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Disability Advocacy & Legal Rights

ADA (American with Disabilities Act) National Network

Provides information, guidance and training on issues related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Anyone can call to speak to an ADA specialist. ADA specialists address complex questions on topics such as reasonable accommodations at work, building codes for new construction projects, accessible housing, and transitioning from school to work.
(800) 949-4232
adata.org

American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)

The country’s largest cross-disability membership organization advocating for political and economic power for those with disabilities. They offer academic scholarships, mentorship programs, paid internships, and the Fannie Lou Hamer summer leadership program for Black disabled individuals. Their website has helpful information on policies affecting people with disabilities, and current political news.
1030 15th Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20005
(202) 521-4316 or (800) 840-8844
aapd.com

American Council of the Blind Ohio (ACBO)

Strives to increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life, for all blind and visually impaired Ohioans. The Matching Grants program provides funds for any blind or visually impaired resident of Ohio to pay half the cost of a purchase up to $1000 for new adaptive equipment (including screen readers, magnifiers, and more). They also offer post-secondary scholarships for blind or low vision entering freshman in any field of study.
3805 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 261-3561
acbohio.org

Best Buddies Ohio

A One-to-One Friendship program creating social inclusion and friendships for people with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities. Programs take place at middle schools, high schools, colleges, and online across Ohio. The Leadership Development program empowers people with or without IDD to become leaders, public speakers and advocates.
PO Box 45353, Westlake, Ohio 44145
(614) 928-3383
bestbuddies.org/ohio

Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education (CADRE)

Provides technical assistance to prevent and resolve special education and early intervention disputes and improve outcomes for children and youth with disabilities. Families can find helpful guides on state agencies, educational advocates, IEPs, and more.
576 Olive Street, Eugene, Oregon 97401
(541) 359-4210
cadreworks.org

Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD)

A national coalition of disability organizations working together to advocate for national public policy that ensures the independence and inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in all aspects of society. Their website has resources on current events, recorded trainings, and a national listing of job and internship openings.
820 First Street Northeast, Washington, DC 20006
(202) 567-3516
c-c-d.org/index.php

Disability Belongs (formerly RespectAbility)

Disability-led nonprofit working to create systemic change in how society views and values people with disabilities. Their focus areas for services include inclusion in entertainment and media, leadership and workforce development, policy and civic engagement, and inclusion for all faith and spirituality groups. The Disability Belongs Leadership program is a year-long, virtual leadership and paid workforce development program for those 18 years and older. The Entertainment Lab is a year-long intensive for disabled creatives working as writers, directors, animators, or in other production roles. The website has an extensive resource library for individuals and professionals on a wide range of topics related to disability justice and inclusion.
(202) 517-6272
respectability.org

Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF)

National civil rights law and policy center directed by individuals with disabilities and parents who have children with disabilities. They provide specialized legal services for cases that have the potential to affect large groups of people with disabilities and achieve law reform. Their website has helpful information on topics like healthcare access, special education, foster/kinship care, and transportation. They also post job and internship opportunities.
3075 Adeline Street, Berkeley, California 94703
(510) 644-2555
dredf.org

Disability Rights Ohio

Advocates for people with disabilities in Ohio. Their website has helpful resources on abuse, neglect and exploitation, employment, benefits counseling, education, voting, and more. Rise Up is an interactive youth advocacy guide with resources for transitioning into adulthood. Most of their resources are available in multiple languages, including Spanish and Somali. Complete the online intake form for legal help.
200 Civic Center Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 466-7264 or (800) 282-9181
Rise Up guides: disabilityrightsohio.org/riseup
Intake Form: disabilityrightsohio.org/intake-form
disabilityrightsohio.org

DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking & Technology)

Hosts programs and projects for precollege and college students with disabilities, and advocates for universal design in the workplace. Families and professionals can find a wealth of information on their website on career readiness, mentorship programs, accessible classrooms, and technology. They also have a list of Scholarships for students with disabilities.
Voice/TTY: (206) 685-3648 or (888) 972-3648
doit.uw.edu

