Illinois Respite Coalition

08/24/2026

One of the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities’ (ICDD) new investments is focused on expanding supportive housing opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and their families. The Supportive Housing 2.0 Project will provide DD service providers with training, webinars, housing tours, and technical assistance to help develop and expand supportive housing for people with developmental disabilities across Illinois. This project aims to turn the growing demand for supportive housing into more community-based housing opportunities for people with DD.
Learn more here:

The Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities is proud to announce three new investments designed to strengthen self-advocacy, increase access to participation, and expand community-based housing opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and their families.

08/21/2026

The Arc of Illinois’ Speak Up and Speak Out Summit gives people with developmental disabilities the opportunity to build leadership skills and speak directly with legislators and decision-makers.

is a 3-day conference of speakers that will show people with disabilities that they have a voice and that they have choices in what they do with their lives. We are committed to empowering persons with disabilities to reach their highest potential in education, employment, and community living.  

08/20/2026

A new roadmap for behavioral health in Illinois. The Care Compass focuses on increasing access, strengthening the workforce, and improving coordination so individuals and families can get the support they need.

“The Care Compass: A Strategic Framework to Transform Behavioral Health Access and Integration” sets forth vision for path ahead

08/19/2026

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vu81vNNEEDI
IDD Navigator is always being updated with new resources that you can sort by age, service type, region and more so you can find exactly what you need. In addition, it contains helpful information about how to get started navigating the IDD system for individuals and families that may be new to seeking out support, along with other articles and helpful tips.

No matter who or where you are on the IDD journey, we want to make sure you get the support you need. These emails will make sure you stay up-to-date on what’s new and helpful.

Learn how to navigate your IDD journey!The journey for people wit...

08/18/2026

Respite services are planned or unplanned care for a child or adult with a special need in order to provide temporary relief to the family caregiver of that child or adult. Services are provided to children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) who are not enrolled in or receiving any Home and Community Based Waiver-funded services (HCBS) through any waivers operated by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Developmental Disabilities (IDHS, DDD) or any other State Agency (Department on Aging, Division of Rehabilitation Services, Division of Specialized Care for Children, etc.).

Respite services provide relief and reduce the stress of the regular caregiver of an individual with I/DD and help to maintain the individual in their home and reduce the need for long-term services and supports. Services are provided for a portion of the day while the caregiver(s) takes time for routine or special activities (i.e., vacations, shopping, recreation, family events or celebrations, and regular or emergency medical care, to name a few).

IDHS funds many providers throughout Illinois who offer respite services in one or more of the following categories: Group, In-Home, Residential, Voucher Respite and the Lifespan Respite Program.

Updated Resources:

Respite services are planned or unplanned care for a child or adult with a special need in order to provide temporary relief to the family caregiver of that child or adult. Services are provided to children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) who are not enrolled in or rec...

08/17/2026

Crisis Nursery of Effingham County
Parenting is a full-time job, but that doesn’t mean you stop being you. Your needs, your rest, your mental health—they matter.
Crisis Nursery is here to support you, not just as a parent, but as a whole person. Whether you need a break, a listening ear, or a safe place for your child during a tough time—we’re here. Because caring for yourself is one of the best ways to care for your child. 💙217-342-3000 ext. 1

08/14/2026

BIG NEWS for disability rights in Illinois.
Governor JB Pritzker signed House Bill 862 into law, creating the Department of Disability Advocacy and Guardianship. Starting July 1, 2027, IGAC becomes a cabinet-level department with three divisions dedicated to guardianship, legal advocacy, and disability rights protections.
For nearly 50 years, this agency has stood up for people with disabilities across Illinois. This is a recognition of that work — and a commitment to keep doing it.
Read the full press release here: https://gac.illinois.gov/.../IGAC_HB862_Press_Release...

08/13/2026

Young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve access to stable, supportive housing as they transition into adulthood.
Together for Youth with IDD is focused on ensuring children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Illinois have access to safe, stable, and continuous residential supports — before and after age 22.
For many families, the transition to adulthood can create uncertainty around housing and long-term support. Together for Youth with IDD works to raise awareness, build partnerships, and advocate for solutions that help ensure individuals with disabilities have places to live where they can thrive.
This work is about creating systems that support independence, dignity, and community for people with IDD.
Learn more about the mission and ongoing work:
https://bit.ly/4m2Ogvt

08/12/2026

IATP will once again be at the Illinois State Fair this year! They will be in the Illinois Building on Thursday, August 13th, through Sunday, August 23rd. Stop by our booth to see various assistive technology devices we will have on display.
Along with the booth, IATP staff members will be presenting in the lobby of the Illinois Building throughout the week. IATP staff will also be in the Governor’s tent one day highlighting assistive technology.
To learn more about the events, dates, and times visit https://iltech.org/.../iatp-at-the-illinois-state-fair-2026/

08/11/2026

Tips to keep your loved one safe in extreme heat:
⚠ Pay attention at night
🟣 Prepare for behavioral changes
🥤 Stay hydrated
🏡 Stay indoors and out of the sun
For more tips visit: alz.org/emergency