Our Annual Guide to Special Needs Resources Throughout the CSRA
Children with special needs and their families face particular challenges. Disorders and defects may be apparent at birth or present as developmental delays at a later stage. Injury and illness may impact functioning. Whatever the source or cause of a disability, the child it affects has the same basic need for love and care as other children. His or her parents want the best for their treasure now and in the future. Attaining the right services for a special needs child can turn challenges into triumphs.
AGENCIES FOCUSING ON SPECIAL NEEDS POPULATIONS
Able Tree Autism Treatment Center
3736 Executive Center Dr., Augusta.
706-426-4200.
www.abletreeatc.com.
Services include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, professional development, educational support/advocacy, social skills groups, and certified music therapy.
All About Developmental Disabilities
125 Clairemont Ave., Suite 300, Decatur.
404-881-9777.
www.aadd.org.
Offers family support services, advocacy and education.
Center for Disability Resources
University of South Carolina School of Medicine
8301 Farrow Rd., Columbia, S.C.
803-935-5231.
www.uscm.med.sc.edu/cdrhome.
Programs support families and their children with developmental delays, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, autism and other diagnoses through assistive technology programs, education, supported community living programs, supported employment and more.
Easter Seals East Georgia
1500 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta.
706-667-9695.
www.easterseals.com/eastgeorgia.
Work programs help disabled teenagers transition from school into the workplace. There are also work-related programs for disabled adults. The Champions for Children program provides financial assistance to families of special needs and medically fragile children who do not meet the eligibility requirements for the TEFRA/Katie Beckett Medicaid program.
Family Connection of South Carolina
1800 St. Julian Place, Suite 104, Columbia, S.C.
803-252-0914.
www.familconnectionsc.org.
A statewide non-profit organization that connects families of children with special healthcare needs or disabilities with helpful resources, support and education.
The Foundation for Therapeutic Options
P.O. Box 3421, Augusta.
706-564-6172.
www.therapyoptions.org.
Provides families of children with special needs with funding for therapeutic supplies and treatment.
Georgia Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
2302 Parklake Dr., NE, Suite 210, Atlanta.
404-325-6973.
Georgia@cff.org
www.cff.org.
Conducts fundraising to fund research for a cure. Provides information and resources for parents of children with cystic fibrosis.
The Georgia Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
3525 Piedmont Rd., N.E., Building 6, Suite 300, Atlanta.
404-420-5990.
georgia@jdrf.org.
www.georgia.jdrf.org.
This organization has the Family Network, which provides support, encouragement and programming for families of children with diabetes.
Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
2 Peachtree St., N.W., 24th floor, Atlanta.
404-657-2252.
www.dbhdd.georgia.gov.
To access mental health, substance abuse and crisis and emergency services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, call 1-800-715-4225.
To locate treatment or support services for individuals with mental illness, substance abuse disorders or developmental disabilities, visit www.mygcal.com.
Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities – Region 2
3405 Mike Padgett Highway, Building 3, Augusta.
706-792-7733; 866-380-4835.
Behavioral Health Regional Services Administrator: Dawn Peel, 706-792-7671, dawn.peel@dbhdd.ga.gov.
Developmental Disabilities Regional Services Administrator: Karla Brown, 706-792-7695, karla.brown@dbhdd.ga.gov.
www.dbhdd.georgia.gov/region-2.
Operates a community-based system of care. The community-based system allows clients to receive care in the least restrictive setting possible while helping them to obtain a life of independence and recovery. Provides planning for and coordination of provider network; offers technical assistance; and serves as the point of contact for consumers who have questions about accessing services.
Georgia Department of Community Health
2 Peachtree St., N.W., Atlanta.
404-656-4507.
www.dch.georgia.gov/waivers.
The New Options Waiver (NOW) and the Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program (COMP) offer home- and community-based services for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) or developmental disabilities (DD) through the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) Division of Medical Assistance Plans. To read information on Medicaid waivers: www.dch.georgia.gov/sites/dch.georgia.gov/files/imported/vgn/images/portal/cit_1210/49/43/92560099NOW_COMP_FY12.pdf.
Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Child Support Services and Division of Family and Children Services
2 Peachtree St., Suite 29-250, Atlanta.
404-651-6316.
CustomerService@dhr.state.ga.us.
www.dhs.georgia.gov.
The agency provides a variety of services, including administrating the Wednesday’s Child Program which finds adoptive families for special needs children.
HealthSouth Walton Rehabilitation Hospital
1355 Independence Dr., Augusta.
706-724-7746.
www.healthsouthwalton.com.
An excellent resource for information and assistance with neurological and orthopedic disorders.
Learning Disabilities Association of Georgia
4105 Briarcliff Rd., N.E., Suite 3, Atlanta.
404-303-7774 or ldaofgeorgia@gmail.com.
www.ldag.org.
One of 50 volunteer state organizations which comprise the Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA). For more than 30 years their mission has been to enhance the quality of life for individuals of all ages with learning disabilities and/or Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD). Members are served by a state office and volunteers who provide resources and sponsor events.
National Down Syndrome Society
800-221-4602.
info@ndss.org.
www.ndss.org.
Provides information and resources for parents and expectant parents of infants and children diagnosed with Down Syndrome.
National Federation of the Blind of Georgia and South Carolina
1901 Montreal Rd., Suite 102, Tucker, Ga.
404-371-1000.
www.nfbga.org.
