Universal Design Living Laboratory

Home > Resources

Resources

Links to Third Party Sites

Universal Design Living Laboratory (UDLL) may provide hyperlinks or email links to other Web sites maintained by third parties or may provide third party content on our Web site by framing or other methods. The links to third party Web sites are provided for your convenience and information only. These other sites were independently developed by parties other than the UDLL. The UDLL assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or appropriateness of the information contained in such sites. The inclusion of any link to another site on this page does not imply endorsement by the UDLL. The content in any linked Web sites is not under our control so we are not responsible for the content of any linked site or any link contained in a linked site, or any changes or updates to such sites.

If you decide to access any of the third party sites linked to our Web site, you do this entirely at your own risk. These other sites may send their own cookies to users, collect data, or solicit personal information. The privacy policies and procedures described here for the UDLL do not apply to any external links. You are encouraged to read the privacy policies of any site you link to from this one, especially if you share any personal information.

Accessible Products
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	Abledata	http://www.abledata.com ABLEDATA provides objective information about assistive technology products and rehabilitation equipment available from domestic and international sources. Although ABLEDATA does not sell any products, we can help you locate the companies that do.

	Harris Communications, Inc.	http://www.harriscomm.com It doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. There are products available for your guests who are Deaf or hard of hearing that are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant.

	Lifease	http://www.lifease.com The mission of Lifease®, Inc. is to help people live independently and comfortably in their own homes as long as possible by linking seniors and people with disabilities to products and ideas that are applicable to their particular needs and concerns.

	NAHB Directory of Accessible Products	http://www.toolbase.org/tertiaryT.asp?TrackID=&CategoryID=30 8&DocumentID=964 Directory of Accessible Building Products - 2006

	National Center for Accessible Media	http://ncam.wgbh.org/ The CPB/WGBH National Center for Accessible Media (NCAM) is a research and development facility dedicated to the issues of media and information technology for people with disabilities in their homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. NCAM's mission is: to expand access to present and future media for people with disabilities; to explore how existing access technologies may benefit other populations; to represent its constituents in industry, policy and legislative circles; and to provide access to educational and media technologies for special needs students.

Construction Ideas
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	Ask Tool Talk	http://www.asktooltalk.com A wealth of articles and information by Leon A. Frechette on how to build or remodel a home. Includes an online store to purchase home improvement products and tools. His book, Accessible Housing, is a comprehensive look at universal design housing.

	Bob Vila Energy Efficient Home	http://www.bobvila.com/ArticleLibrary/Subject/Special_Featur es/EnergyWise_House/eHouse.html BobVila.com's newest project, the EnergyWise House, is a stunning 50s-style, multi-level home located in the tony community of Palm Springs, California, home to the stars, celebrities and key personalities of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. Designed with a focus on energy savings and the environment, this home is a showcase for energy-efficient design ideas, high performance building materials, and environmentally sound products that outperform traditional building products in any building or remodeling project.

	Building Media	http://www.buildingmedia.com Research center with videos Building Media's broad array of construction industry clients includes cable media outlets, building product manufacturers, trade associations, consulting companies, publications, trade shows, live events and government agencies. Building Media Inc.'s products and services include TV and multi-media production, distance learning programs, and live events, marketing and consulting.

Energy Efficiency
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	USDOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy	http://www.eere.energy.gov A gateway to hundreds of Web sites and thousands of online documents on energy efficiency and renewable energy

Financial
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	BankRate.com	http://www.bankrate.com The Web’s leading mortgage rates and information on over 100 financial products. They provide the most current objective, unbiased rates...

	Housing & Mortgages for People with Disabilities	http://www.mortgageloan.com/disabilities/ A comprehensive site for anyone who wants to own a home, with special information for people with disabilities. Goes through a step by step process of how to shop for a mortgage. Also shows low cost mortgage programs for people with disabilities that qualify.

	Mortgage 101	http://www.mortgage101.com/ Provides interest rates, mortgage information and home loans from thousands of companies. Great for potential home buyers with mortgage questions.

	MortgageLoan.com	http://www.mortgageloan.com A comprehensive web site that includes a mortgage calculator and updated tables with current mortgage rates collected from local lenders and brokers throughout the nation. An information rich resource with rate updates and commentary. Each state is listed to get updates on mortgage rates. Includes a search process for today's lowest home mortgage rates by state and city.

	Protected Tomorrows	http://www.protectedtomorrows.com When you have a relative with special needs, planning for the future can feel overwhelming and complicated. Make the wrong decision and your family member may lose important benefits. Protected Tomorrows® helps you plan for the future so you and your loved one can live, work and play to the fullest.

Green Building
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	Economic Action for a Just Planet	http://www.coopamerica.org/ Holds Green festivals (check web site for dates and locations), Manages the Green Pages (listings require approval), Publishes "Real Money" newsletter, Runs a Green list serve (cabn).

	Green Drinks International	http://www.greendrinks.org/ Every month people who work in the environmental field meet for a beer (or snack) at informal sessions known as Green Drinks. Gatherings are held worldwide. Check their web site for locations.

