The ArcLink Massachusetts TheArcLink is the first website to provide customized, specific information on the various sources of assistance available to individuals with disabilities and their families on a state-by-state basis, as well as information on almost 30,000 providers nationwide.  Through TheArcLink Massachusetts, you can identify resources and services that fit your needs; locate and research local service providers that offer the services you need; and learn how the system works - and how you can make it work for you. Disability Law Center A private, non-profit public interest law firm providing free legal assistance and information to people with disabilities throughout Massachusetts.   Center for Public Representation (CPR) CPR is a non-profit public interest law firm providing mental health law and disability law services. It seeks to improve the quality of lives of people with mental illness and other disabilities through the systemic enforcement of their legal rights, while promoting improvements in services for citizens with disabilities.   Massachusetts Law Reform Institute A non-profit statewide legal services support center.   Massachusetts Aging and Disabilities Information Locator This site links to many resources related to aging or disabilities.   Medicaid Reference Desk This site summarizes Medicaid funded services which are available in Massachusetts and other states.    Go Voter This site provides provides assistance on voting for individuals with disabilities.   The Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) DPPC is the independent state agency responsible for protecting the health and safety of adults with disabilities from abusive acts and omissions of their caregivers. Telephone toll-free 1-800-426-9009 V/TTY 24 hours a day, seven days a week (including holidays) to report suspected instances of abuse. The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination The state agency mandated with enforcing Massachusetts’ anti-discrimination laws. Investigates complaints of discrimination based upon disability, race, color, national origin, national ancestry, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, and criminal records.   The Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) A state agency providing advocacy and informations services to individuals with disabilities who have experienced or are experiencing violations of their civil rights. As the Commonwealth's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinating Agency, it provides guidance on public private responsibilities with regard to the ADA.   Attorney General's Disability Rights Project (DRP) A special office within the state Attorney General’s office, DRP provides a centralized authority to enforce both federal and state laws applicable to individuals with disabilities. DRP's focus has included enforcement of Titles II and III of the ADA and the elimination of all varieties of discriminatory barriers to services, programs and accommodations for individuals with physical and mental disabilities. Public Records Division, The Massachusetts Secretary of State You have the right to review personal information collected by public agencies about you and your history.  This webpage has an excellent summary of the public records statute, along with a "frequently asked questions" page.       Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) The MDDC, a state agency funded by the Federal Administration on Developmental Disabilities, provides resources, information and grants aimed at enhancing the lives of persons with developmental disabilities living with Massachusetts. The Arc of the United States The parent organization of The Arc of Mass., The Arc of the U.S. is the national organization of and for people with mental retardation and related intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families.  Website contains extensive resource information and links to other sites.       Governor’s Commission on Mental Retardation The Commission was established as part of the final court order issued by Federal Chief Judge Joseph Tauro in May 1993, ending a 20–year-old class action lawsuit against the state of Massachusetts and specifically the Department of Mental Retardation. The Commission is an independent citizen oversight body consisting of 13 members appointed by the Governor for a term of three years. Offers web resources and portal for feedback on policies affecting persons with mental retardation. Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change (MFOFC) A statewide, grassroots coalition of individuals with disabilities and/or chronic illnesses and their families. Provides information and assistance to families; provides leadership training; and has regular regional and statewide meetings for families and individuals living within Massachusetts.   Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong (MASS) A private, non-profit statewide organization for self-advocates with disabilities. Offers professional and peer information and referral services. Click here for a list of self-advocacy resources compiled by MASS. Massachusetts Advocates for Children (formerly Massachusetts Advocacy Center) A private non-profit organization dedicated to being an independent and effective voice for children who face significant barriers to equal educational and life opportunities. Programs include an Autism Special Education Legal Support Center, which operates a hotline (617-357-8431, ext. 234) that offers free advocacy assistance, referral, and answers to questions about educational rights of children on the autism spectrum.   Making Your Case A free self-study online course designed to help people with developmental disabilities and their families develop the skills needed to create positive change through advocacy. Teaches how to identify the policymakers who can help bring about the changes you need, write effective letters and e-mails, conduct productive meetings with policymakers, give effective testimony, tell your story in writing and in person, organize with others, and more. New England ADA & Accessible IT Center Provides information and guidance on the ADA, Section 508, and accessible information technology to individuals living in New England.  Online resources include an extensive collection of publications offering information on the ADA and disability rights for individuals with disabilities, business owners, government officials, employers, school officials, law enforcement agencies, and others.  Also maintains a toll-free V/TTY information line staffed by people who can answer your questions about the ADA and accessible IT.   Autism Resources A listing of state and local organizations providing advocacy, information, services, and referral for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders.