LDS Disability Resources

There are a tremendous amount of resources and services available to assist members with disabilities and those who serve with them in the Church.

Church Educational System

The Church Educational System offers many resources and services for persons with disabilities. Contact your local CES representative or visit the Education section.

Church Headquarters

There are a couple of people in the Church Office Building who deal specifically with disability issues. However, you should generally get in touch with the specific department for which you have a question (i.e. Curriculum, Missionary, Young Men, Primary...). You can reach the Church office building by calling their toll-free number 1-800-453-3860 and ask for the specific department you would like to talk with.

Church Publications

Many church publications are available in alternative formats (braille, ASL, audio, large-print, half-speed cassette, text, PDF...) Up until recently there were two outdated manuals for members with disabilities, their families and those who serve with them. While those manuals have gone out of print, you may still be able to get them from the distribution center.

Church Welfare Services

The Deseret Industries assists many people through their vocational rehabilitation program. Additionally, specific services are available from LDS Family Services.

Humanitarian Services

The church is involved in a large wheelchair distribution project and likely other project in this areas as well that I am not aware of- does anyone have any info?

Missionary Work

Many young adults have opportunity to serve as part-time service missionaries. More information on specific opportunities can be found at the Mission and Service Opportunities for Senior Adults and Recommended Young Adults.

"Special Needs" Programs

Special Needs Mutual is a program where a number of stakes in a region organize a weekly activity night for youth and/or adults with disabilities. Sometimes these are associated with a scout troop for scouts with disabilities. You can find a list of Special Needs Mutuals and Primaries here.

Your Local Church Unit

This is where many of the best things in the Church are happening. While some unit leaders still need some help in understanding the needs and desires of persons with disabilities, there are so many wonderful examples of members going to great lengths to facilitate opportunities for members with disabilities and their families to more fully participate in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Anything Else?

If you know of any other resources or programs that I have missed, please let me know about them. Thank you.