Due to the COVID pandemic, many of these resources may be currently dormant or may temporarily discontinue their operations.
Contact them individually to confirm their most current status.

Resources for Parents

Evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder

The Children’s Guild Foundation Autism Spectrum Disorder Center at Oishei Children’s Outpatient Center
Oishei Children’s Outpatient Center (Conventus)
1001 Main St., Buffalo, NY  14203
Call: 716-323-6560
First family-focused, multi-disciplinary Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Center of its kind in WNY offers monthly parent groups and quarterly newly diagnosed information sessions for parents and adult family members of children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. They also have a Community ASD Calendar, Parent Support Group listing and Resource Page on their web site.

Levine Autism Clinic, Univ. of Rochester Medical Center, Golisano Children’s Hospital
200 East River Rd, Third floor, Rochester, NY 14623
Call: 585-275-2986
Very extensive evaluation for ASD.  Take insurance including Medicaid. See if your insurance requires referral, preapproval, and/or out of pocket costs. Provides comprehensive and coordinated care to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Their team of experts monitor developmental progress, treats health problems associated with ASD, assesses and treats behavior problems, and ensures that families have needed resources and connections to community support. Follow on Facebook.

Support Groups

The Akron Parents of Children with Special Needs
Hosts workshops and discusses and finds plans to help children with challenges within school, extracurricular activities or family situations with the overall goal of inclusiveness. Meets once a month virtually. Date and time listed on Facebook: Akron Parents of Children with Special Needs. Contact Nicole LaMonte-DeGolier: 818-625-0486 or Akronspecialneeds@gmail.com

Buffalo Autism Parent Group
A group for parents and caregivers of children with autism.  Participate in-person at Buffalo State College, 103 Ketchum Hall, Room 211, 1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY  14222 or via Zoom.  Meets “Teenth” Wednesday of each month from 6:30 pm-7:30 pm. Click here for community calendar for upcoming meeting dates. For more information email jmertz@kaleidahealth.org

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group
Meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm via Zoom due to COVID. Click here for upcoming meeting dates. For more information call 716-332-4170 or email info@parentnetworkwny.org

Child & Family Support Program (CFSP)
A peer run program within the Mental Health Advocates of WNY focuses on issues affecting families that have emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges.

• Support Group for Caregivers of Children, Teen, and Young Adults ages 18-26
  Family support groups are offered through MHA’s Child and Family Support Program and are open to parents, foster parents, grandparents or any caregiver/guardian to provide support and alleviate isolation. Meets 1st & 3rd Friday of each month in-person from 6:00pm-7:30pm at Pilgrim–St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, 335 Richmond Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222. To sign-up: RSVP to trogers@mhawny.org or call 716-886-1242 x 346. 
• Teen Peer Support Group for ages 13-18
  Groups are peer-led and offer a safe place for youth to connect, receive support as well as celebrate accomplishments and practice self-care skills in this new era of social distancing. Meets 1st & 3rd Friday via Zoom and in-person from 6:00pm–7:30pm at Pilgrim–St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, 335 Richmond Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222. To sign-up: RSVP to peersupport@mhawny.org or call 716-886-1242 x 345, or text 716-245-5339. 
•  20-Something Support Group (ages 18-28)Strength-based and recovery-centered group provides validation and support to emerging adults facing mental health and/or substance use struggles. Meets 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 6:00pm-7:30pm via Zoom and in-person at Pilgrim–St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, 35 Richmond Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222. For more information or to sign-up: RSVP to peersupport@mhawny.org or call 716-886-1242 x 345, or text 716-245-5339. 
• Writing & Well Being Group
  For adults (ages 18 and up) with a mental health diagnosis interested in using writing in their mental health recovery. Meets Mondays at 1:00 pm via Zoom and the 1st & 3rd Saturdays of each month at 10:00 am in-person. To sign-up: RSVP to bmcnally@mhawny.org or 716-886-1242 x 347. You will receive a confirmation email with location information. 
• Coping with Stress and Anxiety Group
  Meets online weekly to share stories, emotions, and skills to manage fear during these trying times. Mondays at 6:00 pm via Zoom. To sign-up: RSVP to bmcnally@mhawny.org or 716-886-1242 x 347. You will receive a confirmation email with log-in information. 
• Mental Health Support Group
  Meets Tuesdays at 2:30 pm via Zoom and Wednesdays at 6:30 pm via phone conference. To sign-up: RSVP to bmcnally@mhawny.org or 716-886-1242 x 347. You will receive a confirmation email with log-in information. 

