United Church of Christ Disabilities Ministries, www.uccdm.org – Great site for downloading useful resources, networking, posting questions, reflections, conversations.

United Church of Christ Mental Ill

ness Network, www.min-ucc.org -The Mental Illness Network is a network about Serious Brain Disorders. Connect to find solidarity, help and resources for living with Serious Brain Disorders, such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Depression.

American Association of People with Disabilities, www.dmdaapd.org serves the diverse community of people with disabilities, including family, friends and supporters, and to be a national voice for change in implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Interfaith Initiative has resources and ideas for congregations

National Organization on Disability, www.nod.org -works in partnership with businesses, government, and local organizations to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in society. Sponsors programs that promote employment opportunities, raise awareness and marshal resources for people with disabilities. Publishes That All May Worship, and From Barriers to Bridges, resources for congregations.

Bill Gaventa and The Elizabeth Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities, (just Google them, the web address is complicated!), Editor, Journal on Religion and Disability and Health, many great resources on including people with disabilities in faith communities, autism downloads, CPE program for seminarians and clergy in settings that minister to people with developmental disabilities, excellent Bibliography for religion-related disability resources. Available to speak and consult, bill.gaventa@umdnj.edu

The Arc, www.thearc.org – The Arc is the world’s largest community based organization of and for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It provides an array of services and support for families and individuals through more than 780 state and local chapters across the nation. The Arc is devoted to promoting and improving supports and services for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

National Alliance on Mental Illness, www.nami.org -From its inception in 1979, NAMI has been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness through support, education and advocacy. There are state and local NAMI chapters with excellent speakers, trainers, leaders.

Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org, The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Good resources for Caregiver support and training volunteers.

The UCC Fellowship of Architects, Collaborate to help build and renovate spaces for worship, education, and mission where all are welcome, possible consultant for church accessibility projects. For more information, call or write to: Violeta de Banate 216-636-3834 debanatv@ucc.org

Nth Degree, www.thenthdegree.com , “Awarewear” business founded by disabilities advocate Dan Wilkins. Excellent resource for understanding Disability Culture, finding great posters, stickers, and tee shirts, and laughing.

Technical Assistance Alliance for Parent Centers, www.taalliance.org, Absolute must for families who are looking for local support and ideas to secure services for children and young adults (birth-age 26). Find local or regional parent resource center. Centers sponsor frequent info and support gatherings for families and self-advocates.

Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy, www.wrightslaw.com Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys will find accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. Key info for parents struggling with school districts to secure resources for their children.

ADAPT, www.adapt.org is a national grass-roots community that organizes disability rights activists to engage in nonviolent direct action, including civil disobedience, to assure the civil and human rights of people with disabilities to live in freedom. Another great insight into civil rights activism.

Specialty Sites – Every disability has an on-line community. You can learn very specific information about particular disabilities, therapy regimens, relevant assistive technology, treatment and support suggestions, and local chapters

Don’t forget “Local Heroes” – Many of these groups have local chapters and can connect you to people with disabilities to help your church on their A2A journey!

10.2009 – J.C. Hartsig for Local Church Ministries, United Church of Christ