Non-State Agencies
View our comprehensive BHDD OIDD Resource Guide.
Able South Carolina
Able South Carolina (SC) is a disability-led organization seeking transformational changes in systems, communities and individuals. Able SC practices equity, disability justice and representation and true inclusion through consumer-driven independence and disability pride.
Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered
Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE) is the oldest national self-advocacy organization in the country. SABE’s mission since its formation in 1990 has been to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in speaking up for themselves on issues that impact their lives.
Transition Alliance of South Carolina
Transition Alliance of South Carolina (TASC) is focused on providing interagency teams the resources to increase their capacity to serve young adults collaboratively and effectively with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are transitioning from high school to adult life.
Cerebral Palsy Guide
Cerebral Palsy Guide provides free educational materials, financial options and support to help those across the country affected by this disorder.
The ARC of South Carolina
The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Brain Injury Association of South Carolina
The Brain Injury Association of South Carolina (BIASC) is a non-profit organization that has helps individuals with brain injuries and their families and caregivers. BIASC works to educate healthcare providers, coaches, athletes, teachers, law enforcement, legislators and the military about brain injury and the impact brain injury has on individuals and their families.
Family Connection of South Carolina
Family Connection of South Carolina changes the lives of families with children who have a disability or special healthcare need by making connections, raising awareness and promoting inclusion.
IMPACT in SC
I.M.P.A.C.T. is the South Carolina state-wide self-advocacy group made up of individuals who advocate for themselves and others with disabilities. I.M.P.A.C.T. self-advocates encourage positive change for other people with disabilities by providing training, encouraging others to reach their personal goals, promoting the development of local self-advocacy groups and encouraging people with disabilities to have a voice in decision-making in the government, funding and program development.
South Carolina Autism Society
The South Carolina Autism Society (SCAS) is a statewide non-profit charitable organization that provides case management; educational mentoring and planning; information, referral and resources; outreach; and training for people with Autism, their families and professionals who serve them.
South Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Association
The South Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Association connects and empowers individuals impacted by spinal cord injury to pursue a meaningful and engaged quality of life.
Special Olympics South Carolina
Special Olympics South Carolina’s mission is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Voice of Reason
Voice of Reason is a national organization that advocates for high-quality care and human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Special Needs Network of Dentists
This web-based directory provides a current listing of dentists in South Carolina who have reported that they will treat patients with mild and/or moderate-severe manifestations of a number of different developmental and acquired special needs.
State Agencies
Center for Disability Resources Library
The Center for Disability Resources Library consists of books, DVDs, brochures and audiotapes covering a variety of disability-related topics. The library is located within the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Library on Garners Ferry Road and has reference librarians available, Monday-Friday.
South Carolina Assistive Technology Program
The South Carolina Assistive Technology Program uses technology devices and services to help people with disabilities live, work and learn more independently.
South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council
The South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council is to provide leadership in planning, funding and implementing initiatives that lead to improved quality of life for people with developmental disabilities and their families through advocacy, capacity building and systemic change.
Palmetto ABLE Savings Program
A Palmetto ABLE account is an investment account available to eligible individuals with disabilities. Palmetto ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save and invest money without losing eligibility for certain public benefits programs, like Medicaid or SSI. Earnings in the Palmetto ABLE account are not subject to federal or state income tax, so long as it is spent on qualified disability expenses.
State of South Carolina
SC.GOV is the official government Web portal for the State of South Carolina. This portal was developed to help find information and services from both state and local government offices and information relative to South Carolina all in one place.
South Carolina Continuum of Care
The Continuum of Care is a South Carolina state program that serves children with serious emotional or behavioral health diagnoses whose families need help keeping them in their home, school or community.
BHDD Office of Substance Use Services
The BHDD Office of Substance Use Services ensures the availability and quality of a continuum of substance use services, thereby improving the health status, safety and quality of life of individuals, families and communities across South Carolina.
South Carolina Department of Education
The South Carolina Department of Education provides leadership and support so that all public education students graduate prepared for success.
South Carolina Department of Education Special Education Services
All South Carolina districts are required to provide a free appropriate public education for children with disabilities.
South Carolina Commission for the Blind
The South Carolina Commission for the Blind is committed to providing quality services that will lead to competitive employment, self-sufficiency and independence within their homes and communities for individuals who are blind or have a visual impairment.
South Carolina Department of Public Health
Formerly a part of DHEC, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) provides public health services, health care quality improvements and resources to everyone in South Carolina.
South Carolina Department of Environmental Services
Formerly a part of DHEC, the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) is committed to preserving South Carolina's air, land, water and coast through Science, Service and Sustainability.
SC Department of Health and Human Services
The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ mission is to be boldly innovative in improving the health and quality of life for South Carolinians.
BHDD Office of Mental Health
The BHDD Office of Mental Health’s mission is to support the recovery of people with mental illnesses.
South Carolina Department of Social Services
The South Carolina Department of Social Services’ mission is to serve South Carolina by promoting the safety, permanency and well-being of children and vulnerable adults, helping individuals achieve stability and strengthening families.
South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation
South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation’ mission is to prepare and assist eligible South Carolinians with disabilities to achieve and maintain competitive employment.
Autism-Related Resources
ABA Provider Database
A comprehensive database of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) providers in South Carolina for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
Able SC
A nonprofit organization that provides advocacy, resources, and peer support to empower individuals with disabilities to live independently and inclusively.
- 800-681-6805
AutismConnect
AutismConnect is a gathering dedicated to bringing together individuals, families and professionals in the autism community. Discover the latest research, innovative therapies and support networks that can make a difference in the lives of those with autism. Conference is in April annually.
Autism Speaks Toolkits
Autism Speaks has developed tool kits and guides to help people with autism and their families throughout the lifespan.