DWAVE (Deaf World Against Violence Everywhere)

Serves Ohio’s Deaf, Deaf Blind, Deaf Disabled, and Hard of Hearing communities by offering culturally affirmative services in response to relationship and sexual violence. Call to speak to a trained advocate for individualized safety planning and case management. Referrals can be placed for material help, legal help, social services, and mental health counseling. They offer 24-hour advocacy for survivors of sexual assault at local hospital emergency rooms. They also hold trainings for volunteer advocates, professionals/providers working with Deaf clients, and Deaf Culture 101.
PO Box 1286, Worthington, Ohio 43085
Videophone: (614) 678-5476
Voice/Text: (614) 887-7233
National Deaf Hotline VP: (855) 812-1001
National 24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline Voice: (800) 799-7233
facebook.com/DWAVEOhio

Easterseals – Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

The long-term care ombudsman helps people who receive long-term care in their homes, an assisted living facility, or a nursing home. Ombudsman staff help solve problems with providers and services. They also help consumers understand their rights and access benefits. The program advocates for excellence in long-term services and supports wherever consumers live. Ombudsmen do not regulate nursing homes and home health agencies, but do work with providers, residents, their families, and other representatives to resolve problems and concerns. Easterseals of Central Ohio is the sponsoring agency for the ombudsman’s office in Region 6 and Region 8.

  • Region 6: Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Union, and Pickaway counties
    (614) 345-9198
  • Region 8: Athens, Hocking, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Noble, Perry, and Washington counties
    (740) 345-9198

Easterseals Website: easterseals.com/centralohio/our-programs/senior-services/long-term-care-ombudsman.html
State of Ohio Ombudsman Website: aging.ohio.gov/care-and-living/ombudsman/get-help

Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESCCO)

Provides professional development for schools and direct student services to improve student learning. Services include technical assistance and professional training for educators, school districts, after school programs, and community organizations. Their office oversees alternative education programs, interpreter services, experiential learning opportunities, supports for students experiencing homelessness, supports for students with disabilities, workforce development programs, gifted programs, and more. Visit the website for a full list of programs and registration details.
2080 Citygate Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 445-3750
escco.org/Services.aspx

Elevate DD

Provides programs that support the developmental disability community in Ohio. Their website has helpful information and free webinars for families and professionals. Additional programs include:

  • Learning Aid Ohio: Connects students with developmental disabilities with free, one-on-one, in-person tutoring to support their academic goals. Students must have an IEP, be an Ohio resident, and be under 400% of the Federal Poverty Level to qualify.
    learningaidohio.org
  • Adult Literacy Ohio: Provides one-on-one, in-person tutoring for adults who wish to improve reading, writing, and communication skills. Learners can apply for a grant for free services or use private pay.
    adultliteracyohio.org
  • DSACO: Provides additional programs specifically for the Down syndrome community.
    cap4kids.org/columbus/dsaco

(614) 236-6020
elevatedd.org

Epilepsy Foundation – Epilepsy Legal Defense Fund

Legal Defense Fund through the Epilepsy Foundation to help end epilepsy-related discrimination. Their Attorney Network is made of experience attorneys who have agreed to provide some level of free legal services. They can help with cases related to employment, education, public accommodations, police and first responder services, housing, healthcare, and criminal justice. Go online to complete an Application for Assistance.
(800) 332-1000
epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/legal-help
Application for Assistance: epilepsy.com/forms/application

Experience Columbus – Columbus Accessibility Guide

Provides a list of accessible dining, transportation, activities, hotels and other resources in and around Columbus that have been reviewed by disability inclusion experts. For specific questions about accessibility at a particular location, contact the location (or source of transportation) for the most up-to-date details.
(614) 221-6623
experiencecolumbus.com/accessibility

Family Resource Network of Ohio (FRNO)

