Resources for Families and Individuals with Disabilities

At RAE’s Home, we believe in empowering families and individuals with the tools they need to thrive. We’ve curated a list of trusted local and statewide resources to help you navigate disability services, support networks, and educational or advocacy opportunities.

These links lead to organizations and programs that offer practical support, ranging from housing and employment to healthcare and legal rights. Whether you’re a caregiver, self-advocate, or professional, this resource page is built to connect you with reliable information that makes a difference.

Virginia-Based Disability Resources

State Agencies

• Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS)
  Coordinates services for individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health needs, and substance use disorders.
• Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
  Offers employment services, assistive technology, and community living support for individuals with disabilities.
• Virginia Medicaid Waivers (DMAS)
  Learn about Medicaid programs, including the Developmental Disabilities Waivers and CCC Plus.
• Virginia Easy Access
  A gateway to services and resources for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
• Virginia Board for People with Disabilities (VBPD)
  Advocacy, policy, and leadership development for people with disabilities.

Support Networks and Advocacy

• The Arc of Virginia
  Advocacy and resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Center for Family Involvement at VCU
  Peer support, training, and family engagement resources.
• PEATC – Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center
  Special education rights, training, and family support.
• disAbility Law Center of Virginia
  Legal advocacy and protection of disability rights.
• Virginia Family Special Education Connection
  A one-stop site for special education information and tools for families and educators.

Employment and Independent Living

• Virginia Centers for Independent Living (VACIL)
  Statewide network supporting independent living for individuals with disabilities.
• Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS)
  Access to assistive technology tools, evaluations, and training.
• Project SEARCH Virginia
  Employment training program for young adults with ID/DD disabilities.

Stay Connected, Stay Empowered

You are not alone. Virginia offers a wide network of services, programs, and people ready to support your journey. Bookmark this page and check back often—we’ll keep adding tools and resources to help you make informed choices and access the support you need.

If you know of a resource that should be listed here, contact us. At RAE’s Home, we’re committed to sharing what matters.