The Ocean County Commission for Individuals with Disabilities is an advisory board established in 1983 to address issues of inclusion and awareness in the community. Together, they share the goal of improving the quality of life for the residents of Ocean County, ensuring full and equal participation in all areas of life.
The Commission (or CID) consists of not more than 25 members, who are individuals living with disabilities, family members, and supports and professionals within the community. Members are appointed by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. The CID addresses the needs and concerns of people with disabilities by providing educational, informative programs whose goal is to educate the community on topics relevant to people with disabilities and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Office for Individuals with Disabilities
The Ocean County Office for Individuals with Disabilities works as an information and referral resource for the residents of Ocean County. The Office strives to provide assistance to individuals with disabilities as well as to their friends and family in order to empower them through knowledge. Community resource information, both public and private, is disseminated to the consumer through the Office.
Areas of Inquiry Include: - American's with Disabilities Act
- Architectural Barriers
- Counseling Services
- Discrimination
- Education
- Newsletters
- Recreation
- Supplies/Equipment
- Transportation
- Disabled License Plates
- LifeLine
- PAAD Pharmaceutical Assistance
- Employment
- Half-Fare
- Government Agencies
- Special Needs
- Housing
Services Include:
Networking - The Office organizes different forums for networking allowing service providers and consumers to exchange information and build strong relationships
Advocacy - The Office provides supportive advocacy and encourages residents to become effective self-advocates. The Office will also refer residents to self-advocacy training programs.
Community Awareness - The Office updates the professional community, the media and the general public in Ocean County on issues related to disabilities. The Office provides public education through awareness activities and programs.
Data Collection - The Office maintains statistical information based on the types of consumer calls which it receives. The information is shared with other organizations in order to enhance program planning.
Accessing ServicesFor help finding disability services, call Ocean County Office for Individuals with Disabilities at 732-506-5374. The Disability Resource Guide provides families and providers with information about available county services, community programs, and support resources. Click here to view or download the guide. Call 1-888-285-3036 to reach the NJ Division of Disability Services Information and Referral Services Team, who can connect you with services, help you find the right programs based on your specific needs, and check if you are eligible for different programs. Visit the NJ Disability Information Hub. Activities and Events
- National Disability Employment Awareness Month resource fair
- Developmental Disability Awareness Month Recognition
- Disaster Preparedness annual training
Get InvolvedThe Commission meetings are open to the public. Meetings are held virtually on the third Friday of every other month at 12:30pm. Individuals and family members with lived experience are strongly encouraged to participate. Please contact Human Services to be added to the e-mailing list for meeting notices and other important announcements. Open funding opportunities through the Ocean County Office for Individuals with Disabilities are posted on the County’s OpenGov Bid Portal. |