Missouri Alternative Communication Resource Directory
Introduction
The Americans with Disabilities Act calls for equal access and equal opportunity. This is often assumed to only address the removal of physical and/or architectural barriers. The ADA also requires the provision of effective communication. The use of alternative communications can increase access for ALL people with or without disabilities. By providing communication access, you can expand your market, increase your subscription base, offer a diverse, inclusive image and get your message, goods and services to more people.
Communication access includes converting print materials to alternative formats such as braille, large print, and computer disk, as well as providing alternative access to auditory information through assistive listening devices, sign language interpreting and real-time captioning. Alternative communication provides user friendly access to information and increases the ease in which that information can be used.
The Missouri Alternative Communication Resource Directory is designed to provide resources to public and private agencies and organizations who need to provide alternative communication access and to individuals with disabilities requesting such access. Costs associated with the resources are not provided as these vary and may change without notice. The information is as comprehensive and current as possible; however entities can change very rapidly and a resource should be contacted directly to verify their current services.
The telephone numbers listed in this guide are distinguished by type: voice and FAX numbers are listed as such, TTY designates the abbreviations for Telecommunications Device for the Deaf or a text telephone. For resources that do not have a TTY number, Relay Missouri is available to provide access. The number to call for TTY users is (800)735-2499. For agencies who do not have a TTY and need to call a TTY user, Missouri Relay also provides access. The number for voice users to access Missouri Relay is (800)735-2466. The " Speech to Speech Relay " is now available for people with speech disabilities who do not use a TTY. The number to access this service is 1-877-735-7877.