EMPLOYMENT - DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTS U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Disability Discrimination Page In addition to a variety of formal guidance documents, EEOC has developed a wide range of fact sheets, question & answer documents, and other publications to help employees and employers understand the complex issues surrounding disability discrimination. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Facts About the Americans with Disabilities Act West Virginia Human Rights Commission West Virginia Human Rights Commission whose mission is to eliminate discriminatory practices related to employment, housing and public accommodations based upon sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, religion, blindness and familial status. Wheeling Human Rights Commission It is the mission of the Human Rights Commission to encourage mutual respect among all racial, religious and ethnic groups within the City. Zippia Disability Resource Guide Zippia is a resource site for job seekers who want to empower their career aspirations with knowledgeable data.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY (AT) AbleNet Assistive Technology Products Assistive Technology products. Center on Technology and Disability The Center is designed to increase the capacity of families and providers to advocate for, acquire, and implement effective assistive and instructional technology (AT/IT) practices, devices, and services. Research-based technologies, used appropriately, have great potential to help infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities participate fully in daily routines; have increased access to the general educational curriculum; improve their functional outcomes and educational results; and meet college- and career-ready standards. Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP) For information on CAP and accommodation solutions for civilian employees with disabilities. CAP works closely with service members across the nation to ensure they receive appropriate assistive technology for their needs, including vision or hearing loss, dexterity impairments, and cognitive difficulties. How To Get an iPad (or other AT/AC device) Funded There are a number of ways to get an iPad or other device funded for children with disabilities. This link will provide you with resources that may be helpful for you to do so. iCanConnect If you have significant combined vision and hearing loss and meet federal income guidelines, iCanConnect can provide you with free communication technology and training to stay connected with family and friends. Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Guiding the provision of quality AT services. The International Society of Wheelchair Professionals The organization's mission is to serve as a global resource for wheelchair service standards and provision through advocacy, education, standards, evidence-based practice, innovation and a platform for information exchange. ISWP's vision is that all people who need wheeled mobility devices receive the appropriate products and services with dignity. The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation Dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research, and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, information and advocacy. Tools for Life AppFinder This database is a unique tool that will allow you to search for apps by disability or multiple disabilities as well as by price ranges and device types. West Virginia Assistive Technology System WVATS helps to improve access to and acquisition of assistive technology (AT) in the areas of: education; community living; employment; and telecommunication. West Virginia Technology Related Assistance Revolving Loan Fund application Links you directly to the application form to apply for a loan to purchase assistive technology through the West Virginia Technology Related Assistance Revolving Loan Fund. West Virginia's Assistive Technology Loan Library and Exchange System The WVATS AT4ALL system is a free online service to list and find assistive technology devices and durable medical equipment in West Virginia.

EDUCATION - MISCELLANEOUS EDUCATION Age of Majority A West Virginia Department of Education Office of Extended and Early Learning brochure about the transfer of rights of exceptional students. American Diabetes Association's Safe at School The American Diabetes Association's goal is for children with diabetes to be medically safe while at school and at day care, and to have the same access to educational opportunities as other children. Bookshare – Books without Barriers Accessible Books and Periodicals for Readers with Print Disabilities. Bookshare is free for all U.S. students with qualifying disabilities. National Center for School Mental Health (NCSMH) The mission of the National Center for School Mental Health (NCSMH) is to strengthen policies and programs in school mental health to improve learning and promote success for America's youth. IDEA State Complaint Resource Center Provides information and resources to assist parents, advocates and attorneys in using the IDEA Written State Complaint process for advocacy. Learning Ally A national nonprofit, volunteer organization with an accessible audiobook library for students with disabilities such as visual impairment or dyslexia. Marshall University's HELP Program The Marshall University H.E.L.P. Program is dedicated to providing educational support, remediation, and mentoring to individuals diagnosed with a Learning Disability and/or ADHD. Shouldn't School Be Safe? This publication was developed by parents and for parents in response to repeated requests for a practical guide to keeping our school children safe from restraint, seclusion and other aversive practices. While this problem has been most acute among children with disabilities, it is an issue of school safety that has the potential to affect ALL students, directly or indirectly, and one that all parents should know and care about. Tutoring program for active duty service personnel and their families All U.S. Military Families Get Online Tutoring and Career Help at No Charge. Get help with homework, studying and career transitions. U.S. Department of Education’s Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) website Brings together IDEA information and resources from the Department and grantees. West Virginia Early Childhood Training Connections and Resources A statewide program designed to provide professional development opportunities for the early care and education community.