	LOHAS	http://www.lohas.com/ LOHAS stands for Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability. They support the market segment focused on health and fitness, the environment, personal development, sustainable living, and social justice. Organizes an annual business conference on the West Coast, manages a directory of Green Businesses

	Net Impact	http://www.netimpact.org/ Net Impact is a global network of leaders who are changing the world through business.

	SustainLane	http://www.sustainlane.com/ SustainLane is an online media company empowering people, businesses, and government to go green. They offer: general info (http://www.sustainlane.com/), SustainLane Government (http://sustainlane.us/) & The US City Rankings (http://www.sustainlane.com/us-city-rankings/)

	The Green Chamber	http://www.thegreenchamber.org/ A new national organization that provides green companies and non-profits with interactive, state-of-the-art tools and sustainable community resources to improve their businesses and services through cooperation with like-minded organizations.

	U.S. Green Building Council	http://www.usgbc.org The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is the nation’s foremost coalition of leaders from every sector of the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Our more than 7,500 member organizations and our network of 75 regional chapters are united to advance our mission of transforming the building industry to sustainability. Core Purpose The U.S. Green Building Council's core purpose is to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life. Guiding Principles At USGBC, we take how we make our decisions as seriously as the decisions themselves. Our Board of Directors has articulated a set of guiding principles to provide clarity and continuity in our decision making.

Healthy Home
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	American Lung Association	http://www.healthhouse.org/index.asp Tips and information on how to build a healthy and energy efficient home.

	The Healthy Home Institute	http://www.hhinst.com/ We're here to help you improve your home's interior environment, especially its indoor air quality.

Legal
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	NOLO	http://www.nolo.com/lawcenter/dictionary/wordindex.cfm?t=003 0TOOLS03202000 Law For All. Everybody's Legal Dictionary. Nolo's Shark Talk dictionary contains plain-English definitions for over a thousand legal terms, from the common to the bizarre. Everybody's Legal Glossary Welcome to Nolo's Legal Glossary, your life-raft in the sea of legal jargon. Do you need to know the meaning of sprinkling trust, toxic tort or some equally puzzling legal term? Look it up here. Our glossary contains plain-English definitions for hundreds of legal terms, from the common to the bizarre.

Newspaper Promotion
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	James Dulley, Engineer	http://www.dulley.com Nationally-Syndicated Newspaper Columns and Update Bulletins (in 400 newspapers and magazines)

Real Estate
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	Home Price Checked by Location	http://www.domania.com/homepricecheck/index.jsp Find out how much homes have sold for in your neighborhood. Search by location or search by price range.

	INMAN News	http://www.inman.com/ Inman News Features. Lots of Real Estate News.

	Neighborhood Information by state, city, zip code.	http://realestate.yahoo.com/re/neighborhood/main.html Learn the demographics, cost of living and quality of life for any address

Television
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	HGTV	http://www.hgtvpro.com Take a look at "The Healthy New American Home" clean air model

Tour Groups
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)	http://www.aarp.org

	American Community Gardening Association (ACGA)	http://www.communitygarden.org/

	American Institute of Architects (AIA)	http://www.aia.org

	American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)	http://www.asid.org

	Building Industry Association (BIA)	http://www.biahomebuilders.com/

	Building Owners and Managers Association	http://www.bomacolumbus.org

	Central Ohio Water Garden Society	http://www.markleder.com

	Columbus Board of Realtors	http://www.columbusrealtors.org

	Construction Specifications Institute	http://www.csinet.org

	Disabled American Veterans	http://www.dav.org/

	Illuminating Engineering Society of North America	http://www.iesna.org/

	International Facility Management Association	http://www.ifmacentralohio.org

	International Interior Design Association	http://www.iida.org

	International Telework Association	http://www.markleder.com

	Landscape Design Association	http://www.ldaonline.org/

	Metropolitan Club Columbus	http://www.markleder.com

	National Association for the Self-Employed	http://www.nase.org/

	National Association of Home Builders	http://www.nahb.org

	National Association of the Remodeling Industry	http://www.nari.org

	National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)	http://www.nawbo.org/

	National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)	http://www.nawic.org/

	National Kitchen and Bath Association	http://www.nkba.org/

	Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA)	http://www.pva.org

	Professional Landcare Network	http://www.landcarenetwork.org

	The Rotary Club of Columbus	http://www.columbusrotary.org

Universal Design
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	Access For Everyone, A Guide to the Accessibility of Buildings and Sites with References to ADAAG	http://www.fpm.iastate.edu/accessforeveryone includes ADA requirements, and recommendations based on Universal Design Principles

	Access One	http://www.beyondbarriers.com Beyond Barriers is a family-owned and family run business since 1992. Our dream is to help you stay in your home, and experience the freedom of living independently, without fear! Beyond Barriers is a licensed builder and contractor, with experience in building and remodeling accessible homes. We can help you choose the best product for your application. If you need a product and it is not in our catalog, we will do our best to find it for you. Our staff has over 14 years experience in patient transferring and durable equipment knowledge. We can assist you in obtaining your goals by listening to your specific needs, educate you on what your options are, and help you implement and install necessary equipment/products all while being economically conscious about cost and value. Beyond Barriers home/durable medical equipment, offers consulting services; reviewing plans and blueprints for residential homes, organizational speaking. Call us at 1-651-464-7102 for more information. We Accept:

	Accessibility Design, Inc.	http://www.accessibilitydesign.com Accessibility Design is a design, consultation, project management and product recommendation company that has specialized in home access for seniors and individuals with disabilities for over 15 years. The services carried out by Accessibility Design include but are not limited to, home access site visits, design and consultation, funding research, construction and drafting documents, project management, product recommendation and budgetary assistance. No matter how large the project or how complex your needs are, we can work with you to create the living space that’s best for you. Please give us a call at (952) 925-0301 for more information or visit our website.

