Resources

Focus/Services: Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH) is the only pediatric health system in Arkansas, dedicated to caring for patients from birth through age 21. As one of the nation’s largest children’s hospitals with 336 licensed beds, ACH offers a full spectrum of pediatric care—ranging from primary wellness visits to emergency and critical services, including the state’s only Level I pediatric trauma center, Level 4 NICU, pediatric burn unit, and multiple intensive care units. Its reach extends across the state through locations in Little Rock, Springdale (Arkansas Children’s Northwest), and several regional clinics offering more than 80 pediatric specialties such as cardiology, nephrology, orthopedics, and cancer care. With a strong focus on family-centered care, research, and accessibility, ACH strives to “make children better today and healthier tomorrow” in communities across Arkansas.

Arkansas Children’s Hospital

• Location: 1 Children’s Way, Little Rock, AR 72202
• Phone: 501-830-1545

Arkansas Children’s Northwest

• Location: 2601 Gene George Blvd., Springdale, AR 72762
• Phone: 479-487-7020

Website: https://www.archildrens.org/

Focus/Services: The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) offers expert, multidisciplinary care through its network of Care Centers, connecting families with neurologists, genetic counselors, therapists, and other specialists to support diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular diseases. Their Resource Center provides personalized support, educational materials, and referrals to community services. MDA also offers programs such as inclusive summer camps, young adult support initiatives, equipment assistance, and advocacy to help individuals live more independent, fulfilling lives.

Location: University Of Arkansas For Medical Sciences
4301 W. Markham Street
Little Rock, AR 72205

Phone: (501) 686-5838

Website: https://www.mda.org/clinic/university-of-arkansas-for-medical-sciences-0

Focus/Services: ACCESS (ACCESS Group, Inc.) is a nonprofit in Little Rock, Arkansas, offering a comprehensive range of services for individuals with language, learning, and developmental disabilities—from infancy through adulthood. They provide evaluations, academic and outpatient therapies, mental health counseling, full-time special education (via ACCESS Academy and the Early Childhood program), and vocational training including job readiness and supported employment. These services are delivered with a team-based, individualized approach across two main campuses and multiple satellite locations throughout Arkansas and neighboring states.

Locations:

ACCESS Stella Boyle Smith Early Childhood
10618 Breckenridge Dr
Little Rock, AR 72211

ACCESS Academy and Young Adult Campus
1500 N Mississippi St.
Little Rock, AR 72207

Phone: 501-217-8600

Website: https://accessgroupinc.org/

Focus/Services: Easterseals Arkansas provides comprehensive support to individuals of all ages with disabilities and their families across the state. Their services include specialized developmental preschools, pediatric outpatient therapy, high-risk infant monitoring, inpatient rehabilitation, private K–12 schooling at the Easterseals Academy, vocational and supported employment programs, and community-based independent living supports. This continuum of care is designed to empower children and adults to live, learn, work, and play fully and inclusively in their communities

Location:

3920 Woodland Heights Rd.
Little Rock, AR 72212

Phone: 501-227-3600

Website: https://eastersealsar.com/

Focus/Services: Pediatrics Plus specializes in pediatric therapy and developmental support for children from infancy through age 21, offering services such as occupational, physical, speech, applied behavior analysis (ABA), and early intervention through their First Connections program. Their offerings also include developmental preschools, summer camps, and innovative “Farm” settings—natural environments designed for skill development across Arkansas and Texas. Through multiple outpatient clinics and specialized facilities, Pediatrics Plus delivers tailored care that empowers children and supports their families in achieving meaningful developmental gains.

View all locations here: https://www.pediatricsplus.com/locations

Phone: 501-329-5459

Website: https://www.pediatricsplus.com/

Focus/Services: GiGi’s Playhouse Little Rock is a free Down Syndrome Achievement Center that serves individuals with Down syndrome of all ages—from infants through adults—across Arkansas. The Playhouse offers a wide range of educational, therapeutic, and social programs using a purposeful, multi-sensory approach, all designed to foster confidence, independence, and inclusion in a friendly, supportive environment. Family involvement is central to their model, with opportunities for parent networking and caregiver support built into every program. As the only GiGi’s location within 500 miles, the Little Rock Playhouse brings these life-changing services to families through an inclusive, community-first framework.

Location: 301 N Shackleford Suite D2, Little Rock, AR 72211

Phone: (501) 246-5654

Website: https://gigisplayhouse.org/littlerock/

Focus/Services: ACCESS Life, a program by ACCESS Group, Inc., supports adults with disabilities aged 18 and older through a blend of community integration and vocational training. Participants engage in employability experiences, such as gardening, ceramics, and work in local industries, alongside practical daily living instruction, including budgeting, hygiene, and self-care. The program also emphasizes healthy lifestyles through fitness activities and nurse-led health education, as well as leisure, social engagement, and volunteer opportunities. ACCESS Life aims to help individuals build independence, community ties, and purpose in everyday life.

Website: https://accessgroupinc.org/vocational-programs/access-life/

Focus/Services: The Goodwill Training and Education Center (GTEC) in Little Rock houses two main programs: The Excel Center and The Academy. The Excel Center is a tuition-free public charter high school for adults aged 19 and older that offers a path to a state-recognized high school diploma. The Academy provides short-term job training programs in areas such as healthcare, trades, and information technology, with options for certification and industry credentials. Both programs offer support services including career guidance, and are designed to assist adults in pursuing education and employment goals.