Disability Rights of West Virginia PAIMI Advisory Council Application Biographical Data Sheet Date Name Home Address Home Address Line 2 City Region/State/Province Postal / Zip code County Business Address Business Address Line 2 City Region/State/Province Postal / Zip code County Home Phone Mobile Phone Business Phone Facsimile Phone Email How do you prefer to receive mail? At Home At Work How do you prefer to receive calls? At Home At Work Occupation/Employer Education/Training Volunteer Experience Primary Interest Developmental Disabilities Mental Illness Other Please list the disabilities with which you have the most knowledge and/or experience If you have other experience or interest besides the areas indicated above, please explain. For Federal grant documentation and report purposes, please check all that apply: Gender Male Female Ethnicity Caucasian African American Hispanic Native American Asian Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander Other Are you a person with a disability? Yes No If so, what is/are your disability(ies)? (Please check all that apply) Developmental Disability Mental Illness Other Disability Are you a guardian of a person with a disability? Yes No If so, what is/are their disability(ies)? (Please check all that apply) Developmental Disability Mental Illness Other Disability If the person for who you are a guardian is eligible for services, what age is that person who is eligible? Check all that apply Preschool Elementary School Age Secondary School Age Adult Senior Citizen (over 55) Do you have a family member who has a disability? Yes No If so, what is/are the family member's disability(ies)? (Please check all that apply) Developmental Disability Mental Illness Other Disability If your family member is eligible for services, what age is that person who is eligible? (Check all that apply) Preschool Elementary School Age Secondary School Age Adult Senior Citizen (over 55) Are you a professional in the field of… (Please check all that apply) Developmental Disability Mental Illness Other Disability Are you a service provider for persons with… (Please check all that apply) Developmental Disability Mental Illness Other Disability Are you an advocate for persons with… (Please check all that apply) Developmental Disability Mental Illness Other Disability Are you an Attorney? Yes No Are you an individual from the public knowledgeable about… (Please check all that apply) Developmental Disability Mental Illness Other Disability Are you a person who broadly represents or is broadly knowledgeable about the needs of people with… (Please check all that apply) Developmental Disability Mental Illness Other Disability Are you a Board Member or Advisory Council Member for a provider of services to Individuals with Disabilities? Yes No Submit Application Thank you for applying! We'll get back to you soon.

PRIORITIES AND OBJECTIVES Fiscal Year 2026 Priorities and Objectives Fiscal Year 2025 Priorities and Objectives Fiscal Year 2024 Priorities and Objectives Fiscal Year 2023 Priorities and Objectives Fiscal Year 2022 Priorities and Objectives Fiscal Year 2021 Priorities and Objectives Fiscal Year 2020 Priorities and Objectives Fiscal Year 2019 Priorities and Objectives Fiscal Year 2018 Priorities and Objectives

TRANSITION - SCHOOL TO WORK/ADULT LIFE A Transition Guide to Postsecondary Education and Employment for Students and Youth with Disabilities This guide is being issued by the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) to advance our efforts in ensuring that all students and youth with disabilities are equipped with the skills and knowledge to be engaged in the 21st century workforce. Accommodations for College Students An article from Wrightlsaw's website by Dr. Mike Brown, Professor School Psychology, East Carolina University Affordable Colleges Online: College Affordability for Students with Disabilities A complete guide to college financing for students with disabilities. Find expert advice on loans, grants and scholarships specifically for students with disabilities, as well as resources to help with the job search after graduation. Age of Majority A West Virginia Department of Education Office of Extended and Early Learning brochure about the transfer of rights of exceptional students. American Education Services Deferment and Forbearance If you can't make any payments at all, then a deferment or forbearance might be the right choice to keep your loan from entering default. Auxiliary Aids and Services for Postsecondary Students with Disabilities: Higher Education's Obligations Under Section 504 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights guide. BestColleges.com College Resources for Students with Disabilities BestColleges.com has created a number of guides for students with disabilities. These guides offer help for students with physical, psychiatric, visual, auditory, and learning disabilities to better prepare for the college environment. Center for Parent Information and Resources Transition Resources The Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR) serves as a central resource of information and products to the community of Parent Training Information (PTI) Centers and the Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRCs), so that they can focus their efforts on serving families of children with disabilities. College for