The organization provides public education, information, referral services, literature and publications about blindness, adaptive equipment for the blind, advocacy services and job opportunities for the blind, plus support for blind persons and their families.
Serenity Behavioral Health System
3421 Mike Padgett Hwy., Augusta.
706-432-4800.
www.serenitybhs.com.
Provides a range of services for people with mental retardation, developmental disabilities and mental health issues.
SC Association for the Deaf
437 Center St., West Columbia, S.C.
803-794-3175.
803-794-7059 (TTY).
803-403-9255 (video phone).
www.scadservices.org.
Promotes equal treatment toward deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens in education, employment, legislation, healthcare and other fields pertaining to the deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens of South Carolina. Compiles and updates contact information to help you connect with the many agencies and groups offering assistance and services for the deaf and hard of hearing.
Soto ALG
3736 Executive Center Dr., Augusta.
706-426-4200.
www.sotoalg.com.
Soto ALG provides residential and day services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Services include community residential alternative services, community access (group and individual), supported employment services, prevocational services and ABA therapy. Additional services include community living support and specialized medical supplies. They accept NOW/COMP Medicaid waivers and private pay.
Spina Bifida Association of Georgia
5072 Bristol Industrial Way, Suite F, Buford, Ga.
770-939-1044 or sbag@spinabifidaga.org.
www.spinabifidaga.org.
Provides information and education for parents, plus raises awareness of this birth defect and promotes prevention.
Tri-Development of Aiken County
1016 Vaucluse Rd., Aiken, S.C.
803-642-8800.
director@aikentdc.org.
www.aikentdc.org.
A United Way-funded agency providing services for children and adults with autism, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, mental retardation and related disorders.
United Cerebral Palsy Georgia
3300 NE Expressway, Building 9, Atlanta.
770-676-2000.
www.ucpga.org.
Headquartered in Atlanta, the organization offers services in the Augusta area. Some of its statewide services include information and referral, employment services and residential services.
United Cerebral Palsy South Carolina
1101 Harbor Dr., West Columbia, S.C.
803-926-8878.
info@ucpsc.org.
www.ucpsc.org.
In South Carolina, UCP offers adult day services, family support and residential services.
Reaching Milestones
3706 Executive Center Dr.,
Suite A, Martinez.
706-863-9699.
www.reachingmilestones.com.
Augusta clinic services include Applied Behavior Analysis, language assessments, center and home based behavioral therapy, social skills, treatment of problem behavior, and more.
BABIES AND TODDLERS
Aiken County First Steps
1 Willis Circle, Graniteville, S.C.
803-663-5604
www.aikenfirststeps.org
First Steps is a results-oriented, statewide, early childhood education initiative designed to ensure that South Carolina children arrive at first grade healthy and ready to succeed.
A+ Kids
6140 Woodside Executive Court, Aiken.
803-642-0700 or info@apluspta.com.
www.apluspta.com/main/apluskids.
Early intervention services for infants and toddlers evidencing delays in growth, development and learning.
Babies Can’t Wait
(Statewide interagency service delivery systems)
Georgia Department of Public Health
2 Peachtree St., NW, Atlanta.
404-657-2700.
www.dph.georgia.gov/Babies-Cant-Wait.
For infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities, from birth to age 3.
Georgia Chapter of March of Dimes
1776 Peachtree St., Suite 2005, Atlanta.
404-350-9800.
www.marchofdimes.com/georgia.
The March of Dimes works to prevent premature births, prevent birth defects, improve the health of babies and support families if something does go wrong.
The Genetics Department at Children’s Hospital of Georgia
Medical Office Building,
1447 Harper St., 3rd floor, Augusta.
706-721-5437.
www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-of-georgia/pediatric-specialties/genetics.
The pediatric genetics specialists evaluate and test for genetic disease in children or birth defects, such as chromosomal disorders (for example, Down Syndrome), neurofibromatosis, cystic fibrosis, or other disorders.
MEDICAL, THERAPY AND TREATMENT PROGRAMS
Aiken Therapeutic Riding Center
(formerly STAR)
www.greatoakatrc.org
info@greatoakatrc.org
ATRC is an affiliate of PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship). ATRC is designed to promote certified therapeutic riding for children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges.
Augusta Developmental Specialists
1303 D’Antignac St., Suite 2100, Augusta.
706-396-0600.
www.augustadevelopmentalspecialists.com.
Specializes in helping people with healthcare and developmental needs. The group provides developmental assessment, care coordination between therapists and school staff, a wheelchair clinic and more. Led by Karen Carter, M.Ed., M.D., the group includes a licensed massage therapist and recreational therapist. Offers speech, occupational and physical therapy.
Blue Ribbon Riders
987 Reynolds Farm Rd., Grovetown.
706-854-0644.
Equine-assisted activity and hippotherapy program for ages 3 and up. A Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH International) premier accredited center. Hippotherapy uses the movement of the horse as a treatment strategy to address impairments, functional limitations and disabilities in patients with neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction. Contact Claudia Morin.
Children’s Hospital of Georgia
Pediatric Audiology
1447 Harper St., 2nd floor.
706-721-6009.
www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-of-georgia/pediatric-specialties/peds-otolaryngology/pediatric-audiology.
Patients receive comprehensive audiology, speech therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy services from a team of skilled professionals in a facility designed and equipped for children.
Children’s Hospital of Georgia
Pediatric Diabetes and Endocrinology
1447 Harper St.
706-721-0433.
www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-of-georgia/pediatric-specialties/peds-diabetes/pediatric-diabetes-and-endocrinology-home.
