South Florida Special Needs Resource Guide - From respite care to rehabilitation services, our annual guide highlights a wide range of local agencies and services to assist families with special needs.
Published: June 26, 2018
2-1-1 Broward
A free, confidential referral and crisis helpline. The hotline and website connect parents to comprehensive resources, including assistance for children with developmental and physical disabilities. Call 2-1-1 or 954-537-0211,
or see http://www.211-broward.org
ADHD Assessment, Consultation & Treatment Program
Provides assessment, testing and treatment for children and adolescents 2-22 years who are demonstrating behavioral issues consistent with ADHD. Nova Southeastern University Center for Psychological Studies, Maltz Building, 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-262-5730 http://www.nova.edu/healthcare/psychology/adhd.html
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Agency for Health Care Administration
Helps Medicaid consumers navigate the Medicaid system. Provides a list of doctors and specialists but does not determine eligibility. 1400 W. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 888-419-3456 http://www.ahca.myflorida.com
Agency for Persons with Disabilities
Supports people with developmental disabilities in living, learning and working in their communities. Provides Medicaid waiver services. 201 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-467-4218 http://www.apd.myflorida.com
Ann Storck Center
Developmental preschool serving children ages 3 months to 5 years with special needs.
Full-time nurse, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech/language pathology, family support, and more.1790 SW 43 Way, Fort Lauderdale, 954-584-8000 http://www.annstorckcenter.org
ARC Broward
Support for those with developmental challenges and their families. Includes parent-training programs, full-day preschool, therapy and developmental training, summer camps, after-school programs, respite care and more. 10250 NW 53 St., Sunrise, 954-746-9400 http://www.arcbroward.com
Autism Society of America, Broward Chapter
Support, local resources and advocacy for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. 954-465-4700
http://www.asabroward.org
Baudhuin Preschool at NSU’s Mailman Segal Center
Located on the main campus of Nova Southeastern University, the preschool is an internationally recognized model for children with autism spectrum disorder. Offered in partnership with Broward County Public Schools at the Jim & Jan Moran Family Center Village, 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-262-6900 http://www.nova.edu/humandevelopment/earlylearning/baudhuin/index.html
Best Buddies
Pairs people with intellectual disabilities in one-to-one friendships with middle and high school students. Also offers a program for adults. 3450 Lakeside Dr., Miramar, 954-449-6522 http://www.bestbuddies.org/florida
Best Day Foundation
Provides children and young adults with special needs the opportunity to build confidence and self-esteem through adventure activities including surfing, body boarding, kayaking and more. 1-800-309-2815 http://www.bestdayfoundation.org
Broward Children’s Center
This non-profit center offers a wide range of programs, including licensed home health care, medical daycare, developmental preschools for special needs and typical children, in-home and facility-based respite care, and more. Also offers social services referrals and counseling, education for medically complex children, medical transportation, and physical, occupational and speech therapy. 200 SE 19 Ave., Pompano Beach, 954-649-7362 http://www.bcckids.org
Broward County Parks and Recreation
Broward County’s parks department offers extensive programs for those with physical, developmental, intellectual, visual and hearing disabilities. Activities include social gatherings, tandem biking for the visually impaired,
bowling, yoga and more. 954-357-8170; TTY Line: 954-537-2844 http://www.broward.org/parks
Broward County Public Schools
There are many resources available through the public schools, including family counseling, exceptional student education, Homebound program, psychological services and hearing impaired services. To learn more, see
http://www.browardschools.com
Broward Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization
This group aims to enhance the lives of individuals with Down Syndrome by helping them reach their full potential through family support, education and social activities. 9900 W. Sample Rd., Coral Springs, 954-825-0400 http://www.bgcdownsyndrome.org
Broward Regional Health Planning Council
Provides a wide variety of programs to support families, including financially assisted childcare
to eligible families of children with special needs. 200 Oakwood Lane, Hollywood, 954-561-9681 http://www.brhpc.org
Cadenza Center for Psychotherapy and the Arts
Agency serves children, adolescents, and adults with developmental, emotional, cognitive, physical, and behavioral needs using active, creative, and enriching treatment interventions. 450 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, 954-925-3191