West Virginia Your free source for college and career planning. Federal Student Aid Deferment and Forbearance Page A deferment or forbearance allows you to temporarily stop making your federal student loan payments or to temporarily reduce the amount you pay. Financial Aid Guide for Students with Disabilities Learn more about scholarships available for students with disabilities. Getting the Most out of Vocational Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for Pathways to Positive Futures. (2015). Getting the most out of vocational rehabilitation. Portland, OR: Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for Pathways to Positive Futures. Going to College A resource for teens with disabilities. Going to College with Diabetes: A Self Advocacy Guide for Students This authoritative, comprehensive guide empowers students to understand their rights and learn how to advocate for them, and to create positive working relationships with their schools, testing agencies, internship sites, and employers. Human Resource Development Foundation Assists West Virginia's youth through advocacy, empowerment, and the successful administration of a wide variety of employment, occupational skill training, and educational programs. Assists West Virginia's youth through advocacy, empowerment, and the successful administration of a wide variety of employment, occupational skill training, and educational programs. Job Accommodation Network (JAN) Disclosure Resources JAN provides free, confidential technical assistance about job accommodations and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Job assistance guide for people with disabilities People with disabilities want to be gainfully employed as much as anyone else. Discover resources to find organizations that offer job help for people with disabilities and locate training programs and related support services. Mid-Atlantic ADA Center Youth with Disabilities Page The Mid-Atlantic ADA Center is a great resource for all things related to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Because this law affects young people, we have created a special web page on our website just for young people like you to talk about Disability History, Employment, Education, Health/Recreation/Arts, and more. Money Smart Financial Literacy Curriculum Money Smart represents one strategy to promote and facilitate asset development. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) created the Money Smart Curriculum to help youth and adults outside the financial mainstream enhance their money skills and create positive banking relationships. National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth Navigating the road to work; making the connection between youth with disabilities and employment. Online Colleges That Offer Laptops This resource is split into two major sections:? A list of online colleges that provide laptops and tablets to students as part of tuition.? A guide to choosing the best laptop to purchase as a college student. PACER Center's ADA Q&A: Section 504 and Post Secondary Education Questions reflect those most commonly asked of PACER staff regarding the ADA and postsecondary institutions. Scholarship Guide for Students with Disabilities A guide to colleges with scholarships available to people with disabilities. Soft Skills for Success: Identifying, Developing, & Selling An article by Custom-Writing focused on "soft" skills. It covers topics such as the definition of soft skills, which soft skills are in demand, ways to develop your soft skills, and steps to sell your soft skills. Speech Disorder Resources for College Students This guide will explain the resources that you may find on campus and how to find them. Speech-Language Pathology Career Guide For individuals wishing to begin a career in speech-language pathology, a list of some of the best SLP Degree Programs in West Virginia are provided . Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights. The Why, When, What, and How of Disclosure in an Academic Setting, After High School A document of the United States Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy discussing why, when, what and how to disclose a disability in an after high school academic setting. Through the Looking Glass Scholarship Through the Looking Glass and its National Center for Parents with Disabilities and their Families are pleased to announce new scholarships specifically for high school seniors and college students who have parents with disabilities. Transition, Transition Services, Transition Planning Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. We Connect Now A website to connect and integrate college students with disabilities as a virtual community with a voice on important issues with particular emphasis on college students and access to higher education and employment. West Virginia Speech-Language Pathology Degree Programs View a list of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) accredited speech pathology and audiology programs in West Virginia. Youth, Disclosure, and the Workplace Why, When, What, and How A document of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment addressing disability disclosure issues and employment geared towards youth. Youth@Work Welcome to Youth@Work, the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC) website for youth in the workforce.

