Owen Harbinson, Landon Sams, and Julian Hunter
Attend First KY SILC Youth Advocacy Summit
Disability Spotlight
Lexington Man Stars
in New Documentary
Looking Back
John Lynch Reflects
on 17 Years With
Exceptional Family
Resource List
From Autism to Vision
Issues, Find the
Resources You Need
Youth Advocacy Summit
Young Self-Advocates Gather
From Across the State
Commonwealth Council
on Developmental Disabilities
Independence
Integration
Inclusion
FALL 2026
THANK YOU FOR READING EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY ONLINE
Editor...................................Lisa Jensen
Graphic Artist........................Nick Farr
Cover Photo..........................Will Gardner
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“Exceptional Family KY” is published by the
Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities
1024 Capital Center Dr., Frankfort, Kentucky 40601
(502) 564-7841 • CCDD.KY.gov
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Stay up to Date
12 Looking Back
Editor John Lynch Recalls the Story of
How Exceptional Family Ky Began
13 A Shared Mission
Parents and Professionals Come Together
to Address Child Maltreatment
14 Resource List
From Autism to Vision Issues, Find the
Resources You Need
4 Disability Spotlight
Jay Tyner-Wilson Stars in Documentary
About Faith, Disability, and Belonging
3 Letter to the CCDD
A Letter From CCDD Council Member and
Self-Advocate Ryan Guyder
8 Youth Advocacy Summit
KY SILC Gathers Young Self-Advocates for
First Annual Conference
12
12
The Commonwealth Council on Developmental
Disabilities is supported by the Administration for
Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial
assistance award totaling $1,195,270 with 84 percent
funded by ACL/HHS, and $192,300 and 16 percent
funded by non-federal-government source(s). The
contents are those of the author(s) and do not neces-
sarily represent the official views of, nor an endorse-
ment, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
Lee la edición en español aquí:
https://magazine.exceptionalfamilyky.com/espanol26
2026
FALL
Independence, Integration, Inclusion
www.CCDD.ky.gov
Empowered to Thrive
I
am so grateful to the CCDD for
the opportunities it has given me.
Serving on the Council’s governing
board has allowed me to feel included,
accepted, and heard in conversations sur-
rounding disability issues. I have grown
personally, professionally, and as an
advocate.
One of the most impactful experiences
was participating in Kentucky Partners
in Policy-Making (KPIP), an advocacy
training program that
empowers individuals
with disabilities and
their families.
I only wish I had ac-
cess to something like
KPIP earlier in life.
Just before my
eighteenth birthday,
I was involved in
a devastating car
accident. Doctors
told my parents that
I would likely never
move anything below
my neck again and
that I would need a
respirator for life.
Despite those predictions, my spinal
cord injury was incomplete, and over time
I regained significant function.
Still, I was warned that the head injury I
sustained might make success in col-
lege difficult. Despite the uncertainty, I
returned to community college part-time
nected.
For years, I convinced myself that my
disability made me less worthy of love and
companionship.
That perspective finally began to change
when a close friend encouraged me to
stop deciding for others what I could or
could not offer in a relationship. She told
me to allow a woman the opportunity to
decide for herself whether I was worthy of
love, partnership, and marriage.
Today, I am happily
married to my wife,
Astri. We have built a
humble but fulfilling
life together in Lexing-
ton alongside our two
cats.
Professionally, I
recently stepped into
a new role as Director
of Medicaid Services at
Independence Place, a
division of the Center
for Accessible Living.
Now, my goal is to
help ensure that indi-
viduals with disabilities
do not feel isolated or overlooked as they
pursue meaningful lives in their own com-
munities.
Through advocacy, leadership, and part-
nership with organizations like the CCDD,
I hope to help create a Commonwealth
where every person feels seen, included,
and empowered to thrive. n
and gradually worked my way toward
becoming a full-time student.
From the outside, my life appeared to
be moving forward. Internally, however,
I struggled with isolation and low self-
worth. While friends moved away, got
married, and started families, I remained
at home with my parents, unsure of
where I belonged.
During KPIP, a fellow participant shared
a story about her son with autism who
often came home from school feeling in-
visible because he sat alone at lunch every
day. When she asked him why he sat by
himself, he quietly responded, “It’s just the
way it is, Mom.”
His words stayed with me because they
reflected something I knew all too well—
the pain of feeling different and discon-
RYAN GUYDERLetter
From the CCDD
BECOME A MEMBER
If you are a self-advocate or family member of a
person who has a developmental disability and are
interested in applying to be on the Council, please
click here to access the Governor’s Application for
Boards and Commissions website. We suggest that
you add a resume or statement of interest to your
application. Please follow up with Carol Tudor at
Carol.Tudor@ky.gov.
Advocacy Works
2026 Exceptional Family KY
disability SPOTLIGHT
By Lisa Jensen
that prevent inclusion in many Christian churches, and it
offers a hopeful image of what is possible.
While the film is likely to appeal most strongly to Chris-
tians, its message about the importance of inclusion—
about mutual belonging between all people—applies to all
kinds of communities.
“We are all meant to belong to one another,” said Di-
rector Harrison Eid, following a screening of the film at
Lexington’s Central Library.
"We are all meant to belong
to one another."
t is clear to the people who know Jay that he has things
to offer the world.
In the words of his caregiver, Megan Russell, “One of the
things that I’ve really worked on with Jay is to teach him
that you have things to give to people. I think that there’s
the thought that they don’t have anything to contribute
to the world and the world just needs to serve them, and
that’s so untrue.”
This view that “the world just needs to serve” people
with disabilities often leads to exclusion.
Ms. Russell explains that “a lot of people with disabilities
are jobless and want a job, but they aren’t really given a
chance.”
What
Belonging
Looks Like
Jay Tyner-Wilson
Stars in New
Documentary
ay Tyner-Wilson, 33, of Lexington, is the subject of
a new documentary, entitled “Mutual Belonging.”
Jay introduces himself with a bright smile and
these words: “Hi, my name is Jay, and I have Autism. I
like Phil Collins, chocolate pudding, Cheez-its, my mom
and dad and caregivers, and my jobs. This is a film about
my life, my community, and about disabilities.”
“Mutual Belonging” follows Jay as he goes about his
regular routines. The viewer meets Jay and his longtime
caregiver, Megan Rusell, in the home where Jay lives
with his parents. The film follows them to an exercise
class, a cooking class, a ukulele lesson, and beyond.
The viewer gets to see Jay’s work life, too. Jay has two
jobs: one at McLeod’s Coffee House and another at the
Lexington Public Library. Everywhere Jay goes, smiles
seem to follow.
Megan Gaines, a shift leader at McLeod’s, says, “Jay has
had honestly a huge impact on everybody that is around
him.” She adds, “As soon as we see Jay come in, we get so
excited.”
“Mutual Belonging” weaves together these scenes from
Jay’s life with insights from disability theologians at
the University of Aberdeen. Disability theologians are
scholars who look at Christianity through the lens of
disability.
The film makes a case for the importance of full inclu-
sion within faith communities. It looks at the mindsets
Advocacy Works
Megan Russell looks on as Jay introduces himself on camera.
www.CCDD.ky.gov
mental disabilities, Jay was turned
away by childcare centers, speech
therapists, and other service provid-
ers. Even in church, Jay’s family felt
unwelcome.
This experience is common. Accord-
ing to a study mentioned in “Mutual
Belonging,” half of Christian families
who have a child with a disability
have left a church because their child
was not welcome.
Melanie says, “Every next step I had
to fight to get what I needed. Now he
has a good life, but there are also a lot
of things I aspire for him to be able to
achieve.”
sked in a recent interview about
his own hopes for the future,
Jay said, “I want to continue work-
ing at McLeod’s Coffee House and
the Lexington Public Library. I also
want to try new things, even when it
sometimes is hard for me. This helps
me grow.”
In some ways, the filming was hard.
