – Multiple Sclerosis Clinic (Billings) Maintains a team of health professionals trained in the needs of patients with MS, including physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, physical, occupational and speech therapists, social workers/counselors, clinical psychologists, dietitians and pharmacists. New Hope Rehabilitation Center specializes in rehabilitation of people who have experienced a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple trauma, neurological disorder (including Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Guillian Barre). an orthopedic condition, amputation, arthritis and osteoporosis.
United Spinal Association Provides and supports grass-roots advocacy, sports and recreation, and medical research, and accessibility services for people with SCI, MS, ALS, spina bifida, polio and all other conditions involving the spinal cord.
Accessible Air Travel: A Guide for People with Disabilities from the United Spinal Association
Wheelin’ Sportsmen, division of the National Wild Turkey Federation is dedicated to providing people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Publishes Wheelin’ Sportsmen Magazine.
Benefis Healthcare – Montana Neurology and Neurosciences (Great Falls) Benefis Healthcare provides comprehensive neurological services for Northcentral Montana, treating head trauma, stroke, and acute and chronic diseases of the brain and nerve system, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amputation and spinal-cord injury. Surgeons at Benefis perform a wide range of brain and spinal surgeries, including highly specialized operations to curtail severe epilepsy. Special facilities include: Spine Institute; Stroke Center; Montana Epilepsy Program; Sleep Center; Dedicated neurodiagnostic lab; Inpatient rehabilitation unit (acute care); Therapy Center (outpatient). The American Parkinson’s Disease Association’s Information & Referral Center for Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming is based at Benefis.
Choice Magazine Listening Free service for adults unable to read standard print due to visual, learning or physical disabilities. Six times each year CML assembles 8-hour tapes of unabridged selections of articles, short stories and poems from 100 publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, Esquire, Gourmet, Sports Illustrated, literary magazines and others.
Community Medical Center – Rehabilitation Institute (Missoula) Adults and children receive individualized treatment designed to meet their needs. Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians provide a full range of services on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Inpatient programs include pediatric rehabilitation; stroke; arthritis; brain injury; major multiple trauma; neuromusculoskeletal diseases; orthopedics; and spinal cord injuries.
Muscular Dystrophy Association. Sponsors 230 hospital-affiliated clinics with staff experienced in dealing with neuromuscular diseases. Clinics also serve as sites for clinical trials of the latest experimental therapies and drugs. MDA also offers support groups for those with neuromuscular diseases and their families. More than 4000 children attend annual MDA summer camps.
Wheelin’ Sportsmen, division of the National Wild Turkey Federation is dedicated to providing people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Publishes Wheelin’ Sportsmen Magazine.
Native Americans with Disabilities:
American Indian Health sponsored by the National Library of Medicine, this web portal brings together health and medical resources pertinent to the American Indian population including policies, consumer health information, and research. Links are provided to an assortment of documents, Web sites, databases, and other resources.
Awakening the Spirit: Pathways to Diabetes Prevention & Control The American Diabetes Association works with organizations such as the Indian Health Service to develop and disseminate educational materials and participate in advocacy activities that encourage Congress to continue funding diabetes education programs in tribal communities.
Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) And CVD Risk Factors Among Montana American Indians With And Without Disability Montana Clinical Communication Surveillance Report, April-June 2006 (Text file with described figures and tables).
Coalition of Native Americans Concerned with Disabilities Increases awareness of disability issues, laws and rights for Native Americans with disabilities.
Community Voices Health care and health policy issues for the underserved.
Consortia of Administrators for Native American Rehabilitation (CANAR). Allows administrators of Native American rehabilitation projects for persons with disabilities to collaborate and cooperate to increase the quantity and enhance the quality of services. CANAR newsletter is on the website — click on “Publications”.
Indian Health Service, the Federal Health program for American Indians and Alaska Natives.
Intertribal Deaf Council Preserves and carries out traditions, languages and cultures of First Nations deaf, deaf-blind and hard of hearing people. Provides information exchange, traditional and education activities, and awareness activities for non-Native and/or non-deaf people.
Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow, Inc. (LIFFT) Ashland Satellite Office (Serves Southeastern Montana and the Northern Cheyenne reservation)
Mark Small, I.L. Specialist
Heritage Living Center
Ashland, MT 59003
406-679-0063
Montana Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Programs:
Blackfeet Manpower
George Kipp, IV, Project Coordinator
Blackfeet Tribal Business Council
PO Box 1090
Browning, MT 59417
(403) 338-2111 FAX: 406-338-5540
george_kipp@yahoo.com or jowax_00@hotmail.comChippewa Cree Tribe
Evelyn Oats, Project Director
RR 1, Box 544
Box Elder, MT 59521
(406) 395-5739 FAX: 406-395-4489
eoats@mtintouch.netConfederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Nation
April Zimmerer, Project Director
DHRD Vocational Rehabilitation
P.O. Box 278
Pablo, MT 59855
(406) 675-2700 Ext. 1038 FAX: (406) 675-2775
aprilz@cskt.org or arlenet@cskt.orgGros Ventre & Assiniboine Tribes, Fort Belknap
Warren Matte, Project Director
RR 1, Box 66
Harlem, MT 59526
(406) 353-2205, ext. 410 FAX: (406) 353-4572
tvr@ttc-cmc.netFort Peck Assiniboine & Sioux Tribes
Wilfred “Max” Bear, Project Director
Vocational Rehabilitation Program E-mail: asvrp@nemontel.net
P.O. Box 1027
Poplar, MT 59255
(406) 768-3488 or 866-768-3485
FAX: (406) 768-5668Northern Cheyenne Tribe Tribal VR
Richard Littlebear
P.O. Box 128
Lame Deer, MT 59043
406-477-6215
National American Indian Housing Council supports tribal housing agencies in their efforts to provide culturally-relevant, decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for native people in American Indian communities and Alaska native villages.
National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities
National Indian Parent Information Center provides information on disability issues (especially the special education process) for Native family members who have children with disabilities and the professionals who work with them. The Center provides workshops on and off reservations to Tribes, Nations and Clans on disability laws and parent leadership. Services for families are at no cost to family members.
National Minority AIDS Council
Native American Cancer Research Native American owned and operated non-profit organization implements cancer primary prevention, secondary prevention, risk reduction, screening (early detection), education, training, research, diagnoses, control, treatment, support, quality of life, and / or studies of cancer among Native Americans. Primary support is from federal agencies (e.g., the National Institutes of Health) and national organizations (e.g., the National Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation).
Native American Diabetes Project Has developed a four-book children’s series about a bald eagle that lives in a fictional Indian village on the outskirts of a city. The eagle counsels kids about the healthy Indian old ways, such as a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and a life filled with physical activity.
Native American Women’s Health Education Resource Center Benefiting people locally (South Dakota), nationally and internationally, the Center’s programs focus on domestic violence, AIDS prevention, child development and youth wellness, adult learning, environmental awareness and action, cancer prevention, fetal alcohol syndrome awareness, educational materials, diabetic nutrition, scholarships for Native American women, and reproductive health and rights.
Native Circle at the Mayo Clinic is a resource center providing cancer-related materials to health care professionals and lay people involved in the education, care and treatment of American Indians and Alaska Natives.
Native Wellness Institute Fosters the well-being of Native people through programs and training that embrace the teachings of their ancestors.
Office of Minority Health. Improves and protects the health of racial and ethnic minority populations through the development of health policies and programs that will eliminate health disparities.
Social Security Administration Provides health insurance and cash benefits to elders and qualified people with disabilities.
Summit Independent Living Center of Missoula – Lake and Sanders Counties Satellite
Leon Grant, Coordinator
Randy Morigeau, Native American Outreach Specialist
111 2nd Ave., S.W.
Ronan, MT 59864-2718
406-676-0190 V/TTY or 866-230-6936 (Montana only)
Ronan@summitilc.org
“Understanding Disabilities in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities: Toolkit Guide” National Council on Disability publication provides information about disabilities, Indian tribes, and resources. Also suggests ways to improve services, provide protections, and tap resources in local tribal communities for people with disabilities. Focuses primarily on health care, independent living, education, vocational rehabilitation, housing and transportation.
University of Oklahoma OUTREACH Health Promotion Programs Annually, HPP conducts the largest native wellness conferences in North America, including the Wellness & Native Men, Wellness & Women, and Wellness & Spirituality Conferences.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Association
Benefis Healthcare – Montana Neurology and Neurosciences (Great Falls) Benefis Healthcare provides comprehensive neurological services for Northcentral Montana, treating head trauma, stroke, and acute and chronic diseases of the brain and nerve system, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amputation and spinal-cord injury. Surgeons at Benefis perform a wide range of brain and spinal surgeries, including highly specialized operations to curtail severe epilepsy. Special facilities include: Spine Institute; Stroke Center; Montana Epilepsy Program; Sleep Center; Dedicated neurodiagnostic lab; Inpatient rehabilitation unit (acute care); Therapy Center (outpatient). The American Parkinson’s Disease Association’s Information & Referral Center for Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming is based at Benefis.
Brain Injury Association of America Brain injury prevention, research, education and advocacy activities — site has links to state affiliates and resources.
Chiari People Chiari 1 is a malformation of the back of the cerebellum, causing many neurological problems. The most common symptom is a pounding, sub-occipital headache which does not respond to regular successful therapies. This Billings-based support group offers education, resources, encouragement and camaraderie.
Children’s National Medical Center: The Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine. Treats illnesses involving a child’s psychological well-being, brain and nervous system.