Grand Island Autism Support Group
Facebook group only. Click here for more information.  

Other Groups

DDAWNY Family Committee
Informs family members about their rights, protections, service, and the wide range of options available for their loved ones with developmental disabilities. Focus: Advocacy and living options for individuals with DD. Meets via Zoom on 3rd Tuesday each month at 7 p.m. Facebook: Developmental Disabilities Alliance of WNY Family Committee.

DDAWNY Transition Committee
Plays an integral role with 14-21 year old students with disabilities who are preparing to leave mandated educational services. The Committee advocates, in compliance with New York State law, that our population receive appropriate transition planning. The Committee facilitates information, training, and a variety of resources to benefit students with disabilities. The committee invites school districts, community agencies, families, and any stakeholders who would like current information around transition. Meets the second Friday, most months Sept.-May, 9:00-11:00 a.m. All meetings will be held via Zoom with the exception of Nov. and April. For more information contact co-facilitators, Pam Cronyn PCronyn@arceriecounty.org or Tonia Weichmann tlw@parentnetworkwny.org

Local SEPTSA (Special Education Parent, Teacher, and Student Assoc.) and SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Committee) Groups
Not specifically for autism, but they are a source of support and a way to network with other parents.

• Buffalo Public Schools SEPAC (Virtual)
  Contact: Vanessa Guerra 716-816-4747 or vguerra@buffaloschools.org
  Click here for Facebook page
• Foundation for Inclusive Catholic Education (FICE)
  Call: 716-536-3887 or Email: ficeprogram@yahoo.com
  Facebook: FICE: Foundation for Inclusive Catholic Education WNY
• Hamburg Central PTSA
• Ken-Ton SEPTO (No meetings scheduled at this time due to COVID)
  Call: 716-427-3719
  Facebook: Ken-Ton SEPTO Special Education Parent Teacher Organization
• Orchard Park Special Education PTSA (Virtual and In-Person)
  Email: OPSEPTSA@gmail.com
• West Seneca SEPTA (Virtual)
  Meets 3rd Thursday of every month Sept. – May (No meeting in Dec.) at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom.
  Call: 716-393-9674 or Email: Westsenecasepta@yahoo.com
  Click here for Facebook page
  
• Williamsville SEPTSA (Virtual)
  Dave Whalen, President: 716-565-9338 or williamsvilleseptsa@gmail.com
  Click here for Facebook page

Groups for Siblings

Niagara Frontier Sibshops
Empower, 9812 Lockport Rd., Niagara Falls, NY 14304
Contact: Robin Stevens 716-478-9528 or rstevens@empower-wny.org for dates and to register.
Meets bi-monthly from 11 am-2pm on Saturdays and special events. Lunch is provided. Cost: $5/child; $10 maximum per/family. Scholarships available.
Click here for Facebook page.

WNY Sibshop at Canisius College (Ages 6-12)
Contact Dr. Susan Putnam: 716-574-9217 or profputnam@gmail.com
This program provides support, guidance, and opportunities for peer interactions to siblings of children with special needs. Sibshops are lively, action packed 4-hour workshops that celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of kids with special needs. Cost per session: $20 to register the first child in the family, additional children $5 each. They also have a library for parents and siblings.

Teen Group for Sibs
Currently looking forward to forming a new teen group for ages 13-17 centered around social activities.
If interested, contact Dr. Susan Putnam: 716-574-9217 or profputnam@gmail.com

Groups for Individuals on the Spectrum

Asperger’s Group
Autism Services offers bi-monthly Asperger’s group social meetings, in which people can discuss struggles and successes in their lives, as well as play games and just enjoy each other’s company. Meets in Buffalo on the first Wednesday of the month from 5:00 pm – 6:15 pm.
For more information, contact Veronica at 716-631-5777 ext. 318 or vfedericoni@autism-services-inc.org. 

Online Support Group for Young Adults (18 – 30 years old) with Autism
Online support group run by Patty McCalister, LMHC. This group will allow you to make connections with your peers via Zoom sessions (in-person session TBD). A variety of topics will be discussed relevant to group members and guest speakers will be invited to join a few of the groups.
Contact patriciamccalisterlmhc@gmail.com for upcoming dates and times and to sign up or text 716-345-5450. 

