Accessibility & Disability Support
← Back to Resource Directory711 Telecommunications Relay Service
Dialing 711 connects individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities to a relay operator who assists with phone calls to standard phone numbers. This service allows users to communicate with businesses, government agencies, and emergency support lines using text telephone (TTY), voice carryover, or video relay services.
Phone: 711
Online Information (FCC Guide)
Center for Independent Living of Broward
A nonprofit organization that provides peer support, advocacy, and independent living skills training for individuals with disabilities. Services include help with nursing home transitions, assistive technology loans, and youth programs to support community integration and personal autonomy.
Phone: 954-722-6400
Website: cilbroward.org
Center for Independent Living of South Florida
Serving Miami-Dade County, this center provides peer support, advocacy, and independent living skills training for individuals with disabilities. Key programs include nursing home transition assistance, youth career readiness, and specialized services for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing. They also offer a loan locker for durable medical equipment and guidance on emergency preparedness.
Phone: 305-751-8025
Videophone: 786-347-7318
Website: cilsf.org
Disability Rights Florida
Disability Rights Florida is the state’s designated, non-profit protection and advocacy system that provides free legal representation, investigative services, and rights advocacy to protect people with disabilities from abuse, neglect, and discrimination while ensuring they have equal access to inclusive education, fair employment, accessible housing, and independent voting.
Phone: 1-800-342-0823
TDD: 1-800-346-4127
Website: DisabilityRightsFlorida.org
Florida Division of Blind Services
The Florida Division of Blind Services (DBS) provides support, training, and resources for individuals who are blind or visually impaired to help them achieve independence, education, and employment. Services include vocational rehabilitation, job training, assistive technology, independent living skills training, and educational support for students. DBS also connects individuals with community resources and long-term support programs to promote self-sufficiency and accessibility.
Broward Office: 954-746-1770
Miami Office: 305-377-5339
Website: dbs.fldoe.org
Gilda’s Club South Florida
Gilda’s Club provides free social and emotional support for anyone impacted by cancer, including patients, survivors, and families. They offer support groups, wellness workshops, educational lectures, and social activities to ensure no one faces cancer alone.
Phone: 954-763-6776
Website: gildasclubsouthflorida.org
Special Transportation Service — Miami-Dade
Miami-Dade’s Special Transportation Service (STS) is a shared-ride, door-to-door paratransit system designed for residents and visitors whose disabilities prevent them from using standard Metrobus, Metrorail, or Metromover services independently. Regulated by the ADA, STS operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring full community access for medical, professional, and personal needs.
Enrollment: 786-469-5000
Reservations: 305-871-1111
Miami-Dade STS
United for Seniors: Lyft Program (Broward County)
Through a partnership between the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County (AAABC) and United Way of Broward County, the "United for Seniors" Lyft program provides free transportation to help older adults remain independent and connected. This service is specifically designed for those who cannot drive themselves or access traditional public transit due to physical or financial barriers.
Phone: 954-745-9567
Website: adrcbroward.org
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is a federal agency that enforces workplace anti discrimination laws based on race, color, religion, sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. It investigates complaints, mediates disputes, and may take legal action in serious cases. The EEOC also provides resources to help workers understand their rights and employers comply with federal law.
Phone: 1-800-669-4000
Website: eeoc.gov
The Deaf Hotline
The Deaf Hotline is a confidential, 24 hour crisis support service for Deaf and DeafBlind individuals who are experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or related abuse. It provides safety planning, emotional support, and connections to local resources such as shelters, legal assistance, and advocacy services. Communication support is available in American Sign Language to ensure accessible and direct crisis help.
Videophone: 1-855-812-1001
Website: thedeafhotline.org
TOPS! Paratransit (Broward County)
TOPS! Paratransit is Broward County’s shared-ride transportation service for individuals who are unable to use regular public transit due to a disability. It provides door-to-door or curb-to-curb transportation for eligible riders traveling within the county, including trips for medical appointments, work, shopping, and other essential needs. The program is designed to ensure accessible, reliable transportation that supports independence and mobility for residents with disabilities.
Enrollment: 954-357-8400
Reservations: 1-866-682-2258
TTY: 711 or 954-357-8302
Broward TOPS! Website