Community Medical Center – Rehabilitation Institute (Missoula) Adults and children receive individualized treatment designed to meet their needs. Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians provide a full range of services on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Inpatient programs include pediatric rehabilitation; stroke; arthritis; brain injury; major multiple trauma; neuromusculoskeletal diseases; orthopedics; and spinal cord injuries.
Epilepsy Foundation. Features a “channel” aimed at health care professionals who can help people with epilepsy live better lives. Content includes assessment, planning, treatment, populations, and resources.
Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center Summarizes research, identifies health information needs and develops systems for sharing information for the NIDRR model systems programs in traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and burn injury.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.
National Resource Center for Traumatic Brain Injury Provides practical, relevant information for professionals, persons with TBI, and family members.
National Stroke Association Provides info on stroke prevention, recovery, treatment and clinical trials. Lists area support groups.
Northern Montana Rehabilitation Center (Havre)
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Health and Wellness Promotes wellness for persons with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, post polio syndrome, amputations, and spinal cord injury, as well as all other persons with disabilities.
Sensory Processing Disorder Network Resource Center Dedicated to bringing current sensory processing resources and information to families, consumers and professionals.
Tardive Dyskinesia Center Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder caused by taking certain neurological medications. TD is a result of damage to the bodily systems that process dopamine, and is typically caused by exposure to certain neurological medications – including Reglan. The symptoms of TD are irreversible and incurable, and mimic those of Parkinson’s disease. Tardive dyskinesia victims have involuntary, repetitive movements which often continue after the drug is no longer used. The center has the most up-to-date information on Tardive Dyskinesia Treatment options. Additionally, it distributes free wristbands to all users in hopes of raising TD awareness.
TBI Community Online, at the The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research. Provides National Database of Educational Resources on Traumatic Brain Injury.
The Brain Spot U.S. Dept of Education-funded site designed to be accessible and fun for people just learning to use the internet. Design and content are intended for individuals with traumatic brain injury who may have varying abilities to process written and visual material.
Traumatic Brain Injury Toolkit PDF file. Designed to support diagnosis and management of both mild and acute traumatic brain injury (TBI). There are two sections — one for health care providers and the other for individuals with mild or acute TBI and their families.
United Cerebral Palsy Lists state disability resources. Choose “Parenting and Families” link and then “Resources.”
United Spinal Association Provides and supports grass-roots advocacy, sports and recreation, and medical research, and accessibility services for people with SCI, MS, ALS, spina bifida, polio and all other conditions involving the spinal cord.
National Institute of Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases Provides patients, health professionals, and the public with an important link to resources and information on metabolic bone diseases, including osteoporosis, Paget’s disease of the bone, osteogenesis imperfecta, and hyperparathyroidism.
St. Vincent Healthcare – New Hope Rehabilitation Center (Billings) Specializes in rehabilitation of people who have experienced a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple trauma, neurological disorder (including Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Guillian Barre). an orthopedic condition, amputation, arthritis and osteoporosis.
American Academy of Pain Medicine
American Chronic Pain Association
National Foundation for the Treatment of Pain
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
Benefis Healthcare – Montana Neurology and Neurosciences (Great Falls) Benefis Healthcare provides comprehensive neurological services for Northcentral Montana, treating head trauma, stroke, and acute and chronic diseases of the brain and nerve system, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amputation and spinal-cord injury. The American Parkinson’s Disease Association’s Information & Referral Center for Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming is based at Benefis.
Meeting Life’s Challenges Free bi-monthly electronic magazine for people living with chronic illness.
St. Vincent Healthcare – New Hope Rehabilitation Center (Billings) Specializes in rehabilitation of people who have experienced a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple trauma, neurological disorder (including Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Guillian Barre). an orthopedic condition, amputation, arthritis and osteoporosis.
New Mobility Magazine News and expert advice on health, advocacy efforts, travel, sexuality, transportation, and more for readers with mobility impairments. Has a post-polio forum.
Polio Survivors Association Based in California, PSA works with other organizations and agencies to promote public policies that encourage home care for people with disabilities. Dedicated to education, advocacy, and support — provides educational material to those polio survivors who are experiencing the late effects of poliomyelitis and works closely with physicians and local polio support groups.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Health and Wellness Promotes wellness for persons with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, post polio syndrome, amputations, and spinal cord injury, as well as all other persons with disabilities.
United Spinal Association Provides and supports grass-roots advocacy, sports and recreation, and medical research, and accessibility services for people with SCI, MS, ALS, spina bifida, polio and all other conditions involving the spinal cord.
Accessible Air Travel: A Guide for People with Disabilities from the United Spinal Association
Wheelin’ Sportsmen, division of the National Wild Turkey Federation is dedicated to providing people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Publishes Wheelin’ Sportsmen Magazine.
Angelman Syndrome Foundation Angelman Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by abnormal function of the gene UBE3A, located within a small region on chromosome #15. This region is deleted in approximately 80% of individuals with Angelman Syndrome. For the remaining 20%, genetic testing can often identify other abnormalities that disrupt UBE3A function. Individuals with this syndrome have developmental delays; impaired or non-existent speech (although receptive and non-verbal communication skills may be higher); movement or balance disorders; and behaviors such as frequent laughter/smiling, apparently happy demeanor, excitability, hand flapping, and short attention spans. Microcephaly, seizures, abnormal EEGs, and other problems are also common. Angelman Syndrome affects males, females and all racial/ethnic groups equally. There are estimated to be between 1000 and 5000 cases in the U.S. and Canada.
Bloom’s Syndrome Support Network Bloom’s Syndrome is an autosomal recessive genetic condition. Both parents must be carriers in order to pass it along to a child. Bloom’s is a rare condition affecting all systems and characterized by a long, narrow face, small and slight stature, and decreased immune system responses. Other reported tendencies include having mental retardation, sterility or other fertility issues as well as early menopause.
CHARGE Syndrome Foundation CHARGE syndrome is a genetic pattern of birth defects which occurs in about one in every 9,000-10,000 births worldwide. It is a complex syndrome, involving extensive medical and physical difficulties that differ from child to child. There is rarely a history of CHARGE syndrome or any other similar conditions in the family. Babies with CHARGE syndrome are often born with life-threatening birth defects, including complex heart defects, swallowing and breathing problems. Most have hearing loss, vision loss, and balance problems which delay their development and communication. Children with CHARGE syndrome often far surpass their medical, physical, educational, and social expectations.
FACES: The National Craniofacial Association Organization for people with facial differences.
Genetics Home Reference National Institutes of Health online portal offers parents and physicians consumer-friendly information on over 200 genetic disorders and related genes. The site features an illustrated tutorial that explains the basics of genetics and includes a glossary of genetics terms. The lay-friendly site is particularly helpful to parents whose newborns have been detected with a genetic condition, and are looking for easy-to-read information on specific conditions.
Immune Deficiency Foundation Provides IGIV to Clinical Immunologists on an emergency basis, oversees 25 regional and local IDF Chapters offering patient support services, insurance reimbursement, assistance and community education programs.National Public Policy Program focuses on IGIV safety and availability. Provides National Toll-Free Hotline at 800-296-4433, national newsletter, and patient and physician educational literature.
Jeffrey Modell Foundation For people with Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases, including Adenosine deaminase deficiency, Purine nucleoside phosphorylase deficiency, Ataxia telangiectasia, Chediak-Higashi syndrome, DiGeorge syndrome, and X-linked agammaglobulinemia.
M.I.N.D. Institute – University of California-Davis International, multidisciplinary research organization, committed to excellence, collaboration and hope, striving to understand the causes and develop better treatments and ultimately cures for neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, fragile X syndrome and learning disorders.
National Fragile X Foundation Fragile X is a family of genetic conditions caused by gene changes in the FMR1 gene. Variations include Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the most common cause of inherited mental impairment, which can range from learning disabilities to more severe cognitive or intellectual disabilities. FXS is the most common known cause of autism or “autistic-like” behaviors. Symptoms also can include characteristic physical and behavioral features and delays in speech and language development. Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome affects balance, tremor and memory in some older male gene carriers. Fragile X-Associated Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (FXPOI) is a problem with ovarian function which can lead to infertility and early menopause in some female gene carriers.
National Institute of Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases Provides patients, health professionals, and the public with an important link to resources and information on metabolic bone diseases, including osteoporosis, Paget’s disease of the bone, osteogenesis imperfecta, and hyperparathyroidism.
National Organization on Rare Disorders Has a database of rare disorders, a prescription assistance program, and offers a free, unique online community service for rare-disease patients, their families, and caregivers.
Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome Educational Foundation, Inc. Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome is caused by a deletion of a small segment of the long arm of chromosome 22. It is one of the most common human genetic disorders. Associated problems include anomalies of the craniofacial/oral areas, eyes, ears/hearing, nose, heart, vascular system, nerves and brain, larynx and pharynx, abdomen and kidneys, limbs, genitals and urinary tract, immune system, endocrine system, bones and muscles, skin, and miscellaneous other anomalies. Individuals may have feeding difficulties as infants, psychiatric and psychological disorders, speech and language problems, and cognitive/learning difficulties.