Training/Workshops

Autism Society Western New York
19 Limestone Drive, Suite 1, Williamsville, NY 14221
Call: 716-633-2275 or Email: info@autismwny.org
Inexpensive half-day workshops/webinars held twice a year. Check events page on website for information on a wide range of WNY workshops and events.

Autism Research Institute (ARI)
Offers free online webinars for Parents and Professionals. ARI is a non-profit organization focused on conducting and sponsoring research aimed at improving the quality of life for today’s generation of children and adults with autism spectrum disorders.

CARD Albany:  The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University at Albany
Call: 518-442-2574 or Email: card@albany.edu
Statewide agency that provides evidence-based training and support to families and professionals. Annual conference rotates locations and is in Buffalo every few years. Due to COVID, no new events are scheduled at this time.

The Summit Center
Call: 716-629-3400
Periodic workshops and trainings for parents and professionals.

WNY Regional Center for ASD (local CARD)
The Summit Center, 150 Stahl Rd, Getzville, NY  14068
Call: 716-629-3400
The WNY Regional Center for ASD provides support to families and professionals in seven counties (Niagara, Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany, Genesee, and Orleans) including the 97 school districts in the region. Primarily addresses the needs of children and adults with ASD between the ages of 4 to 21 years.

Agencies/Services/Supports

Accessible Academics
Call: 716-492-8656 or Email: info@accessibleacademics.org
Advocates for and provides life, academic, and job skill support to teens and young adults with disabilities and/or academic challenges.

Aspire of WNY
Call: 716-838-0047 or Email info@aspirewny.org

• Aspire Center for Learning
  Call: 716-505-5700
  School is not autism specific. They offer preschool services and school age services up to age 21 along with the Children’s Discovery Corner Day Care.
• Aspire of WNY’s Community and Independent Living Supports:
  Aspire provides Community Habilitation Services, along with In-Home Respite, After School Respite (housed at Aspire’s Center for Learning location), and Saturday Respite services.  Aspire also offers Self-Directed Services, Environmental Modifications (E-MOD), Assistive Technology (A-Tech), and employment services.
• Aspire Health Center
  Call: 716-505-5630 or 716-847-2441
  Offers Article 16 Clinic services such as physical therapy and speech therapy, along with mental health counseling. Located in Cheektowaga.  They serve people aged 18 and above. Podiatry is offered for people who are 14 years old and above. 
• Residential Opportunities
  Individual Residential Alternatives (IRA) offers opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities of varying capabilities to live in a setting consistent with the person’s need for support. Aspire operates 43 group homes around WNY. Must be OPWDD eligible and apply through the Certified Residential Opportunities process through OPWDD.
• Aspire Outreach & Central Intake Dept.
  Call: 716-838-0047
  Offers Family Support Services (FSS), Counseling Program (Chautauqua County), Community Outreach, Aspire Helping Hands, and Home Services Programs.
• Aspire
  Assists you with employment opportunities through personalized supports. Individual career services can include:

1. ACCESS-VR Services includes personalized vocational evaluations, work experience opportunities through internships, technology evaluations, and job coaching.
2. Community Based Pre-Vocational Services assists with soft skill training, career exploration and assessments.
3. OPWDD Supported Employment offers personalized job development and coaching.
4. Employment Training Program through OPWDD funding supports, participants are offered paid internships at local businesses with the ultimate goal of paid employment.
5. Consolidated Supports and Services (CSS) through OPWDD Front Door and CSS programs, participants can contract personalized employment support services.

• Traditional Day Habilitation and Non-Traditional Day Habilitation
  Includes site-based day hab, Supported Volunteering and Lifestyle Enrichment (SVLE), Technology Today, The Co-Op, Student Transition Services, and iXpress Art Program.
• School to Adult Life Transitions
  Aspire of WNY’s transition plans are designed to adhere to NYS graduation guidelines and can include:

1. Vocational Profiles an in-depth profile of the individual’s skills, interests, learning abilities, and opportunities for success in the community. This person-centered approach is designed to empower the supported individual to achieve their highest potential for activities and employment. Call: 716-836-7235
2. World of Work (WOW) Program Individualized Career & Transition Services of Aspire of WNY teaches students ages 14-21 transferrable skills; helping to lay a rudimentary occupational foundation which they can build upon throughout high school. WOW is for school districts in Erie County. Contact: Paula Kerber 716-505-5262 or Paula.Kerber@aspirewny.org
3. Educational Coaching/College Support Plans are designed to prepare the student for a seamless transition from high school into college life. Call: 716-836-7235
4. Western New York Project SEARCH Collaborative is a business-led partnership which offers a school-to-work program alternative for students with disabilities who are in their last year of high school. The program is provided by Beechwood Continuing Care in conjunction with Erie 1 BOCES, Aspire of WNY and The Summit Center. Placement in Project SEARCH is determined by your local school district’s Committee on Special Education. Upon successful completion of the program, a student will earn the Skills & Achievement Commencement Credential. For an application and enrollment information, please contact John Pope, Erie 1 BOCES: 716-821-7017 or jpope@e1b.org.

