Resources on specific disabilities, secondary
conditions and for special populations
Specific Disabilities & Chronic Conditions & Secondary Conditions
AIDS/HIV | Alzheimers Disease | Arthritis | Autism/Autism Spectrum Disorder |
Blindness/Visual Impairment | Cancer | Cerebral Palsy |
Communication Disorders/Deafness/Hearing Impairment |
Diabetes | Disability Health & Wellness | Down Syndrome | Dystonia | Epilepsy |
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/Fetal Alcohol Effect | Heart and Circulatory Conditions |
Learning and Behavior Disabilities | Limb Loss | Lung and Breathing Conditions |
Mental Illness | Metabolic Disorders | Multiple Sclerosis | Muscular Dystrophy |
Neurological Conditions | Osteoporosis | Pain | Parkinson’s Disease |
Post-polio Syndrome | Rare Disorders | Sleep Disorders | Speech and Language | Spina Bifida |
Spinal Cord Injury | Tourette Syndrome | Traumatic Brain Injury
Special Populations:
Children with Disabilities | Native Americans with Disabilities | Women with Disabilities |
National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention
National Minority AIDS Council
Rural Center for AIDS/STD Prevention
Administration on Aging Offers The Resource Directory for Older People.
Eldercare Locator Consumers can easily link to the information and referral (I&R) services of their state and area agencies on aging. These I&R programs can help identify appropriate services in the area where consumers or their family members reside.
Alliance for Caregiving Publishes Today’s Caregiver Magazine. Web site lists support groups, provides a discussion forum and has “channels” dedicated to long term care issues, rural caregiving, technology, caregiver stories, medication management, mobility, and caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia or ovarian cancer.
American Health Assistance Foundation Provides information on common and potential treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease, information on this disease, clinical trials studying various aspects of Alzheimer’s, medical updates, and recommendations for healthy living.
ARCH National Resource Center Promotes respite services for families. Provides respite locator service, lending library, factsheets, and training.
Assisted Living Information Online guide for selecting an assisted living facility, retirement community, or other personal care facility anywhere in the United States. Site is designed to assist with the selection process and offers tools to help you evaluate a individual’s needs, facility selection tips, and a map-based search engine to find a facility near family and friends.
Caregiver Tips Free monthly e-mail newsletter.
Children of Aging Parents Provides assistance to adult children caring for elderly parents or chronically ill individuals with reliable information, referrals and support, and heightened public awareness that the health of the family caregivers is essential to ensure quality care of the nation’s growing elderly population.
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.
Eldercare Online Online community where supportive peers and professionals help improve quality of life for caregivers and their elders.
ElderWeb Includes thousands of reviewed links to long term care information, a searchable database of organizations, and an expanding library of articles and reports, news, and events.
Helpguide.org: Alzheimer’s Disease Symptoms and Stages Helpguide’s mission is to help people understand, prevent, and resolve life’s challenges. The goal is to give visitors the information and encouragement they need to take charge of their health and well-being and make healthy choices.
Montana Office on Aging, Senior and Long Term Care Division, Department of Public Health and Human Services
National Alliance for Caregiving Non-profit coalition created in 1996 to support family caregivers and the professionals who serve them. NAC’s founding partners are the American Society on Aging, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging.
National Center for Assisted Living
National Family Caregivers Association
National Group Respite Program The Brookdale National Group Respite Program awards seed grants to organizations to develop and implement social model group respite programs. These day programs have served thousands of elders with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia, and their family caregivers.
National Indian Council on Aging. Communicates and cooperates with service provider agencies and aging advocacy organizations; disseminates information on resources available to the national Indian community; intercedes with appropriate agencies to ensure that elders have access to these resources; provides information and expert testimony requested by Congress; serves as a national clearinghouse for issues affecting Indian elders.
Arthritis Foundation. Offers more than 100 free brochures on arthritis and related conditions, such as fibromyalgia.