Sleep Center at St. Vincent Healthcare (Billings)
Sleep Disorders Center (Bozeman)
Rocky Mountain Sleep Disorders Center (Butte)
Montana Sleep Diagnostics (Chester)
Liberty County Medical Center, 315 W. Madison Ave., Chester, MT 59522
Montana Sleep Diagnostics (Conrad)
Pondera Medical Center, 805 Sunset Blvd, Conrad, MT 59425
Montana Sleep Diagnostics (Dillon)
Barrett Memorial Hospital, 90 Hwy 91 South, Dillon, MT 59725
Montana Sleep Diagnostics (Glasgow)
Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital, 621 Third Street South, Glasgow, MT 59230
Rocky Mountain Sleep Disorders Center (Great Falls)
Northern Montana Sleep Disorders Center (Havre)
Rocky Mountain Sleep Disorders Center (Helena)
Montana Sleep Diagnostics (Lewistown)
Sleep Disorders Center (Miles City)
Sleep Center at St. Patrick’s Hospital and Health Sciences Center (Missoula)
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America
BlazeSports America In partnership with National Recreation and Parks Association, offers high quality sports instruction, training and competition opportunities to children and adults with physical disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, have a neuro-muscular disability such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, have an amputation or a visual impairment or blindness. Sports include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair rugby, swimming and track and field. Other sports may be offered by individual BlazeSports Clubs.
Growing Up with Spina Bifida: What Have We Learned Report from the North Carolina Office on Disability and Health summarizes the major findings of the spina bifida research study, “Quality of Life and Secondary Conditions in Individuals with Spina Bifida.”
National Council on Folic Acid NCFA is a partnership of national organizations and associations, state folic acid councils and government agencies whose mission is to improve health by promoting the benefits and consumption of folic acid.
Physical Activity Guidelines for Individuals with Spina Bifida Available from the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability.
Spina Bifida Association of America Addresses the specific needs of infants, children and adults with spina bifida, their families, and professionals who serve them. As the national representative of over 70 chapters, provides information and referral services, publishes materials, funds research, provides training, and conducts individual and systems advocacy.
United Spinal Association Provides and supports grass-roots advocacy, sports and recreation, and medical research, and accessibility services for people with SCI, MS, ALS, spina bifida, polio and all other conditions involving the spinal cord.
Accessible Air Travel: A Guide for People with Disabilities from the United Spinal Association
Wheelin’ Sportsmen, division of the National Wild Turkey Federation is dedicated to providing people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Publishes Wheelin’ Sportsmen Magazine.
American Adaptive Badminton Association is the competitive branch for amputees, wheelchair users, and others with disabilities who want to play recreationally and/or compete in regional, national and International competitions.
Benefis Healthcare – Montana Orthopedic and Rehabilitative Care (Great Falls) treats injuries, diseases and conditions of the bones, joints, muscles, nervous system and brain. MONARC patients may exhibit sports injury, workplace injury, trauma, stroke, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amputation, spinal-cord injury, or other conditions.
BlazeSports America In partnership with National Recreation and Parks Association, offers high quality sports instruction, training and competition opportunities to children and adults with physical disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, have a neuro-muscular disability such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, have an amputation or a visual impairment or blindness. Sports include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair rugby, swimming and track and field. Other sports may be offered by individual BlazeSports Clubs.
Choice Magazine Listening Free service for adults unable to read standard print due to visual, learning or physical disabilities. Six times each year CML assembles 8-hour tapes of unabridged selections of articles, short stories and poems from 100 publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, Esquire, Gourmet, Sports Illustrated, literary magazines and others.
Community Medical Center – Rehabilitation Institute (Missoula) Adults and children receive individualized treatment designed to meet their needs. Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians provide a full range of services on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Inpatient programs include pediatric rehabilitation; stroke; arthritis; brain injury; major multiple trauma; neuromusculoskeletal diseases; orthopedics; and spinal cord injuries.
Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center Summarizes research, identifies health information needs and develops systems for sharing information for the NIDRR model systems programs in traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and burn injury.
Northwest Regional SCI System at the University of Washington, Seattle
Rocky Mountain Regional SCI System at Craig Hospital, Englewood, Colorado
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
National Spinal Cord Injury Association. On-line Resource Center provides an overview of spinal cord injury and disease, lists support resources, and updates visitors on research studies, political action initiatives and news stories.
New Mobility Magazine News and expert advice on health, advocacy efforts, travel, sexuality, transportation, and more for readers with mobility impairments.
Paralyzed Veterans of America. Provides resources for professionals and for people with paralysis, including “Living with SCI” area, sports and recreation resources, research and education and national advocacy.
Regional Access Mobility Program (R.A.M.P.) Collaboration among Missoula Aging Services, Summit Independent Living Center, and Carpenters Local 28 to build free or low-cost ramps or lifts for elderly people and people with disabilities. Call 406-523-3953.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Health and Wellness Promotes wellness for persons with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, post polio syndrome, amputations, and spinal cord injury, as well as all other persons with disabilities.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Spinal Cord InjuryFocuses on the quality of life for people with spinal cord injury, and studies the effect of exercise as a way to prevent a wide range of secondary conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, respiratory dysfunction, urinary tract infection, depression, and pain.
Spinal Cord Injury and Exercise Blog: Promoting Health and Preventing Complications through Exercise
Sexuality and Reproductive Health Following Spinal Cord Injury, Evidence Report/Technology Assessment: Number 109 This report focuses on: 1. Issues related to fertility, pregnancy rates, pregnancy complications and management, and live births in persons with SCI, and 2. Issues related to male impotence post-SCI.
Shepherd Spinal Cord Injury Center.
Spinal Cord Injury Information Network Based at University of Alabama’s Spain Rehabilitation Center, provides information and resources for people with spinal cord injuries.
St. Vincent Healthcare – New Hope Rehabilitation Center (Billings) Specializes in rehabilitation of people who have experienced a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple trauma, neurological disorder (including Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Guillian Barre). an orthopedic condition, amputation, arthritis and osteoporosis. Northern Rockies Regional Spinal Injury Center serves Montana, Wyoming and the Dakotas.
United Spinal Association Provides and supports grass-roots advocacy, sports and recreation, and medical research, and accessibility services for people with SCI, MS, ALS, spina bifida, polio and all other conditions involving the spinal cord.
Accessible Air Travel: A Guide for People with Disabilities from the United Spinal Association
Spinal Cord Central Operated jointly by United Spinal Association and the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, this web site is for members of the spinal cord injury/disease (SCI/D) community who are seeking information and resource referrals related to SCI/D. The program serves all people with paralysis as a result of spinal cord injury or disease, their families, friends and others who have a strong interest or involvement with them.
U.S. Handcycling Federation is an association of individuals and organizations who share a common goal of health, fitness, and well-being for cyclists of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Handcycling is a form of adaptive cycling that enables athletes of all abilities to ride a “bike” exclusively using the upper body.
Wheelchair Getaways Rental franchise provides accessible van rentals for persons with disabilities in 32 states.
Wheelchair Softball Association serves as the governing body for wheelchair softball in the U.S. The game is played under the official rules of 16-inch slow pitch softball as approved by the Amateur Softball Association of America, with some exceptions geared toward the wheelchair user. Teams throughout America compete on a regular basis and hosts several tournaments throughout the summer. The NWSA hosts a national wheelchair softball tournament annually
Wheelchair Sports USA Organized geographically into fourteen regional associations, each responsible for developing local wheelchair sports programs and for conducting qualifying meets for the National Wheelchair Games in archery, track & field, shooting, swimming, table tennis and weightlifting.
Wheelin’ Sportsmen, division of the National Wild Turkey Federation is dedicated to providing people with disabilities, including disabled hunters, disabled anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts, with the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Publishes Wheelin’ Sportsmen Magazine..
Tourette Syndrome Association In partnership with the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, TSA experts provide free education and allied professional training programs for school districts, professional organizations, facilities and resource centers.
Brain Injury Association of America Brain injury prevention, research, education and advocacy activities — site has links to state affiliates and resources.
Brain Injury Association of Montana Helps individuals with traumatic brain injury and their families find information, appropriate services and local support. Lists support groups.
Brain Injury Resource Center site is for those who want to learn about the effects of brain injury in daily life.
Community Medical Center – Rehabilitation Institute (Missoula) Adults and children receive individualized treatment designed to meet their needs. Physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians provide a full range of services on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Inpatient programs include pediatric rehabilitation; stroke; arthritis; brain injury; major multiple trauma; neuromusculoskeletal diseases; orthopedics; and spinal cord injuries.
Community Medical Center – Community Bridges Program (Missoula) comprehensive day treatment and residential services for individuals who have had a brain injury or have other neurological diagnoses.
National Aphasia Association is a nonprofit organization that promotes public education, research, rehabilitation and support services to assist people with aphasia and their families.
National Resource Center for Traumatic Brain Injury provides relevant, practical information, intervention programs and assessment tools for professionals, persons with brain injury, and family members.
Perspectives Network focuses on positive communication between persons with brain injury, family members/caregivers/friends of persons with brain injury, professionals who treat persons with brain injury, and community members. The goal is to create positive changes and enhance public awareness and knowledge of acquired/traumatic brain injury.
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Community Integration of Persons with Brain Injury at the The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research. Provides National Database of Educational Resources on Traumatic Brain Injury.
Tip Sheet-Improving Social Skills after Traumatic Brain Injury
Shaken Baby Alliance. Collaborates with community agencies and professionals to provide support for Shaken Baby Syndrome victim families (Including adoptive and foster parents), advocates for justice for SBS victims, and increases SBS awareness.
St. Vincent Healthcare – New Hope Rehabilitation Center (Billings) Specializes in rehabilitation of people who have experienced a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple trauma, neurological disorder (including Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Guillian Barre). an orthopedic condition, amputation, arthritis and osteoporosis. St. Vincent Healthcare – Headway Program is a treatment program for people who have an acquired brain injury caused by an external physical force or trauma from a motor vehicle accident, assault, or fall; or as the result of internal damage from a stroke, tumor, or chemical exposure.