Autism Learning Partners
Amherst, NY
Call: 888-805-0759
Provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in home and in school in the WNY area. Accepts Insurance. No Medicaid.

Autism Services, Inc.
40 Hazelwood Drive, Amherst, NY
Call: 716-631-5777
Provides a broad range of services to individuals with ASD and their families including Adult Day Services, Employment Services, Residential Services and Family Support Services including after school, vacation camp, and Saturday respite. Must have an ASD diagnosis and be OPWDD qualified. Various locations.

• Educational Program (Ages 5-21)
  Located in Amherst and Buffalo
  Must have an ASD diagnosis.
• Autism Resource Library
  Includes books and sensory items that parents or professionals can borrow at the Amherst location.
• In Home Clinical Support
  A Positive Behavior Support Professional will assess your child and provide consult support services designed to give you ideas on how to better manage your child’s behavioral issues.
  
• Social Skills Groups for Children with Autism/ASD
  Meets evenings in Amherst to develop social skills to help children learn to better “fit in” at school, work and home.   
• Supplemental Day Hab
  Enrichment program held twice a month in the evening at 6pm in Williamsville includes art, music and movement. Must be OPWDD qualified, with ASD diagnosis and living at home.
• Autism Center for Learning
  Co-sponsors two workshops a year with ASWNY.

Bornhava
25 Chateau Terrace, Buffalo, NY 14226
Call: 716-839-1655 or Email: info@bornhava.org
An early intervention and preschool program, nurturing and educating children with developmental disabilities.

Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center (BHSC)
50 E. North Street, Buffalo, NY 14203
Call: 716-885-8318

• Social Communication Program (ages 5 yrs.-18 yrs.) and Language to Literacy (ages 6 yrs.-18 yrs.). Most major insurances and Medicaid accepted. In-person programs will be housed at 50 E. North Street, Buffalo location.
• Supplemental Learning Programs:  Learning Literacy Program (ages 6-18) and Social Skills (ages 5-18) Private Pay. In-person programs will be housed at 5225 Sheridan Dr., Williamsville location. ​
• BHSC’s 2023 Program: Contact Vivian Logan at 885-8871 ext. 2300 or Steve Miller at 885-8871 ext. 2289. 
  Winter 2023: Jan.18 – March 30, 2023, 90 minute sessions, 2 evenings per week: either Mon./Wed. or Tues./Thurs.
  Summer 2023: July 5 – Aug. 17, 2023, 90 minute sessions, 3 days per week, Tues./Wed./Thurs.
  Fall 2023: Oct. 10 – Dec. 21, 2023, 90 minute sessions, 2 evenings per week: either Mon. /Wed. or Tues./Thurs.  

Chautauqua Opportunities
Jamestown: 716-611-9430 and Dunkirk: 716-366-8176.
Offers services to help individuals in Chautauqua County move from crisis to self-sufficiency. Addresses housing and other issues.

The Children’s League
393 North Street, Springville, NY
Call: 716-592-9331
Provides center-based preschool and school-aged program for ages 0-6 and home and community-based early intervention and preschool services.  Instructional methods utilize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a special focus on Verbal Behavior Training. Program emphasizes the development of functional communication skills as well as appropriate social, play, self-help, and academic skills.

Directions in Independent Living, Inc.
512 West State St., Olean, NY (main office)
Call: 716-373-4602 or Email: info@oleanilc.org
Serves individuals with cognitive, mental health, physical, visual impairment, sensory disability, or multiple disabilities and their families residing in Cattaraugus and Allegany counties and beyond, regardless of age or economic standing.  They have an OPWDD eligibility specialist.

Empower
9812 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY
Call: 716-297-0798 or Email: info@empower-wny.org
Offers job training, day programs, community housing, community health, and  children’s preschool – special classes and integrated classes.

