This comprehensive directory includes names, addresses and telephone numbers of over 1,300 national organizations that might be able to offer assistance with many of the problems you or your family are facing. Many can offer assistance directly- others will refer you to local agencies or support groups. I am confident that they can give you very good information and guidance to help solve your concerns.

Many of the listings are non profit organizations but some are "for profit" entities. Regardless of the type, always be sure to ask a lot of detailed questions and do a lot of research before proceeding with any course of action- and particularly before sending any money. Request printed material first- most have detailed brochures that will explain their many functions. This will be particularly true of the governmental agencies. Naturally, no guarantee is made regarding the competency or accuracy of any organization's ability in solving a specific problem.

Note that some listings are identified by "American" such as the American Cancer Society or American Diabetes Association. But be sure to check the main headings under "Cancer", "Diabetes", etc. where there are more listings on the subject.

The directory is continually checked and updated, but recognize that people and businesses move frequently, so you may have to check with directory assistance for new information on some listings. And remember, I'm the only one doing this and I can't check every listing every month. So whenever you find a change or incorrect listing- or would like to suggest a new listing that you think would help others-

Additionally, here is another guide that solely lists those organizations that have WEB pages. You MUST bookmark this as well. This is a VERY IMPORTANT GUIDE.

AGAIN- IF YOU FIND A LISTING THAT NEEDS TO BE REVISED, PLEASE LET ME KNOW BY EMAIL AND I WILL CORRECT IMMEDIATELY.

AARP: American Association of Retired Persons, 601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049, 202 434-2277. Has extensive information and publications on many subjects of interest to the public- primarily to the elderly. Always be sure to call them to see what national and local help may be available.

Family Life Information Exchange, PO Box 30146, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301 585-6636

National Abortion Federation: 1436 U Street NW, Ste 103, Washington, DC 20009, 202 667-5881, 800 772-9100. Provides information on abortions includingConsumer's Guide to Abortion Services

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bldg. 31, Room 2A32, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-5133 has extensive information and publications

National Right to Life Committee: 419 Seventh St. NW, Ste 500, Washington, DC 20004, 202 626-8800. Opposes abortion. Has information and publications

Planned Parenthood Federation of America, 810 Seventh Ave. New York, NY 10019, 212 541-7800, 800 829-7732 is involved in birth control and reproductive rights

ACNE Explore scientific explanations of how acne forms, what to do about it when it does and the impact that acne can have on the lives of both young people and adults.

ACTUARIES: They determine the mathematical probability that a certain event will occur- births, death, divorces, illnesses and are mandatory considerations in the analysis of pension plans, insurance, annuities and other financial instruments.

The American Academy of Actuaries, 1720 I ST. NW, 7^th Floor, Washington, DC 20006, 202 223-8196

Society of Actuaries, 475 N. Martingale Rd. Ste. 800, Schaumburg, IL 60173, 708 706-3500

Smart Recovery, 7357 Mentor St. Ste 306, Mentor OH 44060- for help with addictions

ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGE DISCREPANCIES: When interest rates change, so do adjustable rate mortgage payments. But banks may make errors in determining the new amount. These companies analyze the past payments of these and other accounts to determine any discrepancies.

American Homeowners Foundation, 6776 Little Falls Rd. Arlington, VA 92213-1213, 800 489-7776. Customers must agree to split any refunds the company procures. No refund, no fee (except for miscellaneous costs charged directly by the bank, if any)

Loantech Inc., PO Box 3635, Gaithersburg, MD 20885, 800 888-6781, charges $95 to review ARM payments.

Mortgage Monitor, 912 E. Main St., Ste 316, Stamford, CT, 06902, 800 AUDIT-USA, charges $219 to review an ARM or fixed rate mortgage with escrow account for taxes and insurance, $269 for an ARM and escrow account, $149 for a fixed rate mortgage with no escrow account, etc. Also has material on property tax reduction

Adoption.com- includes registries of those hoping to adopt abd adoptable children

AdoptionAgencies.com- Features photo listings of chldren awaiting adoption in Eastern Europe

Adoption Exchange: It is a place for the exchange of resources on behalf of dozens of adoption agencies. When an agency is unable to locate a family for a waiting child, the agency uses The Exchange services to find a family.The children who wait are the survivors of abuse and neglect.
925 South Niagara, Ste 100, Denver, CO 80224, 303 333-0845, 800-451-5246

Adoptive Families of America, 800 372-3300 Adoptive Families of America is the largest non-profit organization in the United States bringing together people interested in adoption and resources to support adoption and children without permanent homes.