Delivers care for children with growth problems, over and under-active thyroid, advanced or delayed puberty and juvenile diabetes. The pediatric diabetes team helps children manage diabetes and live active lives.
Children’s Hospital of Georgia
Pediatric Psychiatry
706-721-9331.
www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-of-georgia/pediatric-specialties/psychiatry/pediatric-psychiatry.
Offers outpatient and inpatient treatment for children ages 6-16 years with emotional and behavioral problems.
Children’s Medical Services
Georgia Department of Public Health
2 Peachtree St., N.W., 11th floor, Atlanta.
404-657-2850.
www.dph.georgia.gov/CMS.
A community-based comprehensive system of health care services available for Georgia’s children with chronic medical conditions from birth to 21 years who live in low income households. Children’s Medical Services (CMS) provides care coordination and other needed medical/health services for eligible children and their families. CMS may provide, arrange for and/or pay for comprehensive physical evaluations, diagnostic tests, inpatient/outpatient hospitalization, medications and other medical treatments, therapy, durable medical equipment, hearing aids related to the child’s CMS-eligible condition, and genetic counseling.
CSRA Therapy Services, Inc.
2485 Hwy 88, Hephzibah.
706-592-5565.
Providing occupational and speech-language therapy services for children with special needs in the CSRA.
Ducktails Pediatric Therapy & Wellness
568 Blue Ridge Dr., Evans.
706-364-5262.
www.ducktailspediatric.com.
Ducktails provides physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and athletic development for children from infancy through 21 years of age. Services address, but are not limited to, neuromuscular development and abnormal tone, developmental delay, balance and posture, sensory integration, ADHD, handwriting and fine motor skills, and speech language and auditory processing.
Augusta University Developmental Pediatrics
Medical Office Building, 3rd floor, Augusta.
706-721-3791.
www.augusta.edu/mcg/pediatrics/adolescent-med/developmentalpediatrics.php.
Specializes in developmental-behavioral pediatrics, general pediatrics and adolescent medicine. Accepts new patients by physician referral.
Hitchcock Healthcare
690 Medical Park Dr., Aiken.
803-293-4371 (children’s therapy).
www.hitchcockhealthcare.org.
A provider for adults and children, offering a full range of quality services including, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.
Lighthouse Care Center
3100 Perimeter Pkwy., Augusta.
706-651-0005.
www.lighthousecarecenters.com.
Offers a serene residential setting for adolescent patients to recover from psychological issues and/or substance abuse. In addition to clinical care, a number of recreational opportunities and an accredited on-campus school are also available. These services aid patients in recovery by keeping their minds and bodies active and providing an opportunity for social interaction. They also offer an acute care unit and partial hospitalization.
Neuro-Developmental Treatment Programs, Inc.
817 Crawford Ave., Augusta.
706-736-1255 or ndtprograms@gmail.com.
NDT Programs is a small outpatient PT and OT clinic that specializes in serving those with developmental disabilities of all ages (birth through adult). Services are individualized to meet the family desires and are offered in a variety of settings including home based infant intervention, clinic based, aquatic or pool based and therapy at a community gymnastic center.
The Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Center at Children’s Hospital of Georgia
706-721-5437.
www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-of-georgia/pediatric-specialties/pulmonary-cystic-fibrosis/pediatric-cystic-fibrosis-center.
Offers in and out-patient care and education by pediatric pulmonologists. It is one of only two facilities in Georgia accredited by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Pediatric Therapy of Aiken
6140 Woodside Executive Court, Aiken.
803-642-0700 or info@apluspta.com.
www.apluspta.com.
Skilled professionals provide speech therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy service to children infancy to 17 years.
Sensational Kids! Pediatric Rehabilitation
3628 Old Petersberg Rd., Martinez.
706-364-3470.
Sensational.kids@comcast.net.
www.sensationalkids.net.
A full-service therapy practice offering a unique blend of services for children and families with special needs that specializes in evaluation and intervention for infants and children (birth to 13 years) who have various developmental challenges.
Therapeutic Interventions of Georgia
2315-C Central Ave., Augusta.
706-364-6172 or info@tiofga.com.
www.tiofga.com.
Offers occupational therapy, feeding therapy, physical therapy and speech-language therapy to pediatric patients. Facilities feature private speech therapy rooms, an outdoor playground, and OT and PT gyms.
THERAPY SOLUTIONS, LLC
2250 Woodside Executive Ct., Aiken.
803-226-0146 or uscslp@bellsouth.net.
www.therapysolutionsllc.net.
A private company offering pediatric speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy and early intervention services. An early intervention team provides support and services in the home, daycare or clinic setting.
EDUCATION
Augusta Christian School of Talent Development
313 Baston Rd., Martinez.
706-863-2905, extension 231.
www.augustachristian.org.
The school is designed for students with a specific learning disability and/or those with attention deficit disorder. Classes are available in grades 1-12, depending on availability, offering low teacher-student ratios and individualized instruction. The curriculum is designed for students with special learning needs while incorporating a standard curriculum.
American Sign Language Augusta Health
706-721-6929.
www.augustahealth.org/classes-and-events.
American Sign Language courses are available for kids and adults, beginners and more advanced signers.
College Board Services for Students With Disabilities
212-713-8333.
www.collegeboard.com/ssd/student/index.html.
