Congregational Tool-kit

-Resources for LSS Member Congregations-

Developmental Disabilities

• The Arc’s Justice Advocacy Guide – an advocate’s guide to assisting victims & suspects/defendants with intellectual disabilities                                                                301-565-3842                     800-433-5255              http://thearc.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?&pid=209&srcid=183
• Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services, Inc. – providing free or low-cost resources to families, pastors, volunteers & professionals on developing & enriching accessible ministries & special religious education             800-369-4636          http://www.blhs.org/home.asp
• Connect Me Ohio – web site for Ohio consumers, caregivers & providers who are looking for up-to-date information about programs & services pertaining to aging & disabilities              www.connectmeohio.org
• Disability Ministry Task Force of LCMS World Relief/Human Care – access the free Disability Ministry Assessment Tool to determine your congregation’s challenges & opportunities in serving disabled populations, resources to make your church more welcoming to people with disabilities & their families                                           800-248-1930 ext. 1380        www.lcms.org/disability
• Filling Memorial Home of Mercy, Inc. – tailors services to meet a person's distinct needs, requirements and wishes, ranging from 24/7 residential care to only a few hours a week of supervision and assistance with regular household tasks within a person's own home or apartment; located in NW Ohio          419-592-6451             www.fillinghome.org
• Luther Home of Mercy – an intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded and developmentally disabled, providing quality residential care and comprehensive treatment services; Williston, OH                                          419-836-7741             www.lutherhome.org
• Mosaic – free educational materials for congregational use        877-3MOSAIC              www.mosaicinfo.org
• Ohio County Board of MR/DD – websites for each county, contact information              www.co.union.oh.us/MRDD/Links/body_links.html
• Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council – a planning and advocacy body committed to community inclusion for people with developmental disabilities                               614-466-5205               http://ddc.ohio.gov/Index.htm
• Rejoicing Spirits Ministry – for a suggested donation of $35.00 a guide is available that outlines all the procedures to launch a special worship service for those with developmental disabilities, their family, friends, caregivers and other supportive members of the community              http://www.rejoicingspirits.org/index_files/page0004.htm
• Siffrin Options for Life – transition service organization that supports persons with disabilities who face barriers to community participation; offers supervised living, foster families, fiscal services, supported employment, day services – Mahoning & Trumbull counties                         330-478-0263                               www.siffrin.com