Criteria for Admissions

The Hope Institute for Children and Families and its programs serve children with multiple disabilities ages 5-21 years old. The Admissions Coordinator, along with a multi-disciplinary team that includes professionals representing education, residential and health services, review referral packets and oversee the referral and admission process. Residents of Illinois receive funding through one or more of the following: Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Illinois State Board of Education, local school districts and private pay arrangements. Private pay is also accepted for all out-of-state admissions.

In order to make a thorough assessment of a child the referral packet must include:

• A cover letter indicating reason for referral and presenting problem – medical history
• A current physical and list of current medications
• The most recent Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and 3-year case study
• A current social history
• A recent psychological evaluation including diagnosis and full scale IQ or functioning level
• Information regarding behaviors and the Behavioral Intervention Plan (if appropriate)