University of Alabama Traumatic Brain Injury Model System – Home Stimulation Program (Click on “Education” link) Provides 48 activities to use with individuals who have a brain injury. Activities are listed by level of difficulty and are designed to help people recover cognitive skills.
www.TheDesk.info Online Medicaid reference desk geared to people with cognitive disabilities, families, advocates, legislators, policy makers, state officials, and service providers.
Breast Health Access for Women with Disabilities Nationally recognized model in leadership and collaboration for increasing health services and accessibility for women with disabilities. BHAWD has developed several educational publications and tools that address increasing access to quality and appropriate breast-screening services for women with disabilities.
Center for Research on Women with Disabilities – Baylor College of Medicine web site serves as a clearinghouse for information about the health and wellness of women with disabilities, and shares information generated from 13 years of studies. Includes information from, and links to, research conducted around the country and serves as a networking forum for researchers, educators, clinicians, students, women with disabilities, and advocates.
Deaf Women United focuses on advocacy, education and outreach. It does not provide direct services, but initiated and created a network of individuals and organizations that represent and serve Deaf women. DWU provides leadership to and empowers Deaf women all over the country by the creation of a support system that will enhance their lives.
Health Promotion for Women with Disabilities . This web site addresses issues shared by women with disabilities, regardless of the cause of their disability. Although not all information will apply to all women, the information can be useful to women who are interested in learning more about their own health and about ways to improve their health and quality of life.
Hesperian Foundation Publishes A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities (can be purchased or downloaded from web site)
Missoula YWCA Offers “Ada’s Place” 18-month transitional housing program for homeless women and their children; Intimate Partner Violence Prevention program; the Pathways Home; children’s services; domestic violence and emergency services; sexual assault services; support groups; outreach; apprenticeships & job training; Girls Using Their Strengths (GUTS) Leadership Project for middle and high school girls; Planet Kids Supervised Visitation/ Exchange Center; and the Racial Justice Initiative.
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services:
Public Health and Safety Division:
Breast and Cervical Health Program
Native American Women’s Health Education Resource Center Benefiting people locally (South Dakota), nationally and internationally, the Center’s programs focus on domestic violence, AIDS prevention, child development and youth wellness, adult learning, environmental awareness and action, cancer prevention, fetal alcohol syndrome awareness, educational materials, diabetic nutrition, scholarships for Native American women, and reproductive health and rights.
Office on Women’s Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides resources, health tools, statistics and programs.
Women with Chronic Illnesses or Disabilities Useful information for women with disabilities, caretakers, health professionals, and researchers.
Partners in Health Care: Women with Disabilities and their Health Care Providers Publication of the North Carolina Office on Disability and Health is filled with tips for health care providers in promoting the health of people with cognitive and physical disabilities. Suggestions are given for people with disabilities on ways to help build positive partnerships with their medical care providers.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure – Montana Affiliate
2009-2010 Montana Mammography Directory (pdf file)
2009-2010 Montana Mammography Directory (Word file)
Women with Disabilities Links to health, aging and sexuality resources gathered by The Disability Resources Monthly Guide to Disabilities of the Internet.
Women to Women a support network for rural women with chronic illness, is seeking women to participate in a study group forming in the fall of 2007. The College of Nursing at Montana State University is in its eleventh year of this program, which enhances rural women’s ability to manage their chronic condition and assesses its effect on their quality of life. To qualify for participation, women must be physically able to use a computer and have a basic knowledge of how to use a computer, but need not own a computer. Women interested in participating in the next study group need to be between the ages of 35 and 65 and living with a chronic disease such as arthritic conditions, multiple sclerosis or heart disease. Participants must reside at least 25 miles outside of a town with 12,500 or more people in the states of Montana, Idaho, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and eastern Oregon or eastern Washington.
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Montana Resources | National Resources | Publications
Resources on Nutrition
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital – Diabetes Center
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital – Diet and Nutrition Services Registered dietitians provide education and counseling about weight management and healthy eating, eating disorders, and preventive nutrition.
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS)
Home and Community-Based Services Division: Public Assistance Bureau
Public Health and Safety Division:
Family and Community Health Bureau:
Child and Adult Care Food Program
Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program-WIC
Nutrition/Women, Infants, Children (WIC) Special Supplemental Nutrition Program
Montana State University Extension Service A source of individualized information about menu and meal planning, eating within a budget, and other practical topics.
New Directions for Living Well with a Disability This 8-week Health Promotion Workshop teaches tools that help people with disabilities continue to do the things they enjoy. Topics include goal setting, problem solving, optimistic thinking, avoiding depression, healthy communication, information seeking, nutrition, physical activity, advocacy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Facilitate — Learn more about how to facilitate a Living Well with a Disability group.
Participate — Locate Montana’s Living Well trainings!
Northern Montana Hospital – Diabetes Care (Havre) Diabetes Educators provide the Take Control quality self-management program, recognized by the American Diabetes Association. This program builds confidence and encourages people with diabetes to achieve and maintain good health, and helps them prevent complications.
St. Vincent Healthcare – Diabetes Center (Billings) Interdisciplinary team includes nurses, dietitians, physicians, pharmacists, physical therapists, a counselor and an American Diabetes Association representative. Eight members of the Diabetes Team are Certified Diabetes Educators.
St. Vincent Healthcare – Weight Management Clinic (Billings) services include medically supervised weight loss (including laboratory monitoring), weekly group and or individual behavioral health sessions, nutrition counseling, protein supplements, educational materials, long-term maintenance program, and weight loss medication management.
American Dietetic Association Professional organization for registered dieticians can help individuals locate local resources.
Healthy Aging Dietetic Practice Group is a practice group of the American Dietetic Association
American Obesity Association Focuses on research, education, prevention and treatment.
Arthritis Foundation Provides information on how nutrition affects arthritis and related conditions.
Children with Diabetes Foundation. Online community for kids, families and adults with diabetes.
Diabetes Prevention Program’s Lifestyle Balance Fat Counter lists fat grams and calories for more than 1,500 foods, including regional foods from all parts of the U.S.
Large print version: Lifestyle Balance Fat Counter (Word document)
Large print version: Lifestyle Balance Fat Counter (pdf document)
Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 5th Edition: Developed by USDA and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to help consumers, families and professionals find ways to enjoy food while maintaining good health.
Gateway to Food Safety Information
Good Nutrition Ideas is a source of innovative nutrition products and services, developed by nutrition scientists at The University of Montana’s Rural Institute for use by adults and kids — including those with disabilities or special health care needs
Meals on Wheels Association of America works toward the social, physical, nutritional, and economic betterment of vulnerable Americans, provides the tools and information, and gives cash grants to local senior meal programs throughout the country to assist in providing meals and other nutrition services.
MyPyramid Food Guide Pyramid — This interactive website allows you to tailor the USDA/HHS nutrition guidelines to your personal needs based on your age, gender, and level of physical activity.
National Center on Physical Activity and Disability Specialized information about exercise and activity, including general exercise guidelines, for persons with all types of disabilities.
National Federation of the Blind Sponsors the Diabetes Action Network and publishes Voice of the Diabeticnewsletter.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Obesity Education Initiative:
“Calculate Your Body Mass Index”
“Menu Planner“ Allows user to select total daily calories and build breakfast, lunch and dinner menus.
We Can! Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity and Nutrition ideas/resources for families
Native American Diabetes Project Has developed a Strong in Body and Spirit, a four-book children’s series about a bald eagle that lives in a fictional Indian village on the outskirts of a city. The eagle counsels kids about the healthy Indian old ways, such as a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and a life filled with physical activity.
Nutrition.gov Comprehensive source of information on nutrition and dietary guidance.
Renfrew Center Foundation is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization advancing education and research on eating disorders, and their prevention and treatment. It provides professional training and educational opportunities for mental health and medical professionals; produces educational seminars and publications for the public and participates in media activities; and conducts research into the pathology and recovery patterns of people with eating disorders.
SmallStep.gov U.S. Department of Health and Human Services site provides information on diet and exercise that can help individuals improve their health through incremental changes in various habits.
USDA Cooperative Extension Service
USDA Food and Nutrition Information Center Provides information on nutrition, food safety, the food pyramid, and government programs such as Food Stamps and WIC. Has a searchable index.
Food Stamp Nutrition Connection Nutrition and Disability Resources include general information; food resource management/shopping with disabilities; physical activity and special populations; and training materials for professionals.
U.S. Health and Human Services Healthfinder: Gateway to reliable health information, including diet, nutrition and physical activity
Weight Control Information Network A service of the National Institute on Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the Network raises awareness and provide up-to-date, science-based information on obesity, physical activity, weight control, and related nutritional issues to health professionals, people who are overweight or obese, the media, Congress, and the general public.
Montana Disability and Health Program Publications:
The Wise Choices Food Pyramid: What if We Did Compare Apples and Oranges? 2008
Eat Well to Feel Well: Your Plan for Good Health 2005
Using Commodities and Canned Foods in Group Homes for Adults with Disabilities, Practice Guideline, 2004
Food On Film©: An Innovative Method for Recording Food Intake of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities or Communication Difficulties Research Progress Report #22, 2004
Nutrition and Disability: Report #14, 2002
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Montana Resources National Resources
Resources on Oral Health
Caring Program for Children Sponsored and administered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana
800) 447-7828 ext. 3630
Gallatin Dental Alliance is made up of members from the Montana Office of Rural Health and Area Health Education Center, Gallatin City-County Health Department, MSU College of Nursing, MSU Office for Community Involvement, school nurses in Gallatin County, local dentists and their staff members, a dental hygienist, the parent liaison for the Bozeman public schools, HRDC Head Start, and other community members. The main activity of the Alliance at the present time is the school oral health screening program. This program is volunteer driven and relies upon donated time and supplies.