Locations: 7400 Scott Hamilton Drive, Little Rock, AR 72209

Phone: 501-372-5100

Website: https://www.goodwilltec.org/

Focus/Services: Project SEARCH Arkansas: ACCESS Initiative is a nine-month, workplace-based internship program for young adults aged 18–35 with diagnosed disabilities. Designed in partnership with Arkansas Rehabilitation Services, participants complete three ten-week rotations in real business environments, such as hospitals and clinics, where they gain hands-on employability, life, and vocational skills. Upon completion, the program supports graduates with job placement and offers continued follow-along assistance to help them succeed in competitive, integrated employment.

Phone: 501-515-2691

Website: https://projectsearcharkansas.org/

Focus/Services: The Museum of Discovery in Little Rock offers interactive STEM exhibits and immersive programs that support extracurricular learning and social engagement across all ages. It includes a quieter Sensory Cove, as well as sensory-friendly resources like a pre-visit social story, sensory map, and calming spaces—making it inclusive for individuals with sensory processing needs. The museum hosts hands-on STEAM workshops, field trip experiences, and educator programs that build curiosity and collaboration among students and families

Location: 500 President Clinton Ave., Suite 150, Little Rock, AR 72201

Phone: 501-396-7050

Website: https://museumofdiscovery.org/accessibility/

Focus/Services: The Little Rock Zoo plays an important role in supporting individuals with special needs by creating inclusive experiences for all visitors. They offer sensory-friendly events and accessible pathways that allow guests with mobility challenges to enjoy exhibits comfortably. The zoo also partners with community organizations to provide educational programs tailored for individuals with developmental or sensory differences. These efforts make the zoo not only a place of fun but also an environment where everyone can learn, connect, and feel welcome.

Location: 1 Zoo Dr, Little Rock, AR 72205

Phone: 501-661-7200

Website: https://littlerockzoo.com/

Focus/Services: Pulaski County is home to several accessible playgrounds that allow children of all abilities to play, explore, and connect. The Two Rivers Park Inclusive Playground is the largest in Arkansas, featuring wheelchair-friendly surfaces, sensory elements, and equipment designed to support children with mobility and developmental needs. North Little Rock’s Oak Grove Park also offers an all-inclusive playground, providing another safe and welcoming space for families. These playgrounds ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has the chance to enjoy outdoor fun and community interaction.

Location: Pulaski County: Boyle, Oak Grove, McArthur, One Heart, and Two Rivers parks.

Website: https://www.pulaskicounty.net/parks

Focus/Services: Community connections play a vital role in supporting individuals with special needs by fostering belonging and inclusion. Through partnerships with local organizations, schools, and support groups, people can access resources, social opportunities, and programs designed to meet diverse needs. These connections help reduce isolation, build confidence, and create networks of support for both individuals and their families. By strengthening community ties, everyone benefits from a more compassionate and inclusive environment.

Location: 1000 SWN Dr Suite 101, Conway, AR 72032

Phone: (501) 733-1627

Website: https://www.communityconnectionsar.org/

Focus/Services: The Miracle League provides individuals with special needs the opportunity to experience the joy of playing baseball in an inclusive and supportive environment. With specially designed fields and adaptive equipment, players of all abilities can participate fully and safely. Beyond the game itself, the league fosters friendships, builds confidence, and strengthens community connections. It creates a place where athletes, families, and volunteers come together to celebrate abilities and share in meaningful experiences.

Location: 2330 Cantrell Rd, Little Rock, AR 72202

Phone: (501) 240-5414

Website: https://miracleleaguear.com/

Focus/Services: I Can Dance in Arkansas is a program that empowers individuals with special needs to express themselves through the art of dance. With adaptive instruction and supportive environments, participants can learn new skills, build confidence, and enjoy the joy of movement. The program also encourages social connections, giving dancers the chance to form friendships and share their talents with the community. Through dance, participants gain a sense of accomplishment and belonging while celebrating their unique abilities.

Location: 1040 Angel Ct, Little Rock, AR 72206

Phone: (870) 687-1488

Website: https://www.icanarkansas.com/

Focus/Services: Lifestyles, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with special needs by promoting independence and inclusion. Through housing, educational opportunities, and supportive services, they help participants develop life skills and achieve personal goals. The organization also creates pathways for social interaction and community involvement, reducing isolation and fostering growth. By focusing on each individual’s strengths, Lifestyles, Inc. empowers people to live more fulfilling and connected lives.

Location: 2590 W Sycamore St, Fayetteville, AR 72703

Phone: (479) 521-3581

Website: https://www.lifestylesinc.org/

Focus/Services: Special Olympics Arkansas provides year-round athletic opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, allowing them to showcase their talents in a supportive environment. Through sports training and competitions, athletes build physical fitness, confidence, and lifelong friendships. The program also educates the broader community about inclusion and the value of diversity. By celebrating ability over limitation, Special Olympics Arkansas fosters empowerment, pride, and a sense of belonging for every participant.

Location: 2115 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114

Phone: (501) 771-0222

Website: https://www.specialolympicsarkansas.org/

Focus/Services: AEDD (Advocates for Educational and Developmental Disabilities) is an Arkansas-based organization that supports children and adults with developmental disabilities through a wide range of services. From early childhood programs to vocational training and community living support, AEDD helps individuals reach their fullest potential. The organization also emphasizes inclusion, ensuring that participants have opportunities to learn, work, and thrive alongside their peers. By empowering individuals and supporting families, AEDD strengthens both personal growth and community connections.

Location: 105 E Roosevelt Rd, Little Rock, AR 72206

Phone: (501) 666-0246

Website: https://aeddinc.org/