17 Non-Profit Organizations That Need Your Support in 2017

Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF)

Were you aware that individuals with disabilities are one of the largest minorities in the United States? In fact, more than 25% are living in poverty and only 20% have gone to college. 75% of the disabled are unemployed and that is not a result of physical or mental disadvantage but a belief that they are incapable.

Since 1979, the DREDF has been ensuring that individuals with disabilities and their families live full and independent lives free of discrimination. DREDF is dedicated to helping people with disabilities through legal advocacy, training, education, and public policy and legislative development.

Special Education is a cause that DREDF works hard to expand and improve for children and their families. In the past, children with special needs did not have access to adequate education and their struggle closely resembled that of other minority groups in America. That’s why the Children with Disabilities Act was established and later called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975.

Here are a few of the ways DREDF upholding the IDEA and helping families with their child’s education:

• Obtain appropriate education and services for their children with disabilities
• Work to improve education results for all children
• Train and inform parents and professionals on a variety of topics
• Resolve problems between families and schools or other agencies
• Connect children with disabilities to community resources that address their needs

To learn more this non-profit or to make a donation click here.