INFORMATION SHEETS 2022 Special Education Fact Sheet EMS Communication Board Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Self Advocacy Handout Durable Medical Equipment (D.M.E.) or Medical Supplies from Medicaid - Tips HELP! The school and I don't agree on my child's IEP. Know your rights: Dispute Resolution Representation of Protected and Incapacitated Persons Temporary Accessibility Solutions for Election Day

SUPPORTED DECISION-MAKING Do I Need to Apply for Guardianship Chart Supported Decision-Making Agreement Supported Decision-Making Handout Representation of Protected and Incapacitated Persons

# Psychiatric Advance Directives - Information for Family Members Disability Rights of West Virginia Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness Advisory Council This information was developed to raise awareness of Psychiatric Advance Directives. It is not intended to provide legal or medical advice ## Family Members *Psychiatric Advance Directives: Used to document an individual’s specific instructions or preferences regarding mental health treatment, in preparation for the possibility that the person may lose capacity to give or withhold informed consent to treatment during a crisis ## Why are Psychiatric Advance Directives Important? *Engages your family member in her or his own treatment *Empowers your family member to make his or her own choices *May help avoid commitment procedures which can even divide families ## What are my family members options? Three options for developing a Psychiatric Advance Directive *Living Will *Medical Power of Attorney *Combination of Living Will and Medical Power of Attorney ## What are your family member’s rights? State Rule 64-74-5 Advance Psychiatric Directive Right *The right to an advance psychiatric directive prepared at a time when the individual has not been adjudged to be incompetent ## What are your family member’s rights? *The right to refuse to create an advance psychiatric directive *The right to have it entered into his or her clinical record at the behavioral health service at which he or she is receiving or may receive care or treatment ## Withdrawing a Directive *Any advance psychiatric directive written and signed by a consumer may be withdrawn at any time verbally or in writing by the consumer *Often referred as the "Ulysses effect" ## Things to consider What should your family member consider in writing a psychiatric advance directive? *Find someone to help that he or she trusts *Discuss possibilities and choices with this individual *Get agreement with choices *Identify a person who will advocate for choices *Be specific about when the PAD should be used ## Providers *A consumer has the right to be informed by a behavioral health service of the availability and applicability of an advance psychiatric directive and to receive education and assistance from the behavioral health service in preparing such a document *Entities must provide education to their staff and their community on advance directives either directly or with other providers *Education must include education regarding: *Rights under state law to participate in decisions regarding their medical care *The facility’s policies regarding advance directives ## Complaints *State Medicaid agencies are responsible for reviewing and responding to complaints regarding advance directives *Penalties can include fines and / or removal as Medicaid / Medicare approved provider ## What to do if directives are not being followed *Complaints can be filed with the agency that surveys and certifie Medicare and Medicaid providers *Providers and healthcare plans must inform consumers they have this right, and how to file a complaint ## Engaging your family member *Discuss the benefits of having a psychiatric advance directive *If they choose to develop a advance directive, suggest having it included in the treatment plan *Discuss rights to have a Psychiatric Advance Directive with them, and what can be done if it is not honored ## Remember... *You can suggest an advance directive - it is up to the person with a mental illness to design and write such a document. *Your Ideas on the content of an advance directive may be solicited - they should not be forced. *Any advance directive can be made null and void by the person who wrote it. Rejection does not need to be written. *Even when commitment proceedings are implemented, the content of an advance directive may be used to determine treatment ## Resources West Virginia Advocates (800) 950-5250 WV Bureau of Senior Services (877) 987-3646 Caring Connections 800/658-8898 Advance Self-Advocacy Plan (ASAP) National Resource Center on Psychiatric Advance Directives

2022 NEWS LETTER July Disability Rights of West Virginia Fragile X Syndrome Article by Lia Billings, DRWV Staff Attorney Fragile X Syndrome, also