The Alliance for Children, Inc. is an international adoption agency serving families throughout the United States, 40 William St., Suite G80, Wellesley, MA 02181-3902, (781) 431-7148

American Adoption Congress: 1000 Connecticut Ave. NW, Ste. 9, Washington, DC 20036, 800 274-OPEN. Information, seminars, publications

Bethany Christian Services: 800 238-4269 provides services for women considering abortion.

Family Life Information Exchange, PO Box 30146, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301 585-6636

Joint Council on International Children's Services, 301 322-1906 (JCICS) is the world. JCICS is the oldest and largest affiliation of licensed, nonprofit international adoption agencies in the world. JCICS membership also includes parent groups, advocacy organizations, and individuals who have an interest in intercountry adoption.

National Adoption Center, 215 735-9988, 800 862-3678, promotes adoption particularly those with special needs. Links all state adoption agencies

National Council for Adoption, (NCFA) 1930 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20009 202 328-1200, hotline at 202 329-8072. Information and publications

Parent Network for the Post Institutionalized Child: The PNPIC is not involved in the adoption process itself; they discuss issues that agencies generally don’t want to discuss - the effects of institutionalization on a child.

Small World Adoption, 1270 Fee Fee Rd., St. Louis, MO 63146 focuses on foreign adoptions.

Adrenal Metabolic Research Society of the Hypoglycemic Foundation, 32 Sunrise Terrace, Clifton Park, NY 12065 518 272-7154. Information and publications

Adrenal Disease Foundation, National, 505 Northern Blvd. #200, Great Neck, NY 11201, 516 487-4992. Information particularly on Addison's disease.

National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bldg. 31, Room 9A04, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-5133

National Association of Agencies on Aging, 1112 16th St. NW, Washington, DC, Ste. 100 202 296-8130

Each state agency has information on aging, nursing homes and many other issues affecting the elderly.

Administration on Aging, US Department of Health and Human Resources, 330 Independence Ave,. SW, Washington, DC 20201, 202 245-0724 is interested in complaints and the quality of care in nursing homes.

Aging Network Services, 4400 East West Highway, Ste 907, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301 657-4329 is a nationwide network of private practice geriatric social workers who serve as care mangers for older parents who live at a distance.

Alliance for Aging Research, 2121 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006, 202 293-2856 is the Nation's leading citizen advocacy organization for promoting scientific research in human aging.

American Academy on Psychiatry and the Law, 800 331 1389 can refer to a local psychiatrist with expertise in geriatric and legal matters.

American Society on Aging, 833 Market St., Ste. 512, San Francisco, CA 94103 415 543-2617

Bookdale Center on Aging, 42 East 25th St., New York, NY 212 481-4426 is funded by Hunter College and offers professional training and advice to those who provide social services to older people.

Brandeis University, The Heller School, 415 South St. Waltham, MA, 02254-9110, 800 456-9966 for information on aging

Center for the Study of Aging, 706 Madison Ave. Albany, NY, 12208, 518 465-6927. information and publications

Gerontological Society, 1275 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202 842-1275 has general information on aging.

National Council on the Aging, Inc (NCA), 409 Third St. SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202 479-1200, 800 424-9046 is a national non profit organization which provides information and training and supports research in the field. It has various entities that focus on specific issues as indicated below:

National Council of Senior Citizens, 1331 F. St. NW, Washington, DC 20004, 202 347-8800 is an association of councils, clubs and community groups that work toward a better life for the elderly.

National Eldercare Institute on Long Term Care, National Association of State Units on Aging, 2033 K Street Northwest, Suite 304, Washington, DC 20006, 202 898-2578

National Interfaith Coalition of Aging (NICA), C/O NCA, 409 Third St. SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202 479-6689 is a division of the National Council on the Aging. Members work to support research and plan assistance to religious groups that serve older people.

National Institute on Aging, (NIA) Public Information Office, Federal Building, Room 6C12, Bethesda MD, 20892, 301 496-1752, 800 222-2225, is the principal agency for conducting and supporting research related to aging. Information and publications

Older Women's League (OWL), 730 11th St. NW, Ste. 300, Washington, DC, 20001, 202 783-6686 seeks to educate the public about the problems and issues of middle aged and older women.