	Accessible Design/Universal Design Resources	http://www.makoa.org/accessable-design.htm Resources, house plans, companies, articles and books to buy all geared toward Universal Design.

	Accessible Home Design: Architectural Solutions for the Wheelchair User by Thomas Davies	http://norcalmobility.com/pdf/Accessible%20Home%20Design.pdf #search=%22accessible%20home%20design%20architectural%20solu tions%20for%20the%20wheelchair%20user%20by%20thomas%20davies %22 This new edition offers innovative yet practical solutions for achieving independence. The authors have collaborated with hundreds of wheelchair users on home modification via their work at the Paralyzed Veterans. They have dealt with many common problems and have developed design solutions that have addressed each client's accessibility needs. While the book will serve as an ideal resource for homeowners with disabilities and their families, the technical information contained within will provide important insights on home design and construction for builders and architects, as well. —$28.00

	ADA&IT Technical Assistance Centers	http://www.adaportal.org/ an excellent resource

	Adaptive Environments	http://www.adaptenv.org Adaptive Environments is a 27 year old educational non-profit organization committed to advancing the role of design in expanding opportunity and enhancing experience for people of all ages and abilities. Adaptive Environments' work balances expertise in legally required accessibility with promotion of best practices in human centered or universal design. Projects vary from local to international. All are characterized by collaboration and user participation.

	Adaptive Environments - Resource	http://www.adaptiveenvironments.org/index.php?option=Resourc e&topicid=all Selected Bibliography for Universal design, aging, ADA, etc.

	Adaptive Environments Center	http://www.adaptenv.org/ an excellent resource

	American National Standards Institute	http://www.ansi.org 212-642-4900 The Institute's mission is to enhance both the global competitiveness of U.S. business and the U.S. quality of life by promoting and facilitating voluntary consensus standards and conformity assessment systems, and safeguarding their integrity.

	CAST	http://www.cast.org CAST: Universal Design for LearningCAST is a nonprofit organization that works to expand learning opportunities for all individuals, especially those with disabilities, through the research and development of innovative, technology-based educational resources and strategies.

	Center for Universal Design North Carolina State University	http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud 800-647-6777 The Center for Universal Design is a national research, information, and technical assistance center that evaluates, develops, and promotes universal design in housing, public and commercial facilities, and related products.

	Charles Schwab Architects	http://www.universaldesignonline.com 309-792-4599 Our Mission: is to provide home plans and commercial building design that is Universal Designed, Green and Sustainable. Smart homes that enhance Independent Living while conserving and protecting our natural resources well into the 21st Century and beyond.

	Concrete Change	http://www.concretechange.org In support of visitable homes 404-378-7455 Whatever you call it... accessible, universal design, life-time homes, adaptable, visitable... ...this site is about working together for basic access in ALL homes. It's not about access to public buildings...or helping builders create "niche marketing" for disabled or older people...or how to build your own fully accessible house from A to Z (see the "Note" at the bottom of this page if that's what you need). It's not about retrofitting existing homes for a person who's become disabled--important as that is. It's about correcting current building practices, which have disabled people and their allies desperately seeking help to undo existing barriers--while a half-mile down the road a new development is going up constructing exactly those same barriers.

	Draware (Ireland)	http://www.ucd.ie/avc/DraWare/default.htm The project is in response to the Report of the Irish Commission on the Status of People with Disabilities entitled: 'A Strategy for Equality'. This report identified a major general need: "People with disabilities must be able to get into buildings and move freely within those buildings. This is a very basic right. Without it, other rights - to work, to education, to leisure, simply cannot be accessed." To this must be added the need to ensure a continuity of access from the room through the building to the streets, squares and parks of the city and links and interaction with transportation systems. This need requires that the processes of design, renewal and management of the built environment must realise an architecture, city and transport network that is universally accessible. It is the aim of this project to develop within the architectural profession the awareness and design skills necessary to achieve universal access. This is achieved through an educational programme incorporated into the mainstream of design teaching within the School of Architecture at University College Dublin and through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for practising architects.

	Easy Living Home	http://www.easylivinghome.org/ EasyLiving Homecm is the nation's first voluntary certification program that specifies criteria in everyday construction to add convenience in your new home and to welcome all friends, family and visitors regardless of age, size or physical ability. It sounds so simple, yet these small changes create key lifestyle benefits for homeowners - a home not only easy to live in, but also: Easy to build Easy to visit Easy to sell The EasyLiving Homecm program has been developed by a coalition of public and private organizations to encourage the voluntary inclusion of key features which make a home cost effective, accessible and convenient for everyone without sacrificing style or adding substantial construction costs. EasyLiving Homecm certification enhances both the initial and resale value of a home, and can be achieved for practically any home regardless of price, building site or architecture.