The Institute for Autism Research (iar) at Canisius College
Offers the empirically validated summerMAX program for 7-12 year old children with autism spectrum disorder without intellectual disability. The focus of summerMAX is to teach social skills and provide multiple opportunities to practice the skills. SummerMAX works on social skills, interest expansion, interpretation of non-literal language (idioms), and face and affect recognition.  The 2022 summerMAX program is expected to be conducted Mon. – Fri from 8:50 a.m.-4:10 p.m. June 27-July 29, 2022. Families interested in summerMAX 2022 or other programs in development should contact the IAR at 716-888-2800 or iar@canisius.edu.

INTANDEM
Cattaragus County:0 716-701-1135 and Niagara County: 716-504-2625 ext. 2230
Niagara and Cattaraugus counties  Provides a wide range of services to include Day Program, a wide range of person-centered employment services for eligible youth and adults, Community Habilitation, Niagara Floral Center and Greenhouse/Horticulture therapy, Fine Arts Program, residential, vocational, recreational, and clinical services.

Liberty POST
331 Alberta Dr., Suite 110, Buffalo, NY 14226
Call: 716-204-5925 or Email: bapalmer@liberty-resources.org
Their Autism Team includes special education teachers, speech therapists, school psychologists, OT/PTs, and music therapists. Individualized approach using DIRFloortime, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and traditional teaching and therapy approaches to support children and their families during their early intervention (EI) and preschool years. Currently offering services through teletherapy, the Liberty POST office, daycares, preschools, libraries and outside for EI and PreK. Provided in the home, day care or preschool settings. Evaluations for EI or preschool services. Both, Early Intervention (EI) and Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) services are provided at no cost to the family of eligible children ages 0-5. Offers private pay and school-aged services for children 5 and above.

Mental Health Advocates of WNY
1021 Broadway St., Buffalo, NY 14212
Call: 716-886-1242

• Pro Bono Legal Services in civil matters for individuals with a mental health diagnosis
• Peer Support Groups for youth, parents, 20-somethings and adults
• Information & Referral Service to link individuals to treatment and other services
• Child and Family Support to help families navigate the mental healthcare system and provide peer support
• Emotional Skills Training, Prevention & Early Intervention in-school and virtual programs for students pre-k through 12
• Workplace Mental Well-being helping employees and employers achieve work-life balance

OLV Human Services (formerly known as Baker Victory Services)
Call: 716-828-9500
Provides a variety of services to include early childhood and school age programs, Adult Behavioral Health Home and Community Based Services, Children Home and Community Based Services, and The Work Appreciation for Youth (WAY) Program (ages 14-21).

People Inc.
Call: 716-880-3700
Through a variety of services, including residential, employment, community outreach, health care, environmental modifications, and recreation programs, they help families and people with disabilities, as well as seniors, live more healthy, independent, and productive lives. Bilingual services are available.

The Resource Center
200 Dunham Avenue, Jamestown, NY  14701
Call: 716-483-2344
Supports individuals with disabilities and other challenges in achieving maximum independence. Offers self-advocacy, self-directed services, community habilitation, day services, living options, and clinical services.

SASi (Suburban Adult Services Inc.)
960 West Maple Court, Elma, NY 14059
Call: 716-805-1555
Serving individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities in WNY.  SASi programs and services include Employment Support, Day Program, Information and Referral, Residential, Clinical, Community Services, Self-Directed Services, Family Support Services, High Hurdles Therapeutic Riding Program, Moving Miracles Dance Program and Personal Training Program.

The Summit Center
150 Stahl Rd., Getzville, NY 14068
Call: 716-629-3400
Provides services for children and adults with ASD in its Adult, Behavioral Health, Community, and Early Intervention, and Educational programs.

• Behavioral Pediatrics Clinic offers individual, family, and group therapy. Accepts insurance and private pay.
• Community Connections is a five-week program for children entering grade 1- age 16 with HFASD or other disabilities and social communication difficulties.
• Summer Treatment Program is a five-week program for children ages 7-13 with ADHD, learning problems, and related behavior problems to help them build self-esteem and behavioral, academic, and social competencies.
• BFFs (Building Friendship Fridays) Ages 16-25.  Friday evening respite and recreation for individuals with developmental disabilities.  Must be OPWDD qualified.

WNY Independent Living, Inc.  
Call: 716-836-0822
Five Core Services: Peer mentoring, Independent Living skills, Transition services, Advocacy, and Information & Referral.