Jay said, “I felt a little worried and
nervous when the camera was on me.”
On the other hand, Jay appreciates
that the movie shows his everyday
life, including details like singing in
the car and eating at Panera.
“These two things about the movie
made me happy,” he said, “because
other people can see what we do all
the time.”
Jay’s favorite parts of the movie are
the scenes that show him participat-
ing in Parks and Rec activities and
going to church. Jay now attends
Southland Christian Church in Nicho-
lasville.
outhland offers separate rooms
where people can watch the ser-
vice if being in the main meeting hall
is too overwhelming. “Mutual Belong-
ing” follows Jay into this space.
Christina Smith, Disability Ministry
Director at Southland, says, “In this
environment, we don’t care if you get
up and move. It’s been great to see
Jay grow and feel comfortable here.”
In addition to offering these rooms,
the church hosts events like cooking
classes and fitness classes for people
with disabilities. “We try to encom-
Producer Will Aker films Jay working at McLeod's Coffee House.
Jay and Megan enjoy a field trip
to the recycling center
Advocacy Works
The film reveals that this was true
for Jay until McLeod’s Coffee House
opened. McLeod’s describes itself as
“a non-profit integrated workspace
where folks with special needs work
hand-in-hand with everyone else.”
Ms. Russell says, “Brewster McLeod
gave Jay a chance to grow.”
At the time of filming, McLeod’s
employed over 30 people with dis-
abilities.
Brewster McLeod explains that new
employees all begin as greeters. Over
time, they build new skills and try
new roles. Finally, Brewster says, he
gets to “send them out.”
Many employees who build their
skills and resume by working at
McLeod’s go on to find other jobs in
the community. Jay’s work experience
at McLeod’s helped him to land his
job at the library.
The rich life that Jay is living now
might have been difficult for his fam-
ily to imagine when he was younger.
Jay’s mother, Melanie Tyner-Wilson,
describes her son as “beautiful from
the very beginning.” Jay also faced
challenges from the very beginning.
Like many children with develop-
2026 Exceptional Family KY
pass as much as we can to meet their
whole person,” Christina explains.
Of people with special needs, she says,
“If they are not part of your church, then
your church is incomplete.”
Speaking at the film screening, Megan
Russell emphasized that everyone ben-
efits from such inclusion. “We need each
other,” she said, “to shape each other’s
character and to learn from each other.
Everyone is one of a kind.”
“A church in which everyone is genuine-
ly welcomed and appreciated is just a dif-
ferent church,” says disability theologian
Brian Brock. “We have to see difference
not as threatening but as enlivening,” he
adds.
Of course, seeing things in a new way
is not easy. It’s not easy to change at-
titudes, traditions, or institutions, but
hard things can be worth the effort.
This intention, from Kentucky’s newest
movie star, is worth repeating and living
into: “I want to try new things, even
when it sometimes is hard for me. This
helps me grow.” n
Jay, Megan Russell, and Melanie Tyner-Wilson smile with film crew,
Jonathan Blair (left), Will Aker (middle), and Harrison Eid (right).
Watch "MUTUAL BELONGING" for free on Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Lxag2ULgwo
Photos for this article were provided courtesy of the
Mutual Belonging team.
MEET THE CCDD STAFF
Johnny Callebs
Executive Director
Johnny.Callebs@ky.gov
Vicki Goins
Federal Financial Manager
Vicki.Goins@ky.gov
Jennifer Hicks
Program Director
Jennifer.Hicks@ky.gov
Austin Nugent
Public Policy Coordinator
Austin.Nugent@ky.gov
Nicole Maher
Advocacy &
Communications Manager
Nicole.Maher@ky.gov
Tim Moore
Front Desk Manager
Tim.Moore@ky.gov
Carol Ann Tudor
Administrative Senior
Specialist
Carol.Tudor@ky.gov
Advocacy Works
www.CCDD.ky.gov
Reader Survey Winner
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Please fill out our Reader Survey!
Scan the QR code, or visit
www.surveymonkey.com/r/BLZPCX6
Send a Letter to the Editor
exceptionalfamilyky@gmail.com
avita Gatewood of Lexington is the winner of the latest Reader
Survey drawing.
Davita is a single mother of six kids. She lives with intellectual
disabilities, and her youngest son has special needs and Autism.
Davita appreciates that Exceptional Family helps her find resources
and activities for her son.
Davita was raised with the belief that “when you serve your
community, you serve yourself,” and she lives that in her daily life.
In addition to advocating for her son and other youth with
disabilities, Davita is a housing advocate and also works to end gun
violence. In May, she finished the Partners in Policymaking program,
and this fall, she will graduate from UK’s Human Development
Institute.
Davita is passionate about supporting caregivers, and she dreams
of starting her own respite program.
To other caregivers, she offers this wisdom: “Ask for support
and resources. You really don’t have to do it on your own. There are
resources out there to help. It’s okay to need support.” n
Davita (second from the right) with her children
at her son's graduation
Quarterly Council Meetings
• 2026: Nov. 20
• 2027: Feb. 20, May 20
For location information, email the
CCDD at ccdd@ky.gov
The mission of the Commonwealth Council on
Developmental Disabilities is to create systemic
change in Kentucky that empowers individuals to
achieve full citizenship and inclusion in the
community through education, capacity building
and advocacy.
All Council meetings are open to the public
in accordance with the Kentucky Open Meetings Law.
www.CCDD.KY.gov
2026 Exceptional Family KY
Youth
Youth Advocacy Summit
Advocacy Summit
KY SILC Gathers Young Self-Advocates for First Summit
Goals for the Gathering
•
Bring young people with
disabilities together
•
Create a space where everyone
feels welcome and supported
•
Connect young people with others
who have similar life experiences
•
Support young people in speaking
up for themselves (self-advocacy)
•
Teach about disability history
•
Teach about independent living
•
Help everyone leave knowing
they are not alone
n June 11 and 12, the Kentucky Statewide Independent
Living Council (KY SILC) held its first Youth Advocacy
Summit. Teenagers and young adults from across the state
gathered at the Campbell House in Lexington.
Rachel Victory, Youth Coordinator for the KY SILC Youth
Advisory Council (YAC), explained the purpose of the conference:
“Our biggest hope was to bring young people ages 14-24 with
disabilities together in one place and create a space where they felt
welcomed, supported, and comfortable being themselves while
connecting with others who shared similar lived experiences.
“Through those connections, we wanted attendees to grow in
their self-advocacy journey, learn more about disability history
and independent living, build relationships with the broader
disability community, and leave knowing they are not alone in
their experiences.”
Of course, gathering a group of young people, all of whom have
disabilities and many of whom live far away, is no easy task.
Rachel continued, “We worked to remove as many financial and
accessibility barriers as we could. Every decision from offering
overnight lodging and travel support to providing accessibility
By Lisa Jensen
From left: Youth participants Bailey Patterson, Connor Gibbs, Layla Frazier, Dani Cornett, and Mack Thompson gather outside the venue
www.CCDD.ky.gov
accommodations, was made with the
goal of making it easier for young
people from across the state to
participate.”
Funding from the Commonwealth
Council on Developmental
Disabilities (CCDD) and KY
Transition 360 helped to make all
of this possible, and local sponsors
offered additional support.
When it came down to planning,
youth played a starring role. Megan
Kuhlwein, the Executive Director
of KY SILC, wrote that the “summit
was created to be a space by and for
youth with disabilities, with support
from our Youth Advisory Council.
Their input helped shape the topics,
sessions, and conversations” that
made up the conference.
A Safe Space
From the get-go, youth participants
expressed appreciation for the
opportunity to be together in a
room with other young people with
disabilities.
Layla Frazier, a 22-year-old
attendee and member of the KY SILC
Youth Advisory Council (YAC) said,
“Walking into a room full of people
who are just like me is one of the best
feelings ever. You don’t have to worry
about people coming up to you and
asking why you use a mobility aid
or hear comments like ‘do you really
need that?’ It’s so freeing to feel like
you can be 100% yourself without
judgment.”
