Connecting Resources.
Empowering Families.
The Special Needs Consortium is a diverse group of dedicated professionals committed to improving the awareness of resources available to individuals with disabilities and their families.
This is accomplished through bi-monthly networking meetings, the promotion of member events, community education, and advocacy.
Consortium members mainly serve Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Westmoreland and surrounding counties.
SERVICES OUR MEMBERS OFFER
Activities
Provides activities for individuals with disabilities and families within their community.
Advocacy
Helping to raise awareness of rights and resources and support those that need assistance getting the support that they need.
Behavior Support
Helps to understand and prevent behavior challenges.
Benefits Counseling
A free service to provide information about how wages can affect federal and state benefits, including social security, SNAP, waiver funding and Medicaid / Medical Assistance.
Caregiver Support
Provides resources, programs and / or services designed to assist family caregivers.
Education
Provides direct education to students.
Employment Support
Assisting individuals to obtain and maintain paid jobs.
Financial
Provides financial assistance and / or guidance.
Health/Safety
Helps to improve a person’s health and/or safety.
Legal
Provides legal assistance and guidance.
Medicaid Managed Care
HealthChoices is the name of PA's managed care programs for Medicaid / Medical Assistance recipients. Through these organizations, eligible individuals receive physical and behavioral medical care. Some also receive long-term supports.
ODP County Administrative Entities (AEs)
Carry out administrative functions that enable individuals to enroll in services and ensure that services are available and meet quality standards. Enrollment includes applying for Supports Coordination.
Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Service Provider
Qualified providers delivering Home and Community Based Services through waiver funding. Possible services are listed in this document with definitions: https://palms-awss3-repository.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/MyODP_Content/Gold+Book/Gold+Book.pdf . Speak with your Supports Coordinator to discuss services.
Resource
Can provide connections to things like resources, information, organizations, and information. Also, can including providing training.
Supports Coordination (SC)
Provides for developing an ISP (Individual Support Plan) and then locating, coordinating, and monitoring needed services. These SC connects people to both community resources and paid supports.
Technology
Provides technology that will enhance one’s life and support capabilities including assistive technology.
Therapy
Provides therapy such as occupational, physical, speech, and equestrian.
2026 DISABILITY SUMMIT
October 8, 2026
North Way Christian Community
Wexford, PA
Vendor and Sponsorship
Opportunities Available!
This full day summit will feature a variety of knowledgeable presenters sharing valuable information for individuals, families, educators and service providers; a vendor fair, and many opportunities for connection and collaboration.
