Non-profit granting wishes to qualifying children under age 21 who have been diagnosed with a life-threatening disorder. Call for program details.
Serves: Students ages 3-21, individuals, and families.
Agency providing services for individuals with autism and other neurological disabilities. Services include intervention training and support, customized and individualized learning options through the Ohio Autism Scholarship Program, and independent supportive living. The Beyond Ability Matters program provides housing, educational experiences like preparing for a job interview, and community outings. Services are offered by trained and experienced care providers.
425 Metro Place North, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 956-1229
abilitymattersohio.com
Beyond Ability Matters: beyondabilitymatters.com
Non-profit serving children, veterans, and adults with disabilities through outdoor and therapeutic recreation and education across Ohio. They support participants at all skill levels with adaptive equipment and instructors for downhill skiing, kayaking, cycling, paddling, sailing, amputee soccer, water skiing, and more. Their Bikes to Go program helps children and adults obtain an adaptive bike. Veterans attend for free, program fees for others are minimal and no one is turned away for inability to pay. Scholarships are also available.
6000 Harriott Drive, Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 389-3921
adaptivesportsconnection.org
Offers several summer programs for kids and adults with any disability. The children’s overnight camp is geared towards children with disabilities aged 6-17. Several day camps are offered for campers ages 6-21. Adults can participate in Adult Summer Camp and weekend retreats throughout the year. They also offer respite care for days off school.
4460 Rex Lake Drive, Akron, Ohio 44319
(330) 644-4512
gotcamp.org/akron-rotary-camp
Inclusive art organization combatting ableism in the art world. They host accessible art shows, showcase and help sell works, provide professional development, and help artists with disabilities apply for grants.
77 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(380) 799-6253
artpossibleohio.org
Their One-to-One Friendship program creates social inclusion and friendships for people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities at middle and high schools, colleges, and online across Ohio. The Leadership Development program empowers people with and without IDD to become leaders, public speakers and advocates.
PO Box 45353, Westlake, Ohio 44145
(614) 928-3383
bestbuddies.org/ohio
Customizable ebook library for people with dyslexia, learning disabilities, visual impairments, physical disabilities, and other reading barriers. They operate under exception to US copyright law, allowing a huge collection of copyrighted titles to be made available for readers using a tablet, computer, assistive device, or smartphone. Schools and students can access for free, individuals/adults pay a yearly fee. Individuals must register as members and provide proof of qualifying disability. Find program details and register on their website.
(650) 352-0198
bookshare.org
Serves individuals with Down Syndrome by providing engaging activities that help athletic, social, and emotional development. Athletes are partnered with volunteer Buddies to provide support, develop friendships, and reinforce the coaches’ instructions. Coaches are trained to implement the curriculum specifically created for athletes with Down Syndrome. Programs include tennis, pickleball, fitness, Zumba, and summer camp. The Columbus location offers a Life Skills program for students ages 14+ to learn skills like cooking, finance, and professional communication.
8000 Walton Parkway, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 579-8808
buddyupforlife.org
Hosts a variety of programs for individuals ages 6-29, with a focus on those living with ASD, ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, and other neurodiversities. Programs include summer camps, weekend respite programs for ages 8-18, Life Skills camp for ages 18-29 to grow independent living skills, and outdoor experiential learning courses.
1077 Township Road 2916, Perrysville, Ohio 44864
(419) 938-7151
nuhop.org/camp-nuhop
Offers free summer camps and family retreat experiences for seriously ill children, in a safe, medically supervised environment. Medical care is provided by volunteer physicians and nurses coordinated by a full-time medical director. They provide camps for kids with asthma, cancer, cerebral palsy, diabetes, blood disorders, muscular dystrophy, sickle cell, spina bifida and more.
1501 Burnley Road, Scottsville, Kentucky 42164
(270) 618-2900
courageouskids.org
Provides a place for families affected by pediatric cancer to enjoy a private weekend of family time, for free. The ADA-compliant house is available to families with children in treatment for cancer or who have been in treatment within the past two years. Families can enjoy the Treehouse, Schoolhouse/Art Cabin, games, and golf course to explore the grounds. Reservations can be made online.
