Manatee
District Resources

Manatee County resources related to the transition of students with disabilities are provided in multiple categories in the box to the right. Some resources may be included in more than one category.

Employment Program Resources

Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) 
Clarence Lewis, Central Region Manager 
(352) 330-2749 
200 N. Kentucky Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801 
Works in partnership with local communities and private providers to assist people who have developmental disabilities and their families. APD also provides assistance in identifying the needs of people with developmental disabilities for supports and services.The agency serves more than 50,000 Floridians with the following disabilities: People severely impaired by Autism, Cerebral palsy, Spina bifida, Intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome. 

Career Source Suncoast 
Bradenton
(941) 714-7449
1112 Manatee Ave East, Bradenton, FL 34208
Provides a full array of employment and training related services for job seekers, workers, youth and businesses. May include Disability Program Navigators, Vocational Rehabilitation counselors and Veterans Services on-site.

Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services 
Palmetto Unit 18A
Michelle Bradham-Cousar, Supervisor
(941) 721-2850
600 8th Avenue West, Suite 201, Palmetto, FL 34221
Works with people who have physical or mental disabilities to prepare for, gain, or retain employment and find meaningful careers.

Division of Blind Services 
Palmetto (Satellite Office)
Bruce Emmerton, District Administrator
(941) 721-2917 | (800) 500-6412 | (941) 721-2918
600 8th Avenue, W., Suite 302, Palmetto, FL 34221
The Florida Division of Blind Services helps blind and visually impaired individuals achieve their goals and live their lives with as much independence and self-direction as possible.