known as Martin-Bell Syndrome, is the most common form of inherited intellectual and developmental disability (IDD). It is called Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) because part of the X chromosome looks broken or fragile when viewed through a microscope. It is caused by changes in the FMR1 gene, which usually makes a protein called FMRP. FMRP is needed for brain development. People who have Fragile X Syndrome do not make this protein. Researchers estimate that about 1 in 8,000-11,000 females and 1 in 4,000-7,000 males have Fragile X Syndrome. FXS is usually more severe in males. It is not clear how many people carry the fragile X premutation, which can be passed down to their child and cause fragile X. Parents carrying the premutation are nearly two times more likely to have a child with a disability. Fragile X Syndrome affects a child’s intelligence, mental health, physical features, and behavior. Signs that a child might have FXS include: Developmental delays; Learning disabilities, like trouble learning new skills; Social and behavioral problems, like not making eye contact, anxiety, trouble paying attention, and hand flapping; and Physical feature s such as a long, narrow face, a large forehead, a large jaw, soft skin, and/or flat feet. Diagnosing Fragile X Syndrome requires DNA from blood, amniotic fluid, or other tissues. A doctor or genetic counselor can order a test. Testing can also be done to find changes in the FRM1 gene that can lead to Fragile X-associated disorders. A diagnosis of FXS can provide a reason for a child’s intellectual disabilities and behavior problems and give family and caregivers the ability to learn more about FXS to manage care. Boys are usually diagnosed around 35-37 months old, and girls, on average, are diagnosed around 42 months. Symptoms may appear as early as 12 months . Testing and Diagnostic Treatment Fragile X Syndrome cannot be cured, but some symptoms can be treated with medications. Additionally, various treatment services can help with learning important skills. Services can include therapy to learn to walk, talk, and interact with others. Early intervention services help children from birth to 3 years old and may improve a child’s development. Even if there has been no formal diagnosis of FXS, they may be eligible for services. In addition, treatment for specific symptoms like speech therapy often does not need to wait for a formal diagnosis of FXS. To develop the best treatment plan, parents, people with FXS, health care providers, and others who may be involved (i.e. teachers, therapists, etc.) should all work together to determine a course of services. Taking advantage of all available resources will help guide success. Outlook Fragile X Syndrome is a lifelong syndrome. However, the life expectancy for someone with FXS is the same as for the average person. Some individuals are able to live independently. Surveys show that around 4 in 10 women and 1 in 10 men with FXS grow up to have a high level of independence. Support Fragile X Syndrome can be a difficult diagnosis. Having support and community resources can help increase confidence in managing FXS and enhance the quality of life for everyone involved. Some resources include: The National Fragile X Foundation. They can be contacted at 1-800-688-8765 or treatment@fragileX.org to get information about treatments, educational strategies, therapies, and intervention. Community Support Networks (CSN) via fragileX.org. CSNs are organized and run by parent volunteers and provide support to families . Sources: Cleveland Clinic, CDC Client Comments Why we do what we do "I am co-guardian for my brother and on his behalf one of your senior advocates has been a public servant of the highest caliber! We recently navigated issues with our service provider and were unsure how to proceed. After a nebulous request to meet with their Director and several mid-level managers, our mother contacted the Disability Rights of West Virginia senior advocate. The advocate then initiated conversations with the Director to help define the group home / provider issues. Then she was able to confidently and compassionately share those legitimate concerns with us, prior to the face to face meeting so we were not blind-sided. She traveled to the meeting and was a reassuring advocate for us, and helped clarify the communication processes that were instituted! She has continued to make herself available via phone and email, recently responding to an email despite being out of the office for vacation. This simple email isn’t sufficient to accurately identify how valuable this employee was/is to our family. I’m sure you know what she is capable of, but her calmness under fire and ability to communicate in a precise and non-confrontational manner was very much appreciated!" "Great advocate."