Other attendees echoed this
appreciation for a safe and judgment-
free space. This safety allowed for rich
conversations on many subjects.
Some of the first conversations
focused on language and labels.
Different participants expressed
different preferences here.
In Layla’s words: “I don’t really
like the word ‘disabled’. The word I
use a lot is ‘differently-abled’. Society
thinks it’s a negative thing, and in my
eyes it’s not.”
“Walking into a room
full of people who are
just like me is one of
the best feelings ever.”
Attendee Mack Thompson,
24, pointed out that the word
‘disability’ can be both hurtful and
useful. “Disability as a label has
been weaponized through stigma
to do harm, but it’s also a nexus for
celebration of human diversity.”
Exploring what labels or language
a young person prefers can be an
important part of exploring their
identity. 16-year-old Elias Hutzel
shared that this is one of the reasons
he has appreciated being on the Youth
Advisory Council. In his words, “it’s a
safe space to explore what labels you
feel comfortable using.”
Addressing the youth in the room,
keynote speaker Amanda Stahl said,
“Every generation of activists has
different language, and I expect you
to have different language because
you’re a different generation than
me.”
Speakers’ respect, support, and
appreciation for the next generation
of leaders helped set the tone for the
conference. The tone was also deeply
influenced by participants’ gladness
at being together in a room with
other youth with disabilities.
“This room makes me happy,” said
Tarenne Maher, 26, who was both
a participant and a speaker at the
summit.
Amanda Stahl recalled her first
time being in a room with others who
were “like her.” The self-advocates
in that room “didn’t talk about
wanting to be accepted in the world
that is. They talked about wanting
to transform the world. That was
a different kind of movement
conversation than I’d heard before,”
Stahl said.
New Advocacy
for a New Generation
Conversations about advocacy
change over time. Advocacy changes
over time. Speakers at the summit
pointed out that the younger
generation of advocates and leaders
will have different perspectives,
opportunities, and challenges than
the ones that earlier generations
faced.
Austin Nugent, who is the Public
Policy Coordinator at the CCDD, said,
“Advocacy is constantly changing,
and it should. When you know more,
you adapt. There’s no one right way to
advocate. It’s being you.”
“This room makes me
happy.”
Both speakers and attendees
returned often to the importance of
being oneself.
Layla Frazier shares her
thoughts on self-advocacy
Kennedy Gibson accepts a
fist bump from a friend
Advocacy Works
2026 Exceptional Family KY
Attendee Dani Cornett, 22, said,
“It’s okay to have your own needs and
your own individuality. It’s okay to
show up as you are. You don’t have to
be in the box society wants you to be
in.”
Advocacy is both about developing
one’s own style and about building
relationships. Several speakers talked
about this.
"The most effective advocacy is
usually a dialogue, not a monologue,”
said panelist Johnny Collett, who is
Deputy Executive Director for External
Affairs at the University of Kentucky’s
Human Development Institute.
Panelist Haley Yetter, a self-advocate
and a coordinator for the National
Council on Independent Living, added
that “we need more healthy discourse,”
and so “we have to stop gatekeeping.”
Youth attendees picked up on this
theme, and many of them expressed
the intention to continue to grow their
communication and advocacy skills.
“There is a way to get your point
across and be firm without being
rude, even if the other person was
being rude first,” said Layla Frazier.
Billy Delong IV, 17, said this
of his experience attending the
summit: “I’ve learned better ways
to express myself. I’ve learned that I
need to sit back a little more and be
constructive.”
This Moment in Context
Participants also expressed
enthusiasm for learning about
the history of the disability rights
movement.
“I learned just how recent some of
the major developments for disability
rights have been,” said Elias Hutzel.
Such learning was one important
goal of the summit.
Rachel Victory explained, “The
Americans with Disabilities Act was
only signed into law in 1990, which
means many young people and adults
have only ever known a world where
those protections exist. Because
disability history isn’t widely taught,
many young people haven’t had
the opportunity to learn how those
rights came to be or why they are so
important.
“We wanted the
summit to start helping
provide that context
so participants could
better understand
their rights, feel more
confident advocating for
themselves and others,
and see that many of the
rights and opportunities
they experience today
were created through
collective disability
advocacy.”
Some of the speakers
and panelists know
firsthand what it means to have lived
with a disability prior to the ADA.
Panelist, self-advocate, and Director
of Advocacy for the Center for
Accessible Living David Allgood said,
“I’m paying back the people who came
before me, who did so much to make
my life better. I want to pay it forward
for the next generation.”
Paying it forward for the next
generation can mean sharing with
youth both what stands to be gained
and what stands to be lost, depending
on the success of advocacy.
Said Austin Nugent, “We need
more young people in these spaces.
I see so few young people in the
conversations where decisions are
being made for Kentuckians.”
David Allgood echoed this.
Speaking to the youth attendees, he
said, “They’re making decisions about
your lives, and you’re not at the table.
It’s really imperative that you all get
your voices heard.”
For many participants, attending
the summit felt like an important and
empowering step in developing their
voice.
“You don’t have to
be in the box society
wants you to be in.”
To her fellow attendees, Dani
Cornett said, “Hearing your
experiences has helped me to feel
less alone as a young person with a
disability.”
She added that “when someone
hears you speak up for yourself, it
gives them more confidence to speak
up for themselves.”
Mack Thompson expressed his
appreciation for fellow attendees
this way: “I’m proud of all of us for
showing up here. Being in this room,
I feel very seen and very myself and
proud to call you all my community.”
The experience of togetherness
and community spilled over to parent
attendees, as well. Parent advocate
Renea Delong said, “No matter what
the diagnosis is, we have a common
bond and understanding.”
"No matter what the
diagnosis is, we have
a common bond and
understanding."
Youth attendee Bailey Patterson
framed the experience this way: “It’s
awesome that tradition is carrying
on. The pioneers of the disability
movement gathered together to
think and talk about what it means
Levi Logsdon, 15, helped facilitate an
end-of-summit discussion just for youth
Advocacy Works
10
www.CCDD.ky.gov
https://kysilc.org/yac/
Billy Delong IV emphasized the importance
of gatherings like this one
politically to have a disability, and we got to gather in that
way, too.”
Mack built on Bailey’s words. Referencing Camp Jened,
the summer camp where many leaders in the disability
rights movement first met, Mack offered this appeal to
the room: “Let this be our Camp Jened.”
“The pioneers of the disability
movement gathered together to
think and talk about what it means
politically to have a disability, and
we got to gather in that way, too.”
It was clear at the end of the summit that many
participants were hoping for more opportunities to
gather. Speaking to his youth peers, Billy Delong IV urged,
“Have more gatherings and group discussions, especially
at a time like this. Sticking together is our best option.”
YAC and MOVE
Megan Kuhlwein concluded the summit by offering
participants ways to stay connected and involved. KY
SILC plans to host a second Youth Advocacy Summit next
year, and in the mean time, the SILC Youth Advisory
Council (YAC) is open to new members. YAC members
must be between the ages of 14 and 24 and have a
diagnosis or disability.
YAC meetings are held twice a month via Zoom. One
meeting focuses on peer support, and the other offers
training on a range of topics. These topics are generally
suggested by youth members. Recent topics have included
transportation, advocacy, and adaptive recreation.
KY SILC is also actively recruiting members
for MOVE—Mentors and Organizers for Voice and
Empowerment. MOVE members are adults who act as
mentors for YAC members. They work together with YAC
staff on community engagement, resource development,
and financial planning, and they also assist in the
planning of conferences.
“Have more gatherings and group
discussions, especially at a time
like this. Sticking together is our
best option.”
To learn more about YAC or MOVE, scan the QR code
below. n
Haley Yetter spoke from her experiences as a
self-advocate and as a coordinator for the NCIL
All photos for this article are by Will Gardner.