	European Concept for Accessibility (Luxembourg)	http://www.eca.lu The fundamental basis of a European philosophy for accessibility is the recognition, acceptance and fostering - at all levels in society - of the rights of all human beings, including people with activity limitations ..... in an ensured context of high human health, safety, comfort and environmental protection. Accessibility - for all - is an essential attribute of a 'person-centred', sustainable built environment.

	European Institute for Design and Disability	http://www.design-for-all.org The European Institute for Design and Disability, EIDD, was founded in Dublin in 1993 with the aim of promoting better design for people with disabilities. The founding philosophy of the Institute has always been embedded in design-for-all, a philosophy which aims to improve the life of everyone through design. ”Good design enables, bad design disables”. That is the motto of the European Design for All declaration also called Stockholm Declaration© adopted on 9 May 2004 in Stockholm.

	Fair Housing Act	http://www.hud.gov/library/bookshelf09/index.cfm general info and Qs & As about FHA

	Fair Housing Act Design Manual	http://www.huduser.org/Publications/pdf/fairhousing/fairappA .pdf a Directory of Accessible Building Products in an effort to increase accessible housing for people with disabilities

	IDEA Center at the University of Buffalo	http://www.ap.buffalo.edu/idea/Home/index.asp The site is designed for use by faculty members, students (of any age and stage), and user/experts. The site supports professional design education as well as professional development/continuing education and kindergarten through grade 12 education (this is the U.S. designation - we welcome design-related materials for younger students from everywhere in the world). The site features a variety of materials for a range of disciplines, levels, and interests including:.

	Independent Living Research Utilization Project	http://www.ilru.org 713-520-0232 ILRU, founded in 1975, has a long history of providing research, education and consultation in the areas of independent living, the Americans with Disabilities Act, home and community based services and health issues for people with disabilities. Among our core areas of expertise are: Centers for Independent Living: Long a leader in the area of independent living, ILRU through the IL Net offers training and technical assistance to CILs and SILCs--a listing of centers and SILCs is also updated on a weekly basis Americans with Disabilities Act: The Disability Law Resource Project (DLRP) is one of ten Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers that provide technical assistance and training on the ADA Home and Community Based Services: Providing support to agencies and providers with training and publications Disability and Health Issues: As collaborators on the RRTC's in Health and Wellness and in Spinal Cord Injury and Exercise, ILRU provides education and training on these important topics ILRU provides training and information dissemination in a number of ways including on-site and on-line training, Web casts and teleconferences. For information on the myriad of projects led by ILRU or to which we lend our expertise, visit our section on projects. For breaking news and useful information, visit What's New or join us on our discussion boards for the latest perspectives on important independent living, home and community based services, health and wellness, and other disability issues.

	Institute on Independent Living (Sweden)	http://www.independentliving.org The Independent Living Institute offers resources for persons with extensive disabilities and develops consumer-driven policies for self-determination, self-respect and dignity. We run a virtual library, interactive services, feasibility studies and projects. We are experts in designing and implementing direct payment schemes for users’ self-determination and quality of life in the areas of personal assistance, mainstream taxi and assistive technology.

	Iowa Program for Assistive Technology (IPAT)	http://uiowa.edu/infotech a practical guide to universal home design

	Lifespan Design Studio	http://www.lifespandesignstudio.com Lifespan Design Studio, LLC Based in Lebanon, Ohio, Lifespan Design Studio (LDS) provides architectural consulting services nationwide. Dedicated to the application and promotion of universal/lifespan design in commercial, institutional, and residential settings, LDS offers a broad menu of services (ranging from studies and planning to design and design consultation) for new construction and renovations. Concentrated study of the aging process and extensive project experience with facilities that serve adults over 50 enhance the lifespan-appropriateness of the LDS approach to universal design. (513) 228-1196

	NAHB 50+ Housing Council	http://www.nahb.org/page.aspx/category/sectionID=261 The NAHB 50+ Housing Council is the voice of the 50+ seniors housing industry and a leading source of information and research on the active adult, independent living, service-enriched, and assisted-living markets. Membership gives you access to these valuable resources and offers opportunities to network with others in the industry, including experts. Browse the resources below for key council contacts, the council’s mission and goals, or sign up for membership.

	National Kitchen & Bath Association	http://www.nkba.org 908-843-6522 The National Kitchen and Bath Association is a growing non-profit trade association with over 25,000 members. We’ve led the kitchen and bath industry for over forty years by providing resources for consumers and industry professionals. Not only does NKBA host the world’s largest trade show and offer educational programs, but we also enhance the success of our members by promoting professionalism and ethical business practices. In order to benefit consumers, our association monitors national and state legislation to protect the industry, our members, and consumers.

	National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modifications	http://www.homemods.org Andrus Gerontology Center, University of Southern California 213-740-1364 Our vision is to create a Center of excellence to ensure the independence, safety, and well being of older persons through fall prevention. Our mission is to provide leadership, create new knowledge, and develop sustainable programs for seniors and their families, professionals, program administrators, and policy makers.

