Channel Islands Social Services prides itself on collaborating with community partners and educating families about services that can support them. For a list of some of our community partners, use the drop-down menu on the Resources Page tab above.

Common Acronyms Used in the Regional Center System

Helpful Forms:

• Respite Caregiver Interview Checklist & Emergency Contact List – Use this helpful form when you are meeting a new Respite Caregiver or need to update your family’s emergency contact information to post in your home.

• The Family Caregiver Budgeting Worksheet created by CISS has helped many families get a better picture of their expenses related to their child’s care. It can also be very helpful to prepare for tax season!

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Helpful Websites for Families:

• Autism Society of Ventura County
• Center 4  Special Needs
• Department of Developmental Services  (916) 654-1690
• Disability Rights CA (advocacy info)
• Kids and Families Together (specializing in Kinship Family Support)
• Learning Community for Person Centered Practices
• National Respite Coalition
• Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center (& Library)
• Tri-Counties Regional Center – info on Respite policies – click the numbers “11501” and “11601” for more info
• United Parents (serving VC Behavioral Health)
• Ventura County Foster Parent Association

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In-Home Support Services (IHSS)

For info on IHSS and how respite and IHSS are not the same service, see the drop-down menu on the Resources tab above or click here.

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Other Resources:

ARCH National Respite Network Fact Sheet: Respite for Individuals with Autism

Recent Studies & Articles: Social Connections Decrease Blood Pressure of Parents Caring for Children with Special Needs

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