Safety

Project Lifesaver WNY
Call: 716-374-0090 or Email: admin@projectlifesaverwny.org
The only law enforcement based tracking program for individuals prone to wandering. A $300 onetime cost for transmitter and $120 annual cost for 12 batteries, 12 wristbands and 12 snaps (enough for a year). May be reimbursable through family reimbursement.

Recreation Resources

The Access Pass
Call: 518-474-2324 or Email: accesspass@parks.ny.gov
Permits residents of New York State with disabilities, as defined in the application, free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Adapted Recreation Programs
A Town of Hamburg Recreation program. The goal of all of their programs is to provide the participants with opportunities to socialize, follow directions, meet new people, and have fun and feel comfortable in this setting. They will strive to provide a safe, nurturing, yet challenging environment to help individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other Neurobiological/Behavioral challenges.  You do not need to be a resident to participate. Ages 7-30 yrs.  Go online to register or sign up for mailing list.

The Arts Access Pass Program
Designed to give eligible members increased opportunities to participate in the arts in their communities. In order to be eligible for the program, you must be currently be on income based Public Assistance (SNAP, Medicaid, TANF) and present an active benefit card when signing up for the Arts Access pass.  Registration forms are available at sites throughout Western New York. After you register, a welcome packet will be sent to your home address. The welcome packet will include your Arts Access Pass, more information about the program, and a list of participating organizations that offer Arts Access tickets. The pass is only good for one year. After that year you must register again by filling out a new application. The Arts Access season runs from 9/1-8/31.

Au-Some Evenings at Explore & More
130 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14202
Call: 716-655-5131
One Friday each month 5:30pm-7:30pm. Once a month, their special Au-Some Evenings give children with autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorder, their friends and family an opportunity to play and learn together in an understanding and supportive environment. Families will have access to the museum space and play zones. Featured activities include a music center, therapy dogs, art projects, and gross motor activities. Explore & More will also have a social narrative about the new museum and its play zones, quiet kits, as well as calming sensory friendly spaces in the museum.  DUE TO COVID, RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED AND CAPACITY IS CAPPED AT 100 PEOPLE.  To register for the next Au-Some Evening please email accessibility@exploreandmore.org or call (716)655-5131 ext. 3. 

The Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park
Activities along the trail will support and encourage sensory perception while also providing enjoyable activities for visitors of all ages and abilities.  The trail loop features eight stations offering a range of experiences, from quite engagement to active exploration and adventure. The trail is free and park admission is also free from November through April. From May-October a $10 per car entrance fee is charged.

Bowling League for Special Needs
Mallwitz’s Island Lanes, 1887 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072
Contact: Vienna 716-430-5118
Sat. 11a.m.-12:30 p.m. September-April. Join any time. A league for any age special needs individual. Registration fee is $10. Cost is $7 per individual for 2 games and shoe rental.

BPOkids
Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY 14201
For more information or tickets call 716-885-5000. One hour concerts begin at 2:30 p.m. IMPORTANT:  Before purchasing your ticket, READ Safety Protocol for vaccination and masking policy and policy for children 12 yrs. and under at https://bpo.org/safety-protocols/.

Buffalo Sabres Thunder Ice Hockey
North Buffalo Ice Rink, 156 Tacoma Ave., Buffalo, NY  14216
Call: 716-691-4530 or Email: bsthockey2008@gmail.com
A coed team for individuals with special needs who have some ice skating experience. Practices are Sundays 9:00 a.m. September – April.

CAUSE-Center for Allied and Unified Sport and Exercise at Daemen College
Daemen’s Academic and Wellness Center Gym, 4433 Main St., Amherst, NY  14226
Provides opportunities for people ages 5+ to participate in unified sport and recreation alongside college students and students-athletes. Activities vary.  During sessions, caregivers may watch their loved one compete, enjoy time to themselves, or access Daemen’s fitness center free of charge. Pre-registration is required. To register contact Brooke Densing at 716-566-7894 or email bdensing@daemen.edu.

Cheektowaga Adapted Recreation Program
Call: 716-897-7205 or Email: cheekarp@gmail.com
A recreation program for youth with developmental and other disabilities, ages 5-21. Exceptions are made at the discretion of the Program Coordinator. The major goals of the program are to provide recreational activities and sports training which will help improve motor control, boost self-esteem and increase social skills. They offer Saturday Mini Camp, Bowling, Basketball, Monthly Friday Night activities, Track & Field, and softball. Dates, times, and cost vary. Rates for OPWDD eligible are available. They also participate in the Western Region Special Olympics Program. Runs October – May.

