Arizona Disability Resources and Advocacy Organizations
Scroll down for links to government agencies and disability rights organizations in Arizona. They may be able assist you with:
- disability advocacy
- home health services
- home care
- nursing aide services
- Medicaid
- accessing other community resources to help people with disabilities.
Many of these organizations work to address the unique needs associated with different disabilities, including but not limited to physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities, and mental illness. Others focus on issues such as access to housing and legal assistance based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
If you live in Arizona and are a person with a disability, learning about state-specific resources to support people with disabilities can help you advocate for yourself. If you are a friend, family member, or caregiver of a person with disabilities in Arizona, these resources can help you in supporting your loved one.
Note: this website attempts to use people first language and thus uses the term "person with a disability" rather than disabled or handicapped.
We hope you will check out the rest of OlmsteadRights.org to learn about critical rights of people with disabilities.
Protection & Advocacy Organization
The Arizona state disability protection and advocacy (P&A) agency is the Arizona Center for Disability Law (ACDL). The ACDL is part of the nation's federally-funded P&A system. It provides help to people with disabilities in Arizona to expand and defend their rights, including supporting self-advocacy groups and legal assistance. The ACDL is part of the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN).
Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC)
ADRCs are the main points of access for long-term supports and services for older adults and people with disabilities, including home health care and assistive technology.
Legal Services Organizations
These organizations provide free legal assistance for low-income individuals, including help with accessing Social Security and Medicaid benefits.
- Legal Aid of Arizona
- DNA People's Legal Services
- Southern Arizona Legal Aid, Inc.
- AZ Law Help
- Christian Legal Aid of Arizona
Other Disability Advocacy Organizations
These organizations protect and advocate for the civil and human rights of people with disabilities.
State Medicaid Agency
Learn about and apply for Medicaid services in Arizona.
Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)
The Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) helps remove barriers to independent living for people with disabilities and works to increase necessary supports and services. It is part of the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL).
Other State and Non-Profit Agencies
These agencies provide help for people with disabilities and their families and caregivers. Disability services are often free or low-cost.
- Arizona Department of Health Services
- Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS)
- Arizona Association of Providers for People with Disabilities (AAPPD)
- Vocational Rehabilitation - Arizona Department of Economic Security
- Independent Living Resources
Crisis Services
Crisis intervention and counseling for people who are in need of immediate help or need someone to talk to. If you or a loved one is experiencing emotional distress, these agencies are ready to offer free and confidential help. Common concerns include but are not limited to mental illness, suicide, intellectual or developmental disability, physical disability, substance abuse, grief, sexual assault, and family violence.
- Crisis Hotlines - Division of Behavioral Health Services
- Crisis Response Network
- Child Crisis Center
- Cenpatico Crisis Intervention Services
- Domestic Violence Program
Services for Senior Citizens
Free or low-cost resources and disability services for senior citizens and their loved ones to promote successful community living.
- Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS)
- Arizona Senior Center Association (ASCA)
- Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS)
- Aging Well
Regional Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Center
Provides information, training, and guidance on disability access and Arizona disability services. One of 10 regional centers in the ADA National Network.
Developmental Disabilities Services
These agencies address the specific needs of people with developmental disabilities. They advocate for community inclusion and access to Arizona disability services.
- Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council
- Arizona Association of Providers for People with Disabilities (AAPPD)
- Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP)
- Division of Developmental Disabilities - Arizona Department of Economic Security
- The Arc of Arizona
- Vocational Rehabilitation - Arizona Department of Economic Security
Mental Health Services
These agencies address the specific needs of people with mental illness and promote mental health. Some agencies offer free or low-cost group counseling and education programs.
- Behavioral Health Integration
- Mental Health America of Arizona
- Vocational Rehabilitation - Arizona Department of Economic Security
Physical Disabilities Services
Free or low-cost Arizona disability services for people of all ages, including physical therapy, access to employment and education, support for independent living, and assistive technology.
- Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS)
- Vocational Rehabilitation - Arizona Department of Economic Security
- Business Enterprise Program (BEP) (Program for legally blind persons)
- Independent Living Blind (ILB) Program
- Ability360
- Arizona Technology Access Program (AzTAP)
- Assistive Technology in Arizona
Traumatic Brain Injury Services
Information and resources for individuals with traumatic brain injuries and their loved ones.
Addiction and Substance Abuse Services
Information and resources for people with substance abuse and their loved ones.
Low-Income Housing Services
Information and tools for locating affordable housing and access to public housing.
- Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH)
- Arizona Low Income Housing
- Arizona Public Housing Authority - Section 8
- Arizona Housing Finance Authority