When families seek extra support beyond the classroom, resource and advocacy centers can bridge gaps, amplify voices and connect to school services. This guide highlights five standout organizations in the Chicago area that work with or alongside schools to support students with disabilities.
This guide was developed using information from Niche.com data, organizational websites, Illinois directories and community feedback to feature the most trusted special-needs resources supporting Chicago-area families and schools. You’ll learn how each center helps. Whether through IEP training, legal advocacy, disability services, or school-district liaison roles, plus contact details so you can explore further.
Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center (FMPTIC)
As of October 2025, Family Matters became Illinois’ official Parent Training and Information Center, taking over the role previously held by the Family Resource Center on Disabilities. Based in Effingham, Family Matters PTIC provides free resources and guidance to parents navigating special education. The organization helps families understand their rights under IDEA, prepare for IEP meetings and communicate effectively with schools. Their mission focuses on empowering parents to advocate for appropriate education and services statewide.
- Address: 1901 S 4th St, Suite 209, Effingham
- Hours: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday–Friday
- Phone: (866) 436-7842
Illinois Center for Autism
This center offers an ISBE-approved school program serving students ages 3–21 with autism, learning disabilities, emotional disabilities and other health impairments. It partners with districts to provide a full educational program while acting as a nonpublic special education provider. The center’s model emphasizes year-round services, therapeutic support and curriculum aligned to IEPs. Schools sometimes refer students to their program when district settings cannot accommodate needs.
- Address: 548 S Ruby Lane, Fairview Heights
- Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday–Friday
- Phone: (618) 398-7500
UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago
UCP Seguin delivers a wide range of services to individuals with disabilities, including therapy, inclusive programs, transition support and advocacy. While not a school itself, it collaborates with school districts to support students’ needs, help with community inclusion and provide wraparound services. UCP Seguin’s resources can supplement school programs, especially for children needing outside-of-school therapy or adaptive equipment.
- Address: 3100 S Central Ave., Cicero
- Hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday–Friday
- Phone: (708) 863-3803
JCFS Chicago — Disability Services & School Support
JCFS offers disability services that extend into educational settings, including individual and group therapy, support groups, family consultation and school advocacy. Their programs help families and schools coordinate care, behavior plans and accommodations. They also offer professional training and resources for school staff to better support students with special needs.
- Address: 230 W. Monroe, Suite 1100, Chicago
- Phone: (312) 357-4800
Illinois Special Education & Support Initiative (SESI Schools)
SESI Schools partner with districts and families to provide individualized academic and behavioral interventions when students struggle in traditional classrooms. SESI serves as an external support arm tied to school systems, offering assistance and alternative placement options when needed. Their role helps districts maintain ties to families and ensure continuity in support.
- Address: 230 North Kolmar, Chicago
- Hours: Monday–Friday (district-aligned hours)
- Phone: (773) 657-4020
Support centers and resource organizations play a crucial role in reinforcing what happens inside the classroom. Whether providing parent training, therapy services, legal advocacy or district coordination, these five centers strengthen partnerships between families and schools. For families whose child’s needs go beyond typical services, contacting one or more of these centers can open doors, clarify rights and build stronger support around the student.
