Resources

Advocacy Definition
The process of asserting oneself or interceding on behalf of others within a system to get the benefits for which they are eligible. Through both direct aid to families and broader-based policy work, the goal of advocacy is to foster the self-empowerment of families by educating them about their own rights.
How to Make an Initial Referral for School-Age Special Education Services
- Initial Referral for Special Education Services
Sample Letters for Special Education Evaluation
Children's Mental Health Checklist (ADHD/Autism/Depression)
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Request for Homecare
- M11Q form
ARCH National Resource Center
provides a variety of informational resources to the general public: a National Respite Locator Service, an informative website with downloadable fact sheets on respite for families. - http://www.archrespite.org/ARCHserv.htm
Patient Advocate Foundation
offers assistance to patients with specific issues with health insurance, employer and/or creditors, job loss due to illness. Professional case managers and attorneys can advocate for patients. Sponsors the Copay Relief Program. (800) 532-5274. - http://www.patientadvocate.org/help.php
MedlinePlus
a portal to trusted medical information on the internet, sponsored by the National Library of Medicine. Contains articles on health topics, drug information, medical dictionary/encyclopedia. - http://medlineplus.gov/
CAP4Kids Poster
If you want to display a CAP4Kids poster in your office, use it for a social service project, or just give it to a friend, this is the place. - CAP4Kids poster
Public Benefits Resource Center
helps professionals and families and individuals untangle the public benefits maze. Maintains information on 70 government programs for such populations as the elderly, the poor and those with disabilities. Call (212) 614-5552. - http://www.cssny.org/pbrc