Arthritis & Heart Disease, What you should know (pdf file)
“Arthritis is Unacceptable” (pdf file)
Rock Mountain Arthritis Foundation Serves Colorado, Montana and Wyoming
Carrie Strike
Montana Programs Coordinator
(406) 461-8368
PO Box 8113
Missoula, Montana 59807
cstrike@arthritis.orgImprove lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases, Montana Office (PowerPoint Presentation)
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
Missouri Arthritis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center Research findings, news, and tips on living with fibromyalgia, juvenile arthritis, lupus, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and Wegener’s.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
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.
Academic Autistic Spectrum Partnership In Research and Education brings together the academic community and the autistic community to develop and perform research projects relevant to the needs of autistic adults.
Access for Autistic Youth is a web-based resource for caregivers of children with autism. The website has sections in Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Somali, Spanish and Vietnamese as well as an extensive list of related resources and links.
Autism Center at the University of Washington. Serves children with autism spectrum disorders.
Autism Link : Provides a searchable nationwide listing of services; a listserv that lets visitors customize the news they want; individual state pages featuring the latest headlines and events; over 60 discussion boards for parents, individuals with autism spectrum disorder, and more; an online chat room; general autism information; and an online store.
Autism National Committee is the only autism advocacy organization dedicated to “Social Justice for All Citizens with Autism” through a shared vision and a commitment to positive approaches. AUTCOM protects and advances the human rights and civil rights of all persons with autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, and related differences of communication and behavior.
Autism Perspective Magazine is a single resource that presents the full perspective of options for therapies, new understanding, treatments, and services.
Autism Society of America Promotes lifelong access and opportunities for persons within the autism spectrum and their families.
Autistic Self-Advocacy Network is a non-profit organization run by and for Autistic people to provide support and services to individuals on the autism spectrum while working to change public perception and combat misinformation by educating communities about persons on the autism spectrum.
Dan Marino Foundation Childnett TV internet channel has online shows, speakers, and presentations.
Easter Seals provides services, education, outreach, and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work and play in their communities.
Floortime Foundation The DIR (Developmental, Individual-Difference, Relationship-Based)/Floortime approach provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and treating children challenged by autism spectrum and related disorders. It focuses on helping children master the building blocks of relating, communicating and thinking, rather than on symptoms alone.
Foundation for Autism Information and Research (FAIR) has excerpts and full-length presentations on a variety of autism-related topics.
Future Horizons is a resource center of books, videos and conferences on autism and Asperger’s Syndrome.
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.
Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Handicapped Children (TEACCH) Highly individualized approach stresses each child’s strengths, such as visual skills, and uses structured teaching in a highly organized environment.
Unlocking Autism Grass-roots advocacy organization.
U.S. Autism and Asperger Association Provides educational and family support through conferences/seminars and published and electronic media. USAAA distributes information with regard to biomedical treatments/adjunct therapies and research to parents, practitioners, students, and teachers who are associated with the autism and Asperger’s Syndrome communities.
Wrong Planet? created by two teens with Asperger’s Syndrome, this web community is designed for individuals (and parents of those) with Asperger’s Syndrome, Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders. Provides a discussion forum, exclusive articles and how-to guides, a blogging feature, and a chatroom for real-time communication with other Aspies.
Montana Resources | National Resources
Low Vision Montana Based in Bozeman, this group of service providers and consumers promotes independence for Montanans with poor eyesight. Call 406-522-7300.
Montana Association for the Blind (MAB) – This statewide, nonprofit, self-help consumer organization works for the social and economic improvement of Montanans with visual impairments.
Montana Blind and Low Vision Visual Medical Services Available to people who need treatment to prevent blindness or restore sight. Provides other appropriate eye treatment when vision loss is unpreventable or sight cannot be restored.
Montana DeafBlind Project is a source of specialized information, technical assistance, and resources focused on improving education, inclusion, and college and career readiness for individuals with combined hearing and vision loss between the ages of birth through 21. It is located at the Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities at the University of Montana.