Have Healthy Teeth Program
Meg Traci, Director
Montana Disability and Health Program
The University of Montana Rural Institute
52 Corbin Hall, Missoula, MT 59812-7056
406-243-4956
matraci@ruralinstitute.umt.edu
Have Healthy Teeth worked with members of People First chapters in Helena and Missoula to implement and evaluate low-cost oral health self-management and prevention strategies that establish good oral health behaviors. The program’s key elements were oral hygiene self-management and peer mentoring to assist with compliance. People First Missoula trained peer mentors in Helena who subsequently trained other peer mentors as the program expanded to additional Montana People First chapters.
Montana Community Health Centers: These private, non-profit, consumer-directed healthcare corporations provide quality, cost-effective and comprehensive primary and preventive care to medically under-served and uninsured people. Most provide dental services.
Billings:
Deering Community Health Center
Deering Community Health Center Dental Clinic
123 S. 27th St., Billings, MT59107
406-247-3333
lila@ycchd.org
Hours: 7:00 – 6:00 M-FHealthcare for the Homeless Volunteer Program (406) 651-6421
Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (406) 238-6008
Bozeman: Gallatin Community Clinic
(406) 585-8701
Hours: 8:00 – 4:30 M -ThButte: Community Health Center (with satellites in Sheridan and Dillon)
Community Health Center Dental Clinic
445 Centennial Drive, Butte, MT 59702
406-496-6007
cster@in-tch.com
Hours: 8:00 – 5:00 M,F; 8:00 – 2:00 T; Closed W & ThGreat Falls:
Community Health Care Center, Inc.
Community Health Care Center Dental Clinic
Cascade City-County Health Dept.,
115 4th Ave. South, Great Falls, MT 59405-4597
406-791-9267
loney@co.cascade.mt.us
Hours: 8:00 – 5:00 M – F by appointmentMontana State University College Of Technology
Dental Clinic
(800) 446-2698 or (406) 771-4300
Hours: 8:00 – 1:00 M & T by appointmentHelena Cooperative Health Center, Inc.
Cooperative Health Center Dental Clinic
1930 9th Ave., Ste. 207, Helena, MT 59601
406-457-8928
kwilson@co.lewis-clark.mt.us
Hours: 8:00 – 2:30 M & F Walk-ins; 8:00 – 5:00 T,W,ThLibby – Lincoln County Community Health Center, Inc.
Lincoln County Community Dental Clinic
711 California Ave., Libby, MT 59923
406-293-3755
maria@lcchc.org
Hours: 9:00 – 5:00 M-FLivingston Community Health Partners, Inc.
Community Health Partners Dental Practice
126 S. Main St., Livingston, MT 59047
406-222-4777
lfrancis@CHPhealth.org
Hours: 8:00 – 5:00 M,W,F; 11:00 – 7:00 T,ThMissoula – Partnership Health Center, Inc.
Partnership Health Center Dental Clinic
323 W. Alder, Missoula, MT 59802
406-829-4185
mahne@phc.missoula.mt.us
Hours: 8:00 – 5:00 M; 9:00 – 5:00 T; 8:30 – 4:00 W, Th, FMontana Migrant Council, Inc. (406) 248-3149
Mobile Dental Clinic – Serving Carbon, Dawson, Treasure, Rosebud, Richland, Bighorn, Yellowstone, Beaverhead, Flathead and Lake Counties (Each site serves 1- 5 counties)
Indian Health Service – Billings Area Office (406) 247-7120
Dental clinics located in Browning, Crow Agency, Lodge Grass, Pryor, Polson, Pablo, St. Ignatius, Harlem, Hays, Poplar, Wolf Point, Lame Deer, and Box Elder.Urban Indian Clinic (406) 449-5796
Helena Indian Alliance – Leo Pocha Clinic – Serving Great Falls, Butte and Helena
Hours: 8:00 – 4:00 M-F
Donated Dental Services Free, comprehensive dental treatment for those who cannot afford treatment due to financial limitations associated with their age or disabilities. Currently, nearly 150 dentists and more than 65 dental laboratories across Montana serve as volunteers for DDS. The Montana Dental Association donates office space for the program coordinator.
Montana Dental Hygienists Association
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) :
Family and Community Health Bureau:
Medicaid Services Bureau (800) 362-8312
Dental Program Manager (406) 444-3182
Montana Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) (877) 543-7669
CHIP Dental Program Officer (406) 444-7046
Public Health and Human Safety Division:
Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program
Oral Health Program Promotes dental health activities designed to encourage good dental health practices and to help prevent dental cavities, gum disease and oral cancer. Activities focus on education to promote good dental health and risk reduction activities to reduce the occurrence of dental disease. Identifies dental health resources available for local health departments, daycares and Head Start programs and collaborates with the dental community, public/private schools, local health departments, tribes and others concerned with dental promotion activities.
Montana Primary Care Association
900 N. Montana Ave., Helena, MT 59601
406-442-2750
mbfrideres@mtpca.org
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
American Academy of Periodontology provides information for individuals with diabetes.
American Dental Association. Provides Tips for People with Special Needs.
American Dental Hygienists Association Has a Diabetes Fact Sheet and information on nutrition for oral health.
Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors
Dentistry for the Disabled Child and Adult A dentist who treats patients with disabilities is the author of this site. He lists educational materials and resources, and gives advice on finding a dentist for a person with a disability, on dental hygiene for people with disabilities, and on bruxism (teeth-grinding).
FACES: The National Craniofacial Association Organization for people with facial differences.
Family Village (dental page) The Family Village web site integrates online information, resources, and communication opportunities for people with cognitive and other disabilities, for their families, and for disability services and support providers. The dental page links to resources on the dental needs of people with disabilities.
National Dental Association Premier dental organization for ethnic minorities represents 10,000 dentists, students, hygienists, assistants, spouses, and the communities they serve. It is the parent organization of the Student National Dental Association, and umbrella to the National Dental Hygienists Association & the National Dental Assistants Association.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
National Maternal and Child Health Oral Resource Center
National Oral Health Information Clearinghouse
Nicotine Anonymous Non-Profit 12-Step Fellowship of men and women helping each other live nicotine-free lives.
Online Guide to Quitting includes tobacco cessation resources, expert advice and support, referrals to local resources, tools for individuals and professionals, and more.
Special Olympics Special Smiles Special Smiles is a core component of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes initiative which focuses on improving the health of Special Olympics athletes. Special Smiles provides access to dental care for athletes and others with intellectual disabilities at Special Olympics games in each state and around the world.
Tobacco Information and Prevention Source at the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
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Montana Resources | Local Resources (by town) | National Resources
Resources on Recreation and Exercise
Montana, Statewide:
Big Sky Imagination Inventor Scot Browne manufactures and sells a variety of recreational products, including a hands-free binocular stand, a wheelchair rifle rest, and a wheelchair flashlight holder.
Montana Access to Outdoor Recreation strives to increase opportunities for participation in wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, and other related activities for individuals with disabilities and those who are aging. MATOR offers the following services: free recreational equipment library; demonstration events; education and awareness; and a volunteer network.
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services:
Public Health and Safety Division: Cardiovascular Health/Nutrition and Physical Activity
Obesity/Physical Activity Program
1400 Broadway, Rm. C317, Helena, MT 59620
(406) 444-5508
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
North American Riding for the Handicapped Region 9 Affiliates NARHA Association affiliates from Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington
Parents, Let’s Unite for Kids publishes: Montana Recreation, Travel, & Camp Resource Handbook for People with Special Needs
Special Olympics of Montana Nonprofit international program of year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Visit Montana Official state travel site.
VSA Arts of Montana Partners with the Departments of Dance and Music at the University of Montana to provide learning opportunities for people with disabilities and teacher and access training for University of Montana students who participate in VSA classes on campus.
Montana Resources, by town (alphabetical order)
Belgrade: The Rock Fitness Center 406-388-7133 (wheelchair accessible). Group fitness training, personal training, nutrition and dietetics, physical therapy. Classes adjusted for all levels and all handicaps.
Billings:
Aquatic:
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Billings Park and Recreation Aquatics (wheelchair accessible)
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Rose Park Pool and Waterslides 406-657-8371 (wheelchair accessible)
Swimming pool, wading pool, spray park, and waterslides. Open during summer.
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Eagle Mount Billings 406-245-5422 (wheelchair accessible)
Physically challenged swim, and beginner and intermediate swim. Partnerships with St. Vincent Health and Rehabilitation and Billings Family YMCA.
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Billings YMCA 406-248-1685 (wheelchair accessible)
Water aerobics and water exercise classes for adults and swimming classes for children. Weighted chair lift and floating belts available.
Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes:
Curves Fitness Center for Women 406-252-1300 (wheelchair accessible) Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.
Billings Community Center 406-657-3050 (wheelchair accessible) Senior recreation/fitness facilities & community center activities. Recreational classes & activities, health/wellness screenings & programs. Adult Enrichment Classes.
Billings YMCA 406-248-1685 (wheelchair accessible) A wide variety of Health and Fitness programs for all ages. Camps, summer programs, health and fitness consultations, and adult programs.
