work also includes 6 Multi-disciplinary
Centers who focus on in-depth evaluations
and several statewide projects offering specialized
services. fdlrs.org
Florida Inclusion Network (FIN)
FIN collaborates with all districts and schools
to provide customized services and supports
ensuring all students with disabilities have the
same educational, social, and future opportunities
as their peers.
floridainclusionnetwork.com
Hillsborough County Government
Resources, Programs and information include:
Americans with Disabilities Act, Notice
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act,
Special Needs Disaster Assistance, Adaptive
Sports and Recreation (Camp Sparks,
County Special Olympics, Para Olympics
etc.), Service Animals, Special Needs Disaster
Assistance and more.
www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/government/
departments/ada
Special Needs Ministries
Churches often welcome all people, including
those with disabilities, into church life and
ministry. It’s a great place to get connected
in your community and to receive support.
Churches also often host respite programs like
Nathaniel’s Hope Buddy Break. Buddy Break
is a FREE Parents’ Day Out/respite program
where kids with all types of special needs
(VIP kids) have FUN while their parents get a
BREAK. www.nathanielshope.org/our-programs/
buddy-break for more information.
SSI Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI program pays benefits to disabled adults
and children who have limited income and
resources. ssa.gov/ssi
State & County Education
Serving as the single repository of education
data from school districts, state and community
colleges, universities, and independent
postsecondary institutions. Take the Exceptional
Education Parent Survey or view school
options with lists of McKay Schools, Gardiner
Scholarship Providers and other educational
choices. fldoe.org
The Family Café
The Family Café exists to provide individuals
with disabilities and their families with
an opportunity for collaboration, advocacy,
friendship and empowerment by serving as
a facilitator of communication, a space for
dialogue and a source of information.
familycafe.net
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
Federal-state program that helps people who
have physical or mental disabilities get or keep
a job. VR is committed to helping people
with disabilities find meaningful careers.
Services include Transition Youth Resources,
Career Resources, Supported Employment,
Ticket to Work, Independent Living Program
and more. If you qualify VR may assist with
assessments for college accommodations or
to help identify employment opportunities to
best meet your needs. rehabworks.org
Tampa Bay — Winter/Spring 2019-20 5
/fdlrs.org
/floridainclusionnetwork.com
/ssi
/fldoe.org
/familycafe.net
/rehabworks.org