The College Board works to provide appropriate accommodations for students with disabilities when taking the SAT, AP tests and PSAT/NMSQT.
CSRA EOA, Inc. Head Start
1261 Greene St., Augusta.
706-722-0493.
www.csraeoaheadstart.org.
Provides professional, comprehensive, quality services to preschool children, families and staff. Individuals with disabilities receive the full range of developmental services in an inclusive environment. This includes children with physical disabilities, health conditions, vision, hearing, speech or learning impairments. Special services such as screenings, evaluations, speech or physical therapy and transportation also may be provided.
Southeast Georgia Learning Resources System
144 Barnes St., Baxley, Ga.
912-705-8898.
www.southeastglrs.org.
Statewide network of 17 resource centers offering free services to parents and educators of students with disabilities.
Georgia Academy for the Blind
2895 Vineville Ave., Macon, Ga.
478-751-6083.
www.gabmacon.org.
Campus and outreach programs are designed to meet the educational needs of students who are blind, visually impaired and have adjacent multiple sensory disabilities.
Georgia PINES
(Parent Infant Network for Educational Services)
800-522-8652; 404-298-4882.
www.gapines.info.
Information/assistance to families of vision/hearing impaired, multi-handicapped, sensory impaired children, under age 4. Parent advisors make home visits to teach families how to help their child.
Georgia Virtual School
www.gavirtualschool.org.
Georgia Virtual School is a program of the Georgia Department of Education Office of Technology Services. It is SACS accredited and offers middle school and high school level courses across the state. Parents and teachers partner in the online education of the individual child.
GLASS- Georgia Libraries for Accessible Statewide Services
glass@georgialibraries.org.
www.georgialibraries.org/glass.
1-800-248-6701.
This is a talking book service sponsored by the Augusta-Richmond County Library System. Books and magazines are available in audio formats, Braille and digital downloads. They loan playback machines for recorded materials with more than 500,000 titles to choose from; more than 70,000 titles accessible for download on digital downloads. Free delivery to your door via U.S. Postal Services.
Immaculate Conception Catholic School
811 Telfair St., Augusta.
706-722-9964.
www.icaugusta.org/special-education.
Special education for children ages 4-14. Full inclusion program, learning lab, and self-contained programs. All special education programs offer small class sizes with low student/teacher ratio. Diagnostic testing in reading and math modules using specialized consultation and classroom intervention. Speech therapy, OT and PT offered. Disabilities include but not limited to autism, Down syndrome, mental retardation, learning disabilities, dyslexia, attention deficits, speech and language impairments, cognitive processing deficits, and physical disabilities.
Kumon Math and Reading Center
500 Furys Ferry Rd., Unit 502-5, Martinez.
706-993-2232.
www.kumon.com.
The center strives to help each student perform at his/her full potential by using techniques that improve speed and accuracy to master the basics in reading and math. Students meet with a highly trained Kumon instructor during the week and continue with home assignments daily to close any learning gaps that may be hindering them. Preschool through high school.
Mathnasium
1384 Whiskey Rd., Aiken.
803-226-9090.
205 Robert C. Daniel Jr. Pkwy., Augusta.
706-737-1992.
www.mathnasium.com.
Helping elementary, middle and high school students excel in math, whether your child started out far behind or is already ahead. Mathnasium’s unique assessment process determines (with great accuracy) exactly what each child knows and what they need to learn.
M.A.E.S. Education Center
4116 Evans to Locks Rd., Evans.
706-860-8585 or info@maeseducationcenter.com.
www.maeseducationcenter.com.
Offers tutoring, high school success classes, home-school classes, college counseling and skills-building in reading comprehension. Monday-Thursday, 2 p.m.-7 p.m. Saturday hours, as well.
Oxford Learning Center
4272 Washington Rd., Suite 2A, Evans.
706-650-2225.
www.oxfordlearning.com.
Students preschool through adult receive help with study skills, homework, reading, writing, math, spelling, grammar and more.
Partners in Achievement
454 Furys Ferry Rd., Suite B.
706-650-1877.
augusta@partnersinachievement.com.
www.pialearningcenters.com.
PIA offers programs for children ages 6 and up with attention problems and/or learning disabilities help children overcome the underlying barriers to academic success.
South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind
355 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, S.C.
864-585-7711.
www.scsdb.org.
An academic institution providing high-quality education programs, both day and residential, for students ages 2½ to 21 who are deaf, blind or multi-sensory disabled.
VirtualSC
www.virtualsc.org.
The South Carolina virtual school program delivers flexible online options for the diverse educational needs of South Carolina students and their families.
MILITARY FAMILIES
Fort Gordon Exceptional Family Member Program
307 Chamberlain Ave., Room 155, Darling Hall, Fort Gordon.
706-791-4872.
www.fortgordon.com/programs.
This program, designed to aid active-duty service, provides information and coordination of services as well as respite care for any family member who has a chronic medical problem or special education need, regardless of age, that limits ability to function on a daily basis and/or requires ongoing counseling, training, education, therapy or treatment. Assistance with issues receiving Social Security disability benefits.
SPEECH PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY
Augusta Ear Nose Throat
340 N. Belair Rd., Evans. 706-868-5676.
720 Saint Sebastian Way, Augusta. 706-868-5676.
74 Physician Dr., Aiken. 803-649-0003.
www.augustaent.com/what-is-an-audiologist.html.
A trained audiologist evaluates and treats hearing problems and related disorders.