11
2026 Exceptional Family KY
Above: Magazine founder John Lynch
Upper right: First issue of Exceptional Family
12
www.CCDD.ky.gov
Exceptional Family Founder & Editor Retires
By Lisa Jensen
“E
xceptional Family Ky has one mission,” Editor John
Lynch wrote in the magazine’s first issue, published
in 2009: “empowerment.”
Seventeen years and 25 issues later, the magazine’s
mission is the same, and John Lynch is settling into a well-
deserved retirement.
It is true that without John’s vision and dedication,
Exceptional Family would not be what it is. Truer still:
without John, Exceptional Family would not be at all.
John had been publishing Lexington Family Magazine
for over a decade when he met a fellow journalist at a
national conference. That journalist told John about the
magazine she published for the disability community in
her home state.
The idea sparked something in John. He pitched a
plan to the Commonwealth Council on Developmental
Disabilities (CCDD). The CCDD enthusiastically agreed
to fund the project. From there, “it just got birthed,” John
says, glossing over his hours of effort.
Reflecting back on his years with the magazine, here’s
what stands out to John: “What an education it’s been.
That’s the number one thing. I’ve learned so much.”
It’s not just facts or stories or approaches to advocacy
that John has learned. The most important learning, in his
words, has been humility.
“When you see the determination—when you see what
people face without complaint and how they have to fight—
you can’t help feeling humility.”
As editor for Exceptional Family, John has met and
written about some of the greats, including disability
pioneers such as Arthur Campbell and Cass Irvin.
Incredible people and stories exist throughout Kentucky,
though.
“All the people I’ve interviewed have been so wonderful,”
John says. “This has been the most important and satisfying
thing that I’ve done.”
As John moves into his next chapter, he says, “Gratitude
is a big part of what I feel.
Finding the Right Services
for Your Family
2009
2009
Exceptional
Family Ky
amily Ky
A Kentucky Guidebook for People with Disabilities,
Their Families & the Professionals Who Support Them
Kentucky Council for
Developmental Disabilities
Kentucky Council for
Developmental Disabilities
A Specialty Publication of
A Specialty Publication of
FAMILY
FAMILY
S c h o o l s : T i p s f o r W r i t i n g I E P P l a n s
H o w - T o : A d v o c a t i n g f o r Y o u r C h i l d
R e s o u r c e s : A S t a t e w i d e D i r e c t o r y
inside
Finding the Right Services
For Your Family
Get Connected
Finding the Right Services
For Your Family
Get Connected
Looking Back
Resource List 2024
13
2026 Exceptional Family KY
“C
hildren with disabilities are at
least three times more likely
to be abused or neglected than their
peers without disabilities.”
These words are the opening to—
and the why behind—a recent report
by Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky
(PCAK). The report follows a year-
long exploration of how to prevent
maltreatment of children with
disabilities. This exploration was
funded by a grant from the Kentucky
Social Welfare Foundation.
Exploration is a key word here.
Amanda Royer is PCAK’s Director of
Brand Marketing and Outreach. She
explained, “At Prevent Child Abuse
Kentucky, we are experts in child
maltreatment, but we might not be
experts in children with disabilities.
This was an awesome opportunity to
learn from the parents of children with
disabilities—the experts in the field.”
To learn and explore, PCAK
gathered a team of 15 professionals
and lived experts. Together they
explored the questions of why
maltreatment is so common and how
to prevent it.
“At first, it was like spaghetti against
the wall,” said CCDD Council Member
Danny Slaton, a parent advocate
whose daughter has Down syndrome.
There were so many people and so
many ideas.
This wide-open start was
intentional. Once all the ideas had
been shared, professional facilitators
identified common themes. Over the
course of many meetings, these themes
were narrowed down into the ideas
and recommendations that are in the
final report.
Parent advocate and CCDD
Chairperson Amy Smith described her
experience with this process: “There
were so many great ideas. I found
myself asking, ‘How can we make this
happen?’ When a group of people are
open to the exchange of ideas and
different perspectives, great initiatives
follow.”
Caregiver overwhelm was a major
theme in these conversations. The
report’s recommendations aim to
decrease that overwhelm.
PCAK plans to present the findings
and recommendations to the Kentucky
General Assembly in September.
Amanda expressed the hope that
the report’s recommendations will also
help guide the work of PCAK and its
partners in the year ahead. “Any policy
action needs a strong coalition. We
had great partners in this work, and
we would love to bring them along
and continue the work together. We
don’t want the report to be a stopping
point.” n
A Shared Mission
Parents and Professionals Come Together
to Address Maltreatment of Children with Disabilities
Suggested Action Steps
• Create a web platform to connect families with respite options
• Advocate for increased respite care funding
• Improve reimbursement and waiver services
• Increase disability-specific training for educators and caregivers
• Create a medical equipment recycling program
By Lisa Jensen
“As a journalist, you get to ask any question. My
experience—the reason I love being a journalist—is that
people open up. What a gift that is, that people share their
stories with you! I wanted to be able to honor their stories
and make sure I gave them the due they deserve.”
For 17 years, John has quietly held out a microphone
to amplify others’ stories. It is with deep gratitude for his
work that we offer this small glimpse into his story and
wish him well on the path ahead. n
Have a Memory to Share?
Is there an Exeptional Family article that has stayed
with you or made your life better in some small way?
We would love to hear about your experiences—and
your hopes for articles to come!
exceptionalfamilyky@gmail.com
Resource List 2026
General
Commonwealth Council on
Developmental Disabilities
1024 Capital Center Dr, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-7841 / https://ccdd.ky.gov
Aims to create systemic change in Kentucky
that empowers individuals to achieve full
citizenship and inclusion in the community
through education, capacity building, and
advocacy. Council meetings are open to the
public.
The Arc of the United States
(800) 433-5255 / https://thearc.org
Promotes and protects the rights of people
with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Actively supports their full inclusion in the
community.
The Arc of Central Kentucky
(859) 351-0728 / https://arcofcky.org
Addresses issues such as education, employ-
ment, housing, and safety that are critical to
the disability community.
Barren Heights Community Center
11420 Watterson Ct, Suite 800, Louisville, KY
(502) 327-9495 / https://barrenheights.org
Provides free weekend retreats and com-
munity outreach events for families who have
children with physical and/or intellectual
disabilities. Families can relax, play, and get to
know others who are dealing with similar situa-
tions. Retreat Center is located by Barren River
Lake; office is in Louisville.
Best Buddies Kentucky
(502) 536-7876
www.bestbuddies.org/kentucky
A volunteer movement that creates oppor-
tunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated
employment, leadership development, and
inclusive living for individuals with intellectual
or developmental disabilities.
Best Point Education and Behavioral
Health
(Formerly Children’s Home of Cincinnati)
5050 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH
(513) 272-2800 / https://bestpoint.org
Uses the Teaching-Family Model (TFM) to
help vulnerable children with social, behav-
ioral, and learning challenges succeed in their
home, school, and community environments.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Organizations
The nation’s largest donor and volunteer-sup-
ported mentoring network. Makes meaningful,
monitored matches between adult volunteers
(“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through
18.
Bluegrass
181 Lowry Ln, Suite 150, Lexington KY
(859) 231-8181 / www.bbbs-bluegrass.org
Greater Cincinnati
615 Elsinore Pl, Suite 950, Cincinnati, OH
(513) 421-4120 / www.bigsforkids.org
Kentuckiana
1519 Gardiner Ln, Suite B, Louisville, KY
(502) 587-0494 / (855) 524-0062
www.bbbsky.org
Tristate
1557 Winchester Ave, Suite 204, Ashland, KY
(606) 329-8799 / (304) 522-2191
www.bbbstristate.org
Bluegrass Care Navigators
(Formerly Hospice of the Bluegrass)
1733 Harrodsburg Rd, Lexington, KY
(855) 492-0812 / www.bgcarenav.org
Provides physical, emotional, and spiritual
care for patients with life-limiting illness, as
well as their families. Support and bereavement
services extend to anyone experiencing grief.