	Prince William County Virginia	http://www.pwcgov.org/default.aspx?topic=040015999990003742 Universal Design Demonstration House

	ProMatura Group	http://www.promatura.com/ The ProMatura Group is a market and consumer research company that has successfully bridged the gap between businesses and 50+ adults, solid scientific research and the real world.

	Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA)	http://www.resna.org 703-524-6686 We are an interdisciplinary association of people with a common interest in technology and disability. Our purpose is to improve the potential of people with disabilities to achieve their goals through the use of technology. We serve that purpose by promoting research, development, education, advocacy and provision of technology; and by supporting the people engaged in these activities.

	Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center	http://rerc.phhp.ufl.edu/ The Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Technology for Successful Aging (RERC-Tech-Aging), a University of Florida (UF) initiative, was established in October, 2001. The primary focus of the Center is to promote independence and quality of life for older people with disabilities through technology - devices that can make everyday tasks easier to complete. This RERC-Tech-Aging, funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), builds on the work of Mann and colleagues, who in 1991 established and conducted work as the NIDRR funded RERC-Aging at the University at Buffalo (State University of New York at Buffalo).

	RSA Inclusive Design	http://www.inclusivedesign.org.uk/index.php This website is for design students and their tutors, professional designers, design managers and policy makers. It has been developed to introduce newcomers to key concepts, examples and design/research methods, and to support practitioners in gathering together relevant information to build up their own collection of tools and techniques.

	Telehome Companion	http://www.telehomecompanion.com This web site is a window into a world of possibilities for people who are searching for products, services, information and reassurance that will help them, and in some cases, their aging parents, live confidently at home for as long as possible. TeleHome Companion is dedicated to helping people better age-in-place by showing the benefits of using universally designed housing & products, telecare technologies, and other assistive products that are moving from the drawing board to the market, which can make life easier at home.

	Texas Home of Their Own	http://www.onr.com/user/texashoyo/ Why is all of this Universal Design talk important? Well to me this web page summarizes why it is important…it is not just a new home for your, it is the impact that it is going to make on all the people that come after you. Good statistics….and examples…although this does spend time on affordable housing too…accessibility is the issue... Written by Deanne.

	The Universal Design Alliance, Inc.,	http://www.universaldesign.org/pages.asp?pageid=3128 The Universal Design Alliance, Inc., is a non-profit corporation founded in March of 2003. Our mission is to create awareness and expand the public’s knowledge of universal design, which is design for all ages, sizes, and abilities. Universal Design Alliance, Inc. GOALS Become a resource for universal design knowledge. Promote the Easy Livingcm Home concept. Promote universal design features to both design/build industry members and consumers. Promote universal design through educational programs and seminars. Partnering with other design/build entities to design, build, furnish, staff, and promote a universal design show house. Develop membership and participation.

	Trace Research and Development Center University of Wisconsin	http://www.trace.wisc.edu The Trace Research & Development Center is a part of the College of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Founded in 1971, Trace has been a pioneer in the field of technology and disability. Trace Center Mission Statement: To prevent the barriers and capitalize on the opportunities presented by current and emerging information and telecommunication technologies, in order to create a world that is as accessible and usable as possible for as many people as possible. The Trace Center is currently working on ways to make standard information technologies and telecommunications systems more accessible and usable by people with disabilities. This work is primarily funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) (U.S. Department of Education), through the following center grants:

	U.S. Access Board	http://www.access-board.gov 800-872-2253; 800-993-2822 TTY A federal agency committed to accessible design.

	Universal Design Alliance	http://www.universaldesign.org

	Universal Design and Home Accessibility (ISU)	http://www.extension.iastate.edu/universaldesign/ an excellent resource

	Universal Design Education Online	http://www.udeducation.org/index.asp This web site supports the teaching and study of universal design. It also provides a place where educators can interact with each other. Our goal is to develop a community of learners who exchange information for the benefit of all. The site is designed for use by faculty members, students (of any age and stage), and user/experts. The site supports professional design education as well as professional development/continuing education and kindergarten through grade 12 education (this is the U.S. designation - we welcome design-related materials for younger students from everywhere in the world). The site features a variety of materials for a range of disciplines, levels, and interests including:. Instructional materials such as course syllabi, course projects, units, or lectures, sample assignments, short term events such as workshops and seminars, and evaluation methods; Content resources such as computer renderings or photographs of excellent examples of universal design; Full text of classic universal design writings; An annotated bibliography of other available materials; and Links to relevant resources worldwide

	Universal Design Network	http://www.universaldesign.net/about_udnet.htm The Universal Design Educator's Monthly Online News grew out of the Fourth Universal Design Educator's Project Forum held as part of Designing for the 21st Century Conference in June of 1998. This site is packed with articles about universal design and resources. There are also links to universal design sites.

	Universal Design Resource	http://www.universaldesignresource.com An information web site promoting universal design. It includes an extensive tips booklet that serves as a checklist for those who want to incorporate universal design when they build or remodel. This site also lists suppliers and manufacturers of products that can be incorporated in a home, with links to their web sites. The collection of essays serve as a primer on the subject of universal design. There are various links to professional organizations and experts in the field including architects, interior designers, builders and remodelers.

