Shriver Programs in Plain Language

Programs

The Shriver Center’s programs deal with the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. Our programs also help service providers, researchers, and teachers.

Insurance Resource Center for Autism and Behavioral Health

Insurance Resource Center for Autism and Behavioral Health answers questions about medical insurance for people with autism. Insurance Resource Center can also help fix insurance problems. We also help service providers, workplaces, and others.

Child and Adolescent NeuroDevelopmental Initiative (CANDI)

CANDI’s research is for people with I/DD, autism, and Fragile X. CANDI’s research includes:

- - finding biomarkers
  - brain imaging
  - treatment studies

Biomarkers can be used to find diagnoses, diseases, or medical problems.

The Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders (CANDO)

CANDO offers evaluations and treatment for children with autism and I/DD.

The Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) Program

The CANS Training Program is for therapists who help children under the age of 21.

The Center for Developmental Disabilities Evaluation and Research (CDDER)

CDDER works with state agencies like the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). CDDER evaluates their programs and offers training to their staff. CDDER works with agencies that help people with I/DD and their families.

Division of Neuroinformatics

Neuroinformatics focuses on:

- - information
  - data
  - statistics
  - results of studies in neuroscience research

The Division of Neuroinformatics works with the CANDI Team. We study how the way the brain is structured relates to having a disability.

Healthy People/Healthy Communities

The Healthy People/Healthy Communities program helps people with I/DD live healthy lifestyles. Healthy eating, physical activity, and weight control are all part of a healthy lifestyle.

INDEX

INDEX helps people with disabilities in Massachusetts find information they need. We help people find programs and services. People can look for doctors, dentists, and medical services, too. Our website at www.DisablilityInfo.org has fact sheets and resources. INDEX helps state agencies to develop websites and distance learning courses.

Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND)

The LEND program trains professionals, people with disabilities, and family members to improve the health of children and teens with I/DD. LEND has two programs:

- - a fellowship program focused on policy, advocacy, and leadership skills
  - training programs for clinical trainees