Services available in 32 central, northern, and
southeastern Kentucky counties.
Bluegrass Career Services
1165 Centre Pkwy, Suite 120, Lexington, KY
(859) 272-4855 / https://bcs.esinc.org
Assists individuals with disabilities to over-
come barriers to employment. Services are free
with a referral from the Office of Vocational
Rehabilitation or the Social Security Adminis-
tration.
Brighton Center Inc.
741 Central Ave, Newport, KY
(859) 491-8303 / www.brightoncenter.com
Provides a wide range of programs and servic-
es that include meeting basic needs, adult and
early childhood education, workforce develop-
ment, substance abuse recovery for women,
affordable housing, financial education and
counseling, youth services, and neighborhood-
based programs.
Build Inclusion, Inc.
3138 Custer Dr, Suite 100, Lexington, KY
(859) 321-5597 / www.buildinclusion.org
Promotes intentional inclusion, access, and
opportunities through meaningful employment
opportunities, community and family educa-
tion, and inclusive civic engagement. Offers
Person-Centered Planning and Clinical Social
Work services for individuals with intellectual
or developmental disabilities.
Center for Accessible Living
www.calky.org
Empowers all people to achieve their goal of
independent living.
Louisville
501 E. Broadway, Suite 310
(502) 589-6620
Lexington
Independence Place
870 Corporate Dr, Suite 200
(859) 266-2807
Murray
205 Andrus Dr, Suite A
(270) 753-7676 / (888) 261-6194
Bowling Green
1600 Scottsville Rd, Suite 300
(270) 599-0911
Christian Appalachian Project
485 Ponderosa Dr, Paintsville, KY
(866) 270-4227 / www.christianapp.org
Provides physical, spiritual, and emotional
support through a wide variety of programs
and services.
Community Action Council
710 West High St, Lexington, KY
(859) 233-4600 / https://commaction.org/ser-
vice/weatherization-assistance-program/
Offers free Weatherization and Warmwise
programs for residents of Fayette, Bourbon,
Harrison, and Nicholas Counties. These pro-
grams help save energy, lower monthly costs,
and ensure safety.
Community Action Kentucky (CAK)
101 Burch Court, Frankfort, KY
(800) 456-3452 / (502) 875-5863
www.capky.org
Statewide association that represents and
assists the 23 community action agencies as
they empower individuals and families to attain
greater economic success.
14
www.CCDD.ky.gov
Resource List Available Online
https://ccdd.ky.gov/Pages/resources.aspx
Resource List 2026
Council on Developmental Disabilities
1219 West Jefferson St, Suite 106, Louisville, KY
(502) 584-1239 / www.the-council.org
Helps individuals, families, and caregivers
to navigate essential community resources.
Provides one-on-one guidance, training events,
and social events.
Home of the Innocents
1100 E. Market St, Louisville, KY
(502) 596-1000
www.homeoftheinnocents.org
Provides therapeutic, loving care to children
who are victims of abuse, abandonment, and
neglect. Home to children who have Autism
and other behavioral health diagnoses, who
are medically fragile, or who have exceptional
needs. Open Arms Children’s Health is the
Home’s health-care facility offering pediatric
medical, dental, hearing, vision, and pharmacy.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
https://hdsunflower.com/us/
Offers a simple, wearable tool that allows
people to voluntarily share that they have a
disability or condition that may not be immedi-
ately apparent.
Human Development Institute (HDI)
University of Kentucky
113 Mineral Industries Bldg, Lexington, KY
(859) 257-4356 / www.hdi.uky.edu
Advances efforts that build inclusive commu-
nities, address inequities, and improve the lives
of all people who experience disability across
the lifespan. Achieves its mission through
leadership and community partnerships across
Kentucky and the nation.
Independence Seekers Project
1244 S Third St, Suite 200
Louisville, KY / (502) 509-9363
www.independenceseekersproject.org
Challenges ableism and redefines community
through a support network built by those with
disabilities. Aspires to create a more inclusive
community dedicated to interdependence.
KARRN (Kentucky Appalachian Rural
Rehabilitation Network)
UK College of Health Sciences
900 South Limestone, Lexington, KY
(859) 218-0580 / Patrick.Kitzman@uky.edu
www.karrn.org
A collaborative team composed of individuals
impacted by neurological conditions, provid-
ers who serve them, members of communities
in which they live, advocates, educators, and
researchers who investigate these conditions.
Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault
Programs
83-C Michael Davenport Blvd., Frankfort, KY
(502) 226-2704 / www.kasap.org
Speaks out against sexual victimization. Does
not provide direct services, but helps survivors
to connect with their local crisis center for
advocacy and support.
Kentucky Partnership for Families and
Children, Inc.
600 Teton Trail, Frankfort, KY
(502) 875-1320 / (800) 369-0533
www.kypartnership.org
Empowers families affected by behavioral
health challenges to initiate personal and
systems change.
Kentucky Special Parent Involvement
Network, Inc. (KY-SPIN)
10301-B Deering Rd, Louisville, KY
(502) 937-6894 / (800) 525-7746
www.kyspin.com
Links families and individuals with dis-
abilities to resources that enable them to live
productive, fulfilling lives. The KY-SPIN Parent
Center provides training, information, and
support for children and youth with all types of
disabilities (birth through 26 years old), their
parents, families, and professionals.
Kentucky Youth Advocates
10200 Linn Station, Suite 310, Louisville, KY
(502) 895-8167 / (888) 825-5592
www.kyyouth.org
Advocates for policies that give children the
best opportunities for a brighter future.
Life Coaching for Special Needs Families
Rob Ralston / (502) 541-5038
www.lifecoachingforspecialneedsfamilies.com
24/7 support from someone who understands
the journey – because he’s lived it, too. Offers a
safe space to navigate challenges and find your
strength.
Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky
2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 200
Lexington, KY / (859) 225-8879
www.pcaky.org
Aims to prevent the abuse and neglect of Ken-
tucky’s children through advocacy, education,
awareness, and training.
Public Library Home Delivery Service
Many public libraries offer home delivery
service for those with physical limitations that
prevent them from visiting. Contact the public
library in your area to ask about these services,
which are often referred to as “outreach
services” or “homebound delivery.” Eligibility
requirements vary from county to county. For
help locating the library nearest you, visit www.
usa.gov/libraries-and-archives.
Puzzle Pieces
2401 New Hartford Rd, Owensboro, KY
(270) 926-7813 / puzzle-pieces.org
Provides day training, ABA therapy, autism-
centered programming, residential services,
supported employment, Pre-ETS, Community
Access and more.
15
2026 Exceptional Family KY
2026 Resource List
Safe Kids Worldwide
https://www.safekids.org/coalition/safe-kids-
kentucky
Global network that brings together health
and safety experts, educators, corporations,
foundations, governments, and volunteers to
educate and protect families. In-state coali-
tions offer programs like car-seat checks, safety
workshops, and sports clinics.
Safe Kids Fayette County
2333 Alumni Park Plaza, Suite 105
Lexington, KY
(859) 323-1153 / https://ukhealthcare.uky.
edu/safe-kids-fayette-county
Safe Kids Louisville
Norton Children’s Hospital
315 E. Broadway, Louisville, KY
(502) 629-7244 / www.safekids.org/coalition/
safe-kids-louisville
Special Persons Advocacy Network
(SPAN)
Danville, KY / bobbie.hancock@uky.edu
lshort9655@gmail.com / https://app.candid.
org/profile/7976119/special-persons-advocacy-
network-inc-61-1349003
Promotes independence, life skills, com-
munity access, involvement, social interac-
tion, communication skills, and self-worth for
individuals with intellectual disabilities. Also
offers support to parents and caregivers. Board
meets the first Tuesday of every month at 1:00
at Centenary Christian Church in Danville.