Mailing Address: PO Box 499, Prospect, Ohio 43342
(740) 360-4273
chapelhillhouse.org
Every child deserves a birthday cake. This group of volunteers bakes / buys and delivers cakes and cupcakes free of charge to Columbus children on their birthday. Parents and guardians can submit a request for their children on the website. The group provides, on average, 100 birthday cakes per month to Columbus area kids.
columbuscakecelebrations.com
Provides children and young adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to learn to skate and play ice hockey in an environment adapted to each athlete’s ability level. Anyone regardless of age, sex, developmental disability, or skill level, who is physically able to play, may join. Practices are held at the Ohio Health Chiller Ice Rinks including Dublin, North, and Easton.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3243 Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 284-6104
ccyha.org/program/special-hockey/1024
CML is an award-winning library and amazing resource in the community. With 23 locations throughout Franklin County, they provide a lot more than just books, including lots of free online resources, specialized programs, and community events.
(614) 645-2275
Locations: columbuslibrary.org/library-locations
columbuslibrary.org
Sponsors recreational activities that are modified to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. Families can fill out an Inclusion Support Request online and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist will work with them on accommodations necessary to join classes at one of their many Community Centers. They also offer inclusive summer camps, adaptive sports club, and more.
1755 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 645-5648
columbus.gov/theraputicrecreation
Inclusion Support Request: columbusrecparks.com/wellness/therapeutic-recreation/inclusion-support
Science center offering hands-on STEAM education for all, through interactive exhibits and programs. Families can purchase tickets or memberships to enjoy their live shows, special events, opportunities to volunteer, resources for educators, and more. They offer a special Family Access Membership that is available for families who get WIC, EBT, or Ohio Medicaid. They also offer Sensory Bags and a Sensory Environment Map to help individuals with sensory needs enjoy their visit. The COSI Connects website has lots of STEAM information, videos, and activities for families and educators.
333 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 228-2674
cosi.org
cosi.org/connects
Non-profit serving the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind community. Services include ASL classes, C-Print, interpreting, case management, early intervention for ages 0-3, employment services, adaptive equipment programs, youth mentoring programs and summer camps.
Serves: Children 4 and up with special needs. Find specific physical requirements on their website.
Therapeutic riding center providing low-cost summer camps and equine therapeutic riding to children and individuals with a disability. Horses provide a special format for individuals to connect and socialize with the animal and each other.
(937) 935-6545
1797 State Route 47, East Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311
discoveryriders.org
Supports music therapy, research, and provides live music experiences for wounded veterans and children or adults with life-threatening illnesses. Nominate yourself of someone you know with the gift of attending a live music concert for free. Go online for eligibility details and contact information.
doitforthelove.org
Offers resources, information, programs and services for families with Down Syndrome in Central Ohio. They have several support groups for parents, counseling services, and a financial assistance program. They have regular events for all ages, such as play groups, arts and recreation, and virtual cooking classes for people with Down Syndrome. You can also request a hospital care package or new parent package for a family through their website.
510 East North Broadway, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 263-6020
dsaco.net
Center offering equine-therapy and horse-assisted learning experiences to enrich lives. Programs include therapeutic riding for children and adults with special needs, Military Connections for military personnel and veterans, youth social-emotional learning, vocational training for young adults with special needs, and more.
1416 Reynoldsburg-New Albany Road, Blacklick, Ohio 43004
(614) 864-9500
dreamsonhorseback.org
Serves: children and adults with developmental disabilities
Provides comprehensive health services for children and adults living with disabilities. Services include early childhood education, adult day services, in-home care, referral services, and outpatient therapies. They also offer afterschool programs and summer day camps for children.
Serve those living with epilepsy and seizures, as well as their families and caregivers. They offer counseling services, art therapy, scholarships, summer camps, residential group homes, virtual and in-person support groups, referrals to community resources, community education, and more. Their website also has helpful information about understanding epilepsy and joining clinical trials.
Provides a list of accessible dining, transportation, activities, hotels and other resources in and around Columbus that have been reviewed by disability inclusion experts. For specific questions about accessibility at a particular location, contact the location (or source of transportation) for the most up-to-date details.
(614) 221-6623
experiencecolumbus.com/plan-your-visit/accessibility
Non-profit providing recreational fishing opportunities for all regardless of their age, race, gender, or disability. Their annual fishing event is an opportunity for people with disabilities to connect in community and participate fully in the world of fishing.
PO Box 1499, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 383-8851
fhnbcentralohio.org
Provides a free outdoor adventure camp experience for children with serious illnesses ages 7-21, and their families. They provide a medically safe environment with a staff of volunteer healthcare professionals, and camp activities like crafts, campfires, archery, swimming, and more. Family Camp is open to families of children with a wide variety of diagnoses such as cancer, cystic fibrosis, developmental differences, and more. They also have virtual camp experiences, camps for Mental Health diagnoses, and Siblings. Professionals can find volunteer and Child Life Practicum opportunities.
