Communication can look different for every person. This section highlights tools, organizations, and information that support augmentative and alternative communication, or AAC, along with resources for families learning how to support different ways of communicating.

ASHA — Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
Information for families and professionals about AAC, including communication boards, speech-generating devices, gestures, signs, and other ways people communicate.
Visit ASHA AAC Resources

Families often need more than information — they may need guidance, advocacy, connection, and practical help navigating services, schools, healthcare, and everyday life.

Family Connection of South Carolina
Parent-to-parent support, training, healthcare and service directories, and resources for families of children with disabilities and special healthcare needs.

Disability Rights South Carolina
Information and advocacy resources covering education, assistive technology, Medicaid, employment, independence, self-advocacy, and disability rights.

Families navigating IEPs, 504 plans, accommodations, school services, and special education can face a lot of questions. These resources can help families better understand educational rights, available supports, and how to advocate for their child at school.

SC Department of Education — Special Education Family Resources
Information for South Carolina families about special education, IEPs, parent rights, advocacy, dispute resolution, and available educational supports.

OSES — Parent & Community Engagement
Family-focused resources, videos, and guidance to help parents better understand special education, collaborate with IEP teams, and support their child at school.

Families may be eligible for programs that help with healthcare, disability-related services, and everyday expenses. These official resources can help families understand available benefits and where to begin.

South Carolina Medicaid — TEFRA & Disability Programs
Information about Medicaid eligibility for children with disabilities, including TEFRA and related disability programs.

Social Security — SSI for Children
Official information about Supplemental Security Income for children with disabilities, including eligibility, income and resource rules, and how to apply.

Early intervention, therapy, and healthcare resources can help families understand developmental concerns, available services, and where to begin when a child may need additional support.

South Carolina BabyNet
South Carolina's early intervention program for infants and toddlers from birth to age three who may have developmental delays or disabilities.

Caregivers need support too. Respite services can provide families with temporary breaks, caregiver resources, referrals, and information about available programs.

South Carolina Respite Coalition
Resources, referrals, training, and respite support for South Carolina families caring for children or adults with disabilities, special needs, or chronic illnesses.

Local organizations and programs serving families throughout Bluffton, Hilton Head, Beaufort, and the surrounding Lowcountry.

Lowcountry Autism Foundation
Local programs, family support, advocacy resources, caregiver groups, educational support, respite opportunities, and community activities for individuals with autism and their families.

The Children’s Relief Fund
A Lowcountry organization helping connect families with local agencies, programs, and resources for individuals with special needs.

Programs for Exceptional People (PEP)
A Bluffton-based nonprofit providing programs and opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities in the Lowcountry.

Pockets Full of Sunshine
A Lowcountry nonprofit providing inclusive vocational activities, community involvement, service projects, and social opportunities for adults with disabilities.

Autism Giving Tree
A Bluffton-based organization providing support and training for individuals with autism and their families while expanding opportunities for the autism community in the Lowcountry.