Oz Fitness Center 406-245-0960 Group fitness classes, team of trainers helping to ensure every customer reaches their individual health & fitness goals.
Heights Fitness Center 406-252-7737 Premium equipment, programs and specialized training. Discounted rates for seniors, and free 2 week trial membership.
Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options:
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
Pictograph State Park: A short, paved trail leads to a cave that holds rock paintings and other artifacts that date back over 2000 years. Trails are flat, but not wheelchair accessible.
Lake Elmo State Park (wheelchair accessible): Swimming, bird watching, disabled fishing pier, and a paved trail.
Pompey’s Pillar: Spectacular birdwatching. The interpretive center, restrooms, parking lot, and day use area are all fully accessible.
Matthew’s Recreation Area (wheelchair accessible): Wheelchair accessible fishing platform and cement paved walking path.
Swords Park (wheelchair accessible): A paved, gently rolling path that extends about two miles to the east along the rims north of town.
Norm Schoenthal Island (wheelchair accessible): A level 1.9 mile gravel trail through woodlands along the Yellowstone River
Riverfront Park (wheelchair accessible): Paved and unpaved trails around Lake Josephine and through woodlands.
Two Moon Park (wheelchair accessible) Various level gravel paths through woodlands.
Zoo Montana 406-652-8100 (wheelchair accessible) Zoological park and botanical gardens, offering habitat to exotic and native animals and plants.
Other Programs:
Eagle Mount Billings 406-245-5422 (wheelchair accessible) Hosts a wide range of therapeutic recreational activities for children and adults with disabilities: arts & crafts, golf, ice skating, aquatics, cycling, fishing, skiing, equestrian.
STAR Riding Program, Inc., North American Riding for the Handicapped Association Premier Accredited Center, Kathy Barkell Kirk, 2005 Bitterroot Dr., Billings, MT 59105 406-245-7227; dkkirk@bresnan.net
Resource, Support & Development, Inc. (RSD) is based in Billings and operates the Recreational Adventures & Vacation Experiences (R.A.V.E.) program for adults with developmental disabilities.
Bozeman:
Aquatic:
Eagle Mount Bozeman Therapeutic Aquatics Program 406-586-1781 (wheelchair accessible)
Water aerobics, swim skill classes, and therapeutic action plans designed with the individual’s goals and objectives in mind.Bozeman Swim Center 406-587-4724 (wheelchair accessible) 50 meter indoor pool, hot tub and water aerobic equipment. Hydraulic-powered pool-side lift and easy access steps into the pool. The Arthritis Foundation offers aquatic programs in the warm-water pool. If you have a disability that requires assistance, please contact the ADA Coordinator, Melynda Coble at 587-4724.
The Ridge 406-586-1737 (wheelchair accessible) Swimming pool, therapy pool with hydraulic lift, water classes and water therapy classes.
Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes:
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital: Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation & Adult Health & Wellness 406-585-5040: Program is offered to individuals with diagnosed illnesses or multiple cardiovascular risk factors.
Curves Fitness Center for Women 406-522-8251 (wheelchair accessible) Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.
Bozeman Senior Center Health and Fitness Program 406-585-2421 (wheelchair accessible)
A variety of fitness classes every day, exercise equipment room, indoor walking programs.The Ridge 406-586-1737 (wheelchair accessible)
Senior opportunities: Eight weeks to a health life-style; water aerobics; stretch and sculpt; trainer/weight lifting. Also have group fitness and physical therapy.
Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options:
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
Bohart Ranch Disc Golf (Folf) Course 406-586-9070
City Parks and Playgrounds (wheelchair accessible): Bogert Park- ADA accessible playground and activities
City Trail System (wheelchair accessible) – not paved but smooth for wheelchairs.
Langer Gardens Climbing Boulder (wheelchair accessible) – easy access, and can climb
right out of wheelchair.Bozeman Pond (wheelchair accessible) – dock for access to fishing. Putting in a climbing boulder.
Other Programs:
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Eagle Mount Bozeman 406-586-1781 Hosts a wide range of therapeutic recreational activities for people with disabilities and children with cancer, including golf, horticulture, ice skating, cancer camps, aquatics, cycling, fishing, kayaking, skiing, and equestrian.
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LOVE INC – Paid Forward with Love 406-587-3008. A program providing wellness treatments such as yoga, massage, chiropractic, Pilates, and ear candling for low income and needy elderly persons from the community.
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Montana Senior Olympics 406-586-5543 (wheelchair accessible). Competitive events for individuals ages 50 and older, held in June.
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Bozeman Women’s Activity Group 406-587-0203. Hiking and backcountry skiing groups are the group’s most popular activities, and there are also groups of eightball pool players, quilters, and bikers. Currently, over 200 women participate in BWAG activities.
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Gallatin Dog Club (wheelchair accessible). Contact Vicky Whitney, President: hvwhitney@msn.com. Monthly meeting held the second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at Border’s Cafe
Additional Information: Bozeman Recreation and Parks Advisory Board (wheelchair accessible) lists activities in the Bozeman area.
Butte:
Aquatic:
Butte YMCA 406-782-1266 (wheelchair accessible). Handicapped accessible pools- warmer pool has zero entry for rolling wheelchair into water and a water wheelchair available for use. Lap pool has a lift for entering and exiting. Arthritis water classes for seniors and aqua-aerobics classes also available.
Montana Tech (406) 496-4293 Call for times the pool is open to the public.
Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes
Butte YMCA 406-782-1266 (wheelchair accessible). Recreation/fitness facilities & community center activities. Recreational classes & activities for seniors, family programs, and youth fitness programs. Elevator access.
Big Sky Senior Living Center (406) 494-9200, ask for Colleen. (Wheelchair accessible) Exercise classes and limited fitness equipment available to the public as well as residents.
Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
Butte Ranger District- Beaverhead National Forest Various campgrounds, trails, and picnic/recreation areas that are handicapped accessible:
Freedom Point Picnic Area
Sheepshead Recreation Area This mixed forest and grassland has 1.3 miles of paved nature trails, fishing, a lake, and a picnic area.
Ulrich/Schotte Nature Trail A paved two-mile nature trail winds through wetlands, a pond and a restored section of Blacktail Creek, all populated with ducks, geese, and other birds.
City Trails: 22 miles of paved, handicapped accessible trails wrap through and around the city of Butte.
Other Programs:
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Butte Farmer’s Market (seasonal) Located in Uptown Butte, the Farmer’s Market offers plants, farm fresh products, fruits and vegetables, prepared foods, and arts and crafts (wheelchair accessible).
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Butte Special Riders North American Riding for the Handicapped Association Center
P.O. Box 664, Whitehall, MT 59759 (406) 494-2612
bkiss0529@hotmail.com
Corvallis:
Other Programs:
Bitterroot Therapeutic Riding NARHA Center
599 Popham Lane, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-2999 btr@bitterrootriding.orgMontana Accessible Recreation Opportunities is a joint venture between MonTECH at The University of Montana Rural Institute and the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center: Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center. Its goal is to be a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for all Montana public recreation lands.
The project strives to provide relevant accessibility data using GIS mapping, GPS technology, and a variety of other informational sources to help individuals plan outings at accessible recreational sites. This pilot program is currently limited to Missoula and Ravalli counties. If financial support can be secured, the project will expand to include other areas of Montana and eventually the entire state.
Darby:
Other Programs:
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Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities is a joint venture between MonTECH at The University of Montana Rural Institute and the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center: Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center. Its goal is to be a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for all Montana public recreation lands.
The project strives to provide relevant accessibility data using GIS mapping, GPS technology, and a variety of other informational sources to help individuals plan outings at accessible recreational sites. This pilot program is currently limited to Missoula and Ravalli counties. If financial support can be secured, the project will expand to include other areas of Montana and eventually the entire state.
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Shooting Star Ranch Therapeutic Riding Program, 321 Hairpin Lane, Darby, MT 59829, 406-821-4700 diane@nevadajoe.net
Great Falls:
Aquatic
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Morony Natatorium Pool 406-452-3733 (wheelchair accessible). Equipped with a hydraulic-powered, pool-side lift. Open swim is held on Friday from 4-9 p.m. and Saturday from 1-5 p.m. Aquatic Solutions, a program designed for individuals who have orthopedic injuries, MS, spinal injuries, stroke, or arthritis also offered.
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Eagle Mount Great Falls Therapeutic Aquatics Program 406-454-1449 (wheelchair accessible). Water aerobics, swim skill classes, and therapeutic action plans designed with the individual’s goals and objectives in mind.
Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes
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Curves Fitness Center for Women 406-771-7630 (wheelchair accessible). Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.
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The Peak Health and Wellness Center 406-727-7325. Circuit training, classes, and stretching for seniors, as well as water classes for people with back problems, arthritis, etc. Designed for people of all fitness levels.
Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options
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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
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Black Eagle Memorial Island (wheelchair accessible) 13 miles of trail are paved and wheelchair accessible, leading to the Black Eagle Falls overlook.
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Gibson Park (wheelchair accessible) The largest park in the city, it has a paved trail that connects to River’s Edge Trail, flower gardens, pond with waterfowl, coffeehouse, historic cabin, band shell, picnic areas, and stained glass murals. Playground equipment is wheelchair accessible.
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Thain Creek Trail This 0.75 mile loop trail begins on the north side of Thain Creek Campground. It is level, but unpaved.
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Ulm Pishkun/First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park (wheelchair accessible) Picnicking, hiking, animal watching, and a museum.