American Baptist Homes and Hospitals, PO Box 851, Valley forge, PA, 19482 215 768-2382

American Protestant Health Association, 1701 E. Woodfield Rd. Schaumburg, IL 60195 312 843-2701

Catholic Health Care Association of the United States, 4455 Woodson Rd., St. Louis, Mo 63134 314 427-2500

Episcopal Society for Ministry on Aging, ESMA Syre Hall, 317 Wyandotte St., Bethlehem, PA 18015, 215 868-5400

Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies, 281 Park Ave. South, New York, NY 10010, 212 777-4800

Lutheran Hospitals and Homes Society, PO Box 2087, 1202 Westrac Dr., Fargo, ND 58107, 701 293-9053

North American Association of Jewish Homes and Housing for the Aging, 2525 Centerville Rd., Dallas, TX 75228 214 328-0274

The AIDS Clinical Trials information services 800 874-2572, TDD 800 243-7012; international 301 217-0023, provides free information about clinical trials and drugs for HIV and AIDS and can refer you to a reimbursement program for FDA approved drugs that may not be specifically approved to treat AIDS. The same type information can also be obtained from Project Inform, 800 822-7422

American Foundation for AIDS Research, 733 Third Ave., 12th Floor, New York, NY 10097, 212 682-7440, 800 39-AMEAR. Information and publications

The BODY is an excellent WEB site that acts as an AIDS and HIV Information Resource

National Aids Information Clearing House, PO Box 6003, Rockville, MD 20850, 800 458- 5231 has general information, referrals and resources

National Aids Hotline 800 342 AIDS; Spanish 800 344-7432; TTY/TDD 800 243-7889 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Aids Network: 1012 14th St. NW Ste 601, Washington, DC 20005, 202 347-0390

AIR LIFE LINE: 50 Fullerton Court, Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95825, 877 247-5433 is a group of volunteer pilots who provide free air transportation for the poor and sick.

ALBINISM: National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation, 800 473-2310 acts as a clearinghouse for information. Has publications

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, 475 Riverside Dr., New York, NY 10163, 212 870-3400 has info and publications and offers support for recovering alcoholics. Local chapters

AL-Anon Family Group Headquarters, 1600 Corporate Landing Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23454-5617, 800 344-2666, Al-Anon, and Alateen for teenagers, offers help for friends and families of alcoholics

AlaTeen, 1600 Corporate Landing Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23454-5617, 800 344-2666. They help teens who have alcoholic relatives.

American Council on Alcoholism, 800 527-5344, has information, treatment referrals and counseling for alcoholics and their families.

Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, Drug Information Treatment Referral Hotline 800 662-HELP

Cocaine Anon World Services, 3740 Overland Ave. Ste. H, Los Angeles, CA 90034-6333, 310 559-5833, 800 347-8998. Referrals, support groups, information and publications

D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), 800 223-3273 has information for teens, parents, educators and other community members to keep kids off drugs.

Drugs Anonymous, PO Box 473 Ansonia Station, New York, NY 10023, 212 484-9095 is modeled like AA and has local services

Drug Free Workplace Hotline, 800 843-4971, provides information and publications that help employers provide drug free workplace programs.

Nar-Anon World Services, 22527 Crenshaw Blvd. Suite 200B, Torrance, Ca 90505; offers a 12 step program for friends and families of addicts

Narcotics Anonymous, PO Box 9999, Van Nuys, CA 91409 818 780-3951 is also modeled like AA and has local chapters.

National Association for Prenatal Addiction Research and Education, 200 North Michigan Ave. Ste 300, Chicago, IL 60601, 312 541-1272 or 800 638-BABY tries to prevent addiction during pregnancy.

National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Hotline, 800 662-HELP, offers information and referrals to those seeking help.

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD) provides education, information, help and hope to the public.12 West 21st St. New York, NY 10010; 212 206-6770 or 1511 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202 737-8122, 800 NCA-CALL. Information and publications.

National Institute on Drug Abuse, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD, 20857 301 443- 1124. Education focusing on substance abuse.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is the Federal agency charged with improving the quality and availability of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services in order to reduce illness, death, disability, and cost to society resulting from substance abuse and mental illnesses.

Women for Sobriety, PO Box 618, Quakerstown, PA 18951-0618, 215 536-8026, 800 333-1606. Local groups, information and publications.