	UniversalDesign.com	http://www.universaldesign.com/ Improving People’s Lives By Design UD&C facility assessments for accessibility typically include a review of available diagramatic plans, a walk-through and an on site brief with staff regarding the findings and expectations for the content of the resultant Facility Survey Report. UD&C has developed self-survey analysis systems for use by client staff and contractors. These systems often address dimensional tolerances and alternative solutions and can be applied to various building types. When accompanied by UD&C prepared self-survey forms and staff training, this facility assessment approach can be extremely cost effective for clients with large numbers of similar facilities.

	University of Buffalo Idea Center	http://www.ap.buffalo.edu/idea/Links/index.asp In an effort to assist in research and development in the field of Universal Design, the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDEA) and the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Universal Design at Buffalo (R.E.R.C. on Universal Design) provides links to many sites that offer beneficial concepts, information, or innovations. These links are intended to be as comprehensive as possible in offering the very best in Universal Design.

	University of Washington DO-IT	http://www.washington.edu/doit/Resources/udesign.html DO-IT promotes the use of universal design principles to create a more accessible and usable world. DO-IT is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and the National Science Foundation to share guidance and resources on creating more accessible products and environments through the use of universal design. DO-IT's special focus is on the accessible design of information technology and universal design in education (UDE). The following DO-IT publications and videos apply universal design principles to a wide variety of products and environments; Including instruction, websites, distance learning courses, software, multimedia, libraries, computer labs, career centers, advising offices, tutoring and learning centers, and conference exhibits. Many of them provide checklists for implementation of universal design in a specific application area; developed with formative input from the field and tested nationwide, in put to further refine these products is welcome from practitioners.

	Visitability List Serve	mailto: visitability-list@ACSU.buffalo.edu sponsored by the University at Buffalo in New York

	Volunteers for Medical Engineering	http://www.toad.net/~vme/ 2201 Argonne Drive Baltimore, MD 21218 The Volunteers For Medical Engineering (VME) is a non profit 501(c)(3) organization of volunteers, engineers and medical professionals who team together to improve the independence of individuals with disabilities and the elderly through: Custom design of new products Research and development Modifications to existing devices Computer loans We are a unique service organization with many opportunities for you to use all of your talents, skills, experience, and energy to help people with disabilities. Our Mission is to apply technology in the solution to problems faced by people with disabilities. Our Strength lies in our resources, volunteers and community partnerships.

Website Ideas
	Link Name	Link URL and Details
	AARP	http://www.aarp.org AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization for people age 50 and over. AARP is dedicated to enhancing quality of life for all as we age. We lead positive social change and deliver value to members through information, advocacy and service. AARP also provides a wide range of unique benefits, special products, and services for our members.

	Abilities In Motion	http://www.abilitiesinmotion.org A Center for Independent Living in Berks County, located in Reading, PA that provides: Information and Referral, Peer Counseling, Independent Living Skills Training, Service Coordination, and System Advocacy Change. Other programs include: Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA) Civil Rights trainings, conducts accessibility surveys, examines building code compliances, and coordinates mediation services.

	Ability Awareness	http://www.abilityawareness.org/ A nonprofit organization that was established to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities through housing, education, employment, media and volunteer opportunities. The ABILITY House project is a partnership with Habitat for Humanity affiliates. Each ABILITY House is an accessible home built for a family where one or more members have health conditions or disabilities.

	Aging Beautifully	http://agingbeautifully.org/1024x768.html Discover the myths and realities of aging. Learn about the power of universal design to maximize health, quality of life and longevity. Learn to accommodate the needs of your older employees, family members, and customers. Look at choices in housing which guarantee that you will "age in place" and never be moved along a continuum to independent, assisted, or skilled care.

	Alzheimer’s Association	http://www.alz.org The Alzheimer’s Association, the world leader in Alzheimer research and support, is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer’s. For 25 years, the donor-supported, not-for-profit Alzheimer’s Association has provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes. Our mission To eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

	Alzheimer's Disease Education & Referral Center	http://www.alzheimers.org/ Use this site to find current, comprehensive Alzheimer's disease (AD) information and resources from the U.S. Government's National Institute on Aging (NIA).

	American Foundation for the Blind	http://www.afb.org The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a national nonprofit that expands possibilities for people with vision loss. AFB's priorities include broadening access to technology; elevating the quality of information and tools for the professionals who serve people with vision loss; and promoting independent and healthy living for people with vision loss by providing them and their families with relevant and timely resources. AFB's work in these areas is supported by the strong presence the organization maintains in Washington, DC, ensuring the rights and interests of people with vision loss are represented in our nation's public policies. 800-AFB-LINE

	American Heart Association National Center	http://www.americanheart.org 800-AHA-USA-1 The American Heart Association is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to reduce disability and death from cardiovascular diseases and stroke. The mission statement was affirmed by the Delegate Assembly at its meetings of June 1993, June 1996 and June 1999. The mission statement undergoes a formal review process every third year.

	American Occupational Therapy Association	http://www.aota.org The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is the nationally recognized professional association of approximately 35,000 occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and students of occupational therapy. Practitioners work with people experiencing health problems such as stroke, spinal cord injuries, cancer, congenital conditions, developmental problems, and mental illness. Occupational therapy helps people regain, develop, and build skills that are essential for independent functioning, health, and well-being.

