Resources Outside of UCSC


In addition to the abundant resources available within UCSC, there is a wealth of valuable support and services offered outside of the university. The UCSC Resources page is dedicated to providing students with information and contacts that extend beyond the campus community. Recognizing the importance of holistic support, this platform offers a diverse range of tips and resources to connect students with valuable external networks. Whether you are seeking community-based organizations, local support services, internship opportunities, or personal development resources, the UCSC Resources page strives to equip students with the necessary tools to thrive both within and beyond the university environment. By exploring these external resources, students can broaden their horizons, tap into additional support networks, and further enhance their academic and personal journeys.

American Association of People with Disabilities

The American Association of People with Disabilities is a convener, connector, and catalyst for change, increasing the political and economic power of people with disabilities.

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network seeks to advance the principles of the disability rights movement with regard to autism.

Assistive Technology for Cars

Assistive Technology for Cars is an article by SellMax that offers a foray into assistive tech in cars for those who have a disability and require assistance in vehicles.

Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)

Association on Higher Education And Disability is the leading professional membership association for individuals committed to equity for persons with disabilities in higher education.

Black Disabled and Proud

Black Disabled and Proud has numerous resources for Black or African American students with disabilities. 

California Council of the Blind (CCB)

As a statewide membership organization, California Council of the Blind (CCB)‘s mission is to increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all Californians who are blind and visually impaired. Through CCB’s offices in the Bay Area, Sacramento and Los Angeles, and its 40 local chapters and statewide special interest associations, the Council provides information and referral, technical assistance, advocacy, leadership development, publications, emergency funds, accessible technology loans, and scholarships. 

  • 1510 J Street #125
  • Sacramento, CA 95814
  • (916) 441-2100 
Central Coast Center for Independent Living

Central Coast Center for Independent Living is a local Santa Cruz organization provides information and referral related to disability needs and living independently. If you have questions about assistive technology, local disability resources, advocacy, etc, give them a call.

Community Information Database

Community Information Database is a searchable Santa Cruz Library database lists every non-profit in town.

Department of Rehabilitation (DoR)

Department of Rehabilitation is a federal agency that helps people with disabilities enter the workforce. This can sometimes include paying for educational training toward employment. DoR has a branch office in Capitola, about 20 minutes from the UCSC campus.

Disability Benefits 101

Disability Benefits 101 is a great resource for those receiving supplemental disability income, but who are interested in gainful employment.

Disability History Project

Disability History Project is a community history project.

Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF)

The Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund founded in 1979, is a leading national civil rights law and policy center directed by individuals with disabilities and parents who have children with disabilities.

Disability Visibility Project

Disability Visibility Project is an online community dedicated to creating, sharing, and amplifying disability media and culture.

Fireweed Collective

Fireweed Collective offers mental health education and mutual aid through a Healing Justice lens.

Grocery Delivery Services

Grocery Delivery Services such as Safeway & Instacart are convenient and reliable. These two services deliver groceries from various sources directly to your abode.

Metro Santa Cruz Paratransit

Metro Santa Cruz Paratransit: information for those who cannot use the regular Metro system for off-campus transportation needs.

Mobility International

Interested in studying abroad? Mobility International is THE site for resources on study abroad and disability.

National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI)

The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) is a United States-based advocacy group originally founded as a grassroots group by family members of people diagnosed with mental illness. NAMI identifies its mission as being “dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness” and also have a Santa Cruz County Chapter.

National Center for College Students with Disabilities (NCCSD)

The National Center for College Students with Disabilities (NCCSD) is a federally-funded project under the U.S. Department of Education that provides information about disability and higher education.

National Institute of Mental Health

The National Institute of Mental Health is the largest scientific organization in the world dedicated to research focused on the understanding, treatment, of mental health issues. This resource can help with peripheral information in regards to mental health and understanding all aspects of mental health. Not to be used in place of a mental health professional.

National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association

National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association has car modifications for people with disabilities

Online Academic Success Videos

Online Academic Success Videos is where one can learn techniques and strategies for improving academic learning.

Rights and Responsibilities of Students with Disabilities

Rights and Responsibilities of Students with Disabilities lets you know your legal rights and responsibilities are as a college student with disabilities?

Spring 2016 Disability Climate/Student Town Hall Update

Spring 2016 Disability Climate/Student Town Hall Update is an interesting climate debate concerning students and town hall.

Service and Support Animals Explained by the Washington Post

Service and Support Animals Explained by the Washington Post is an excellent guide and instruction on the various uses of support animals

Self-Advocacy

For many students, it is a new and challenging experience to talk about disability symptoms, ask for help and advocate for one’s needs; check out these tips to learn how you can be a confident and effective Self-Advocate.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History Disability Exhibit

The Smithsonian National Museum of American History Disability Exhibit represents what a visitor to the museum would encounter when using one of the kiosks in the physical exhibition. 

Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary

As a student with a disability, you need to be well informed about your rights and responsibilities as well as the Responsibilities postsecondary school have toward you.

Third Party Transportation

Third Party Transportation(Uber & Lyft): Third party transportation can be an excellent resource, and one that can often be convenient.

US Department of Justice Guide to Disability Rights Laws

The US Department of Justice Guide to Disability Rights Laws is a guide provides an overview of Federal civil rights laws that ensure equal opportunity for people with disabilities. 

Vista Center for the Blind and Visual Impaired

The Vista Center for the Blind and Visual Impaired supports a number of activities designed to stimulate and assist those with visual impairments. From youth services to the Health Clinic, the Vista Center truly is a phenomenal resource. Click on the embedded link to learn more. 

Last modified: Mar 11, 2024