Center for Hearing & Communication
Multidisciplinary services for deaf and hard of hearing clients, including audiology services, assistive listening devices, specialized phone equipment, psychological assessments, counseling, support groups and educational and summer camp programs. Emergency interpreter services available 24 hours. 2900 W. Cypress Creek Rd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-601-1930;
TTY: 954-601-1938 http://www.chchearing.org
Center for Independent Living
Peer support, programs and referrals to assist individuals with disabilities gain self-sufficiency. Ages 14-22 years may participate in workshops, internships, training conferences, field trips, and leadership development. They also offer a Wheelchair Repair Clinic on the first Friday of each month. 4800 N. State Road 7, Fort Lauderdale, 954-722-6400 TYY: 954-735-0963 http://www.cilbroward.org
Child Find
In coordination with the public schools, this program works to identify children who may be eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Act. Provides early intervention and serves as an entry to exceptional student education services before children reach school age. 754-321-7200 http://www.browardschools.com
Children’s Bereavement Center
Grief support group for children, teens, young adults and families seeking support after the loss of a loved one. Free groups take place across Broward and Miami-Dade counties. 305-668-4902 http://www.childbereavement.org
Children’s Center for Development & Behavior
Provides interdisciplinary developmental/behavioral assessments, integrated therapy programs and training for parents of children with developmental delays, including autism. Also available: clinical psychology, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology and applied behavioral analysis.440 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway, Sunrise, 954-745-1112 http://www.childpsych.org
Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center
Non-profit center provides medical care, therapeutic services, multidisciplinary evaluations, support groups, recreational events, and more to children with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Nurses, doctors, therapists, social workers, psychologists, nutritionists and specialists provide services funded primarily through federal, state, county and private grants. 1401 S. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, 954-728-8080 http://www.childrensdiagnostic.org
Children’s Medical Services
Part of the Florida Department of Health, this agency provides early intervention as well as primary, therapeutic, specialty and long-term care to children under 21 with special healthcare needs. Deals with brain and spinal cord injury, craniofacial/cleft palate, orthopedic, genetic, neurosurgical, cardiac, renal, eye, sickle cell anemia and diabetes. 954-713-3100 http://www.cms-kids.com
Children’s Services Council
Government agency created by voters to provide leadership, coordination and funding for children’s services. Check their website for a list of funded programs. 954-377-1000 http://www.cscbroward.org
David Posnack Jewish Community Center
Social and recreational programs serve mentally, physically, emotionally challenged and/or developmentally delayed children ages 3-22. Includes field trips, activities, and summer day camp program. 5850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie, 954-434-0499 http://www.dpjcc.org
Deliver the Dream
A respite and retreat program for families experiencing serious illness or crisis, allowing them to mend spirits, gain strength and reconnect. 3223 NW 10 Terr., Fort Lauderdale, 954-564-3512 http://www.deliverthedream.org
Disability Rights Florida
Assists people with disabilities in applying for and receiving services from rehabilitative programs. 800-342-0823;
TDD: 800-346-4127 http://www.disabilityrightsflorida.org
Easter Seals South Florida
Evaluations and treatment for physical, occupational and speech disabilities. Rehabilitation to improve function lost to developmental delays, brain injuries, neurological or orthopedic conditions, and more. 1475 NW 14 Ave., Miami,
305-325-0470 http://www.southflorida.easterseals.com
Equine-Assisted Therapies of South Florida
Therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-assisted activities for children and adults with physical, cognitive, and emotional difficulties. 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-974-2007 http://www.equineatsf.org
Family Network on Disabilities
Part of a statewide network serving families with special needs. Provides tutorials, workshops and assistance for parents of children with developmental disabilities. Some eligibility requirements may apply. 754-444-6550 http://www.fndbroward.com
Florida Division of Blind Services
State-sponsored programs for those up to age 21 who are visually impaired or have a disease that will lead to blindness. 7771 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, 954-746-1770 http://www.dbs.myflorida
Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System
