FAQs
Below is a list of frequently asked questions and answers we hear at Easterseals. If you have another question or would like to request more information about Easterseals, feel free to use our online form to contact us. Thanks for your interest!
What types of services does Easterseals provide?
Easterseals is committed to enhancing quality of life and expanding local access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities to the more than 1.5 million people it serves each year. Easterseals is uniquely prepared to respond to the needs of people with disabilities, families, and communities with outcomes-based services, providing support throughout the lifespan.
Our services include early intervention programs, inclusive childcare, medical rehabilitation and autism services for young children and their families; job training and coaching, employment placement, and transportation services for adults with disabilities, including veterans; adult day programs and employment opportunities for older adults – in addition to a variety of services for people of all ages including behavioral health services, assistive technology, camp and recreation, caregiving support including respite – and much more.
Additionally, we’ve served transitioning military, veterans, their families, and caregivers since WWII and continue to be the “go-to” resource for them to help ensure their successful transition to civilian life.
Services at each Easterseals location are carefully selected to address the specific needs of the local community. Connect with your local Easterseals to see what services are offered near you.
Are Easterseals services limited to specific types of disabilities?
No. We serve a wide range of disabilities, both visible and invisible. Across the nation, we remove physical, cultural, attitudinal and legal obstacles so people with disabilities have every opportunity to live meaningful and productive lives, on their own terms. We exist to provide the best services and opportunities for people with disabilities in communities nationwide.
How many people receive Easterseals services each year?
More than 1.5 million people benefit from Easterseals services across a network of affiliates in communities nationwide. Additionally, Easterseals helps more than 100,000 physicians, therapists and other professionals learn ways to improve services for people with disabilities through professional education programs.
How is Easterseals supported financially?
To make our services accessible to as many people as possible, Easterseals relies on public contributions. Public contributions help cover the difference between actual program costs and what our clients can afford.
Easterseals is a Section 501(c)(3) organization that also receives funding from a variety of other sources, including private insurers, government agencies and fee-for-service.
Easterseals exceeds all of the Standards for Charity Accountability set by the BBB Wise Giving Alliance.
Find out how you can help us take on disability and continue to provide indispensable resources.
Where does my money go?
Your generous donation supports people who often think of Easterseals’ services as transformational. As a National office, we distribute funds to Easterseals Affiliates across the U.S., helping people in thousands of communities feel empowered to live a full, independent life. Here’s a recent reporting of how we support our Affiliate Network throughout everything we do.
How large is the Easterseals organization?
Today and every day, Easterseals offers positive and profound programs and services to more than a million people and families living with a disability annually. Our unique, inclusive services are provided through a network of affiliates in communities nationwide, plus partners in Puerto Rico and Canada. Easterseals offers hundreds of home and community based services and supports.
Is Easterseals a non-profit organization?
Yes. Easterseals is a non-profit provider of health and human services, incorporated under the provisions of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Does Easterseals have a religious affiliation?
No. Easterseals is not affiliated with any religion and does not discriminate. At the core of the Easterseals organization is a common passion for caring, shared by our staff, volunteers and by those who support our mission.
What are Easter "seals"?
Easter "seals" are stamp-like seals that were first created in 1934 to raise money for services benefiting children with disabilities. Then known as the National Society for Crippled Children, the organization was re-named "Easterseals" in 1967, reflecting the public's awareness and acceptance of the campaign.
Do Easter "seals" still exist today?
Yes. In fact, Easterseals mails seals to more than 19 million households across the country every year, raising over $13 million to support services to people and families with disabilities.
How can I volunteer?
Easterseals' continued success in providing services to people with disabilities would not be possible without volunteers! Your time, energy and heart will inspire and touch the lives of those we serve. Your personal commitment enhances the services we provide to our clients nationwide. Search for a volunteer opportunity in your area.