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Giant Springs State Park (wheelchair accessible) Wildlife viewing, boating, fishing, picnicking, and interpretive programs.
Other Programs
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Eagle Mount Great Falls (406) 454-1449 (wheelchair accessible) Hosts a wide range of therapeutic recreational activities for people with disabilities and children with cancer, including gymnastics, gardening, ice skating, day camps, aquatics, cycling, fishing, kayaking, skiing, and equestrian.
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Showdown Ski Area (wheelchair accessible) Eagle Mount provides ski lessons for people of all disabilities. Pre-registration is required.
Havre: Hi-Line Therapeutic Riding Association
Helena:
Aquatic
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Broadwater Athletic Clubs and Hot Springs 406-443-5777 (wheelchair accessible).
Three natural hot springs pools & spas, and water slides incorporated in this family fitness center. -
Memorial Park Swimming Pool 406-447-1559. The outdoor swimming pool is a 50-meter pool heated to 82 ° for swimming lessons, water aerobics classes, and open swimming.
Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes
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Curves Fitness Center for Women 800-848-1096 (wheelchair accessible). Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.
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Helena YMCA 406-442-9622 (wheelchair accessible). Recreation/fitness facilities & community center activities. Recreational classes & activities, family programs, youth fitness programs.
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Broadwater Athletic Clubs – The Life Fitness Center 406-443-6045 (wheelchair accessible). Fully handicapped-accessible family fitness center, hot springs pools, the Adventure Zone, full locker room facilities and full fitness facilities, Group Fitness Classes, Teen Fitness Programs.
Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options
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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
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Spring Meadow Lake State Park (wheelchair accessible) Swimming, bird watching, scuba diving, fishing, picnicking. Interpretive trail and day use area are paved and accessible.
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White Sandy Bureau of Land Management Recreation Area Swimming, fishing, picnicking, boating.
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Causeway on Lake Helena (wheelchair accessible) Boating, canoeing, lake fishing and picnicking. Fishing pier and restroom facilities offer easy accessibility.
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Archie Bray Foundation 406-443-3502 (wheelchair accessible). Flat, paved and gravel trails weave you through an eclectic array of ceramic statues and buildings. The Archie Bray foundation, founded in 1951, was once the site of a brick factory, and is now a home for visiting artists from around the world.
Other Programs
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Helena Farmer’s Market (seasonal) Farmer’s market, outdoor activities, food, performing arts, and art shows (wheelchair accessible) .
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Historic Last Chance Gulch Mall Pedestrian mall with many events each year, including art walks, holiday strolls, summer “Alive@ Five” free weekly concerts, music festivals and craft fairs (wheelchair accessible).
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Eagle Mount Helena, 3400 Centennial Dr., Helena, MT 59601. Contact: Edward Kerins at 406- 442-6103 or e-mail: kerins@mt.net
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Fresh Steps Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Inc. North American Riding for the Handicapped (NARHA) Center
6515 Green Meadow Drive, Helena, MT 59602. Contact: Darcie Kelly at 406-558-4743 or therapy@freshsteps.net
Lolo
Other Programs
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Faith Therapeutic Riding Service, Inc. NARHA Center
123 Tyler Way, Apt. C, Lolo, MT 59843; 406-531-6525
faiththerapeuticriding@yahoo.com
Miles City
Aquatic
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Miles City Natural Oasis Miles City’s unique outdoor municipal pool is a natural swimming hole. Located next to City Park for picnicking.
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Spotted Eagle Lake (wheelchair accessible) Motorboat restrictions make this area great for swimming, picnicking, and especially fishing. New wheelchair accessible fishing dock.
Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes
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Centra Athletic Center– Miles Community College 406-874-6262 (wheelchair accessible).
Automatic doors and stairlift make Centra accessible. Full fitness center with weight room and gymnasium, as well as fitness evaluations. Pilates, aerobics, and power-cycling classes, and opportunities for seniors. Encourage people of all ages to develop healthy lifestyles. -
Curves Fitness Center for Women 406-234-1868 (wheelchair accessible). Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.
Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options
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Pirogue Island State Park Great for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Hiking/biking trails are gravel, not paved. Accessible by floating and by walking through a shallow channel.
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Tusler Recreation Site ½ mile handicapped accessible trail around recreation site. Picnicking, walking, wildlife viewing.
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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
Other: Miles City Farmer’s Market (seasonal) Selling homemade edibles, handcrafted items, vegetables & fruit, jewelry, clothing, house plants, and flea market type goods.
Missoula
Aquatic
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Splash Montana and Currents Aquatic Center 406-721-7275 (wheelchair accessible)
Awarded the “Good Access is Good Business” award by Summit Independent Living Center for exceptional design in accessibility. Splash Montana is outside, Currents is inside. Both offer pools, waterslides, classes, and aquatic play areas designed for drainage and to be barrier-free. -
Community Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute 406-327-4427 (wheelchair accessible) A wide variety of warm-water therapy classes designed to improve strength, endurance and flexibility in a comfortable, supportive environment. One-on-one work, or supervised sessions without instruction.
Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes
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Missoula YMCA 406-721-YMCA (wheelchair accessible) Group fitness, aquatic classes, youth sports, and summer camps for people with disabilities, and Area Special Olympics.
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Missoula Senior Citizens Center 406-543-7154 (wheelchair accessible) Senior exercise classes that focuses on balance training, back strength and core conditioning through Pilates matwork.
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New Directions Wellness Center (wheelchair accessible) on the campus of The University of Montana provides physical therapy and supervised fitness for persons with physical limitations, chronic conditions, or disabilities. Health promotion program includes a fully equipped fitness facility designed for people with chronic illness or disability.
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Community Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute 406-327-4427 (wheelchair accessible).
Outpatient rehabilitation and physical therapy programs for all ages, including wheelchair evaluations and nutrition services.
Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options
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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
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Fort Fizzle (wheelchair accessible) Historical picnic site with facilities including interpretive signs and accessible trail to fishing access. Restrooms are also accessible.
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Missoula Parks and Recreation Great website with a wide variety of recreation offerings in Missoula:
Youth and Adult Sports and Recreation
Trail systems
Pools and aquatic centers
Blue Bikes Community Bicycle Program
Senior Friendly cross-country skiing and snowshoe trips
Senior Open Space Tours
Children’s Fish Pond
Other Programs
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Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities is a joint venture between MonTECH at The University of Montana Rural Institute and the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center: Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center. Its goal is to be a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for all Montana public recreation lands.
The project strives to provide relevant accessibility data using GIS mapping, GPS technology, and a variety of other informational sources to help individuals plan outings at accessible recreational sites. This pilot program is currently limited to Missoula and Ravalli counties. If financial support can be secured, the project will expand to include other areas of Montana and eventually the entire state. -
Qwivals Family Fun Center 406-642-6426 Almost all attractions are accessible, including mini golf, the corn maze, water wars and lost treasure mining.
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“Celebrating our Abilities” Promotes the abilities of all children and sponsors a free celebration each March in honor of Disabilities Awareness Month. Taking the “dis” out of disabilities. For more information, call Linda Butler (406) 327-6714.
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Living Art of Montana Promotes the arts and nature in creating healing environments. Conducts half-day to 12-week long workshops for professional caregivers, social work students, healthcare providers and organizations, and individuals with chronic illness and disability. Creates therapeutic gardens in Missoula’s healthcare environments.
Additional Information: Missoula Outdoor Recreation and Education (M.O.R.E.) Jason Pignanelli, Outdoor Recreation Specialist 552-6271
Seeley Lake: Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities is a joint venture between MonTECH at The University of Montana Rural Institute and the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center: Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center. Its goal is to be a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for all Montana public recreation lands.
The project strives to provide relevant accessibility data using GIS mapping, GPS technology, and a variety of other informational sources to help individuals plan outings at accessible recreational sites. This pilot program is currently limited to Missoula and Ravalli counties. If financial support can be secured, the project will expand to include other areas of Montana and eventually the entire state.
Shelby:
Aquatic: Shelby City Pool (seasonal) 406-434-5311 (wheelchair accessible) Indoor swimming pool for adults and children. There is a wading pool for small children surrounded by benches and shade. The park also offers picnic tables for picnicking. Water classes offered, with floating devices.
Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes: Shelby Civic Center 406-434-5114 (wheelchair accessible) Full Fitness Center and Recreation Center with gym, weight room, and various classes offered. Options for personal training also available. Walking passes available.
Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options:
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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”, disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
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Roadrunner Trail (wheelchair accessible) 4.5 mile paved walking trail goes around Lake Shel-oole and back into town.
City Parks: All are handicapped accessible with sidewalk access, playgrounds, open areas.
• Lincoln Park (wheelchair accessible)
• City Hall Park (wheelchair accessible)
• Johnson Park (wheelchair accessible)
• Aranow Park (wheelchair accessible)
Other Programs: Shelby Food & Crafts Farmer’s Market features local fruits & vegetables, baked goods, homemade Mexican food, a lemonade stand, jewelry, and 4-H projects for fund raisers.
Whitefish: DREAM Adaptive Recreation operates at The Big Mountain Ski Resort near Whitefish and on a small scale at Blacktail Mountain Ski Resort near Lakeside. DREAM is a volunteer non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote opportunities for skiing and other winter activities for children and adults with disabilities.
Living Well with a Disability This 8-week Health Promotion Workshop teaches tools that help people with disabilities continue to do the things they enjoy. Topics include goal setting, problem solving, optimistic thinking, avoiding depression, healthy communication, information seeking, nutrition, physical activity, advocacy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Facilitate — Learn more about how to facilitate a Living Well with a Disability group.