State-supported program provides support services and resources for those that have concern for and serve children with exceptionalities. http://www.fdlrs.org
Florida Mentor Network
Part of a national network of health and human services providers, this network offers community-based support for adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as medically complex needs. http://www.fl-mentor.com
Florida’s Voice on Developmental Disabilities
A statewide volunteer advocacy organization comprised of family and friends of persons with developmental disabilities. http://www.floridasvoice.org
Friendship Initiative
Fitness, art and music programs pair children with special needs with typical children to form friendships and learn from one another. http://www.thefriendshipinitiative.org
God’s Little Acres
Provides safe and controlled recreational opportunities on a five-acre ranch for seriously ill and developmentally disabled children between the ages of 2-11 with their families. No fee. 4551 NW 39 Ave., Coconut Creek, 954-984-0787 http://www.godslittleacres.org
Healing Arts Institute of South Florida
The Institute’s Awesome Kids program assists children with social, emotional, behavioral and anger management issues. Takes place from 6-7:30pm Tuesdays and Thursdays for school-aged kids. 4699 N. State Road 7, Tamarac 954-644-9567 http://www.healingartsinstitutesfl.org
Henderson Behavioral Health
Case management for children who are experiencing mental health problems. http://www.hendersonbh.org
JAFCO
Committed to serving all children, from birth to age 22, who have been diagnosed with a developmental disability including autism, intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, spina bifida or Prader Willi, the center provides individualized treatment interventions, enrichment activities and family support services. Also offers child enrichment services including social skills groups, a life skills program, various clubs and indoor and outdoor activities. 954-749-7230 http://www.jafco.org
Joshua’s Path
Free service provides educational seminars, resources and consultations for Broward County parents and caretakers of special needs adults or adolescents nearing adulthood. Topics include financial or legal arrangements, residential options, vocational assistance and social and recreation needs. Goodman Jewish Family Services of Broward, 5890 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie, 954-370-2140 http://www.jfsbroward.org
Lighthouse of Broward
Programs for blind and visually impaired adults and children. Includes in-home services for infants and preschoolers, camp and year-round activities for ages 6-12, teen program, and parent support group. 650 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale,
954-463-4217 http://www.lhob.org
Little People of America
National organization provides support and information to people of short stature and their families. Membership is for those who are usually no taller than 4’10,” their relatives and interested professionals. Local chapter is the South Florida
Mini Gators. 888-572-2001 http://www.lpaonline.org
Living Inclusively for Everyone
LIFE offers recreational outings for young adults with developmental disabilities, with focused efforts in the areas of housing, recreation and job opportunities. http://www.life-florida.org
Mental Health Association of Southeast Florida
Prevention programs, community education, advocacy and opportunities for empowerment of persons with mental illness. Programs include services, support, mentoring, art and music therapy, and more. 7145 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Lauderhill, 954-746-2055 http://www.mhasefl.org
Muscular Dystrophy Association
Assistance for those with neuromuscular disease, including wheelchairs, leg braces, flu shots, support groups, camp programs, and more. 550 Fairway Dr., Deerfield Beach, 561-742-3748 http://www.mdausa.org
Namaste Nourished
Specializes in the treatment of eating disorders through nutrition therapy, group support and more. 2425 E. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-641-2210 http://www.namastenourishedllc.com
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Support, advocacy and education for persons with mental illnesses, their families and friends. 954-316-9907 http://www.nami.org
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Dan Marino Outpatient Center
In partnership with Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, this not-for-profit center provides world-class neurological and developmental services and screenings for children. Also provides support groups, seminars and a resource center for parents. Serves children with autism, Asperger’s syndrome, developmental disorders, dual sensory impairments and more. Camp DMC, a summer program for children with special needs, is run by trained professionals including certified teachers, behavior specialists and education aides. The program offers fun, educational and therapeutic activities to enhance academic, communication, social and motor skills. 2900 S. Commerce Parkway, Weston, 954-385-6200 http://www.nicklauschildrens.org