Augusta Hearing and Balance
1215 George C. Wilson Dr., Suite 3A, Augusta.
706-364-2378.
www.augustahearing.com.
Dr. Rebecca B. Hopkins and Dr. E. Robin Bohannan perform hearing diagnostics for children.
Bright Start
720 Gracern Rd., Suite 450, Columbia, S.C.
803-929-1112 (24 hours a day).
brightstart@sc.rr.com.
www.brightstartsc.com.
With a location in Aiken, Bright Start is a private provider of speech therapy and autism services to children, teenagers and adults with special needs and developmental delays. Families of special needs children from infancy to age 6 benefit from the early intervention services offered. Service coordination assistance aids families in navigating the complex service delivery system.
Children’s Hospital of Georgia Speech Pathology
1447 Harper St., 2nd floor, Augusta.
706-721-5437.
www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-of-georgia/pediatric-specialties/rehabilitative-services/speech-pathology.
Children’s Hospital of Georgia’s speech pathologists provide individualized evaluation and treatments to help children with language problems or delays, hearing loss, stuttering, resonance issues, swallowing problems and other speech issues.
Communication Station, LLC
601 N. Belair Square, Suite 19, Evans.
706-364-1486 or speechyleigh@yahoo.com.
www.communicationstation.biz.
Speech therapy for patients from infancy to 21 years. Specializing in autism spectrum disorders.
Snyder Speech Therapy Services
229 Hillbrook Dr., Augusta.
706-860-9385.
marysnyderspeech@hotmail.com.
Provides speech therapy services for clients of all ages, infants through adults via telepractice over the Internet.
Southern Medical Hearing Center
2916 Washington Rd.
706-993-3269.
www.southernmedicalhearing.com.
Provide hearing aids, free hearing screenings, financing options and the gift of hearing to needy and qualified patients.
Southern Otologic Clinic
818 St. Sebastian Way, Suite 204, Augusta.
706-724-0668.
www.moretzmd.com.
Provides evaluation and treatment of hearing issues. Hearing aid guidance and fitting for children and adults.
University Hospital Speech and Hearing Center
1430 Harper St., Suite C3, Augusta.
706-774-8666 or 706-854-2630.
4321 University Pkwy., Suite 102, Evans.
www.universityhealth.org/speech-and-hearing.
University Hospital’s Speech and Hearing Center provides evaluation and treatment services for children with speech, language, feeding, swallowing and hearing disorders. The speech pathologists and audiologists strive to improve their patients’ ability to communicate and function as independently as possible.
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL
Beginnings SC
www.scbegin.org.
info@scbegin.org.
803-216-1171(office).
803-929-7785 (video phone).
Beginnings is an expanded nonprofit providing professional expertise, education and guidance to anyone in South Carolina with the ability to impact deaf or hard of hearing families. They help parents or caregivers of a child who is deaf or hard of hearing (ages birth-21), parents who are deaf or hard of hearing and professionals who serve these families.
Charity Locator—Combined Federal Campaign of the CSRA
www.cfcofthecsra.org/locator.php.
A comprehensive list of local, state and national agencies and organizations that provide a vast array of assistance.
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
www.cff.org.
An online source for information about diagnosis, research, treatment, clinical trials and more.
The DRM Regional Resources Directory
www.disabilityresources.org/GEORGIA.html.
Disability Resources, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization established to promote and improve awareness, availability and accessibility of information that can help people with disabilities live, learn, love, work and play independently.
Georgia Council of the Blind
www.georgiacounciloftheblind.org.
Works to improve education and rehabilitation and broaden vocational opportunities. Meetings are held at the Columbia County Main Library, Evans Town Center Blvd., on the second Saturday at 1 p.m. For more information, please contact Deborah Lovell at (706) 726-4054 or lovell.d2000@gmail.com.
Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities
2 Peachtree St., N.W., Suite 26-246, Atlanta.
888-275-4233.
www.gcdd.org.
Provides resources that promote independent living.
Georgia Disability Resources; South Carolina Disability Resources
www.christopherreeve.org.
An extensive list of organizations serving people with special needs in Georgia and South Carolina.
Georgia Hands and Voices
P.O. Box 133128, Atlanta.
678-310-5886.
info@gahandsandvoices.org.
www.gahandsandvoices.org.
A parent-driven, non-profit organization that supports families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. They currently have a free guide by your side program that assists newly diagnosed families of deaf of hard of hearing children. The website provides resources and information.
Georgia Snap4Kids
www.snap4kids.org/id137.html.
Lists providers, organizations and agencies in Georgia that serve children with special needs and their families.
Gerald Powell
Augusta.
706-796-6856.
Gcp930@gmail.com
Gerald Powell is semi-retired and offers assistance/advice on a volunteer basis to children and adults who are trying to establish or are having problems receiving Social Security disability benefits.
Parent to Parent of Georgia
3070 Presidential Pkwy., Suite 130, Atlanta.
800-229-2038.
www.p2pga.org.
The organization has a comprehensive website that provides a map to securing services for special needs children.
SC Access
803.734.9900.
www.scaccess.communityos.org.
A guide to resources and services for people with disabilities and their caregivers.
South Carolina Autism Society
806 12th St., West Columbia.
803-750-6988.
scas@autism.org.
www.scautism.org.
A statewide agency that educates and promotes awareness.
South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs
3440 Hardin Street Ext., Columbia, S.C.
803-898-9600.
www.ddsn.sc.gov.
