Resource Directory /

General Resources

  • Affordable Connectivity Program

    The Affordable Connectivity Program(ACP) is an FCC benefit program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more. Eligible households can receive:

    Up to $30 per month discount for internet service, including associated equipment rentals such as a modem
    Up to $75 per month discount for households on qualifying tribal lands
    A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet or desktop computer (with a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50)

    ACP is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household. The FCC provides a list of frequently asked questions and enrollment information for families.

  • Affordable Health Insurance

    Affordable Health Insurance is a patient resource center that helps individuals learn about a wide variety of health insurance options. Information is available for each state and includes Affordable Care Act (ACA) enrollment deadlines, subsidies and how you can qualify for Medicare, Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The site also provides information on:

    Different types of health plans
    Comparisons
    Provider reviews
    Benefits/coverage/specialized support for vulnerable youth with mental health issues
    Other resources

  • AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois – Caregiver Support

    Caregivers needing support can find a variety of help at AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois.  Several programs offer respite, legal services, counseling, financial help, training programs and more.

    Caregivers in DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties may be eligible.

  • Alcoholics Anonymous(AA) Illinois

    Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a statewide recovery resource devoted to supporting individuals throughout Illinois. AA Illinois helps people struggling with alcoholism find local help and take the next step to overcoming alcohol addiction. AA Illinois provides a localized support system and statewide meetings to help members who need the extra support to stop drinking and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

    Individuals may also get information and help for alcohol addiction by calling (800) 839-1686.

  • Alliance of Therapy Dogs

    Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) is a volunteer organization of dedicated therapy dog handlers and their dogs on a mission of sharing smiles and joy. ATD offers an international registry of certified therapy dog teams, testing, certification, support and insurance for members who volunteer with their dogs in animal-assisted activities. ATD can also help facilities such as schools or nursing homes start a therapy dog program. Its website includes:

    • Information on what makes a good therapy dog
    • Steps for becoming an ATD member and membership application
    • A video showing testing and how to handle your dog to interact with others
    • Search tool for finding a tester/observer near you

  • Amanda Test Resource

    This is an auto-updated description

  • AMC Sensory Friendly Films

    AMC Theatres has partnered with the Autism Society to offer sensory-friendly movie showings on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month.

    Participating theaters are located throughout Illinois in areas including Chicago, Edwardsville, Peoria, Quincy, Mount Vernon, and Springfield.

    The Sensory Friendly Film program allows families to see a movie with lights on, lower sound and the freedom to get up, dance, walk, shout or sing. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes.

  • Ameren Illinois Economic Hardship Recovery Program

    Ameren Illinois’ Economic Hardship Recovery Program provides information on various energy assistance programs, payment options and tips on lowering your utility bill.

    This step-by-step resource includes information on:

    Assistance paying your energy bills, applying for financial assistance and eligibility guidelines
    Exploring payment options
    Tips for lowering future energy bills and energy efficiency programs

    Click here for a list of assistance programs statewide, including Warm Neighbors Cool Friends (WNCF), a program designed to help moderate-income seniors and families who have temporarily experienced a hardship but may not meet the guidelines of government programs.

    For more information, contact Ameren Illinois at (800) 755-5000 (residential customers) or (800) 232-2477 (business customers).

  • American Foundation for the Blind

    The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) offers information and resources for children and adults who are blind or visually impaired. AFB resources include:

    Research and initiatives
    Publications
    Digital inclusion and talent lab internships and apprenticeships
    Braille and technology resources

  • American Sign Language Classes from the Oklahoma School for the Deaf

    The Oklahoma School for the Deaf (OSD) offers free, beginner-level conversational American Sign Language (ASL) classes. The self-paced, eight-lesson courses are taught by OSD’s ASL Specialist. Registration is open to anyone who wants to learn ASL. The non-credit courses do not count toward professional development hours or continuing education units.