Provides resources, tools, and trainings to help individuals and families of individuals with developmental disabilities. Their website has database of programs and organizations across Ohio for helpful products, therapy, schools, legal help, clinical trials, and more. They use Charting the LifeCourse principals to help individuals and families of all abilities and ages develop a vision for a good life, and regular LifeCourse trainings are available for families and professionals.
The Ohio State University Nisonger Center
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
Family Resource Coordinator: (614) 293-2134
Family Support Coordinator: (513) 636-4723
frnohio.org

International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Central Ohio

Advocacy organization supporting individuals and families with dyslexia. They have a Dyslexia Digital Library with tons of educational information, a directory to find providers near you, resources for providers, and more.
PO Box 1601, Westerville, Ohio 43086
(614) 899-5711
Central Ohio: coh.dyslexiaida.org
International: dyslexiaida.org

JAN (Job Accommodation Network)

Offers free, expert guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. JAN consultants offer one-on-one guidance on workplace accommodations, ADA and related legislation, and self-employment and entrepreneurship options for people with disabilities. Assistance is available both over the phone and online. Their website also has helpful information on a wide range of medical conditions with related resources and accommodations.
Voice: (800) 526-7234
TTY: (877) 781-9403
Text: (304) 216-8189
askjan.org

Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center at Gallaudet University

Federally-funded program through Gallaudet University advocating for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. Their website has lots of helpful guides and training videos for parents and professionals on topics like language development, reading to Deaf children, and early intervention. Call the Gallaudet University East Regional Center for help finding professional development and educational opportunities for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students.
East Regional Center: (978) 556-3701 or Video Phone (978) 241-7417
clerccenter.gallaudet.edu

Legal Aid Society of Southeast and Central Ohio (LASCO: Formerly LASC)

Provides free civil legal assistance and guidance to low income residents and senior citizens of Columbus and Central Ohio. Legal Aid attorneys may be able to help you with the following types of cases or legal problems: consumer law, immigration, family law, housing, public benefits, reentry, seniors, tax law, veterans, and education. Their website also has a page of Resources with easy-to-read information on these topics.
lasco.org

  • Columbus Office: Serves Franklin and Madison county
    1108 City Park Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43206
    Intake: (888) 246-4420
    General Inquiries: (614) 224-8374 or (877) 224-8374
  • Marion Office: Serves Delaware, Marion, Morrow and Union county
    150 Oak Street, Marion, Ohio 43302
    (740) 383-2161 or (888) 301-2411

Letters Parents Can Use for Special Education

Click the links to access free letter templates and tools to help you advocate for your child’s special education needs at schools and agencies. Click Here for more resources on Legal Rights for Education

National Association of the Deaf (NAD)

Civil rights organization by and for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people. Their website has resources including a national ASL directory, advocacy letter tips and templates, filing a complaint, employment and fair housing information, and regular webinars. The website is available in English and Spanish. Youth programs include Youth Leadership Camp for high school sophomores and juniors, Pitch Competition with monetary prize for ages 18-30, College Bowl competition, and Jr. NAD for grades 7-12 to develop leadership skills.
8630 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
(301) 587-1788 Voice/VP or (301) 587-1789 TTY
Youth Programs: youth.nad.org
Main Website: nad.org

National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)

Represents the largest provider of legal advocacy services for people with disabilities. They work with organizations across the country to advocate for the enactment and enforcement of laws protecting people with disabilities. Their website has information on registering to vote, accessibility laws, and other topics related to disability rights. Disabled individuals in need of legal help can search for Protection and Advocacy (P&A) providers by state.
(202) 408-9514
TTY 202-408-9521
ndrn.org

National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC)

Offers information and advocacy for individuals, families, and professionals impacted by Down Syndrome. The website includes resources on speech and language services, health care, education, behavior tips and more.
3825 Edwards Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45209
(800) 232-6372
ndsccenter.org

National Family Association for DeafBlind (NFADB)

