Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the APD Resource Directory?
| |
a. |
The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) Resource Directory is a tool for individuals to learn about the available resources and organizations available in their local areas, programs offered throughout the state, and nationwide resources. The goal is that by providing a collection of resources, including a direct link to that specific site, people will be able to easily and efficiently locate any type of service they need.
|
2. How is the Resource Directory organized?
| |
a. |
This directory is organized according to county (location), service area (local, state or national), type(s) of disability, and topics (services offered or provided). Users can also do a zip code search, which will display resources according to a specified radius.
|
3. How do I search for information in the Resource Directory?
| |
a. |
Users start by searching within the “search criteria” and search by either zip code or county. If a user searches by zip code, the system requires users to select a radius from that zip code. If a user searches by county, they can select a service area (local, state or national). Users then select the type of disability they are searching for. From there users can select up to 5 keywords. Keywords are related to services organizations may offer.
|
| |
b. |
After a user “submits” their search criteria, a list of potential resources will be displayed, which will include the resource/agency name, services provided, phone/fax number, address, age range, contact name, email, a description of the organization, and a link to the organization’s website.
|
| |
c. |
If a user wants additional information about the organization, they can click on the title of the resource. This will bring them to an additional page that will display a Google map of the organization, the disabilities the organization serves, and the counties the organization provides services in.
|
| |
d. |
Using the Google map users can get directions to the organization by clicking on “Directions” underneath the address displayed.
|
4. What types of organizations and resources are included?
| |
a. |
The directory includes non-profit organizations and agencies; for profit organizations; civic and community groups, faith-based organizations, professional associations which offer services to the community; support groups; local, state, and national government agencies and others.
|
5. What should I do if I can’t find what I am looking for?
| |
a. |
If a user can’t find the resources they are looking for APD wants to know. On the home page, underneath the “Submit” button and “Reset Search” button there is an area that says “Can’t find what you’re looking for here? APD Wants to Know”. By clicking on “APD Wants to Know”, it will bring users to a page to select their county and choose which services are most difficult to find in their area.
|
| |
b. |
Users must submit their name and either their phone number or email to this area.
|
| |
c. |
Users can also send an email to resource.directory@apdcares.org to let APD know what kinds of services are missing from the directory.
|
6. What if I see information in the Resource Directory that is incorrect?
| |
a. |
If a user finds information that is incorrect on the Resource Directory, APD wants to know. Under each description there is a place for users to let APD know that the information provided has an error. APD relies on users to assist us in maintaining the information in the directory. This will help APD maintain an accurate list of resources. Users can also email resource.directory@apdcares.org to inform APD of errors found in the directory.
|
7. How accurate and up-to-date is the Resource Directory?
| |
a. |
Maintenance of this directory is an ongoing endeavor. While APD makes every effort to check the accuracy of the listings, the ever-changing nature of disability and human services means some information may have changed since it was last updated. APD does maintain this directory daily and tries to provide the most up-to-date information.
|
8. Is there a way for a user to add a resource or organization to the directory?
| |
a. |
Yes. Please click on the tab labeled “Submit a New Resource” on the top of every screen. Users must provide their name and either their email address or phone number. Also required is the name of the organization, a brief description, and the age range for participants. Once the information is received and verified, it will be included in the directory.
|
9. Who can access the Resource Directory?
| |
a. |
The Resource Directory is a free online tool available to anyone in search of resources. Although this directory is mainly for people with Autism, Down Syndrome, Prader Willi Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Spina Bifida, this is a collection of resources that are useful to all users.
|
10. How does this Resource Directory help persons with disabilities that have been placed on the Developmental Disabilities Home and Community Based (DD/HCBS) Medicaid Waiver Waitlist?
| |
a. |
People on the Medicaid Waiver Waitlist can use this directory to potentially find and access services to address their needs until a vacancy or funding is available to serve them.
|
11. Is this a complete list of resources in the state for all disabilities?
| |
a. |
No. This Resource Directory is not meant to be a complete list of all resources available to persons with disabilities. The information contained within the directory reflects information obtained by APD staff or provided by individuals and organizations, and is not intended as a recommendation, referral, endorsement or guarantee by APD.
|
12. How can I send APD comments, ideas and suggestions for the Resource Directory?
Can't find what you're looking for here? APD wants to know
|