Clarence Learn to Swim Adaptive Program
Email: ClarenceLearntoSwim@yahoo.com
Located at Clarence Middle School is for children with a classified disability or significant medical condition. Adaptive Level 1 (Ages 4-9) for swimmers who are just becoming comfortable with the water. These children are NOT able to swim independently and require 1:1 adult support in the water. Adaptive Level 2 (Ages 8-16) is for swimmers who are able to float, tread water, and maintain balance in the water independently. Swimmers may have an interest in competing in the Special Olympics Aquatic Division.

The Collaborative Community Mission (CCM)
A non-profit organization that aims to provide access to free (or low cost) therapeutic programming and resources in a fully-inclusive environment that will support development and growth for all ages. They offer music therapy, speech/language therapy, functional life skills and social skills training, yoga, sensory and fine motor skills. Family support group (virtual) and community trainings. Follow on Facebook and Instagram @collcomm.mission.

Danceability
2365 George Urban Blvd., Depew, NY 14043
Call: 716-651-0094 or Email: danceabilitywny@gmail.com
Danceability welcomes all ages and abilities from age 3 to senior adults. They offer many styles of dance including tap, jazz, ballet, creative movement, and more! In-studio and virtual classes. Check their website for registration information and cost.

Fantastic Friends of WNY
1284 French Rd., Depew, NY
Call: 716-608-6234 or Email: fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com
A non-profit social organization for special needs children and adults. A variety of events held at their center and at various handicapped accessible locations throughout WNY. Attendees are usually paired with a 1:1 volunteer. For more information follow on Facebook at Fantastic Friends of Western New York.   

Flix Stadium 10 Sensory Friendly Family Film Series
4901 Transit Rd., Lancaster, NY  14043
The first Saturday of every month at 10am. The films will be presented with the theatre lights on and the sound lowered. Admission is $8.75 per person for both children and adults.

Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo Swimming programs

Josh and Friends
Fitness Ability, Inc., 1940 Kenmore Ave., Kenmore, NY 14216
Call: 716-249-2010 or Email: FitnessAbilityinc@gmail.com
A social structured exercise program for ambulatory teens and adults with developmental/intellectual disabilities that is designed to be fun and effective, in a supportive environment. Mon. & Wed. 6pm $10 per class or $40 a month for all 44 classes monthly, in-person or via Zoom.

Moving Miracles (a division of SASi)
954 Union Rd., Suite 1, West Seneca, NY
Call: 716-656-1321
A dance and movement program ages 3+ with special needs serving Western New York. September through May. Summer program offered June-August.

NYW TOPSoccer Program
Call: 607-427-8563
Players with special needs ages 5 to 21. For more information about TOPSoccer in the WNY area, email Scott Craig at scraig@nyswysa.org.

SABAH Inc.
Call: 716-362-9600
Works with special needs athletes of all ages through a number of community programs throughout the Buffalo-Niagara and WNY area. Programs include Adaptive Ice Hockey, Evening and Weekend Skating, Fit and Fun for Adults with Disabilities, Summer Skates, Outdoor Series (recreational program), and Special Needs Summer Recreational Fitness Programs.

Sensational Fun, Inc.
2881 Southwestern Blvd., Orchard Park, NY
Call: 716-674-7001
A special needs play place. They provide an array of sports, clubs, camps, programs, respite, and family events which are adapted to meet the needs of children and adults with different abilities. Facebook: Sensational Fun, Inc.

Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese’s
4408 Milestrip Rd., Buffalo, NY 14219
First Sunday of the month from 9 am-11 am, includes reduced lighting and noise, food and games offered, and trained and caring staff.

Squeaky Wheel Film & Media Art Center
617 Main Street, Buffalo NY
Call: 716-884-7172
Squeaky Wheel’s Media Art Workshops provide an array of media based classes for any and all skill levels. DATA is a media arts and technology program designed for neurodiverse individuals (such as people with autism or ADHD) ages 13-19. A series of weekly winter and spring workshops will build up different creative and social skills. Students will learn a large range of media-based practices that will suit all interests in technology and art.

Sweet Charlottes
10255 Main Street, Clarence, NY
Call: 716-320-5848 or Email: sweetcharlottes@yahoo.com
A place for kids with and without disabilities to explore, be inspired, and learn through laughter, love, and fun. Offers inclusive half-day preschool and full day kindergarten readiness program.

