For Families & Caregivers
Resources to Help You Navigate the Journey
Finding the right support can feel overwhelming. We've gathered the most helpful state programs, advocacy organizations, and planning tools in one place — so you don't have to search alone.
Where to Start
4 Tips for New Families
Start with a DDS Assessment
Contact Arkansas DDS to request an eligibility assessment. This is the gateway to most state-funded disability services and waiver programs.
Apply for Medicaid Early
Medicaid waiver waitlists can be long. Apply as early as possible — your place on the list is determined by your application date.
Document Everything
Keep records of all diagnoses, evaluations, IEPs, and correspondence with agencies. Good documentation makes the process much smoother.
Connect with Other Families
Other families who have navigated the system are an invaluable resource. Support groups through The Arc or NAMI can connect you with experienced advocates.
State & Government Programs
Arkansas Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS)
The primary state agency providing services and supports to Arkansans with developmental disabilities, including waiver programs and residential services.
Visit DDSCommunity and Employment Supports (CES) Waiver
The CES Waiver is an Arkansas Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver that funds services like day programs, supported employment, respite care, and community integration for eligible individuals with developmental disabilities. APCS is an enrolled CES Waiver provider.
Learn About CES WaiverArkansas Medicaid — PASSE Program
Provider-led Aligned Safety-net System (PASSE) manages Medicaid benefits for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Arkansas, including CES Waiver services.
Learn About PASSEArkansas Department of Human Services (DHS)
Oversees a wide range of social services programs for Arkansas families, including disability services, Medicaid, and family support.
Visit DHSSocial Security Administration — Disability Benefits
Information on SSI and SSDI benefits for individuals with disabilities, including how to apply and what to expect.
Learn About BenefitsEducation & Advocacy
The Arc of Arkansas
A statewide advocacy organization supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families through education, advocacy, and community support.
Visit The Arc of ArkansasDisability Rights Arkansas
A nonprofit organization protecting the rights of Arkansans with disabilities through legal advocacy, education, and outreach.
Visit Disability Rights ARArkansas Transition Services
Resources for students with disabilities transitioning from school to adult life, including employment, independent living, and community participation.
Explore Transition ServicesSpecial Education in Arkansas (ADE)
The Arkansas Department of Education's special education division, providing resources for students with disabilities and their families.
Visit ADE Special EdFinancial Assistance & Benefits
ABLE Accounts — Arkansas
Tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities that don't affect eligibility for public benefits like SSI and Medicaid.
Learn About ABLE AccountsBenefits.gov — Disability Programs
A federal resource to find and apply for government benefits programs, including disability-related financial assistance.
Search Benefits.govWork Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA)
Free counseling to help Social Security disability beneficiaries understand how work affects their benefits.
Find WIPA ServicesFamily & Caregiver Support
NAMI Arkansas — Family Support
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Arkansas chapter offers support groups, education, and advocacy for families navigating mental health and disability challenges.
Visit NAMI ArkansasFamily Caregiver Alliance
National organization offering research, education, and resources for family caregivers, including those caring for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Visit Caregiver AllianceRespite Care Locator — ARCH
Find respite care providers in your area through the ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center.
Find Respite CareParent Training & Information Center — Arkansas
Free training and information for families of children with disabilities to help them participate effectively in their child's education.
Visit AR PTIEmployment & Independence
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS)
State vocational rehabilitation services helping individuals with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment.
Visit ARSJob Accommodation Network (JAN)
Free consulting service providing guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues for employees and employers.
Visit JANIndependent Living Services — Arkansas
Centers for Independent Living across Arkansas offering peer support, skills training, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities.
Find IL ServicesPlanning & Legal Resources
Special Needs Alliance
A national network of attorneys focused on disability and public benefits law, helping families plan for the future of a loved one with a disability.
Find an AttorneyArkansas Legal Services Partnership
Free civil legal help for low-income Arkansans, including assistance with disability-related legal issues.
Get Legal HelpFuture Planning for Families — The Arc
Guidance on estate planning, special needs trusts, guardianship, and other future planning tools for families of individuals with disabilities.
Start Future PlanningWe're Here to Help
Not Sure Where to Start?
Navigating disability services can feel like a maze. Our team at APCS is happy to help point you in the right direction — whether you're looking for our programs or just need guidance on what's available in Arkansas. Give us a call or send a message anytime.
Ready to Connect?
Learn About APCS Programs
Beyond these external resources, APCS offers five hands-on programs right here in Sherwood, Arkansas. Explore what we offer and find the right fit for your family.