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 Talking Book Library Eligible Montana residents who are unable to use standard print materials due to visual, physical and/or reading disabilities can apply to the Montana Talking Book Library to receive free mail loan of recorded books and playback equipment.
American Council of the Blind Web site provides general information about the Council, including recent issues of its monthly publication, The Braille Forum.
American Foundation for the Blind Provides information on living with vision loss, education, employment, technology and Braille for individuals with disabilities, their friends & family, seniors, children, professionals and employers.
American Health Assistance Foundation Provides information on common and potential treatments for macular degeneration and glaucoma research, information on these diseases, clinical trials studying various aspects of each, medical updates, and recommendations for healthy living.
Association of Blind Citizens Assistive Technology Fund Covers 50% of the retail price of adaptive devices or software for eligible applicants.
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.
Blinded American Veterans Foundation
Bookshare Provides accessible books in digital formats for people with print disabilities.
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.
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.
Descriptive Video Service As part of the WGBH Media Access Group, provides verbal descriptions of public television shows, videotapes and DVDs for those with blindness or low vision.
Disability & The National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision: This collaboration between Mississippi State University, San Diego State University, and the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults focuses on strategies to improve outcomes for persons who are aging with dual hearing and vision loss, with a special emphasis on issues of persons who were either deaf/hard of hearing or blind/visually impaired, and who after age 55 acquired the second sensory loss.
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.
Glaucoma Research Foundation. Provides information for people newly-diagnosed with glaucoma. Site has a test to determine if visitors are at risk.
Hadley School for the Blind is the largest worldwide distance educator of blind and visually impaired people, their families and blindness service professionals. Hadley offers classes free of charge to its blind and visually impaired students and their families and affordable tuition classes to blindness professionals.
Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults National rehabilitation program serving youth and adults who are deaf-blind.
Large Print Reviews Provides large print book and audio-book reviews for people with low vision. Includes articles on eye health, eye diseases and disorders, accessibility issues, literature, products for people who are blind and visually impaired, travel articles and travel tips.
National Beep Baseball Association is the organization for the adaptive version of baseball for the blind and visually impaired.
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 Eye Institute Conducts and supports research that helps prevent and treat eye diseases and other disorders of vision
National Eye Care Project Helpline: For individuals 65 or older who have not had eye exams in the last three years and who are not covered by an HMO or Managed Care organization, this American Optometric Association/American Academy of Ophthalmology/U.S. Health Care Financing Administration project provides free eye exam and up to one year of follow-up care for any condition diagnosed in that exam.
National Federation of the Blind Sponsors the Diabetes Action Networkand publishes Voice of the Diabeticnewsletter.
NFB-Newsline Subscribers who cannot read conventional print can access 140 daily newspapers and two magazines by using a touch-tone telephone to call toll-free. Users can change the speed and voice quality, spell out words, or search for a particular word or subject. Additional newspapers and magazines will be added, and future upgrades will allow more options, such as new “voices” and newspapers in other languages.
NFB-LINK is a one-stop resource for information from successful blind and visually impaired people on topics such as career paths, educational opportunities, recreational activities, technology, and more. NFB-LINK pairs individuals seeking information about blindness with successful blind people. Individuals may join the pool of mentors or request a mentor to help answer blindness-related questions.
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
Prevent Blindness America . Provides public and professional education, community and patient services programs and research.
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic Non-profit volunteer organization is an educational library for people with visual impairments, dyslexia and/or physical disabilities which prevent them from effectively reading standard print.
Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision enhances employment and independent living outcomes for individuals who are blind or visually impaired through research, training, education, and dissemination.
Teaching Research Division, Western Oregon University. Resources and training for children and adults with deaf-blindness, their families, and the professionals who serve them.
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.
Alliance for Caregiving Publishes Today’s Caregiver Magazine. Web site lists support groups, provides a discussion forum and has “channels” dedicated to long term care issues, rural caregiving, technology, caregiver stories, medication management, mobility, and caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia or ovarian cancer.
