When a child reaches 22 years old, most school district and government provided education and socialization programs are no longer available as the child "ages out" of their courses. To address these unmet needs, parents of young adults with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD) formed Advocates for Special People (ASP) in 1997. Their goal was to offer opportunities for their special needs adult children to participate in mentally and physically challenging activities with peers and the community.
In 2001, ASP incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the mission to improve the quality of life of adults with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and their families by providing programs for socialization, recreation and habilitation. Since 2003, ASP has offered the Special Connexion program, a "dayhab" for adults with IDD (ages 18+). To meet the growing needs of Arlington, in 2006 ASP opened a second location in north Arlington, a third location in October 2013 in East Arlington, and in 2019 a fourth location in downtown Arlington. Post COVID the third and fourth locations were consolidated in downtown Arlington.
ASP's qualified and passionate staff average experience 3.5 years (new to 13 years) and its committed volunteer Board of Directors average experience 8.3 years (range 1 to 17 years) in leading the strategic direction of the organization and managing program operations. ASP hired an Executive Director (ED) in February 2014. ASP has received and managed CDBG grant funds since 2004. ASP purchased their first van to transport clients on field trips, outings and to events in 2008, now owning and managing a fleet of 8 vehicles.
Operational funding needed to offset additional expenses associated with growth and enhanced programming for Arlington and DFW area adults with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
Operational funds needed to assist in training and development of staff and adults clients with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
To improve the quality of life of intellectually disabled adults and their families by providing programs for socialization, recreation, and habilitation.
Operational funding needed to offset additional expenses associated with growth and enhanced programming for Arlington and DFW area adults with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
Operational funds needed to assist in training and development of staff and adults clients with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
Special Connexion provides recreation, socialization and equity in the community where limited opportunities for this specific population exist.
Organization name
Advocates for Special People, Inc.
Causes
Intellectual, Developmental, and Physical Differences, Mental and Behavioral Health, Social Services
Operating Budget
$500,000 - $999,999
Counties Served
Dallas, Tarrant
BIPOC Leadership
Neither/None
Equity Statement
Equity Statement
Address
P.O. BOX 121652