Associations for Cerebral Palsy
Thousands of babies born each year in the United States areaffected by cerebral palsy, a permanent and often debilitating condition. Parents may find themselves overwhelmed by meeting the number of special needs that may be present for children with cerebral palsy. Throughout the country there are cerebral palsy associations that assist individuals and families with financial, medical, educational and informational resources.
Below is a list of cerebral palsy resources in the U.S. where families can turn to for help:
United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy was founded in 1949 to advance the rights and improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. With a nationwide network of affiliates, UCP provides an array of services including:
- Employment assistance
- Training in assistive technologies
- Housing and community living
- Support for individuals and families
The national office of UCP is also involved in legislative advocacy and research initiatives.
CPIRF
The CPIRF (CPIRF) is an association dedicated to funding research relevant to developmental disabilities such as cerebral palsy. CPIRF specifically advocates for research in the areas of prevention, early diagnosis, curative strategies and rehabilitation.
Children’s Hemiplegia and Stroke Association
Children’s Hemiplegia and Stroke Association (CHASA) is a cerebral palsy association that provides support and information to parents of kids with hemiplegia (or hemiplegic cerebral palsy). By joining CHASA, parents can:
- find other families in their area that are dealing with this type of cerebral palsy
- sign up for an email support group or locate a local support group
- learn about issues specific to children with hemiplegia
- obtain information about resources and events
Easter Seals
Easter Seals was founded in the early 1900s to help individuals with special needs and their families. The organization offers a variety of services to people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, including:
- Medical rehabilitation
- Job training
- Child care
- Camping and recreational activities
- Services for caregivers and employers
March of Dimes
March of Dimes has a dedication to preventing infant mortality, birth defects and premature birth. The March of Dimes website is a resource for parents on topics of infant health and other issues relevant to parenting a newborn.
National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY)
NICHCY is a resource for learning about programs and services that are available for infants and children with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. There is information about educational programs, state resources and services for children with special needs.
National Disability Sports Alliance
Beginning in 1987 as the United States Cerebral Palsy Athletic Association, this organization has been responsible for coordinating competitive sports events for individuals with physical disabilities including cerebral palsy.
The NDSA specifically formulates athletic rules, implements policies, conducts championship games and selects athletes to represent the United States in international competition.
Locating Cerebral Palsy Associations in Your Area
United Cerebral Palsy has affiliates across the country and can help you locate additional cerebral palsy associations in your area. Some of the associations mentioned above also list resources on their websites.