Plans, develops, funds and oversees programs for people with severe, lifelong disabilities in regard to intellect, autism, traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury.
South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council
1205 Pendleton St., Suite 461, Columbia, S.C.
803-734-0465.
803-734-1147 (TTY).
www.scddc.sc.gov.
Advocates for people with developmental disabilities and provides leadership in planning, funding and implementing initiatives.
United Way of the CSRA
1765 Broad St., Augusta.
706-724-5544.
www.uwcsra.org.
The 211 system provides a link to information and referral on a variety of services in the community. Other resources for families are available on the website as well.
RECREATION AND LEISURE
Camp Twin Lakes
404-231-9887.
contact@camptwinlakes.org.
www.camptwinlakes.org.
Camp Twin Lakes, located in Rutledge, Winder (Camp Will-A-Way), and Warm Springs (Camp Dream), provide camp experiences for children in Georgia facing serious illnesses, disabilities and other life challenges through weeklong summer camps and year-round weekend retreats. Campsites are fully accessible and medically supportive.
Champions Made from Adversity
P.O. Box 980, Evans
706-364-2422.
info@cmfa.us.
www.cmfa.us.
Provides adaptive sports, recreation and leisure activities such as water skiing, archery, bowling, cycling and golf, to people with physical disabilities at no cost.
The Family Y, Wilson Branch
3570 Wheeler Road, Augusta, GA.
706-922-9623.
www.thefamilyy.org.
For more information, please contact Claudia Collins, Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator at 706-922-9664 or at ccollins@thefamilyy.org.
Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
Adapted Aquatics Special Populations Individual
Adapted Aquatics offers one-on-one half-hour classes for all physically and developmentally challenged individuals of all ages. Specially trained staff use swimming and aquatic fitness skills to improve participants’ independence and quality of life. Sessions are by appointment only.
Family Y BlazeSports Team
For more information, please contact Claudia Collins, Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator, at 706-922-9664 or at ccollins@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.
BlazeSports is a swim team for all ages of physically challenged swimmers that provides them an opportunity to train for competitions. (This program is part of the BlazeSports Clubs of America training for future Paralympians).
Miracle League Baseball
For more information please contact Rina White, Sports Director, at 706-922-9597 or rwhite@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.
Provides a barrier-free baseball field for children and adults with disabilities to play on. Miracle League Teams play on a special, rubberized surface with flat bases that for allows safe play for those in wheelchairs or other assistive devices, such as crutches or walkers. Registration is open for ages 4 and up. Fall season runs September-October and spring season runs March-May. Teams practice and play are held at the sports complex located at the Uptown Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center. For more information please contact Rina White, Sports Director, at 706-922-9597 or rwhite@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.
Kathryn M. York Adapted Aquatics Center (Katie’s Pool)
For more information, please contact
Claudia Collins, Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator, at 706-922-9664 or at ccollins@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.
This pool is dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities. It is a shallow and deepwater therapy pool with a wheelchair ramp at the shallow end. It also includes adapted changing rooms with a lift system to accommodate disabled individuals and a state-of-the-art sanitation system.
Total Access Room
For more information, please contact Claudia Collins, Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator, at 706-922-9664 or at ccollins@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.
This facility, located off the fitness floor at the Wilson Family YMCA Branch, provides adaptive equipment for both a non-disabled exerciser and for people with mobility limitations, including those in wheelchairs. Each exercise piece is easily adjustable to each exerciser’s height and strength level.
Camp Lakeside
For more information, please contact Faye Hargrove at fhargrove@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org
Serves children with disabilities or serious and chronic health conditions in a medically safe environment. Expanded programs for kids of all backgrounds and abilities so that every child can have access to learn, grow, and thrive through the life-changing, thrilling experiences of camp.
Camp Ivey
For more information, please contact Sterling Ivey at snivey70@knology.net. www.thefamilyy.org
Camp Ivey is an overnight camp held at Camp Lakeside in Lincolnton, GA. The purpose of this adaptive camp is to empower high functioning children with developmental disabilities by promoting independence in life- skills, relationships, physical activity and leisure, communication, and self-confidence through recreation and the arts.
Georgia-Carolina Council Boy Scouts of America
706-733-5277.
www.gacacouncil.org.
Scouting programs are available for special needs children.
Georgia and South Carolina State Parks
www.gastateparks.org.
www.southcarolinaparks.com.
Find state parks, historic sites, campgrounds and trails across the state that are accessible to people with disabilities.
The RECing Crew
336 Georgia Ave., Suite 206-A, North Augusta.
Pamela Stickler, 803-426-1284 or therecingcrew@comcast.net.
www.therecingcrew.com.
Based in North Augusta, The RECing Crew is a non-profit organization providing leisure and recreation opportunities for all ages and disabilities. Fees vary but are nominal.
The Cruisers: A social group for teens and adults that meets monthly for dances or field trips.
Alley Cats: A weekly bowling league for teens and adults in Aiken and North Augusta.
T-RecS: An adaptive basketball and baseball program for ages 6 and up. Games are played on Saturdays in the spring and fall.
ART-Ability Studio: Spend one hour on a visual art project and one hour in music held in North Augusta and Columbia County.
Jazzercise: Enjoy Jazzercise and line dancing once a month at Grace United Methodist Church in North Augusta.
The Crew Chorus: Perform musical selections in the community.
Ballet Tout le Monde: An adaptive ballet program for those 21 years of age and younger.