Montana contact information:
Kristin Page Nei, Montana Government Relations Director
National Government Relations Department
3550 Mullan Road, Ste. 105
Missoula, MT 59808
1.877.488.7723, opt 3, ext 207 or 406-542-2191
Fax: 406-327-0146
Kristin.Nei@cancer.orgLinda Lang, Montana Grassroots Advocacy Manager
550 North 31st Suite 103
Billings, MT 59101
1.800.252.5470, opt 3, ext 211 or 406-256-7150
Fax: 406-256-7170
Linda.Lang@cancer.org
American Society of Clinical Oncology: Cancer Net web site provides information for patients and families about cancer types, learning about cancer, diagnosis and treatment, coping, survivorship, advocacy and policy. It has a library and other resources, and information about cancer-related news and events.
Managing the Costs of Cancer Care downloadable booklet
Breast Health Access for Women with Disabilities Model of breast health care services designed to overcome barriers to accessible breast health care and meet the special needs of women with physical, visual and other disabilities.
Children’s National Medical Center: The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders
Kalispell Regional Medical Center – Cancer Care Services
Montana Public Health and Safety Division;
Montana Cancer Control Coalition :
Montana Cancer Consortium is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to bring “state of the art” cancer treatment to Montana and Northern Wyoming through clinical trials sponsored by the National Cancer Institute.
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
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 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.
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. Patrick Hospital and Health Sciences Center – Montana Cancer Center (Missoula)
St. Vincent Healthcare – Cancer Care Center (Billings) Regional referral center for the diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment of all forms of cancer.
St. Vincent Healthcare – Headway Program (Billings) 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.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure – Montana Affiliate
Tobacco Information and Prevention Source at the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
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.
Montana Resources | National Resources
Child Development Center in Missoula provides services to families whose children are considered to be “at risk” for delays in development or have a diagnosed developmental disability. CDC works to promote the development of children from birth through age 21.
Community Medical Center – Pediatric Specialty Clinics (Missoula) Cleft/Craniofacial Clinic; Cystic Fibrosis Clinic; Endocrine Clinic; Medical Genetics Clinic; Spina Bifida Clinic; Metabolic Clinic: Pulmonary Clinic; Spasticity/Tone Management Clinic; Rheumatology Clinic; Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Follow-Up Clinic; and Muscular Dystrophy Clinic.
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.
Developmental Educational Assistance Program (Miles City) is a private not for profit corporation that provides family education and support, residential, and crisis intervention services to families whose children are birth to 18 years of age and adults. Services are provided in 28 eastern Montana counties. The main office is located in Miles City with satellite offices in Glendive, Lame Deer and Colstrip.
Easter Seals/Goodwill, Northern Rocky Mountain (Great Falls & Missoula) Children with and without disabilities receive day care and preschool services at the Easter Seals Child Developmental Centers.
Hi-Line Home Programs (Glasgow) Provides child care resource and referral services, developmental intervention and support services (infant and toddler, General Fund family education and support, & intensive family education and support), and Partnership home visitors to families in Eastern Montana.
Montana Association of School Psychologists
The Montana Center for Inclusive Education (MCIE) The Montana Center for Inclusive Education is a unique public service unit of Montana State University Billings that operates a number of externally funded projects. The center serves the diverse population of Montana and provides continuing professional development opportunities for educators and direct service providers.
Montana Children’s Mental Health Services
PRTF Waiver: Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility Waiver/Demonstration Grant
Montana Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP)
Montana Children’s Special Health Services According to program guidelines, provides financial assistance with evaluation, treatment, and management of medical conditions that are potentially disabling.
Montana Council for Exceptional Children
Montana Early Childhood Services Bureau, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, helps children and families succeed by increasing the affordability, accessibility and quality of early care and education.
Montana Education Association – Montana Federation of Teachers
Montana’s Expanded Newborn Screening Conducts hearing screening and heelstick blood tests for several inborn errors of metabolism including phenylketonuria (PKU), galactosemia, and congenital hypothyroidism, and hemoglobinopathies.