Unique Theatre Company
99 Hartwell Rd., Buffalo, NY 14216
Call: 716-243-8889 or Email: uniquetheatrecompany@gmail.com
An extraordinary company of artists that aspire to promote community integration through the arts. They provide a venue where persons of all levels of ability can learn and express themselves through art, playwriting, acting and more.

Summer Camps, Respite, and Retreats

Cradle Beach
8038 Lakeshore Rd., Angola, NY 14006
Call: 716-549-6307

• Summer Camp is a fully integrated program for children ages 8-16 with and without disabilities where everyone plays, eats, and attends activities.  They provide a healthy environment and organized activities to promote socialization, self-worth, and decision making in an atmosphere of love and acceptance. Cost based on sliding scale.
• Weekend Respite ages 8 & up living at home enrolled into the NYS Home & Community Based Waiver System, and have a documented developmental disability.

David’s Refuge
Call: 315-682-4204
Their mission is to provide respite, resources and support to parents and guardians of children with special needs or life threatening medical conditions where they will be refreshed, restored and renewed in their role as caregivers.  Services for parents include Weekend Respite, Caregiver Night Out, Host Mentors, special events, Wellness Webinars and online/social media.

Wellness G.I.F.T.S. Retreat Weekend
Call: 607-684-3243
Wellness G.I.F.T.S. provides family retreats one weekend each June, July, August, and September. Primary location is Hammondsport-Bath KOA, Bath, NY. Wellness G.I.F.T.S., Inc. is committed to providing educational, social, emotional, recreational activities and respite care to all members of families who have children with special needs.

Applying for Services through OPWDD 

New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)
Responsible for coordinating services for New Yorkers with developmental disabilities. The Front Door process will guide you through the steps involved in finding out if you are eligible for services offered by OPWDD, identify your service needs, and help you work on a plan for getting those services. Front Door staff will guide you through the steps. 

• The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) provides People First Care Coordination. Health Home Care Management provides service coordination and coordination of other services, such as health care and behavioral health supports.
• Care Coordination Organizations coordinate all the services a person receives for their developmental disability, as well as the coordination of health, wellness, and mental health services through one individualized Life Plan. Two who serve WNY are:

1. Person Centered Services Enrollment or eligibility call: 855-208-3533.  For general information or to locate a care coordinator call: 888-977-7030 or email: customerservice@personcenteredservices.com
2. Prime Care Coordination Enrollment, eligibility or more information call: 844-347-3168 or email: info@primecareny.org.

• Parent Network of WNY’s Eligibility Navigator can assist families in Erie and Niagara Counties with completing the necessary paperwork to get the eligibility process for Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) services started.
•  Receiving OPWDD support and services The self-directed service delivery model is an alternative to traditionally delivered and managed services, such as an agency delivery model. Self-direction of services allows participants to have the responsibility for managing all aspects of service delivery in a person-centered planning process.

Important Information

APIC: Access to Psychiatry through Intermediate Care
Call:  716-406-7005 or Email: info@apic.org
Mobile psychiatric care, cross systems navigation, medication management (review and adjust meds in conjunction with current providers) and case management for children, adolescents and adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities whose needs are not being met by the current system of care. APIC does not replace current care. They assist, augment, and coordinate treatment to help create a sustainable plan for families, providers, and individuals in crisis. APIC is grant funded and provides medical and social resources to families at no charge. Four key areas are addressed: medical needs, alternative behavioral health therapies, improving the home environment and providing breaks for caregivers thru non-traditional respite.

NYSTART
Provides community-based crisis prevention and response services for individuals age 6 and over with intellectual and developmental disabilities who present with behavioral and mental health needs. NYSTART uses a person-centered, positive, evidence-informed approach to help individuals, families, caregivers, agencies, and other providers. Provides clinical assessments (including psychiatric, behavioral and medical), consultation, education and training, crisis response, and therapeutic recreation. OPWDD eligibility required. For WNY Region call 716-608-2702 or email Lisa Harnden lisa.m.harnden@opwdd.ny.gov

Adult Career and Continuing Education Services- Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR)
Call: 888-652-7062
Assists individuals with disabilities to achieve and maintain employment and to support independent living through training, education, rehabilitation, and career development. ACCES-VR services may only be provided if your goal is employment. To apply or be referred for ACCES-VR services you should be at least 14 years old and must be available to participate in the vocational rehabilitation process. Also serves adults with disabilities. You do NOT have to be OPWDD eligible.