Dance Studio: Contemporary jazz and tap dancing for ages 6 and up.
Steps of Grace: Ballet for Special Needs
476 Flowing Wells Rd., G-2, Martinez.
912-531-2719 or stepsofgrace@aol.com.
www.stepsofgraceballet.com.
Ballet and tap classes are offered for children with special needs, ages 3 and up, at Pulse Dance Center and are taught by Mallory Lanier, a pediatric occupational therapist with more than 10 years of experience teaching ballet. Adult volunteers experienced in working with children with special needs are an integral part of the class. Students receive one-on-one assistance should they need it.
The Foundation for Therapeutic Options
706-364-6172.
www.therapyoptions.org.
A local non-profit organization that provides therapy services to children in the CSRA. It is an opportunity for children to be recognized for their abilities instead of their disabilities.
Walton Foundation for Independence
Adaptive sports, 706-434-0150.
www.waltonfoundation.net.
Wheelchair Tennis: For all ages at Newman Tennis Center.
Adaptive Golf Clinics: For ages 15 and older, March-October in Augusta and Aiken.
Walton Foundation Camp To Be Independent
706-826-5809.
haley@waltonfoundation.net
www.waltonfoundation.net/camptbi
Camp TBI is a free, safe overnight summer camp environment for children and young adults, ages 8-21, with traumatic brain injury. Camp TBI staff provide one-on-one care which increases the campers’ level of independence in the areas of personal hygiene, following a schedule, making friends appropriately and just having fun. Campers enjoy horseback riding, a ropes course, group games, sporting activities, swimming, fishing and arts and crafts along with social activities such as dances, karaoke and talent nights.
Walton Winter Weekend
706-826-5809.
www.waltonfoundation.net
Open to children ages 6-18 with physical disabilities and their families. Walton Winter Weekend takes place in February at a fully accessible campsite where each family gets their own private cabin. Activities include fishing, ropes course, rock climbing wall, hayride, movie night and much more. This two-night camp is free for each family except for a $25 application fee. Application opens October 1, 2016 on Walton Foundation’s website: www.waltonfoundation.net.
TRANSPORTATION
ADA Paratransit Van Service
1535 Fenwick St., Augusta.
706-821-1819.
www.augustaga.gov.
Curb-to-curb van service available to qualifying individuals with permanent or temporary disabilities.
Adaptive Driving Solutions
3027 Riverwatch Pkwy., Augusta.
706-765-2036.
www.accessiblevans.com.
www.augustamobility.com
Specializes in wheelchair van rentals and sales. They also modify vehicles to make them accessible and install vehicle lifts.
Georgia Department of Driver Services
2206 East View Pkwy., Conyers, Ga.
404-968-3800.
855-406-5221.
www.dds.ga.gov/drivers (Scroll down and click on Disability Parking Permits)
www.motor.etax.dor.ga.gov.
Application for a disabled parking permit is on the website.
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Disabled Parking Permit
www.scdmvonline.com.
Click on the forms and manuals link on the left side of the screen, then scroll down to the link for the disabled placard application.
EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES
Augusta ALS Clinic – Center of Excellence
Department of Neurology, EMG Lab
1120 15th St., Augusta.
706-721-4581 or 706-721-2681.
info@alsaga.org
www.alsa.org.
Offers one-on-one patient consultations, medical equipment and assistive technology. Patients and their caregivers are trained in the proper use of the assistive technology. Other services include support groups, educational programs and respite care.
Augusta Ear, Nose and Throat
720 Saint Sebastian Way, Suite 201, Augusta.
340 North Belair Rd., Evans.
706-868-5676.
www.augustaent.com.
Highly trained audiologists evaluate hearing and fit patients with appropriate hearing aids.
Augusta Orthotics and Prosthetics
2068 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta.
706-733-8878.
www.augustaprosthetics.com.
Customizes orthotic and prosthetic solutions to meet each individual’s needs, from custom-made braces to artificial limbs.
Fragile Kids Foundation
3350 Riverwood Pkwy., Suite 1400, Atlanta.
770-951-6111.
www.fragilekids.org.
Fragile Kids Foundation helps medically fragile children and their families with equipment, medical supplies and other support that is not covered by insurance and that they cannot afford.
Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics
630 13th St., Suite 200, Augusta.
706-724-2481.
www.hanger.com.
Creates prosthetic and orthotic devices to suit the needs of each client.
Midlands Prosthetics and Orthotics
1018 Druid Park Ave., Augusta. 706-737-7371.
690 Medical Park Dr., Aiken. 866-641-6007.
www.midlandsprosthetics.com.
Produces upper and lower extremity prosthetics and orthotics using state-of-the-art components and orthotics.
South Carolina Assistive Technology Program
Midlands Center, 8301 Farrow Rd., Columbia, S.C.
800-915-4522.
www.scatp.med.sc.edu.
Works to provide assistive technology to people with disabilities.
Tools for Life
512 Means St., Suite 250, Atlanta, Ga.
404-894-0541.
info@gatfl.org.
www.gatfl.org.
Georgia’s Assistive Technology Act Program aids people with disabilities in accessing assistive technology.
Walton Options STAR Durable Medical Equipment Reuse Program
948 Walton Way, Augusta.
706-724-6262.
www.waltonoptions.org/services.
Collects, cleans and repairs used assistive technology and matches it to recipients with special needs. Additional assistive technology services are also available.