MISCELLANEOUS RESOURCES A Guide to Accessible Recreation in West Virginia The guide includes an alphabetical site index, as well as both a county index and an activity index to help you find a recreation activity by name, location or type. A Reporters Guide to Reporting About People With Disabilities West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council developed this Guide for Reporting about People with Disabilities for the media. ADHD and Sleep Understanding the connection between ADHD and sleep is an important step toward finding effective treatment strategies that improve both rest and overall quality of life. American Association of People with Disabilities The largest national nonprofit cross-disability member organization in the United States. American Diabetes Association Leading the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fighting for those affected by diabetes. American Education Services Deferment and Forbearance If you can't make any payments at all, then a deferment or forbearance might be the right choice to keep your loan from entering default. Amputee Coalition of America A national, non-profit amputee consumer educational organization representing people who have experienced amputation or are born with limb differences. Benefits.gov Benefits.gov is the official benefits website of the U.S. government, with information on over 1,000 benefit and assistance programs. Center for Self-Determination The Center for Self-Determination is the primary clearinghouse, training and technical assistance source on Self-Determination in the United States and other countries. Center for the Study and Advancement of Disability Policy Provides public education, leadership development and training, technical assistance and information dissemination, and conducts action-research and analysis of public policy issues affecting individuals with disabilities and their families. Cerebral Palsy Group The Cerebral Palsy Group is dedicated to providing information, material and resources that is available to parents with children who have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Cerebral Palsy Guide Cerebral Palsy Guide helps children and families in need, by extending medical options, educational information financially and emotionally supportive tools to those affected by cerebral palsy. Change, Inc. CHANGE, Inc. serves Hancock, Brooke, Marshall and Ohio Counties. Their programs include: Housing, Transportation, Weatherization and Community Services, and Family Medical Care Community Health Center, Family Health Practice, Oral Health, Mental Health and Family Care Pharmacy, as well as Right from the Start. Common Signs and Symptoms of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Information about abuse, neglect and exploitation from the Zero Tolerance Initiative. Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities A coalition of approximately 100 national disability organizations working together to advocate for national public policy that ensures the self determination, independence, empowerment, integration and inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in all aspects of society. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a US government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly. Disability History Museum To promote understanding about the historical experience of people with disabilities by recovering, chronicling, and interpreting their stories. Disability Statistics – Cornell University Online resource for disability statistics. Epilepsy Foundation The organization works to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; to improve how people with epilepsy are perceived, accepted and valued in society; and to promote research for a cure. In addition to programs conducted at the national level, epilepsy clients throughout the United States are served by more than 50 Epilepsy Foundation affiliates around the country. Fair Shake Initiative An association of West Virginians dedicated to a "fair shake" for people with disabilities and to the belief that diversity makes our communities stronger. Family Handbook on Future Planning A Family Handbook on Future Planning is a guide to help families develop a future plan for their sons or daughters with cognitive, intellectual or developmental disabilities that provides personal, financial and legal protections for these individuals after the parents either die or can no longer provide care or support. The Arc of the United States and Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Aging with Developmental Disabilities Department of Disability and Human Development College of Applied Health Sciences University of Illinois at Chicago. Federal Communications Commission – Disability Rights Office Disability Rights Office home page of the Federal Communication Commission. Get Human Customer service help, contact info & tips for faster, better support. HCBSadvocacy.org: A New Resource for Aging and Disability Communities HCBSadvocacy.org is a platform for the aging and disability communities to post information and resources regarding the new HCBS settings rule and steps each state is making to comply with the new rule. Click on a state or choose from the list below to see resources, dates and deadlines, state documents, news, and other information from that state. This site is a work in progress that relies on state and national partners to find information and share resources. Heart + Hand Outreach Ministries Heart & Hand is the primary provider of a food pantry for South Charleston and the surrounding area. We receive USDA Commodities and donations from the community. International Disability News Ticker Disability-themed news from around the world. IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TAC) are your source for personal tax help when you believe your tax issue cannot be handled online or by phone, and you want face-to-face tax assistance. Muscular Dystrophy Association The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a voluntary health agency -- a dedicated partnership between scientists and concerned citizens aimed at conquering neuromuscular diseases that affect more than a million Americans. Museum of disABILITY History The Museum of disABILITY History is dedicated to advancing the understanding, acceptance and independence of people with disabilities. The Museum’s exhibits, collections, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery. National Ataxia Foundation The site is designed to provide information on ataxia to persons with ataxia, ataxia families, caregivers, the medical community, researchers, and others who are interested in ataxia. National Council on Disability NCD is an independent federal agency composed of members appointed by the President of the United States, by and with the advice and consent of the U.S. Senate. National Do Not Call Registry The National Do Not Call Registry gives you a choice about whether to receive telemarketing calls at home. Most telemarketers should not call your number once it has been on the registry for 31 days. If they do, you can file a complaint at this Website. You can register your home or mobile phone for free. National Multiple Sclerosis Society The National MS Society is a collective of passionate individuals who want to do something about MS now?to move together toward a world free of multiple sclerosis. National Organization on Disability The mission of the National Organization on Disability (NOD) is to expand the participation and contribution of America's 54 million men, women and children with disabilities in all aspects of life. Office for Civil Rights (OCR) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights Federal homepage. Civil rights laws and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule, together protect your fundamental rights of nondiscrimination and privacy. This site has links and information to file an OCR complaint. Olmsteadrights.org Atlanta Legal Aid Society (ALAS), in partnership with the National Disability Rights Network, The Legal Services Corporation, and Probono.net, announce olmsteadrights.org, a place for everyone to learn about the Olmstead decision and hear from people with disabilities, through stories and videos, how the decision positively impacts their life. The website also provides resources and information for self-advocates, legal advocates, family and friends of people with disabilities. Partners in Policymaking Self-Advocacy Course The goal of Partners in Policymaking is to educate participants to be active partners with those who make policy. They will become partners in policymaking. The idea is to develop partnerships that are based on positive relationships. In today?s political climate of radical change, Partners graduates must work harder than ever to prevent the loss of basic rights for people with disabilities. Partners graduates can change the future by influencing public policy today. Pride Community Services PRIDE offers a multitude of programs geared at assisting low income individuals and families to move out of poverty and toward self sufficiency. Currently the agency operates Senior nutrition sites in Logan, Chapmanville and Millcreek; Head Start Centers in Logan, Chapmanville, Dehue, Lorado and Buffalo; and in conjunction with the Logan County Board of Education we operate specialized collaborative classrooms in several schools; Weatherization Program; CSBG Program; Child and Adult Food Care Program; Case Management and In-Home Care Programs. SafeLink Wireless Phone A free service that provides eligible individuals with a free cell phone and free monthly minutes as a safety device. Social Security Administration Fact Sheets What You Can Do Online at www.socialsecurity.gov . Southwestern Community Action Council, Inc. A private non-profit 501c3 agency whose mission is to facilitate the social and economic well-being of low-income families in Cabell, Lincoln, Mason, and Wayne counties in West Virginia. Spina Bifida Coalition Empowering People with Spina Bifida in Greater Cincinnati, Eastern Ohio and West Virginia. The Spina Bifida Coalition envisions individuals with spina bifida as confident, skilled and productive citizens, advocating for their own health and welfare. Discover resources and educational opportunities to obtain transportation, explore secondary education options, make independent living choices, and acquire effective personal management skills. Take Me Home Helping West Virginians in long-term care facilities get back home. Individuals wishing to transition to the community often face numerous obstacles including a lack of funds for security and utility deposits, lack of basic household items and furniture, limited community supports, and no one to help develop comprehensive plans to transition home. Take Me Home helps address many of these barriers by providing services and supports including Transition Coordination, Pre-Transition Case Management and Community Transition Services to qualified applicants. TASH TASH is an international association of people with disabilities, their family members, other advocates, and professionals fighting for a society in which inclusion of all people in all aspects of society is the norm. Taxpayer Advocate Service An independent organization within the IRS, TAS is here to protect your rights as a taxpayer, and help you with tax problems you can't resolve on your own. HCBS Clearinghouse HCBS.org promotes the development and expansion of home