The Next Chapter
Resources for Youth Transitioning to Adulthood
Moving from high school to adult life is a major step. The Next Chapter brings together key resources to help young people with disabilities and their families plan ahead.
Resource Areas
Programs that support skill-building and career preparation.
NJ DVRS, DDD, DDS, and more — agencies that support education, employment, and independence.
Financial aid, advocacy, and support for students with disabilities pursuing college.
Centers and organizations that provide peer support and skills training.
Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, NJ ABLE accounts, and other benefits explained.
Education and Training Resources
Provides vocational rehabilitation, independent living skills training, and education services for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
Offers advocacy, training, and support for parents of children with disabilities.
Provides training and employment programs for young adults with disabilitie
Provides resources for employment, advocacy, and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
State and Government Resources
Offers vocational rehabilitation services, employment support, and job placement for individuals with disabilities.
Provides information on special education, transition planning, and post-secondary education resources.
Offers support and services for individuals with developmental disabilities, including residential services and employment support.
Connects individuals with disabilities to various resources, including personal assistance services and Medicaid.
For individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families, the transition to higher education, employment, or both can be a stressful and confusing time.
Higher Education Resources
Offers financial aid resources and support for students with disabilities pursuing higher education.
Provides advocacy and legal services to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in education and other areas.
Independent Living Resources
Offers independent living services, peer support, advocacy, and transition services.
Provides resources and support for independent living, including advocacy, peer support, and skills training.
Support and Advocacy Organizations
Provides information, advocacy, and support services for individuals with autism and their families.
Offers support, resources, and advocacy for parents of children who are blind or visually impaired.
Provides a range of support services, including information and referral, support groups, and respite care.
Offers courses and learning materials to assist with individuals with disabilities and their families as they progress through life.
Offers resources to assist youth and young adults move from pediatric to adult healthcare.
Provides resources to help individuals with I/DD make informed decisions about their life journey.
Find a helpful timeline of important transition related milestones and resources.
Entitlement Programs and Financial Resources
Provides health insurance coverage for eligible individuals with disabilities, covering medical services, long-term care, and home and community-based services.
Provides monthly financial assistance to individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources.
Offers financial assistance to families facing significant medical expenses for their children with disabilities or severe illnesses.
Provides temporary financial support to eligible individuals who cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including certain disabilities.
Offers Medicaid coverage to individuals with disabilities who are working and earning more than the allowable limits under standard Medicaid.
DB101 is an informational project of the nonprofit World Institute on Disability
Provides free or low-cost health insurance to eligible children and adults, including those with disabilities.
Provides funding for the development of affordable housing for individuals with special needs, including those with developmental disabilities.
Provides monthly financial benefits to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but are now unable to work due to a disability.
Offers Medicaid-funded services to individuals with developmental disabilities, including day programs, employment services, and residential supports.
Provides personal assistance services to individuals with physical disabilities who are employed, preparing for employment, attending school, or involved in community volunteer work.