Participate — Locate Montana’s Living Well trainings!
National Resources:
Access-Able Travel Source Information and resources about travel with a special need; disability magazines; access guides for cities, resorts and attractions; wheelchair or scooter rentals; and accessible transportation.
Access Board Federal agency committed to accessible design.
Americans with Disabilities Act: Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities
Accessible Air Travel: A Guide for People with Disabilities from the United Spinal Association.
Accessible Playground Equipment . The World Playground, Parks and Recreation Products and Services Web Directory lists vendors of accessible equipment in the U.S. and Canada.
Accessible Vacation Home Exchange, sponsored by the Independent Living Institute, allows users to add, delete, revise entries, and add photos. Swapping homes with other persons with similar needs, in other parts of the world, is a low-cost and practical alternative. Travelers can ask potential swap partners specific questions on how accessible the vacation home is. On arrival, travelers will already have an infrastructure of neighbors and local contacts.
Adaptive Information Resource Center, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, provides a diverse, coordinated network of sports and recreation resources for children and adults with disabilities and their families.
American Adaptive Badminton Association is the competitive branch for amputees, wheelchair users, and others with disabilities who want to play recreationally and/or compete in regional, national and International competitions.
Association of Travel Instruction supports providers of travel instruction for the purpose of teaching people with disabilities and seniors to travel safely and independently.
Autism Society of America Promotes lifelong access and opportunities for persons within the autism spectrum and their families.
AXIS Dance Company creates and performs high quality contemporary dance developed through the collaboration of dancers with and without disabilities. AXIS teaches dance and educates about collaboration and disability through community outreach and education programs. AXIS promotes and supports physically integrated dance, locally, nationally and internationally.
Bicycle Safe Excellent advice for bicyclists on how to avoid being hit by cars.
Bike Helmet Safety Institute Everything there is to know about selecting, buying and using bike helmets.
BlazeSports America In partnership with National Recreation and Parks Association, offers high quality sports instruction, training and competition opportunities to children and adults with physical disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, have a neuro-muscular disability such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, have an amputation or a visual impairment or blindness. Sports include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair rugby, swimming and track and field. Other sports may be offered by individual BlazeSports Clubs.
The Boulevard Information and resources on accessible travel and lodging, wheelchair-accessible van rentals, accessible-travel specialists, accessible cruises, accessible vacation home exchange; accessible pools and spas; and adaptive fishing, hunting, golf, swimming and bowling equipment.
Boundless Playgrounds National non-profit organization helps communities create playgrounds where children with and without disabilities can play together.
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center Empowers people of all abilities through high quality outdoor experiences. Program areas include Adaptive Skiing, the Wilderness Program, and the Professional Challenge Program.
Deaf Globetrotters Travel provides certified sign language interpreters to accommodate travelers on all escorted tours.
Disabled Sports USA. Offers nationwide sports rehabilitation programs to anyone with a permanent physical disability. Activities include winter skiing, water sports, summer and winter competitions, fitness and special sports events.
Disaboom.com Disability community site for anyone touched by a functional limitation or disability. Offers a career center, media room, discussion forums, advice on how to stay healthy and active, classifieds, accessibility reviews of businesses and restaurants, and social networking.
Gimp on the Go has travel reviews, tips, news, a photo gallery, bulletin boards and resources for travelers with disabilities.
Let’s Play Project Provides families with ways to play through the use of assistive technology. Site has articles, success stories and resources on using high and low tech tools.
Little League Challenger Division is a separate division of Little League Baseball to enable boys and girls with physical and mental disabilities, ages 5-18 or the completion of high school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide. Teams are set up according to abilities, rather than age, and can include as many as 15-20 players, who can participate in one of three levels: Tee-Ball, Coach-Pitch or Player Pitch.
Mobility Golf is a non-profit organization designed to provide information and advocacy for access to golf courses.
National Accessible Travelers Database Sponsored by Easter Seals Project Action, this database of transit systems is supplemented with information on accessible tours and tour companies, accessible airport and other private shuttles, and accessible taxi services.
National Amputee Golf Association
National Beep Baseball Association is the organization for the adaptive version of baseball for the blind and visually impaired.
National Center for Bicycling & Walking is an advocacy organization supporting bicycle friendly and walkable communities across North America. The center is the major program of the Bicycle Federation of America. The center also provides training in designing pedestrian facilities for accessibility.
National Center on Physical Activity and Disability. Operated by the Department of Disability and Human Development at the University of Illinois at Chicago, the NCPD works in partnership with the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) and the National Center on Accessibility (NCA) at Indiana University. Offers a variety of resources to help people with disabilities become more active, and also offers resources for fitness and exercise professionals, health professionals, and researchers interested in promoting increased physical activity for people with disabilities.
National Junior Disability Championships Program for children and youth, 7-21 years old, sponsored by Wheelchair and Ambularoty Sports USA. Competitions are held in Olympic-style events including track, field, pentathlon, boccia, swimming, archery, table tennis, 3-on-3 wheelchair basketball and weightlifting.
National Recreation and Park Association advocates to make parks, open space, and recreational opportunities available to all Americans.
National Softball Association of the Deaf
National Theatre of the Deaf produces high-quality theatrically challenging work; performs these original works in a style that links American Sign Language with the spoken word; seeks, trains and employs Deaf artists; offers its work to as culturally diverse and inclusive an audience as possible; provides community outreach activities that educate and enlighten the general public.
North American Riding for the Handicapped Association. Non-profit organization promotes the rehabilitation of individuals with physical, emotional and learning disabilities through equine-facilitated activities at a worldwide network of member therapeutic riding centers.
Region 9 NARHA Association affiliates from Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington
Paralyzed Veterans of America. Provides resources for professionals and for people with paralysis, including “Living with SCI” area, sports and recreation resources, research and education and national advocacy.
President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports encourages all Americans to make being active part of their everyday lives. Web site has sections for children, teens, adults, and seniors.
Recreation: A Great Way to Be Active Published by the North Carolina Office on Disability and Health, this easy to use guide has a step-by-step format to help anyone with a disability plan for more recreation.
Sign-N-Tours especially for deaf/hearing-impaired travelers; provides American sign language interpreters.
SmallStep.gov U.S. Department of Health and Human Services site provides information on diet and exercise that can help individuals improve their health through incremental changes in various habits.
Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality Promotes barrier-free travel for mature travelers and people with disabilities. Web site links to major airlines and provides info on airline accommodations for travelers with special needs. SATH sponsors an annual conference.
Special Olympics International organization dedicated to helping children and adults with intellectual disabilities become physically fit, productive and respected members of society. Special Olympics offers year-round training and competition in 26 Olympic-type summer and winter sports.
Teaching, Responding and Communicating Quality Physical Education: Creating Quality, Inclusive Physical Education & Physical Activity for all Students Publication from the North Carolina Office on Disability and Health
Toys R Us Toy Catalog for Differently Abled Kids
Travelin’ Talk Network is a global network of persons with and without disabilities who have joined together and formed a unique family of friends around the world. Members share knowledge about their hometowns, or help other members who are visiting or passing through in case of an emergency. Members can contact others before traveling to that area and get information prior to arriving.
United Spinal Association Provides and supports grass-roots advocacy, sports and recreation, and medical research, and accessibility services.
U.S. Golf Association, Resource Center for Individuals with Disabilities gathers, and makes available, vital information to potential or current golfers with disabilities and other interested members of the golf and medical communities.
U.S. Handcycling Federation is an association of individuals and organizations who share a common goal of health, fitness, and well-being for cyclists of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Handcycling is a form of adaptive cycling that enables athletes of all abilities to ride a “bike” exclusively using the upper body.
National Parks: Accessible to Everyone lists where paved trails are located, which visitors centers have captioned movies, and how to arrange for sign language interpreters. New information is being added on an ongoing basis, including links to websites detailing the accessibility features of many individual parks.
VSA Arts Provides tools, resources and education for artists with disabilities, teachers and community organizations. Maintains a registry of visual, performing, and literary artists with disabilities, and an international database of educational research on the arts and disabilities.
Walk Your Way to Fitness: Walk, Workout, Be Active for People with Intellectual Disabilities Fitness course on DVD and CD-ROM by Iris Educational Media. Designed for adults, support staff and learning partners, Disk 1 features a walking class. Disk 2, “Work Out with Sonny and Pedro: Walk, Dance and Stretch Your Way to Fitness”, presents workout routines of different lengths.
Wheelchair Getaways Rental franchise provides accessible van rentals for persons with disabilities in 32 states.
Wheelchair Softball Association serves as the governing body for wheelchair softball in the U.S. The game is played under the official rules of 16-inch slow pitch softball as approved by the Amateur Softball Association of America, with some exceptions geared toward the wheelchair user. Teams throughout America compete on a regular basis and hosts several tournaments throughout the summer. The NWSA hosts a national wheelchair softball tournament annually
Wheelchair Sports USA Organized geographically into fourteen regional associations, each responsible for developing local wheelchair sports programs and for conducting qualifying meets for the National Wheelchair Games in archery, track & field, shooting, swimming, table tennis and weightlifting.
Wheelin’ Sportsmen, division of the National Wild Turkey Federation is dedicated to providing people with disabilities, including disabled hunters, disabled anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts, with the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Publishes Wheelin’ Sportsmen Magazine.
Wilderness Inquiry Nonprofit organization brings people with and without disabilities together for skiing, canoeing, fishing and hiking vacations.