and community-based services by gathering resources and tools for research, policy making and program development into this one-stop website. The Connecting Link, Inc. Our mission is to meet an individual's immediate need and assist the residents of Marion, Monongalia, Preston, and Harrison counties locate resources to help them become more sufficient. The West Virginia Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) A professionally staffed office that assists seniors and persons with disabilities find appropriate long-term services and supports. The ADRC professionals also help individuals apply for those services that suit their independent living and long-term care needs. Tourette Association of America Our mission is to identify the cause of, find the cure for and control the effects of Tourette Syndrome. We offer resources and referrals to help people and their families cope with the problems that occur with TS. U.S. Census Bureau Disability Statistics View reports, briefs, and data on disability. U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division To File a Complaint about:1: An institution - complaints about institutions such as jails, prisons, juvenile facilities, developmental disability/mental retardation facilities, mental health facilities or nursing homes. 2: A law enforcement agency - complaints about law enforcement agencies, such as police or sheriff's departments. 3: Access Act violations - interference with access to reproductive health clinics or places of religious worship. United Cerebral Palsy United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is the leading source of information on cerebral palsy and is a pivotal advocate for the rights of persons with any disability. West Virginia Attorney General Consumer Complaints The first step for consumers who have been a victim of unlawful practices in the purchases of goods and service is to fill out the Consumer Complaint Form and return it to the West Virginia Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. West Virginia Board of Social Work Examiners Complaint To file a complaint against a social worker licensed in West Virginia. West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence The West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence is committed to the elimination of personal and institutional violence against women, children, and men. West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection Complaints To file a complaint about an environmental issue. West Virginia Department of Health, Department of Health Facilities, and Department of Human Services Hotlines The Federal and WV State governments operate a number of toll-free resource hotlines to provide information about health topics and services. West Virginia Estate Recovery Program brochure The information in this brochure is intended to provide only a general description of the State of West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources Medicaid Estate Recovery Program. West Virginia Olmstead Office Homepage of West Virginia's Olmstead office. Includes information about Olmstead and filing complaints. West Virginia Rural Health Association The West Virginia Rural Health Association is a nonprofit, grassroots, member-driven organization. Our membership is made up of a variety of people and organizations that are interested in the health of rural West Virginians throughout the state. Members work together to identify the health care concerns of rural West Virginians and find ways to improve services in our communities. West Virginia University Centers for Excellence in Disabilities The Center has worked with consumers, state, local, and federal agencies to realize opportunities and tackle and overcome challenges for people with developmental and other disabilities of all ages. West Virginia Utility Assistance Program West Virginia Utility Assistance Program assists eligible utility customers with their gas, electric and water bills. World Institute on Disability The mission of the World Institute on Disability (WID) in communities and nations worldwide is to eliminate barriers to full social integration and increase employment, economic security and health care for persons with disabilities. Zippia Disability Resource Guide Zippia is a resource site for job seekers who want to empower their career aspirations with knowledgeable data.

EDUCATION - SECTION 504 Section 504 Discipline Fact Sheet This Fact Sheet summarizes public schools’ obligations under Section 504 to: Provide a free appropriate public education to K-12 students with disability-based behavior; make reasonable modifications to disciplinary policies for students with disabilities; and administer student discipline requirements in a nondiscriminatory manner. The IEP & Section 504 Guidance for West Virginia Schools and Districts The West Virginia Department of Education, Office of Special Programs has developed this document to assist counties and parents in serving their general education students with disabilities in a way that assures a quality education that is in compliance with state and federal laws. This document includes a parent and educator guide to Section 504, highlights the major differences between Section 504 and the IDEA, provides sample policies and procedures including forms, detailed frequently asked questions (FAQ) and sample accommodations for use by counties in West Virginia. U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR) 504 FAQ's Frequently asked questions about section 504 and the education of children with disabilities. U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights Complaints The U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights information and forms for filing complaints.