Montana Office of Public Instruction
Montana Parent Information and Resource Center provides leadership, technical assistance and coordination to help boost student academic achievement. The MT PIRC provides technical assistance and resources for school-family-community partnerships; and brings information, training and support to parents, educators, and those working with families. The focus is on early learning and school readiness; parent leadership; school-family-community partnerships; and statewide networking.
Montana Parent-Teacher Association
Montana Public Health Home Visiting Program Provides home visiting services to high-risk pregnant women and infants.
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 Yellow Pages for Kids with Disabilities The Wrightslaw site provides these resource pages for each state.
Montana Youth Leadership Forum Career and leadership training program for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with disabilities. By serving as delegates from their communities at a 5-day intensive training, youth with disabilities cultivate leadership, citizenship, and social skills.
Montana Youth Transitions provides information for young adults on employment, housing, transportation, education, social/recreational opportunities, money and health.
Parents, Let’s Unite for Kids (PLUK) is a private, nonprofit organization formed in 1984 by Montana parents of children with disabilities and chronic illnesses to provide information, support, training and assistance useful to their children at home, school and as adults. PLUK serves families and individuals with disabilities of any age and at no cost. Also publishes:
Montana Recreation, Travel, & Camp Resource Handbook for People with Special Needs
PEAK Parent Center, Inc. – Region 5 Parent Training Technical Assistance Center serves Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming.
Quality Life Concepts (Great Falls) Serves Cascade, Chouteau, Teton, Pondera, Liberty, Glacier, Hill, Toole, and Blaine Counties. Children’s home-based services include the Infant/Toddler program and three variations of Family Education and Support (Full Family Education and Support, Intensive Family Education and Support, Limited Family Education and Support). These programs provide intervention services within the family’s home to enhance the development of a child who is experiencing difficulties as well as promote the family’s independence. QLF conducts Early Childhood Screenings in collaboration with local school districts, regional Cooperatives, Headstart and Early Headstart to identify and refer children from birth to age three who may have a condition that interferes with growth, development and/or learning.
Region IV Family Outreach (Helena) Provides Family Education & Support services, Federal Part C Early Intervention services, General Fund services, and Family Education and Support- Intensive to 12 Southwestern Montana counties.
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.eduShodair Hospital (Helena) The Children’s Unit provides in-patient psychiatric services for children 3-12 years old. Two Adolescent Units provide residential psychiatric treatment for children 12-18 years old. Shodair also conducts more than 70 genetics clinics annually throughout Montana to diagnose genetic conditions or disorders. Staff work with state perinatologists to diagnose and manage pregnancies at high risk for genetic disorders or birth defects.
Special Olympics of Montana Nonprofit international program of year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
The University of Montana Clinical Psychology Center, Department of Psychology, The University of Montana. Resource for low-income children who are not eligible for CHIPS or Medicaid. Provides confidential assessment and psycho-therapeutic services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
The University of Montana Rural Institute: A Center for Excellence in Disability Education, Research and Services is part of the national network of programs funded by the Federal Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) committed to increasing and supporting the independence, productivity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities into the community.
Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (Billings) Psychiatric Residential Treatment Center provides multiple levels of residential treatment for seriously emotionally disturbed youth. Yellowstone Academy provides on-campus Special Education services. YBGR Community Homes provide less structured treatment settings that prepare and re-introduce youth back into their communities. The broad continuum of mental health services and programs also includes Case Management, Therapeutic Foster Care, In-Home Family Support, School Based Programs and Independent Living Program.
Youth Dynamics (Billings) Offices in Billings, Boulder, Bozeman, Butte, Glendive, Great Falls, Helena, Lame Deer, Livingston, Malta, Miles City, Sidney and Wolf Point provide a variety of mental health services for children and families: Therapeutic Family Care, Therapeutic Foster Care, the Guide Home Program, Therapeutic Group Care, Therapeutic Group Home Program, Shelter Care Program, Group Home Program, Day Treatment Program, Intensive Case Management Program, Family Support Team Program, Family Based Services Program, Outpatient Therapy Program, Family Support Assistant Program, and Therapeutic Respite Care Program. A Substance Abuse Program is planned.