	American Stroke Association National Center	http://www.strokeassociation.org 888-4-STROKE 2010 Goal The American Stroke Association’s goal is to reduce stroke and risk by 25 percent by 2010 Vision Statement We envision a world where stroke is minimized and ultimately eliminated as a major health problem. We look forward to a world where risk factors are reduced and rapid treatment is obtained. We strive to change the landscape of healthcare delivery so that optimal care and maximum recovery are achieved for those who do suffer a stroke.

	Amputee Coalition of America	http://www.amputee-coalition.org/ 888-AMP-KNOW The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) is a national, non-profit amputee consumer educational organization representing people who have experienced amputation or are born with limb differences. The ACA includes individual amputees, amputee education and support groups for amputees, professionals, family members and friends of amputees, amputation or limb loss related agencies, and organizations.

	Arthritis Foundation	http://www.arthritis.org 800-283-7800 The Arthritis Foundation is the only national not-for-profit organization that supports the more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions with advocacy, programs, services and research

	Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation - Paralysis Resource Center	http://www.paralysis.org A comprehensive information center for people with disabilities especially those with spinal cord injuries. The resources section includes links to organizations and web sites. Information is provided for housing, home accessibility and home modification.

	Council for Exceptional Children	http://www.cec.sped.org 888-CEC-SPED The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, students with disabilities, and/or the gifted. CEC advocates for appropriate governmental policies, sets professional standards, provides continual professional development, advocates for newly and historically underserved individuals with exceptionalities, and helps professionals obtain conditions and resources necessary for effective professional practice.

	Cystic Fibrosis Foundation	http://www.cff.org 800-344-4823 The mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation--a donor-supported, nonprofit organization--is to assure the development of the means to cure and control cystic fibrosis (CF) and to improve the quality of life for those with the disease.

	Disability Rights Education Defense Fund	http://www.dredf.org 202-986-0375 Founded in 1979 by people with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities, the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, Inc. (DREDF) is a national law and policy center dedicated to protecting and advancing the civil rights of people with disabilities through legislation, litigation, advocacy, technical assistance, and education and training of attorneys, advocates, persons with disabilities, and parents of children with disabilities.

	Disabled American Veterans	http://www.dav.org 202-554-3501 Support organisation for veterans, providing a nationwide network of services, free of charge to all veterans and members of their families.

	Easter Seal Society	http://www.easter-seals.org 312-726-6200 Easter Seals has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 80 years. From child development centers to physical rehabilitation and job training for people with disabilities, Easter Seals offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life's challenges and achieve personal goals.

	Eldercare Locator	http://www.eldercare.gov 800-677-1116 HomeAboutThe Aging NetworkResourcesAbout: Menu About The Service About The Database Users Guide The Media Center Contact InformationNetwork :: Menu Administration on Aging State Units on Aging Area Agencies on Aging Services AvailableResources :: Menu Glossary Fact Sheets Assessment Tools Federal Resources Helpful Links Caregiver Resources Eldercare Search February 20, 2006 Welcome to the Eldercare Locator, a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging. The Eldercare Locator connects older Americans and their caregivers with sources of information on senior services. The service links those who need assistance with state and local area agencies on aging and community-based organizations that serve older adults and their caregivers.

	Endeavor Freedom TV	http://www.endeavorfreedom.tv A media outlet that contains videos and interviews by and for people with disabilities that are about issues they are facing. Also includes an online community for anyone to join.

	Helping Hands Initative Incorporated	http://www.helpinghandsinitiative.org/ Staff working for Helping Hands Initiative Incorporated will travel within the New York City Area to help individuals obtain services needed to gain independence. Helping Hands Initiative Incorporated’s advisory service will help individuals prepare applications that will help them become as independent as possible in society. Individuals will be assisted with applications such as insurance, Social Security Benefits and hospital applications. Assistance with obtaining mobility devices such as wheelchairs and walkers will also be provided. Follow-ups with both the clients and individual organizations will be completed to be sure satisfaction is achieved.

	HGTV	http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/pac_ctnt_947/text/0,1783,HGTV_19176 _26883.html HGTV Dream Home

	Home Modification List Serve	mailto:Homemodification-list@listserv.acsu.buffalo.edu The IDEA Center sponsors a discussion list to maintain communication and dialog among those interested in home modifications.

	Lighthouse International	http://www.lighthouse.org 800-829-0500; 212-821-9713 TTY Worldwide organization dedicated to overcoming vision impairment through rehabilitation, education, research and advocacy.

	Muscular Dystrophy Association	http://www.mdausa.org 800-572-1717 The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a voluntary health agency — a dedicated partnership between scientists and concerned citizens aimed at conquering neuromuscular diseases that affect more than a million Americans. MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and community services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.

	National Association of the Deaf	http://www.nad.org 301-587-1788; 301-587-1789 TTY The mission of the National Association of the Deaf is to promote, protect, and preserve the rights and quality of life of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America.

	National Council on Independent Living	http://www.ncil.org 703-525-3406; 703-525-4153 TYY As a membership organization, NCIL advances independent living and the rights of people with disabilities through consumer-driven advocacy. NCIL envisions a world in which people with disabilities are valued equally and participate fully.