FAMILY COUNSELING AND PSYCHIATRIC RESOURCES
Center for Care & Counseling
4434 Columbia Rd., Ste 203, Martinez
706-305-3137.
centerforcare@c4sra.comcastbiz.net
www.centerforcareandcounseling.org
A faith-sensitive counseling service that helps individuals and families draw on their own strengths and values to begin their healing process. Offers a wide range of counseling services to families, couples, individuals, adolescents and children.
Eastern Georgia Transitional Family Services
3643 Walton Way Ext., Building 4, Augusta.
706-364-1404.
www.tfsga.com.
Offers a range of family preservation services. Approved by the state to offer Comprehensive Child and Family Assessments (CCFA), Core services (C&A and adult) and Intensive Family Intervention Services (IFI) through Medicaid. Therapy and counseling services, and parent aid services through Homestead Family Preservation.
Family Counseling Center of the CSRA
3711 Executive Center Dr., Suite 201, Martinez.
706-868-5011.
www.fcccsra.org.
Strengthens individuals and families to achieve their own goals and to network with other agencies and institutions to improve family life.
Families Forward
3506 Professional Circle, Suite B, Martinez.
706-210-8855.
www.familiesforward.co.
Specializing in children ages 3 to early adulthood. Dara Delancy, Ph.D., and Amy Holsten, Ph.D.
Georgia Family Crisis Solutions
4145 Columbia Rd., Martinez.
706-869-7373.
www.gfcs.info.
Provides the most current, correct information concerning therapy in a manner that is nurturing, non-threatening and non-judgmental.
Mind-Body Health Services
3830 Washington Rd., Suite 317, Augusta.
706-364-5228.
www.mindbodyhealthservices.com.
The providers at Mind-Body Health Services take into account the whole person in helping him or her find the solution to deal with what is causing discomfort. Connie Stapleton, Ph.D.
SUPPORT GROUPS
Augusta Food Allergy
www.augustafoodallergy.org.
A non-profit support group that educates and supports families affected by food allergies and raises awareness in the community. Visit the website for meeting and event information.
Augusta Autism and Disability
AugustaAutismandDisability@gmail.com.
Facebook page: Augusta Autism and Disability Support Group.
Wesley United Methodist Church,
825 North Belair Road, Evans.
This meeting offers education and support for families and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders and other disabilities. Parents, educators, community support representatives, caregivers, medical representatives and anyone affected by autism spectrum disorders are invited to attend. Visit the facebook page or email for schedule.
Blood Cancer/BMT Support Group
1411 Laney Walker Blvd., 1st floor, Community Room.
706-721-1634.
www.augustahealth.org/classes-and-events.
This group provides educational and emotional support to patients, families, friends and caregivers. Meets the third Wednesday of the month, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Common Bond Parent Support Group
Geneice McCoy, 706-729-0012.
mccoyg@comcast.net.
For Augusta-area parents of children of all ages and diagnoses with challenging disabilities but remarkable perseverance and resilience. Dates and locations of meetings vary. Call for information.
JDRF Type One Nation
www.typeonenation.org.
Provides an online support group and information for parents of children with juvenile diabetes.
TRANSITION SERVICES
Accent on Independence
2606 Commons Blvd., Augusta.
706-550-0527.
Accent Inc. on Facebook
Promotes and enhances independence of adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.
Augusta Training Shop
1704 Jenkins St., Augusta.
706-738-1358.
www.augustatrainingshop.com.
A non-profit work center that employs mentally and physically challenged adults. They learn to repair, strip and refinish furniture, re-cane chairs and polish metals with the goal of performing purposeful work independently.
Center for Financial Independence and Innovation
794 Marietta St., Suite 93862, Atlanta.
404-385-7029.
www.gatfl.org/cfii.
The agency’s goal is to make independence affordable by improving the financial self-sufficiency of Georgians with disabilities.
Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
1220-D West Wheeler Pkwy., Augusta.
706-650-5600.
www.gvra.georgia.gov.
Promotes independence of people with disabilities by aiding with employment, accessibility and living accommodations.
Serenity Behavioral Health System-GA TASC Center
818 White Oak Rd., Thomson.
706-595-4027.
www.serenitybhs.com.
Provides supported vocational opportunities for people with disabilities.
South Carolina Commission for the Blind
Aiken District Office
855 York St., N.E.
803-641-7658.
www.sccb.state.sc.us.
Provides vocational rehabilitation services, independent living services and prevention services to people who are blind or visually impaired.
South Carolina Statewide Independent Living Council
136 Stonemark Lane, Suite 100, Columbia, S.C.
803-217-6244.
scsilc@scsilc.com.
www.scsilc.com.
Promotes independent living for adults with severe disabilities and their inclusion in mainstream society.
South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department
855 York St. NE, Aiken.
803-641-7630.
www.scvrd.net.
Provides an array of services to help people with disabilities find employment.
Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia
770-270-6860.
www.silcga.org.
An advocacy organization that provides resources and answers to questions regarding independent living.
Walton Options
948 Walton Way, Augusta.
706-724-6262.
www.waltonoptions.org.
Empowers people of all ages and all types of disabilities to reach their highest level of independence. The caring, trained staff work with clients to develop individualized plans and goals. Services include, but are not limited to, peer support groups, assistance with money management, assistance with nutrition and assistance with home modification and accessibility issues.
Information is provided by the organizations listed or from their website and is subject to change.
This article appears in the October 2017 issue of Augusta Family Magazine.
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