Non-profit and advocacy organization serving families of individuals who are DeafBlind. Find information on legislation, resources for families, and events online.
(800) 255-0411
nfadb.org

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles ID R Kids

Ohio ID Cards are available for residents with no minimum age requirement. They are used for identification purposes only in case a child is reported missing or another emergency. Parents of children who have an Ohio ID card can add their contact information to their child’s record. Fees are waived for children under age 17 and individuals with a permanent disability. Visit a deputy registrar location with required documents to apply for a card.
(844) 644-6268
Ohio ID Card Information: bmv.ohio.gov/dl-id-card.aspx
Find a location near you: publicsafety.ohio.gov/local-office

Ohio Department of Education (ODEW) Dispute Resolution

Situations may arise where parents or other family members believe a school has violated federal or state law. The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) Office for Exceptional Children (OEC) and Office of Early Learning & School Readiness (EL&SR) encourage parents, family members and schools to work together to resolve differences for free. The website provides information about mediation services and more.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6338
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Special-Education/Dispute-Resolution

Ohio Departments and County Boards of Developmental Disabilities

The Department of Developmental Disabilities is a statewide system of supports and services for people with developmental disabilities, and their families. Each county in Ohio has its own Board of Developmental Disabilities, which is the place to start for determining eligibility, assessing your needs, and coordinating which services can best support you. Their offices can help you with early intervention programs, healthcare services, waivers and scholarships, job training and employment, unusual incident reporting, and more.

Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council)

Council operating under the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. Ohio DD Council members, staff and stakeholders work together to improve services for Ohioans with disabilities. Their website has information for potential members, grants and awards, and a resource library for families.
1810 Sullivant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43222
(614) 466-5205
ddc.ohio.gov

Ohio Head Start Association

Provides comprehensive education, health, nutrition, dental, mental health, and social services to low-income special needs and at-risk children and their families. Use their Directory to find Head Start providers and services in each county in Ohio. They also have information on becoming a Head Start ambassador and contacting your congressional representatives.
(937) 435-1113
ohsai.org

Ohio Provider Resource Association (OPRA)

Statewide association of service providers advocating for Ohioans with developmental disabilities. Their website has helpful resources for families and professionals such as a glossary of disability acronyms, trainings, a job bank, and public policy information.
1152 Goodale Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 224-6772
opra.org

Ohio Self Determination Association (OSDA)

Empowers people with disabilities and their families through self-determination and legal advocacy. They provide training for self-advocates with disabilities and organize advocacy opportunities in Ohio. The website has resources for vocational support and self-determination tools.
6155 Huntley Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 563-0788
osdaohio.org

Ohio Special Education Legal Clinic (Lawyers4Students)

Offers a free Special Education Legal Clinic for parents of students with disabilities (ages 3-26). Parents and guardians meet with a special education advocate or attorney to ask questions and discuss challenges related to special education services. The Clinic includes a group workshop followed by a Q&A panel from special education professionals. Free, 30-minute guidance sessions with attorneys are also available.
262 South 3rd Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Columbus: (614) 745-2001
Cleveland: (216) 714-1515
Cincinnati: (513) 496-1635
lawyers4students.com/legalclinic

Opportunities for Ohioans with Diabilities (OOD) – Accessible Ohio

Accessible Ohio Specialists help Ohio businesses, communities, attractions, and venues integrate more inclusive environments for individuals with disabilities. Visit the website to request a free consultation on how to create accessible environments and funding options for implementation. The website also has important resources that anyone can use. Resources include guides on accessibility alphabet/glossary, disability etiquette, creating accessible meetings, and much more. They also host regular webinars on improving accessibility in workplaces and communities.
Contact information: ood.ohio.gov/accessible-ohio/ao-team
ood.ohio.gov/accessible-ohio

