Working with Children and Youth who have Disabilities ■■■

There are no clear estimates of the number of foster children and youth who are living with disabilities. The numbers are likely to be high - given the abuse, neglect or trauma these children and youth experienced and other risk factors. Below are resources that might help as you seek to gain understanding, cultural competency and information about youth’s rights when they are living with an emotional, developmental, physical or other disability. You may also want to be familiar with the Education-related resources [link] available on other pages.


advocacy organizations ■■■

     Kids As Self Advocates:
     http://www.familyvoices.org/fvkasa_org/index.php
     (An organization of and for youth, who think about the changes they want to see for youth
     with disabilities in the U.S. and work to make them happen). Their website includes
     resources written by youth and young adults on subjects like:

• Disability history and culture: http://www.fvkasa.org/resources/history.html

• Sports, leisure and recreation: http://www.fvkasa.org/resources/sports.html

• And much more!

     Protection & Advocacy, Inc.:
     http://www.pai-ca.org/
     (a non-profit disability rights organization for Californians)

information about resources and benefits ■■■

In addition to calling 2-1-1, the United Way’s free information and referral line, to find local community-based resources and checking out the resources in our library section on Special Education [link], these resources may be helpful:

     CA Department of Developmental Services:
     http://www.dds.cahwnet.gov/rc/RCinfo.cfm
     (general and contact information about Regional Centers, non-profit organizations that
     provide or coordinate services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities)

     Independent Living Foundation of CA:         
     http://www.cfilc.org/site/c.ghKRI0PDIoE/b.836519/k.4425/What_is_an_Independent_Living_Center.htm 
     (information on Independent Living Centers, which provide free peer-based services and
     community centers that assist people with disabilities with many kinds of daily living issues
     and connect them to resources) 

     Social Security Administration:
     http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10026.html
     (information on some federal benefits that are available to youth with disabilities) and  
     http://www.ssa.gov/work/Youth/youth.html
     (information for youth with disabilities who are interested in working)

     George Washington University Heath Resource Center:
     http://www.heath.gwu.edu/
     (a clearinghouse of resources on postsecondary education for youth and young adults with
     disabilities)

reports ■■■

     Youth With Disabilities in Foster Care: Developing Self-Determination Within a Context 
     of Struggle and Disempowerment:
     http://www.leaonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1207/s15327035ex1501_3
     (regarding the transition from foster care into adulthood)