TASH Disability Advocacy Worldwide –
Kentucky Chapter
Darrell Mattingly / (859) 229-7499
(859) 373-8920 / darrell.mattingly@uky.edu
www.tash.org/chapters/kentucky-tash
International association of people with dis-
abilities, family members, other advocates and
professionals working for a society in which
inclusion of all people in all aspects of society
is the norm.
Tourette Association of America
(888) 486-8738 / support@tourette.org
www.tsa-usa.org
Works to raise awareness, advance research,
and provide ongoing support to patients and
families impacted by Tourette Syndrome and
Tic Disorders. Directs a network of 31 Chapters
and 83 support groups, and recognizes 18 Cen-
ters of Excellence across the country.
Tourette Syndrome in the Bluegrass
tsinthebluegrass@gmail.com / www.facebook.
com/tourettesyndromeinthebluegrass
Toys With a Purpose
(859) 218-0580 / phkitz1@uky.edu
https://toyswithapurposeky.com
Provides free adapted toys to individual fami-
lies through an online lending library. Educates
high school and college students about inclu-
sion and accessibility through the process of
adapting toys.
Un Abrazo Amigo Parent Support Group
Jackie Arakaki / (859) 474-2722
jackie.arakaki@uky.edu
Spanish-language parent support group for
families of children and youth with special
health care needs. Meets one evening per
month at Cardinal Valley Elementary School in
Lexington; dinner and childcare are provided.
The support group addresses language and
cultural barriers to accessing health care and
social services, and it supports families in
becoming advocates for their children through
education and mutual support.
United Way Kentucky
P.O. Box 4653, Louisville, KY
(502) 589-6897 / 211 Help Line
www.uwky.org
Fights for the education, health, housing
and financial stability of every person in every
community. Kentucky is home to 22 United
Ways serving 95+ counties. Dial 211 for local
resources and assistance related to food, hous-
ing, utilities, tax preparation, or disability.
WHAS Crusade for Children
520 West Chestnut St, Louisville, KY
(502) 582-7706 / www.whascrusade.org
Raises money for agencies, schools and
hospitals to better the lives of children with
special needs. The Crusade Advisory Panel,
an independent board of interdenominational
ministers, decides how donations are distrib-
uted each year.
State Resources
Acquired Brain Injury
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver
275 E. Main St, 6W-B, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-7540 / (844) 784-5614 / https://chfs.
ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/abi.aspx/
Operates two Medicaid waivers to provide as-
sistance to adults with an acquired brain injury
who want to live in the community as indepen-
dently as possible.
Career and Technical Education
300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-4286 ext. 4249 / https://education.
ky.gov/CTE/Pages/default.aspx
The Department of Education offers four ca-
reer and technical education (CTE) pathways.
These pathways have on and off ramps tailored
to the individual student's needs. Each of the
four pathways paves the way for post-second-
ary education or employment opportunities by
providing industry certifications, credentials,
and end-of-program certificates.
Family to Family Health Information
Center
310 Whittington Parkway, Suite 200
Louisville, KY
(502) 782-8781 / Jessica Sheene
www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/ocshcn/Pages/ftf.
aspx
Supports families of children with special
health care needs, as well as the profession-
als who serve them. Provides peer-to-peer
support, information, resources, and training.
Services available in all counties.
Hart-Supported Living Program
275 E. Main St, 3E-E, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-6930 / pcap.hsl@ky.gov / https://chfs.
ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/hslp.aspx
Provides funds for supports to help Kentuck-
ians with disabilities live in their homes and
communities and avoid institutionalization.
Any Kentuckian with a disability as defined by
the Americans with Disability Act can apply for
Hart-Supported Living funds.
Region 1
(502) 401-8650 / angel.lawrence@ky.gov
Counties: Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Car-
lisle, Christian, Crittenden, Daviess, Fulton,
Graves, Henderson, Hickman, Hopkins, Liv-
ingston, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken,
McLean, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg, Union,
Webster
Region 2
(502) 229-5211 / makalla.morrison@ky.gov
Counties: Adair, Allen, Barren, Breckinridge,
Bullitt, Butler, Cumberland, Edmonson, Gray-
son, Green, Hancock, Hardin, Hart, Larue,
Meade, Metcalf, Monroe, Nelson, Ohio, Rus-
sell, Simpson, Taylor, Warren
Region 3
(502) 229-2294 / AmandaM.Coulter@ky.gov
Counties: Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Casey,
Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Jessamine,
Lincoln, Madison, Marion, Mercer, Mont-
gomery, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Scott, Woodford
Region 4
(502) 229-9716 / smiller@ky.gov
Counties: Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Jefferson,
Oldham, Owen, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble,
Washington
Region 5
(502) 229-6863 / caryn.turvey@ky.gov
Counties: Bath, Boone, Boyd, Bracken,
Campbell, Carter, Fleming, Grant, Greenup,
Harrison, Kenton, Lewis, Mason, Nichols,
Pendleton, Robertson, Rowan
Region 6
(502) 401-8654 / angelia.forgey@ky.gov
Counties: Bell, Breathitt, Clay, Elliot, Estill,
Floyd, Harlan, Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox,
Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magof-
fin, Martin, McCreary, Menifee, Morgan,
Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Wayne, Whitley,
Wolfe
16
www.CCDD.ky.gov
(502) 564-7841
www.CCDD.KY.gov
Advocacy Works Meet the
COUNCIL MEMBERS - FRONT ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: Ryan Guyder, David Allgood
BACK ROW: Andrea Strassburg, Laura Butler, Danny Slaton, Casey Allen, Leigh Van Hooser,
Heather McConnell, Amy Smith, Kristen Beach, Camille Collins
NOT PICTURED: Donna Deal, Heidi Kesterson, Barb Locker, Mack Thompson, Edward Clark,
Darrell Mattingly, Regina Watts, Jason Wheatley, Nick Carpenter, Jacob Cruz, Blaire Handshoe
COME JOIN US!
If you want to affect policy, influence
legislators, and advocate for change, the
CCDD Council is the place for you. Call today
to learn how you can make a difference.
17
2026 Exceptional Family KY
2026 Resource List
Are We Missing
Resources?
ur goal at Exceptional Family is to provide a comprehen-
sive, statewide list of resources for people with disabili-
ties. Since we first published the magazine in 2009, we
have updated and expanded this list many times. Help us con-
tinue to make this resource directory as accurate and thorough as
possible. If you know of resources that should be added or updat-
ed, please let us know. We look forward to hearing from you!
exceptionalfamilyky@gmail.com
Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan
Corp.
Mayo-Underwood Building
500 Mero St, 1st Floor, SE, Frankfort KY
(877) 675-0195
https://katlc.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx
Offers low-interest loans to qualified appli-
cants with disabilities for assistive technology.
Kentucky Children’s Insurance Program
(KCHIP)
(855) 459-6328
https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits/s/medicaid-
kchip-program?language=en_US
Free health insurance program for children
under the age of 19. Uninsured children under
19 who live in a household with an income at
or less than 218% of the federal poverty level
are eligible.
Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and
Hard of Hearing
632 Versailles Rd, Frankfort, KY
(502) 573-2604 / VP (502) 416-0607
kcdhh@ky.org / www.kcdhh.ky.gov
Provides leadership, education, advocacy, and
programs to eliminate barriers and to meet the
social, economic, educational, cultural, intel-
lectual, and health and human services needs
of Deaf and hard of hearing Kentuckians.
Kentucky Community Mental Health
Centers
275 E. Main St, 6W-D, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-6890 / www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/
dbhdid/Pages/cmhc.aspx
Provides a comprehensive range of acces-
sible, coordinated, direct or indirect mental
health services through Kentucky’s 14 regional
MH/IDD boards. Regional boards are private,
non-profit organizations serving residents of
designated regions.
Kentucky Department for Aging and
Independent Living
275 E. Main St. 3E-E, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-6930 / www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/
dail/Pages/default.aspx
Oversees administration of statewide pro-
grams and services on behalf of Kentucky el-
ders and individuals with disabilities. Promotes
the dignity, well-being, and independence of
Kentuckians and their caregivers.