NSU Audiology Clinic
Comprehensive assessment and treatment for hearing and balance disorders, including comprehensive audiologic assessment from newborn through school-age, and auditory processing evaluations for children with learning disorders and attention difficulties. 3200 S. University Dr., Davie, 954-678-2273 http://www.nova.edu/healthcare/hearingbalance
NSU Child, Adolescent & Family Services
A full range of psychological services to assist families with emotional, cognitive, and/or behavioral difficulties — including ADHD, school and behavioral problems, childhood bedwetting and more. Nova Southeastern University, Maltz Psychology Building, 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-262-5730 http://www.nova.edu/healthcare/psychology/cafs.html
NSU Clinic for Speech, Language & Communication
Evaluation and treatment for speech, language and communication delays and disorders such as apraxia, articulation, dysarthria, swallowing difficulties, phonology, pragmatic/semantic language, receptive/expressive language, stuttering, fluency and voice disturbances. 6100 Griffin Rd., Davie, 954-678-2273 http://www.nova.edu/healthcare/slc
Parkland Buddy Sports
Non-profit organization offers supervised and structured sports programs for special needs children and young adults. http://www.parklandbuddysports.com
Pembroke Pines Special Population Programs
City of Pembroke Pines provides recreational and educational programs to those with special needs. Programs include wheelchair sports, Special Olympic training, specialty camps, events and educational field trips. 954-392-9429
http://www.ppines.com
Renfrew Center
Residential and outpatient treatment for eating disorders, including anorexia. For ages 14 and up. 7700 Renfrew Lane, Coconut Creek, 800-736-3739 http://www.renfrewcenter.com
SEDNET (Severe Emotional Disorders)
Multi-agency effort dedicated to improving services to children and adolescents with serious emotional disturbances. 754-321-3400 http://www.sednetfl.info
Schott Communities
Education, socialization, counseling and case management for deaf or disabled individuals and their families or caregivers.
6591 Flamingo Rd., Cooper City, 954-434-3306 http://www.schottcommunities.org
Special Olympics
This global organization oversees year-round sports training and competition for developmentally disabled individuals ages 8 and up. Provides training through schools and individual programs in 22 different sports. 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-262-2150 http://www.specialolympicsflorida.org/broward
Starting Right
An early intervention, parent-child class for children 18-36 months exhibiting delays in language and social skills. Program is designed to increase communication, social and school readiness skills. NSU Mailman Segal Center for Early Childhood Studies, 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-262-7117 http://www.nova.edu/humandevelopment/earlylearning/startingright/index.html
Stuttering Foundation of America
Provides free online resources, information, services and support to those who stutter and their families. 1-800-992-9392 http://www.stutteringhelp.org
Sunrise Community
Education and early intervention services, adult and pediatric therapy programs and childcare services are some of the programs offered to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 5450 Stirling Rd., Davie, 954-744-1124 http://www.sunrisegroup.org
The Kidz Korner
Respite program for medically fragile children in a home-like atmosphere with attentive nurses, therapists and respiratory practitioners. Therapy programs include physical, dysphagia, occupational and speech-language. Location also offers a ventilator weaning program and transition programs. For preemies to age 21. 4250 NW Fifth St., Plantation, 954-587-3296 http://www.plantationkidzkorner.com
Therapies 4 Kids
Pediatric intensive fitness programs for children and adults with neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy, autism and stroke. Five south Florida locations. 954-828-0425 http://www.therapies4kids.com
Tomorrow’s Rainbow
Program uses miniature horses and other animals to provide free grief support groups to children ages 3 and up, teens and their families who have experienced the death of a loved one. 4341 NW 39 Ave., Coconut Creek, 954-978-2390 http://www.tomorrowsrainbow.org
Unicorn Children’s Foundation Clinics
Housed at NSU, clinics provide a comprehensive spectrum of services for children and caregivers including developmental assessment of autism and related disorders, feeding disorders and challenging behaviors. 7600 SW 36 St.,
Davie, 954-262-2273 http://www.nova.edu/humandevelopment/autism
United Community Options
Formerly United Cerebral Palsy, this organization helps children with a range of needs and abilities maximize their
intellectual, physical, social and emotional development through preschool and after-school programs and summer and transitional programs for children with special needs. In addition, UCO offers in-home respite care workers to give
family members time for themselves. http://www.unitedcommunityoptionssfl.org
