Helpful resources
Finding the right information and support can make a big difference.
Whether you are just beginning to learn about supported living or are already working with the Regional Center, there are resources available to help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
We have gathered information that may be helpful to individuals and families as they explore supported living, Regional Center services, housing, community resources, and other supports.
Our goal is to make it easier for families to find useful information and understand where to turn when they have questions.
regional center, advocacy & family support
Provides services, support, and information for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The San Diego Regional Center coordinates and provides services for people with developmental disabilities throughout San Diego and Imperial Counties. Families can learn about eligibility, available services, service coordination, and other programs and resources that may be available to them.
pass-parent advocates seeking solutions
SUPPORTING PARENTS AND FAMILIES AS THEIR CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES MOVE INTO ADULTHOOD
Provides information, education, and support to parents and families as they navigate the transition from school-age services into adulthood. Resources can help families better understand adult services, housing, employment, benefits, Regional Center services, and other important decisions that come with planning for the future.
disability rights california
PROTECTING THE RIGHTS OF CALIFORNIANS WITH DISABILITIES
Disability Rights California provides information, advocacy, and legal assistance to people with disabilities. Families can find information about their rights related to Regional Center services, housing, employment, education, healthcare, benefits, and other disability-related issues.
deaf community services of San Diego
Supporting Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Late-Deafened, and DeafBlind individuals and their families.
Deaf Community Services of San Diego provides programs, information, advocacy, and support for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Late-Deafened, or DeafBlind. Services include communication access, employment support, independent living assistance, advocacy, and other resources that help individuals participate fully in their communities.
OFFICE OF CLIENTS’ RIGHTS ADVOCACY (OCRA)
Protecting the rights of people who receive Regional Center services.
The Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy provides free advocacy and legal assistance to people with developmental disabilities who receive services from California’s Regional Centers. OCRA helps individuals and families understand their rights, resolve problems with services, prepare for meetings and hearings, and address concerns involving Regional Center services and supports.
THE ARC OF SAN DIEGO
Supporting people with disabilities in living more independent and fulfilling lives.
The Arc of San Diego provides services and programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout San Diego County. Their services include employment support, day programs, residential services, independent living support, and recreational opportunities designed to help individuals develop skills, participate in their communities, and achieve greater independence.
CONNECTING THE AUTISM COMMUNITY WITH SUPPORT, RESOURCES, AND OPPORTUNITIES
Autism Society San Diego provides information, resources, support, and opportunities for individuals with autism and their families. Their programs help people connect with others, participate in recreational and community activities, and find resources that support individuals throughout different stages of life.
villa de vida social club
Creating opportunities for friendship, social connection, and community involvement for adults with developmental disabilities.
Villa de Vida Social Club provides opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities to meet others, build friendships, participate in social activities, and become more connected with their community. Programs and events encourage independence, inclusion, and meaningful relationships.
CREATING FRIENDSHIP, INCLUSION, AND MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
Friendship Circle San Diego brings individuals with disabilities together with volunteers and community members through social activities, programs, and shared experiences.
Their programs provide opportunities to build friendships, develop social connections, participate in community activities, and enjoy a greater sense of inclusion and belonging.
211 SAN DIEGO
Connecting individuals and families with community resources and services throughout San Diego County.
211 San Diego provides free information and referrals to local health and social services. Individuals and families can find help with housing, food, healthcare, transportation, employment, financial assistance, mental health services, disability resources, and many other community needs.
BENEFITS AND GOVERNMENT RESOURCES
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES (DDS)
Supporting Californians with developmental disabilities in living independent and meaningful lives in their communities.
The California Department of Developmental Services oversees the statewide system of services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DDS works with California’s Regional Centers to help individuals and families access services, understand their rights, develop person-centered plans, and find resources that support independence and community living.
CALFRESH
Helping eligible individuals and families afford nutritious food.
CalFresh is California’s food assistance program, also known federally as SNAP. The program provides monthly benefits on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that can be used to purchase food at participating grocery stores, farmers markets, and other retailers.
MEDI-CAL
Providing free or low-cost health coverage to eligible Californians.
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid health care program. It provides health coverage for eligible individuals and families and can include doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, dental and vision care, mental health services, and other health-related services and supports.
PATH-NOW
Connecting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to services and providers throughout California.
Path-Now is a free online resource that helps individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities, families, caregivers, and service coordinators find and connect with service providers. Users can search for services based on their individual needs and preferences and connect with providers throughout California.
FLOURISHING FAMILIES – SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCE FOUNDATION OF SAN DIEGO
Connecting individuals and families with special needs to resources, services, and opportunities throughout San Diego and Imperial Counties.
Flourishing Families is an annual resource guide published by the Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego. The guide helps families and caregivers of children and adults with special needs find local service providers, programs, support organizations, educational resources, health resources, recreational opportunities, and other helpful services.