Kentucky Department for Behavioral
Health, Developmental and Intellectual
Disabilities
275 E. Main St, 4CF, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-4527 / https://www.chfs.ky.gov/
agencies/dbhdid/Pages/did.aspx
Partners with individuals with intellectual
or developmental disabilities (as well as their
families and advocates) to empower each per-
son to realize their place in the community.
Kentucky Division of Community
Alternatives
Medicaid Waivers
275 E. Main St, 6W-B, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-7540 / www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/
dms/dca/Pages/HCBSWaiver.aspx
Six waiver programs are in place to help indi-
viduals with disabilities to live independently.
These include ABI Acute and ABI Long-Term
Care Waivers, the Home and Community
Based (HCB) Waiver, the Model II Waiver
(MIIW), the Michelle P. Waiver, and the Sup-
ports for Community Living (SCL) Waiver.
Kentucky Early Intervention System
275 E. Main St, HS2WC, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-3756 / https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/
dph/dmch/ecdb/Pages/keis.aspx
Provides services to children with develop-
mental disabilities from birth to age 3 and their
families. Kentucky Early Intervention System is
Kentucky’s response to the federal Infant-Tod-
dler Program. Offers comprehensive services
through a variety of community agencies.
Barren River District Point of Entry
380 Suwannee Trail, Bowling Green, KY
(270) 901-5749 / (800) 643-6233
Counties: Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson,
Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson,
Warren
Big Sandy District Point of Entry
104 South Front Ave, Prestonsburg, KY
(606) 886-4417 / (800) 230-6011
Counties: Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin,
Pike
Bluegrass District Point of Entry
1351 Newtown Pike, Bldg 5, Lexington, KY
(859) 271-9448 / (800) 454-2764
Counties: Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark,
Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison,
Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicho-
las, Powell, Scott, Woodford
Buffalo Trace District Point of Entry
611 Forest Ave., Maysville, KY
(606) 564-3919 / (800) 335-4249
Counties: Bracken, Fleming, Lewis, Mason,
Robertson
Cumberland Valley Point of Entry
175 East Peachtree St
Corbin, KY
(606) 523-0229 / (800) 509-9559
Counties: Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox,
Laurel, Rockcastle, Whitley.
FIVCO District Point of Entry
5850 U.S. 60, Box 11 Summit Plaza
Ashland, KY
(606) 929-9155 / (800) 650-1329
Counties: Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Greenup,
Lawrence
Gateway District Point of Entry
68 Oberline St,
Owingsville, KY
(606) 674-3204 / (800) 942-4358
Counties: Bath, Menifee, Montgomery,
Morgan, Rowan
Green River District Point of Entry
1501 Breckenridge St
Owensboro, KY
(270) 852-2905 / (888) 686-1414
Counties: Daviess, Hancock, Henderson,
McLean, Ohio, Union, Webster
Kentuckiana District Point of Entry
312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 200
Louisville, KY
18
www.CCDD.ky.gov
Resource List 2026
(502) 429-1249 / (800) 422-0087
Counties: Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham,
Shelby, Spencer, Trimble
Kentucky River District Point of Entry
115 Rockwood Lane, Hazard, KY
(606) 439-1325 / (800) 328-1767
Counties: Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie,
Letcher, Owsley, Perry, Wolfe
Lake Cumberland District Point of Entry
259 Parkers Mill Rd, Somerset, KY
(606) 678-2821 / (800) 378-2821
Counties: Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland,
Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor,
Wayne
Lincoln Trail District Point of Entry
2935 Dolphin Dr, Suite 204
Elizabethtown, KY
(270) 737-5921 / (800) 454-2764
Counties: Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin,
Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington
Northern Kentucky District Point of
Entry
NorthKey Community Care
502 Farrell Dr, Covington, KY
(859) 578-3200
and
St. Elizabeth Community Outreach Building
4900 Houston Rd, Florence, KY
(859) 655-1195
Counties: Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin,
Grant, Kenton, Owen, Pendleton
Pennyrile District Point of Entry
102 West Second St, Hopkinsville, KY
(270) 886-5186 / (877) 473-7766
Counties: Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden,
Hopkins, Lyon, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg
Purchase District Point of Entry
425 Broadway, Suite 204, Paducah, KY
(270) 442-6223 / (800) 648-6599
Counties: Ballard, Carlisle, Calloway, Fulton,
Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Marshall, Mc-
Cracken
Kentucky Education & Labor Cabinet
500 Mero St, Frankfort, KY / (502) 564-3070
https://elc.ky.gov/Pages/index.aspx
Provides Kentuckians with education and
training so they can attain a meaningful career,
support their families, break the cycle of pov-
erty, and prosper.
Kentucky Home and Community-Based
Waiver (HCB)
275 E. Main St, 6W-B, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-7540 / https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/
dms/dca/Pages/hcb-waiver.aspx
Provides assistance to the elderly or to adults
and children with disabilities to help them live
in the community as independently as possible.
Kentucky IMPACT Program
275 E. Main St, 4W-F, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-4456 / https://www.chfs.ky.gov/
agencies/dbhdid/Pages/kyimpact.aspx
Works to prevent children/youth with Serious
Emotional Disturbance from being placed
outside of their homes and provides support to
those who are transitioning back to home from
such residential placements. Has embraced the
Wraparound process since its inception.
Kentucky Office of Vocational
Rehabilitation
The Mayo-Underwood Building
500 Mero St,1st floor SE, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-4440 / (800) 372-7172 / https://
kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/Pages/
Kentucky-Office-of-Vocational-Rehabilitation.
aspx
Offers vocational training and other services.
Assesses the vocational rehabilitation needs of
Kentuckians with disabilities every three years,
as required by the Rehabilitation Act. Uses the
results to update its state plan for vocational
rehabilitation services. See listing under Vision
for more information on services for individu-
als who are blind or visually impaired.
Kentucky Transitions (Money Follows the
Person Demonstration Grant)
275 East Main St, 6 W-B, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-0330 / (877) 564-0330
https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dca/Pages/
kytransitions.aspx
Helps people move out of nursing facilities or
institutions and into their own homes.
Medicaid Waiver Provider Directory
https://www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dpi/
Pages/Provider-Directory.aspx
Maintained by the Division of Developmental
& Intellectual Disabilities. Offers an interac-
tive map with contact information for provider
agencies certified to provide SCL/Michelle P.
Medicaid waiver services.
Office for Children with Special Health
Care Needs (OCSHCN)
www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/ocshcn/Pages/
default.aspx
Provides comprehensive care for children
with special health-care needs, including medi-
cal services, therapy, financial assistance, hear-
ing services, and social services support.