BabyNet
South Carolina’s early intervention system for infants and toddlers which provides services and support to enhance their development and well-being.
- 866-512-8881
BHDD OMH
The BHDD Office of Mental Health (OMH), provides mental health services and resources, including support for individuals with a mental health diagnosis in addition to autism and their families. Individuals must have a consistent form of communication.
- 803-898-8581
Big Red Safety Box
A program offering safety resources, tools and educational materials to caregivers to help prevent and respond to emergency situations.
- 877-622-2884
Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs
A program offering children with special healthcare needs supplies, equipment, prescription drugs, special formula, medical services, blood products, hearing aids, cochlear implants and bone-anchored hearing aids.
- 803-898-0784
Circle of Security
A program that helps caregivers connect with the children in their lives by reflecting on children’s attachment needs to promote secure attachment with a child. Recommended for children ages 4 months – 5 years old. This group is free and is held virtually. New classes start each month.
Children's Personal Care Aide
Available to Medicaid-eligible children under age 21 who require daily monitoring and observation due to requiring hands-on assistance for functional deficits (i.e., bathing, dressing, toileting, feeding, mobility and transferring). Contact your case manager to request this service. If you need a case manager, please call BHDD OIDD at:
- 803-898-9600.
Continuum of Care
South Carolina’s statewide system provides coordinated services for children, ensuring a continuum of care throughout their lifespan. The service is for youth aged 21 or under with serious emotional disturbance or substance use disorders who are at risk of out-of-home placement.
- 803-734-4500
Credible Mind/Hopeful Minds
SC DMH – Hopeful Minds is a free online platform that brings together expert rated and vetted videos podcasts, apps, online programs, books and articles all in one easy to use place. Topics include stress, anxiety, autism, depression, happiness, parenting, grief, aging, etc.
Disability Rights
An advocacy organization promoting and protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities, to ensure equal opportunities and inclusion.
- 866-275-7273
Family Connection
A support network providing resources, education, and connections to families to foster understanding and navigate the journey
- 800-578-8750
First 5 SC
Connect families with SC’s public services for children birth through age 5. Checks eligibility for over 40 services. Now includes a common application for many of the services.
Greenwood Genetics Testing
Knowing the reason a person has a disability can be helpful for many reasons. Some disabilities can affect a person’s health as well as their learning. There may be certain treatments that may benefit the individual because of their diagnosis. Referrals can be made to doctors who specialize in particular problems related to the diagnosis.
- 866-588-4363
Help Me Grow SC
Child development specialists identify and connect caregivers with resources (basic needs to parent support) in their area. They also conduct developmental screenings.
Hope.connectsSCkids.org
SCDMH, SC Dept of Children’s Advocacy have partnered with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to provide an interactive screening program that parents and guardians can anonymously take on behalf of their child and connect with a professional counselor in SC.
Kindred Hearts of South Carolina
A nonprofit organization formed to serve kinship caregivers and their families and provide valuable resources and support to formal and informal kinship care placements.
- 803-553-7277
Mobile Crisis
A OMH crisis response program providing immediate assistance and support for individuals with autism experiencing mental health crises.
- 833-864-2274
Online Autism Caregiver Training
Free, self-paced, online caregiver training. Caregivers will learn how to support their child’s development, communication and improve behavior. Caregiver must be at least 18 years old and their child between 2-9 years with an autism diagnosis. To learn more, fill out the interest form. If you do not meet the requirements, but still wish to participate, please email:
PASOs
Helps the Latino community and service providers work together. Community Health Workers screen children and those with developmental needs are referred to appropriate resources, therapies and specialty care. They also connect families to resources that address child development, hunger, medical needs and others.
- 803-465-5987
Palmetto ABLE Savings Program
Allows individuals with disabilities the opportunity to save and invest money while maintaining eligibility for important needs-based benefits.
- 800-439-1653
Project Lifesaver
A program that utilizes tracking technology to aid in the timely location and rescue of individuals who may wander or become lost
- 877-580-LIFE
Rehabilitative Behavioral Health Services
A SC Medicaid program that encompasses a range of evidence-based interventions and therapies (Family Support, Behavior Modification, Psychosocial Rehabilitative Services, Individual Therapy, Group Therapy and Family Therapy) that can be tailored to individuals with autism and a co-morbid mental health diagnosis to enhance their functional abilities, social skills and overall well-being.
SC Assistive Technology Program
A USC program that promotes access to assistive technology devices and services to enhance independence and quality of life.
- 803-935-5263
SC DSS
The South Carolina Department of Social Services, offers various support programs and resources, including those beneficial for individuals with autism and their families. For information regarding special needs childcare vouchers please contact:
SC Medicaid
South Carolina’s Medicaid program, provides healthcare coverage and support services to eligible individuals
- 888-549-0820
SC Parents
An online resources and support platform for parents and caregivers, offering information, resources and community connections.
SC Respite Coalition
Offers a Respite Voucher Program designed to support families and caregivers by providing temporary relief through respite care services, promoting their overall well-being and capacity to continue caring for their loved ones.
- 866-345-6786
Special Needs Network of Dentists
This web-based directory provides a current list of dentists in South Carolina who have reported that they will treat patients with mild and/or moderate-severe manifestations of many different developmental and acquired special needs.
Strengthening Families Program
A 14-session weekly program providing evidence-based strategies and resources to strengthen family relationships and promote positive outcomes for children ages 6-11.
- 803-744-4041
Triple P
Positive Parenting Program is a free, research-based parenting program offering strategies for toddler tantrums to teenage rebellion. The program offers support to parents to promote their child’s social and emotional development.
Wings for All
A program that allows individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience boarding a plan so they can become comfortable with the process.