ASK stands for "Access for Special Kids"
The ASK Family Resource Center is an exciting new concept; a "one-stop-shop"
for children and adults with disabilities and their families. Through
its member organizations, the ASK Resource Center provides a broad
range of information, advocacy, support, training, and direct services.
These services are all accessible in one building or from one phone
call. A single contact can direct individuals or families to the most
appropriate services and supports to meet their needs. No frustrating
series of dead end contacts. No duplication of valuable limited resources.
History
In 1992, two parents discovered a common need to improve
services for their children with special needs. Frustrated by the fragmentation
of information and resources available to them they founded Access for
Special Kids Resource Center, more commonly know as ASK.
Through the years, ASK has taken on new community partners,
projects and challenges. We continue to build on our early vision of
a one stop shop to provide information and resources to individuals
with disabilities and their families.
Through our coordinated efforts, organizations engage
in a wide variety of activities and outreach efforts to all parts of
the state of Iowa.
ASK Mission
All Iowans with special needs will have access to the support and services
they require.
ASK Vision
Access for All
ASK Purpose ASK provides opportunities for collaboration
and coordination among visionary organizations and projects dedicated
to excellence.
ASK Projects include:
Parent Training and Information Center of Iowa
(PTI)
The Legal Center for Special Education (TLC)
The Learning Disabilities Association of Iowa
(LDA)
Latino Institute for Education (LIFE)
Our principle activities include:
- Information and advocacy in special education and related matters
- Conflict resolution services
- Disability-specific information
- Family leadership and advocacy training
- Family-to-family support and mentoring opportunities
- Health care information and coordination
- Information and training for individuals and families on rights
and responsibilities
- Information and training for education and human services professionals
- Information on formal and community-based services available for
families in Iowa
- Legal consultation and representation in special education and
related matters
- Parent-to-parent support and information about family support
resources
- Referral to state agencies and other direct service providers
- Skill-building and empowerment activities for individuals and
families
- Information on Mental Health Issues
"Access for Special Kids" identifies our primary focus; offering information and resources for the benefit of children with disabilities and their families.But many of our efforts also extend to adults with disabilities and their families.
The ASK Resource Center Board of Directors represent all parts of Iowa, and a broad range of disability groups.
Just ASK!
ASK Family Resource Center
321 East Sixth Street Des Moines, IA 50309 Phone:
515-243-1713/1-800-450-8667 Fax 515-243-1902
Email info@askresource.org Website
www.askreource.org
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