About Our Kids New York University Child Study Center site provides information and resources on child and youth mental health issues.
Access for Autistic Youth is a web-based resource for caregivers of children with autism. The website has sections in Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Somali, Spanish and Vietnamese as well as an extensive list of related resources and links.
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.
Administration for Children and Families. Within the Department of Health and Human Services, ACF administers federal programs that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. ACF partners with individuals, front-line service providers, communities, American Indian tribes, Native communities, states, and Congress to find solutions transcending traditional agency boundaries; to plan, reformulate, integrate and improve access to services; and to address the needs, strengths and abilities of people with developmental disabilities, refugees, and migrants.
Child Welfare Information Gateway has information and resources to help children, families, and professionals. Topics include children with disabilities and independent living.
Adolescent Health Transition Project, University of Washington. Helps smooth the transition from pediatric to adult health care for adolescents with special health care needs. This site is a resource for information, materials, and links to other people with an interest in health transition issues.
American Academy of Pediatrics Web site has a “Parenting Corner” section.
National Center of Medical Home Initiatives Sponsored by American Academy of Pediatrics, provides “Every Child Needs a Medical Home” Training Curriculum. Curriculum has seven components offering strategies and resources to provide care for children in a changing health care environment and provide a practical framework for creating medical home implementation awareness.
American Society for Deaf Children provides education, access to information, and support for parents of deaf or hard-of-hearing children.
ARCH National Resource Center Promotes respite services for families. Provides respite locator service, lending library, factsheets, and training.
Association for Positive Behavior Support International organization dedicated to the advancement of positive behavior support and application of this approach with children, adolescents, and adults who have problem behavior.
Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs.
Beginnings for Parents of Children Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Inc.
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.
Birth Defect Research for Children, Inc. Provides comprehensive fact sheets and other information about birth defects, parent matching opportunities, books, links to research on birth defects, and a National Birth Defect Registry.
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 neuromuscular 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.
Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.
Casey Family Programs supports families, youth, and children in reaching their full potential. Casey provides an array of permanency planning, prevention, and transition services such as long-term family foster care, adoption, kinship care, job training, and scholarships. Through advocacy efforts, national and local community partnerships, and by serving as a center for information and learning about children in need of permanent family connections, the Programs aim to improve public and private services for children, youth, and families affected by the child welfare system.
Center for Children with Special Needs at Seattle Children’s Hospital has developed the Care Notebook, an organizer for families who have children with special health care needs. Families use Care Notebooks to keep track of important information about their child’s health and care. This makes it easier to find and share key information with their child’s care team.
Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America
Children’s National Medical Center Comprises seven Centers of Excellence:
The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders
The Diana L. and Stephen A. Goldberg Center for Community Pediatric Health
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 Education 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).
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 DeafBlind Project is a source of specialized information, technical assistance, and resources focused on improving education, inclusion, and college and career readiness for individuals with combined hearing and vision loss between the ages of birth through 21. It is located at the Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities at the University of Montana.
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.eduTeaching 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
Bozeman Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Great Falls Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Helena Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Kalispell Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
Missoula Resource Guide for Individuals Recovering from Heart Attack or Stroke pdf file
The Burden of Heart Disease and Stroke in the Big Sky State, 2007
Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program
Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program, Strategic Plan 2011-2016
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 (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.comNational 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
406-679-0063Montana 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
406-477-6215National 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 59522Montana Sleep Diagnostics (Conrad)
Pondera Medical Center, 805 Sunset Blvd, Conrad, MT 59425Montana Sleep Diagnostics (Dillon)
Barrett Memorial Hospital, 90 Hwy 91 South, Dillon, MT 59725Montana Sleep Diagnostics (Glasgow)
Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital, 621 Third Street South, Glasgow, MT 59230Rocky 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
2011-2012 Montana Mammography Directory (pdf 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.