Parent Mentor of Ohio

Parent Mentors are parents of children with disabilities trained to provide support to other families of children with disabilities. Parent Mentors can connect families to appropriate programs, navigate special education services and attend IEP meetings, and provide free guidance for families. Use the website to find a Parent Mentor near you. The website also has great resources for parents on IEPs, legal rights, transition, and more.
1900 Kenny Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 247-9982
parentmentor.osu.edu

People First of Ohio

Statewide advocacy organization of people with developmental disabilities. They work with state legislators, advocacy groups and state agencies to help people with developmental disabilities. They have chapters across Ohio, go online to find one near you. The website also has resources on voting rights, supported decision making, self-advocacy, and more.
1335 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 487-4720
peoplefirstohio.org

Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International

Professional organization credentialing equine-assisted services. Their website is a great source of information about equine therapy and standards. Families can use the website to find programs across the country based on location or medical condition. They also offer scholarships to cover the cost of equine programs. Their programs serve at risk youth, military veterans, individuals with developmental disabilities, and more. Professionals can find information on credentialing and continuing education opportunities.
PO Box 33150 Denver, Colorado 80233
(800) 369-7433
pathintl.org

Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL)

Assists people of all ages with disabilities to live more independently. The majority of their board and staff are people with disabilities assisting others. They provide information and referrals for housing, education, transportation, benefits, and other community resources. The Assistive Technology program loans eating utensils, screen readers, magnifiers, autism sensory items, and more. They also offer free group living skills classes and support for youth with IEPs. Call to report ADA violations in Fairfield and Hocking counties.
Fairfield County: 418 South Broad Street, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
Hocking County: 96 West Hunter Street, Logan, Ohio 43138
(740) 689-1494
socil.org

Special Education Evaluation Letters

Do you need sample letters to request school services such as an evaluation (IEP)? Click the links for sample special education evaluation letters.

The Arc of Ohio

Advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities in Ohio through legislative action, education, local chapter support, and family involvement. Families can call for a Family Advocate to help navigate the disability system and answer questions on everything from waivers to guardianship, transition services, county boards, the appeal process, and much more. The Family Choice Program is a self-directed program for individuals and families to access in-home coordination of services through SELF, Level 1, and IO waivers. They can also help families get assistive technology such as communication devices, sensory items, and home safety devices. The website has many helpful resources for families on IEP help, Medicaid, Scholarship information, and much more.
1335 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 487-4720
thearcofohio.org

U.S. Department of Justice Disability Rights Section

The Disability Rights Section implements the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Their website has a helpful guide to disability rights laws.
Talk to an ADA Specialist: (800) 514-0301 Voice or (800) 514-0383 TTY
justice.gov/crt/disability-rights-section

U.S. General Service Administration (GSA) Section 508 Accessibility Program

Section 508 is a federal law that required accessible information and communication technology for people with disabilities. This website provides information, resources and tools focused on helping the government implement Section 508 requirements. Find legal requirements and resources for designing accessible content, buying accessible products and services, and training tools for professionals.
(202) 272-0080
section508.gov

U.S. Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)

National agency that promotes policies and coordinates with employers and all levels of government to increase workplace success for people with disabilities. The website offers information, legal standards, and resources on topics like accommodation requirements, accessing personal assistance services, colleges and apprenticeship programs, and more.
(866) 487-2365
dol.gov/agencies/odep/topics

United States Access Board Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines

The Access Board is an independent federal agency that advocates for accessibility guidelines and standards. They provide technical assistance and training opportunities. The website has legal guidelines for building accessibility, prescription labels, transportation, filing an ABA complaint, and more. Call to speak to an Accessibility Specialist with questions about accessibility guidelines.
(202) 272-0080
access-board.gov

Wrightslaw

Started by an attorney who has a learning disability, Wrightslaw has become a widely used resource for families on special needs education and advocacy. Their website has an Advocacy and Law Library, bookstore, and helpful information for families on a variety of topics, such as IEPs, 504s, assistive equipment, and more.
(877) 529-4332
wrightslaw.com

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