Central office / Louisville
310 Whittington Parkway, Suite 200
Louisville, KY
(502) 429-4430 / (800) 232-1160
Counties: Bullitt, Carroll, Gallatin, Henry,
Jefferson, Oldham, Owen, Shelby, Spencer,
Trimble
Barbourville
110 Johnson Lane
(606) 546-5109 / (800) 348-4279
Counties: Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Laurel,
Rockcastle, Knox, Whitley
Bowling Green
2040 Louisville Rd
(270) 746-7816 / (800) 843-5877
Counties: Allen, Barren, Butler, Christian,
Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe,
Simpson, Todd, Warren
Elizabethtown
916 North Mulberry St, Suite 172
(270) 766-5370 / (800) 995-6982
Counties: Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin,
Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington
Hazard
103 Town and Country Lane, Suite M
(606) 435-6167 / (800) 378-3357
Counties: Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie,
Letcher, Owsley, Perry, Wolfe
Lexington
333 Waller Ave., Suite 300
(859) 252-3170 / (800) 817-3874
Counties: Anderson, Bourbon, Boone, Boyle,
Clark, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard,
Grant, Harrison, Jessamine, Kenton, Lincoln,
Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott,
Woodford
Morehead
214 West First St
(606) 783-8610 / (800) 928-3049
Counties: Bath, Boyd, Bracken, Campbell,
Carter, Elliot, Fleming, Greenup, Lawrence,
Lewis, Mason, Menifee, Montgomery, Mor-
gan, Pendleton, Robertson, Rowan
Owensboro
1600 Breckenridge St
(270) 687-7038 / (877) 687-7038
Counties: Daviess, Hancock, Henderson,
Hopkins, McLean, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Union,
Webster
Paducah
2855 Jackson St
(270) 443-3651 / (800) 443-3651
Counties: Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Car-
lisle, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves, Hickman,
Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken, Trigg
Prestonsburg
311 North Arnold Ave
(606) 889-1761 / (800) 594-7058
Counties: Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin,
Pike
Somerset
Professional Plaza, 401 Bogle St, Suite 104
(606) 677-4120 / (800) 525-4279
Counties: Adair, Casey, Clinton of Cum-
berland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell,
Taylor, Wayne
Personal Care Attendant Program
Department for Aging and Independent Living
275 East Main St, 3E-E, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-6930 / PCAP.HSL@ky.gov / https://
chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/pcap.aspx
Helps physically disabled adults at risk of
being institutionalized to live in their own
homes and communities by subsidizing costs of
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2026 Exceptional Family KY
2026 Resource List
personal attendant services.
Region 1
Benton, Ky
(502) 229-2979 / valerie.leathers@ky.gov
Counties: Adair, Allen, Ballard, Barren,
Breckenridge, Bullitt, Butler, Caldwell, Callo-
way, Carlisle, Christian, Clinton, Crittenden,
Cumberland, Daviess, Edmonson, Fulton,
Graves, Grayson, Green, Hancock, Hardin,
Hart, Henderson, Hickman, Hopkins, Larue,
Livingston, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, McClean,
McCracken, Meade, Metcalfe, Monroe,
Muhlenberg, Ohio, Russell, Simpson, Taylor,
Todd, Trigg, Union, Warren, Wayne, Webster
Region 2
Lexington, Ky
(502) 229-2327 / benjamin.parsley@ky.gov
Counties: Anderson, Boone, Carroll,
Franklin, Gallatin, Henry, Jefferson, Kenton,
Marion, Nelson, Oldham, Owen, Shelby,
Spencer, Trimble, Washington
Region 3
Nicholasville, KY
(502) 330-0409 / DAILPCAPRegion3@ky.gov
Counties: Bath, Bell, Bourbon, Boyd, Boyle,
Bracken, Breathitt, Campbell, Carter, Casey,
Clark, Clay, Elliot, Estill, Fayette, Fleming,
Floyd, Garrard, Grant, Greenup, Harlan,
Harrison, Jackson, Jessamine, Johnson, Knox,
Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lewis,
Lincoln, Madison, Menifee, Magoffin, Martin,
Mason, McCreary, Menifee, Mercer, Mont-
gomery, Morgan, Nicholas, Owsley, Pendle-
ton, Perry, Pike, Powell, Pulaski, Robertson,
Rockcastle, Rowan, Scott, Whitley, Wolfe,
Woodford
Social Security Administration
(800) 772-1213 / www.ssa.gov
Administers the Supplemental Security
Income (SSI) program, which provides cash
assistance to the elderly and to low-income
individuals with disabilities.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Trust Fund
275 E. Main St, 3E-E, Frankfort, KY
(502) 564-6930 / https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/
dail/Pages/tbitrust.aspx
Offers flexible funding and support for
people with traumatic brain injuries. Supports
community-based efforts to meet the special
needs of individuals with brain injury.
Zero V: Kentucky United Against Violence
111 Darby Shire Circle, Frankfort, KY
(502) 209-5382 / www.zerov.org
Supports Kentucky’s 15-regional Domestic
Violence Programs, providing free, confiden-
tial services to survivors of intimate partner
violence.
Adoption and
Fostering
Adoption Support for Kentucky
UK College of Social Work Training Resource
Center, 1648 McGrathiana Pkwy
Lexington, KY
(888)-44-ASKKY / https://socialwork.uky.edu/
centers-labs/training-resource-center/adop-
tion-support-for-kentucky
Utilizes innovative training modalities and
inclusive support group practices to meet the
needs of foster, adoptive, relative, and fictive-
kin caregivers throughout the Commonwealth.
The Bair Foundation: Kindred Roots
771 Corporate Dr, Suite 700, Lexington, KY
(859) 519-3273 / www.bair.org
Offers strengths-based, trauma-informed
family reunification and support services,
including supervised visitation, parenting edu-
cation, court advocacy, and case consultancy.
Benchmark Family Services
Therapeutic Foster Care
Kentucky Administrative Office
160 Burt Rd, Lexington, KY / (859) 260-1412
www.benchmarkfamilyservices.org
Provides quality out-of-home placements for
youth in need. Serves children with emotional,
mental, and physical disabilities along with
youth who have been severely neglected or
abused. Therapeutic services include training
of foster families. Has offices in Berea, Bowl-
ing Green, Columbia, Corbin, Elizabethtown,
Florence, Hazard, Irvine, Lexington, London,
Louisville, Madisonville, Morehead, Owens-
boro, Owenton, Prestonsburg and Somerset.
Best Point Education and Behavioral
Health
(Formerly Children’s Home of Cincinnati)
5050 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH,
(513) 272-2800
https://bestpoint.org/behavioral-health
Helps children with social, behavioral, and
learning challenges succeed in their home,
school, and community environments. Follows
the principles of the Teaching-Family Model—
an evidence-based behavior modification
model that teaches at-risk children to improve
their behaviors and social skills.
Key Assets Behavioral Health
2331 Fortune Dr, Suite 225, Lexington, KY
(859) 226-5022 / www.keyassetskentucky.com
Supports children, families, and adults both
during and following times of crisis. Support
may take many forms, including psychological
assessment and/or testing, targeted case man-
agement, and individual or group therapy.
The Arts
Allegro Dance Project
(715) 252-6137 / www.allegrodanceproject.org
Lexington-based, non-profit contemporary
dance company specializing in Inclusive dance
outreach for children with Down syndrome,
Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other specific
needs.
Arts for All Kentucky
500 N. 4th St, Murray, KY
(270) 792-0023 / www.artsforallky.org
Nonprofit dedicated to providing inclusive
arts and education programs for children,
youth, and adults with disabilities, as well as
professional development for artists and teach-
ers. Through participatory involvement with
trained professionals and volunteers, people
with disabilities learn new creative and social
skills that open doors to new opportunities.
Latitude Artist Community
740 National Ave., Suite 180, Lexington, KY
(859) 806-0195 / www.latitude-arts.com
Art studio that serves all people, with an
emphasis on those who are considered to have
a disability. Offers multi-modal activities,
workshops, and community outreach events.
Lexington Children’s Theatre
418 W. Short St, Lexington, KY
(859) 254-4546
www.lctonstage.org/tickets/access-at-lct/
Offers sensory-friendly performances where
young people with sensory sensitivities or
disabilities, first-time theatre-goers, young
children, and their friends and family are free
to speak, respond, and move around the seating
area in reaction to the story. ASL interpretation
and audio description are also available.
Wellness Creative
501 Darby Creek Rd, No. 7, Lexington, KY
(859) 287-4111 / www.wellnessmtc.com
Offers music therapy, traditional and adapted
music lessons, and art therapy. Helps people of
all ages grow and heal through music lessons,
music therapy, and art therapy.
Wildwood Music Therapy
2375 Professional Heights Dr, Suite 180
Lexington, KY / (859) 456-0292 /
https://wildwoodmusictherapy.com
Board-certified music therapists provide mu-
sic therapy and adaptive music lesson services
for all ages and abilities. Sessions celebrate
strengths and help clients achieve their goals.
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www.CCDD.ky.gov