5260 State Route 95, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338
(419) 751-7077
flyinghorsefarms.org
Uses golf to improve quality of life for people with disabilities and neurological conditions. Their program is for people of all ages, disabilities and economic backgrounds. Participants meet with a recreational and physical therapist and are provided adaptive equipment if needed.
(614) 566-4242
ohiohealth.com/forehope
Teenage and young-adult volunteers are paired with children with special needs and their families, and together they participate in one-on-one and group activities. Parents and families get much needed respite as well as the opportunity to socialize with other families. Learn more and sign up on their website.
6220 East Dublin-Granville Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 570-4014
friendscolumbus.com
Goodwill Stores sell thrift clothing, furniture, art, and more to support their job training programs. Programs include Roads2Work commercial driver training, STNA and medical coding, technology classes, AMP for young adults 18-24 years old, and 1:1 career coaching. They also provide person-centered, employment-focused services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) including Adult Day and Residential services, mental health support, and a Columbus art studio.
671 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
Main Office: (614) 294-5181
Career Coaching: (614) 966-9283
goodwillcolumbus.org
Offers faith-based mentoring for youth ages 14-21 to experience fellowship and mentorship at various middle schools, high schools, and colleges in Central Ohio. They offer several groups for youth with special needs. The YoungLives program serves teen moms who are pregnant or parenting through mentorship, community, and a life with Christ. Go online for additional contact information and to get registered.
1200 Chambers Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 547-3167
YoungLives: (614) 329-3994
greatercolumbusoh.younglife.org
Buddy Ball is a baseball league that provides opportunities for all persons to play baseball regardless of ability, specifically providing opportunities for children and adults with developmental or physical disabilities. The season runs from May through June, and each player has a Buddy to assist them with whatever help they need to play the game. Fees are minimal, and financial scholarships are available. Visit the website for contact information.
3400 Ventura Boulevard, Grove City, Ohio 43123
grovecitybuddyball.com/home
Serves: Children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Provides care and support services in Central and Northeast Ohio. They offer several levels of care including recreation programs, day support programs, intermediate care homes, supported living, and residential care.
769 Brooksedge Boulevard, Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 486-4361
hattielarlham.org
Provides therapeutic, recreational, and employment programs for children and adults with disabilities or critical illnesses. They are known for their adapted Go-Karting program (therapeutic karting), which enables severely disabled individuals to drive a vehicle on an outdoor course. They also offer 3-D printing classes and an adaptive equipment lab for development of inclusive technology.
308 Reynolds Street, West Liberty, Ohio 43357
(614) 800-3310
unlimitedboundaries.org
Provides quality learning opportunities in recreational activities for individuals with disabilities ages 3 and up. They collaborate with local non-profits to host iCan Bike, Swim, and Dance camps in the spring and summer. Use the website to contact the organization or to find a program near you.
PO Box 541, Paoli, Pennsylvania 19301
icanshine.org/programs/camp-locations
Athletic recreation center in Central Ohio offering a variety of classes, training opportunities, and competitions for youth, preschool and up. Classes include gymnastics, tumbling, martial arts, and HUGS gymnastics for special needs youth. They also host a preschool open gym, special events, and summer camp. They partner with Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine to provide specialized athletic training.
8185 Business Way, Plain City, Ohio 43064
(614) 733-0818
integritygym.com
Volunteer organization serving kids in Northwest Columbus. They host several youth soccer programs, including Kiwanis Soccer Buddies for children K-6 with special needs. They also volunteer for habitat restoration at Upper Arlington parks, host Aktion Club for adults with disabilities, and award college scholarships to high school students with or without a documented disability. Find program details and contact information online.
northwestkiwanis.com
Serves: Adults with developmental disabilities.
Adult day service provider at multiple Columbus locations. They provide supported living services, nursing, education, recreation, and more.
Grants the wishes of children diagnosed with critical illnesses. Children must be between 2-18 years old and have not received a wish from another wish-granting organization. Children, parents, family members, and professionals can refer a child by completing the form on their local chapter website.
2545 Farmers Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 923-0555 or (877) 206-9474
Chapter website: wish.org/oki
National website: wish.org
Provides adaptive bikes to children with special needs so they can build critical core strength, boost confidence, and nurture friendships. Families must apply online and complete their application process to receive a free bike.
