OCASE recognizes the importance of information sharing and networking among the people we support and their families. We also recognize that you may not know where to turn to get direction and guidance.

Children with special needs may have been born with a syndrome, terminal illness, profound cognitive impairment, or serious psychiatric problems. Other children may have special needs that involve struggling with learning disabilities, food allergies, developmental delays, or panic attacks.

The designation “children with special needs” is for children who may have challenges which are more severe than the typical child and could possibly last a lifetime. These children will need extra support, and additional services. They will have distinct goals, and will need added guidance and help meeting academic, social, emotional, and sometimes medical milestones.  Persons with special needs may need lifetime guidance and support while dealing with everyday issues such as housing, employment, social involvement, and finances.

We want to help you get connected to the many resource that exist across the area. Within these organizations are self-advocates, parents and family members just like you, who have experienced similar circumstances and are willing to share their experiences.

To that end, our goal is to help parents of children with disabilities, understand the special education laws and policies. We want to assistance in getting the information to you, to help your child.