Support Groups

Formerly known as CHOICES for Parents, CHS Youth Connections Program is a statewide advisory committee of parents and professionals ensuring that children who are Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing, and their families, connect with the necessary resources, advocacy, information, services, and support within the home, school, and community. Their Children & Hearing Loss Resource Notebook for Illinois Families is filled with information about hearing levels, early intervention, technology, education, pediatricians, and more.

The Chicagoland Buddy Walk is run by parents and families of individuals with Down syndrome. Once a year we have a 1-mile walk to support local individuals and groups involved with making a better life in the Down syndrome world. Not only do we have a beautiful walk, we also have many other family activities to enjoy throughout the day. Please check the Walk Schedule for a list of this year's events.

For information about various parent groups offered, call: 630-620-4433.  

Easterseals has been helping families for more than a century. Through 100s of locations across the U.S., Easterseals provides a wide range of services including autism services, daycare, therapy, accessibility services, respite, camps and recreation, and much more. 

An Illinois not-for-profit organization serving 43 counties, the foundation offers counseling, advocacy and educational services to people with epilepsy, their families, and the communities in which they live. Services include information about epilepsy, training and education, case management, programs for children and adults, support groups, legal help, and much more.

Works to advance the human and civil rights of people with disabilities in Illinois. EFE provides publications, events and disability-rights trainings to help people with disabilities and their families become better advocates for their rights.

A McHenry County, Illinois, not-for-profit all volunteer support organization, maximizing the potential of each individual person with Down Syndrome and improving the quality of their lives by sharing ideas, exploring new concepts, and celebrating successes together. FINDS provides Bi-Monthly Newsletters, Social Events, Educational Services, and Family Support.

The Family Support Network works to uncover the resources, funding, and services needed to help people with developmental disabilities live fulfilling lives in their own homes. We make finding family services flexible and easy, using personal and professional experience to bring lifestyle benefits and support to all.

Works to change the way the world views Down syndrome through national campaigns, educational programs, and by empowering individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community. Free therapeutic and educational programming for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Local locations.

HLAA is a nationwide community of support bringing education, advocacy, hope and empowerment to the growing number of people with, and at risk of, hearing loss. Local HLAA chapters are listed on the website.

 JCFS Chicago strives to enhance social-emotional well-being for adults, children, teens and families, and to maximize potential for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They provide a wide range of services, from counseling and psychological evaluation, pediatric therapies, autism and disorders, early childhood development, to legal advocacy and more. Informative website blogs include tips, stories and strategies.

MOCHA (Mothers of Children Having Allergies) is a group of parents sharing information and supporting each other. The 700+ Chicagoland members of MOCHA know how frightening it can be to learn that your child has been diagnosed with severe, often life-threatening allergies.

Multiples of Illinois is an Illinois non-profit, educational, public service organization providing support, information and networking to parents of multiples (twins, triplets, quads, etc.) through its member club affiliates.  They offer a scholarship program, Special Needs Assistance Fund (SNAF), communications, and an annual spring workshop and conference.

Contact: Leslie Lindsey

Welcome to the Rett Syndrome Association of Illinois. We are dedicated to developing awareness and understanding of, and furthering the advancement of research for Rett Syndrome. Rett Syndrome Association of Illinois (RSAI) serves as a support system, and provides resources for families and friends.

Contact: Priscilla Cuba, Parent Mentor at 847-548-2577 x 36

Parent support group for families of children with Selective Mutism.

Contact: Kathy Slattery: Kslattery@cntrmail.org

S.I.B.S. champions siblings of people with disabilities in Illinois, through Sibshops, sibling support groups, and relevant resources to enhance the quality of life for siblings and families alike.

Started in the Chicago area over 35 years ago, the organization prides itself on being run and organized entirely by volunteers - mostly parents and family members. Reaching far beyond the metro Chicago area, UPS for DownS provides trainings, education, information and community opportunities in order to create communities that are diverse, welcoming and inclusive.

Willow Friends offers a diverse community with a heart for individuals with special needs and the family, friends, and fans who support.