	National Endowment for the Arts	http://www.arts.endow.gov The National Council on the Arts advises the Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, who also chairs the Council, on agency policies and programs. It reviews and makes recommendations to the Chairman on applications for grants, funding guidelines, and leadership initiatives.

	National Institute on Aging	http://www.nia.nih.gov/ 301-496-1752 NIA, one of the 27 Institutes and Centers of NIH, leads a broad scientific effort to understand the nature of aging and to extend the healthy, active years of life. In 1974, Congress granted authority to form NIA to provide leadership in aging research, training, health information dissemination, and other programs relevant to aging and older people. Subsequent amendments to this legislation designated the NIA as the primary Federal agency on Alzheimer’s disease research.

	National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders	http://www.nidcd.nih.gov National Institute of Health 301-496-0252 The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) is one of the Institutes that comprise the National Institutes of Health (NIH). NIH is the Federal government's focal point for the support of biomedical research. NIH's mission is to uncover new knowledge that will lead to better health for everyone. Simply described, the goal of NIH research is to acquire new knowledge to help prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat disease and disability. NIH is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1988, NIDCD is mandated to conduct and support biomedical and behavioral research and research training in the normal and disordered processes of hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech, and language. The Institute also conducts and supports research and research training related to disease prevention and health promotion; addresses special biomedical and behavioral problems associated with people who have communication impairments or disorders; and supports efforts to create devices which substitute for lost and impaired sensory and communication function.

	National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research	http://www.ed.gov US Department of Education 202-205-8134; 202-205-4475 TYY The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) provides leadership and support for a comprehensive program of research related to the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities. All of our programmatic efforts are aimed at improving the lives of individuals with disabilities from birth through adulthood.

	National Rehabilitation Information Center	http://www.naric.com 800-346-2742 Our gateway to an abundance of disability- and rehabilitation-oriented information organized in a variety of formats designed to make it easy for users to find and use. For the past 25 years NARIC staff members have been dedicated to providing direct, personal, and high-quality information services to anyone throughout the country. As a leader in providing interactive information to the disability and rehabilitation community, NARIC's Web site continues this tradition by putting the information into the hands of the users through online publications, searchable databases, and timely reference and referral data.

	Paralyzed Veterans of America	http://www.pva.org 800-424-8200 The Paralyzed Veterans of America, a congressionally chartered veterans service organization founded in 1946, has developed a unique expertise on a wide variety of issues involving the special needs of our members— veterans of the armed forces who have experienced spinal cord injury or dysfunction.

	ProMatura	http://www.promatura.com The ProMatura Group is a market and consumer research company that has successfully bridged the gap between businesses and 50+ adults, solid scientific research and the real world. The ProMatura Group excels at blending the domains of business, science and practice, and was founded on the premise that applicable, empirical research must provide usable and useful knowledge for creating products, services and environments that entice the 50+ populace.

	Regional ADA technical assistance	http://www.adata.org 800-949-4232 Find your local ADA The ADA Technical Assistance Program has been in existence since 1991, shortly after the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Since its inception, the Program has consisted of a diverse array of projects to further the understanding and implementation of the Act. The program has created a vast infrastructure of resources, including numerous ADA publications and videos, materials targeted to specific audiences, training packages and an unparalleled knowledge of the ADA.

	Skip's List	http://www.skipslist.org Dr. Skipp DeGraff’s mission for Skip's List is to provide a world-class, user-friendly, apolitical, and free information exchange that serves all people with disabilities as well as their families and friends. On this web site you can review the day’s news, find accessible housing, create a blog, find romance from personals, volunteer for research studies, reconnect with rehab alumni, consult a long list of Web resources, benefit from consumer-to-consumer commerce, and join discussion/support groups with a worldwide scope.

	Trace Center, UW-Madison	http://www.trace.wisc.edu/world regarding web site design

	U.S. Administration on Aging	http://www.aoa.gov/eldfam/How_To_Find/Agencies/Agencies.asp Locate Area Agencies on Aging - find local agencies The AoA Strategic Action Plan for 2003-2008 was developed at the direction of the Assistant Secretary for Aging to guide the Administration on Aging as it carries out its statutory mission and provides national leadership on aging issues. The Plan establishes five strategic priorities and related goals and objectives that will be used to focus AoA’s investment of effort and resources over the next five years. The plan is framed by the priorities established by the Assistant Secretary for Aging and supports the HHS Strategic Plan for 2003-2008.

	U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Dev.	http://www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/ 800-827-5005 Publications Center: 800-767-7468 The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity administers federal laws and establishes national policies that make sure all Americans have equal access to the housing of their choice. Particular activities carried out by the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity include implementing and enforcing the Fair Housing Act and other civil rights laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 109 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, and the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968.

	U.S. Dept. of Justice	http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm Technical assistance on ADA 800-514-0304, 800-514-0383 TTY Information and Technical Assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act

Resources

Subscribe

Project Portal

Project Contact

Sponsors

Programs and Services

Testimonials & Proclamations

Articles

Press Releases

Drawings

Biographies

Resources

Project Leadership

Conference Handouts