8305 Tom Drive, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70815
(225) 456-3505 or (225) 928-5569
mclindonfamilyfoundation.org
The Miracle League Field is a fully accessible field for athletes who are disabled. The custom-designed venue eliminates barriers for children who are visually impaired, wheelchair- or walker-restricted, or who use any type of mobile device. The Saturday League allows children with disabilities ages 3-18 to play baseball alongside a volunteer Buddy. The Night League is for teenagers and young adults over the age of 16 to play adaptive baseball without a Buddy. Find directions and registration details online.
Miracle League Field: 6259 Cosgray Road, Dublin, Ohio 43016
Mailing Address: PO Box 1303, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 526-6500
miracleleaguecentraloh.org
Health organization serving people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases. The website has great information on various diseases and treatments, a searchable directory to find care providers across the country, resources on research and joining a clinical study, and community education materials. They host an annual summer camp for kids and young adults with neuromuscular disease at no cost to families, with in-person and virtual options. Families can call the Resource Center for one-to-one support and help finding resources.
1016 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois 60607
Corporate Office: (800) 572 1717
Resource Center: (833) 275-6321
mda.org
The NADC is a leading consultant in the arts and disability community, promoting inclusion and professional development for artists with disabilities. Their website has many resources for designing accessible performances, exhibits, and marketing materials. They also have a directory of resources searchable by state for artists with disabilities to find adaptive equipment, legal help, and more.
760 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, California 90095
semel.ucla.edu/nadc
Families and school personnel who have at least one student with a disability can sign up for free membership to access the media center, which has tons of great described and captioned videos with ASL pop-up tools for an accessible media experience. Topics include Deaf life, literature, art classes, science documentaries, and more. Their website also has great educational tools for parents and educators.
(864) 585-1778 or (800) 237-6213
dcmp.org
A resource for information on physical activity, health promotion, and disability, serving persons with physical, sensory and cognitive disability across the lifespan. Their website has helpful information on disability and aging, adaptive physical activity, and inclusive guidance for community health organizations. They also have a state-by-state directory of accessible parks, adaptive equipment suppliers, and physical activity programs for people with disabilities.
3810 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35209
(866) 866-8896
nchpad.org
Each pass covers entrance fees at lands managed by the National Park Service and US Fish & Wildlife Service and standard amenity fees (day use fees) at lands managed by the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and US Army Corps of Engineers. Free Interagency Passes are available for 4th graders, senior citizens, US military families, and individuals with permanent disabilities. Find program details and park locations on their website.
(202) 208-6843
nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
Provides individualized treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults with physical disabilities. Services include injury evaluation, rehabilitation, and adaptive athletic training.
Dublin Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center
5680 Venture Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 355-6000
nationwidechildrens.org/adaptive-sports-medicine-program
Community-based book club program for adolescents and adults with Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. A small group meets with trained facilitators at bookstores, cafés, and public libraries throughout Franklin County. Anyone can participate, whatever their reading or ability level. Members experience an inclusive community focused on reading to learn together and build friendships, rather than learning to read.
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 685-6718
Franklin County: nisonger.osu.edu/adolescent/adolescent-clinics-services/next-chapter-book-club
National Website: nextchapterbookclub.org
Program for youth and adults who have a physical disability limiting their ability to play ice hockey in a standing position. Players can propel themselves on the sled like a manual wheelchair, or are assigned an experienced “pusher” to help them navigate on the ice. They have teams in Columbus and Bowling Green Ohio. Contact the organization through their website for details.
(740) 587-3659
ohiosledhockey.org
This week-long summer career leadership training program is for 11th and 12th grade high school students with disabilities. Participants learn about choosing a career, available resources and assistive technology, develop a personalized leadership plan, and connect with peers. Forums are held in Athens, Canton, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo Ohio.
614-809-1513
ohiosilc.org/youth-leadership-forum
Serves: Children, adolescents, and adults with developmental disabilities
Serves individuals with developmental disabilities by building on the foundation of physical activity and life skills (PALS). They offer adult day services, residential services, educational and vocational services, Art Outside the Lines art studio, and psychiatry and mental health services. Age and eligibility requirements vary depending on the service and location. Call for details.
Professional organization promoting equine-assisted services. Their website is a great source of information about equine therapy and standards, and they provide credentialing for professionals. Families can use the website to find programs across the country based on location or medical condition. They also offer scholarships to cover the cost of equine programs. Their programs serve at risk youth, military veterans, individuals with developmental disabilities, and more.
PO Box 33150 Denver, Colorado 80233
(800) 369-7433
pathintl.org/
A club providing recreational sports specifically designed for children and young adults with special needs. RallyPlayers register for a 4-8 week season focused on one sport. RallyPlayers are matched with a RallyPal, and they participate in practices and scrimmages together. Programs are based at several Ohio colleges and universities. Find program details and register online.
(732) 391-2282
rallycapsports.org/getinvolved
Serves: Children, Teens, Adults, and Families with developmental disabilities and health concerns, Ages 5-23 depending on the program.
Provides a camping experience for individuals with developmental disabilities and health concerns. They offer year-round weekend respite camps, summer and winter residential camps, and summer day camps for children and adults. They also offer specialized camps for individuals with autism, Prader-Willi syndrome, military families and more. Contact the organization directly for pricing information, scholarships are available.
7700 Piper Road, Ashley, Ohio 43003
(740) 548-7006
recreationunlimited.org
2024 Camp Dates: recreationunlimited.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2024-dates.pdf
Serves individuals ages 5+ cognitive and physical disabilities such as autism, PTSD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and others, through therapeutic horse riding. Programs include adaptive/therapeutic riding, independent riding, and Shane’s Calvary for veterans and their families.
7908 Myers Road, Centerburg, Ohio 43011
(740) 625-9324
shanecenter.org
Organization advancing inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports, health education, and leadership programs throughout Ohio. They have a Young Athletes program for children 2-7 years old, year-round sports for children and adults with disabilities, free health screenings, and leadership training courses in addition to their Olympic-style sporting events. Contact the organization for program details and locations.
921 Eastwind Drive, Westerville, Ohio 43081
Northwest Ohio: (567) 208-9119
Northeast, South Central, and Southwest Ohio: (614) 239-7050
sooh.org
Free sports fantasy camps designed and adapted for special needs kids ages 8 and up. Camps take place at collegiate or professional athletic training facilities and are taught by collegiate athletes, along with current and former professional athletes. Camps include soccer, football, golf, baseball/softball, tennis, and basketball.
(614) 432-6627
specialskillssports.com
Provides no-cost baseball and softball helmets with face masks, sports goggles for basketball and soccer, and prescription sports goggles for any activity. Items are available for kids ages 4-18. Parents can find eligibility details and apply online.
Ohio Ophthalmological Society
5115 Parkcenter Avenue, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 527-6799
superspecs.org
Uses movement, music, and art to bring kids together and provide an enriching experience. They offer year-round 6-week sessions, small groups, and summer camp for ages 1-21, as well as adult groups. Each session is a blend of music and visual art experiences that actively involve children of all abilities. Find program details and sign up online.
129 Orangewick Drive North, Lewis Center, Ohio 43035
(937) 645-7641
theartofmusicllc.com
Community based, non-residential Center for Independent Living serving individuals of any age, with any disability, who are residents of Franklin, Delaware, Union, and Licking, counties. They help consumers develop individualized Independent Living Plans and support them in reaching their goals. Services include peer mentoring, transportation, help with housing, employment, and benefits. Empower Youth is a virtual support group for ages 14-24.
4400 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 575-8055
disabilityempowerment.net
Community-based training and team placement for young athletes with special needs. Children ages 4-19 play soccer in a safe, fun, environment focused on development, training, and meaningful participation rather than on competition. Registration for the Fall season is in July, while the Spring season registration is in February, and there is a small registration fee.
1503 Galloway Road, Galloway, Ohio 43119
(614) 664-9250
hosa-soccer.org/programs/tops-soccer-for-special-needs-players
Adaptive fitness program for people with physical, neurological, and developmental challenges, and their caregivers, to achieve optimal health and fitness. They certify athletic trainers, gyms, and recreation centers in the program. They provide personal training and group fitness classes at their partner gyms in Central Ohio. Individuals can call or go online for an intake meeting where Valemee will get to know you and your goals, perform an assessment, and find a gym near you.
(614) 937-8309
valemee.com
Serves: Single Adults & Families, Youth & Teens
Hosts programs for men, women and children of all ages covering health and fitness, swimming, age-specific activities, childcare, summer camps, juvenile justice, housing, and more.
Administrative Office: 1907 Leonard Ave, Columbus, OH 43219
(614) 389-4409
YMCA Locations & Contact Info: ymcacolumbus.org/locations
YMCA Columbus Website: ymcacolumbus.org