The Food Allergy Network, 10400 Eaton Place Suite 107, Fairfax, VA 22030 703-691-3179, 800-929-4040 offers recipes and tips on eliminating food problems,

Global Initiative for Asthma Home page for this organization dedicated to increasing public awareness of asthma. Workshop Report; Practical Guide for Asthma management; Pocket Guide for Asthma Management; Patient Guide to Asthma; and access to the American Lung Association

National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, 1400 Jackson St., Denver, CO, 80206, 800 222-5864

Washington University School of Medicine has set up the Asthma Explorers Club for Children between the ages of 6 and 10 who are trying to cope with asthma related shortness of breath and wheezing. 800 982-3902

ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH: 2021 K St. NW, Suite 305, Washington, DC 20006, 202-293-2856, Fax: 202-785-8574

ALS Association, 21021 Ventura Blvd. #321, Woodland Hills, CA 91364 800 782-7447 has information on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrigs disease.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE: There are a number of different trends and procedures that the American Cancer Society or the Arthritis Foundations might be able to help you determine if they are worthwhile. Or contact Dr. John Renner at the Consumer Health Information Research Institute in Independence, Missouri, 816 228-4595, who has a large database on all types of therapies.

The American Association of Oriental Medicine, 610 266-1433 gives free referrals to more than 1,200 licensed and certified acupuncturists.

The American Chiropractic Association, 800 986-4636 offers free referrals for 20,000 licensed chiropractors with more than five years postgraduate training

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Clearing house, 888 644-6226. It's operated by the National Institutes of Health. It provides answers about federally funded research into alternative medicine.

National Center for Homeopathy, 703 548-7790 will send a referral directory with names of 400 licensed homeopaths for $7.00

The American Massage therapy Association 847 864-0123 lists 22,000 certified massage therapists.

Alzheimer Alliance of America, P.O. Box 1153, Winter Park, FL 32790, is a new national organization whose affiliates are innovative, active independent local organizations serving the Alzheimer's population

ADRA: The Alzheimers Disease and Related Disorders Association, 919 North Michigan, Chicago, IL 60611, 800 621-0379, provides a 24- hour information and referral line that links families who need assistance with nearby chapters and affiliates.

Alzheimer's Disease International, 12 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603, 312 335-3777. Information, publications and promotes education

National Alzheimers Disease Association, 919 North Michigan Ave, Ste. 1000, Chicago, IL 60611-1676 is an organization that registers Alzheimers patients and helps to locate them for relatives and friends when they get lost. 312 335-8700, 800 272-3900. For $25.00, it offers the Alzheimers Safe Return Kit. It includes an identity bracelet, wallet ID cards and clothing labels and enrolls them in a national database.

AMERICAN ACADEMY OF HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE MEDICINE: 800-371-2349, The international organization of physicians dedicated to the advancement of palliative medicine in the management of patients with terminal illness. Includes information on Certification in Hospice and Palliative Medicine administered by the American Board of Hospice and Palliative Medicine

American Association of Daily Money Managers , Members pledge to follow a code of ethics and can help balance check books, organize paperwork, write checks, make deposits, etc. Useful if you have a loved one that needs care in another area. Fees range from $25 to $60 an hour depending on the area of the country.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR HOMES AND SERVICES FOR THE AGING: 901 E Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20004-2037, 202-508-9472, Fax: 202-783-2255

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: 1599 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, 404 320-3333, 800 ACS-2345

AMERICAN COLLEGE OF HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATORS: 325 S. Patrick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, 703-739-7900

AMERICAN COLLEGE OF OBSTETRICIANS AND GYNECOLOGISTS: 409 12th St. SW, Washington, DC 20004-2188, 202 638-5577

AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION: 1660 Duke St., Alexandria, Virginia, 703 549-1500, 800 ADA-DISC

AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR THE BLIND: 11 Penn Plaza, New York, NY 10011, 212 502-7600, 800 AFB-LINE

AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ASSOCIATION: 1201 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202-842-4444, Fax: 202-842-3860

American Hyperlexia Association This site includes announcements, information, about the AHA, parent's tool kit, materials for ordering, conferences, networking, our kids, and other useful sites. This site is extremely colorful and appealing. It is great for parents and kids.

AMERICAN LIVER FOUNDATION: 1425 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, NJ 07009, 201 256-2550, 800 223-0179

AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION: 1740 Broadway, New York, NY 10019-4374; 212 315-8700

AMERICAN MEDICAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION: 10480 Little Patuxent Prkwy, Suite 760, Columbia, MD 21044, 800-876-AMDA, 410-740-9743, FAX: 410-740-4572

AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATION: Its 40,500 U.S. and international physicians specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses and substance use disorders.

AMERICAN SOCIETY ON AGING: 833 Market Street, Suite 511, San Francisco, CA 94103-1824, 415-974-9600, FAX: 415-974-0300

AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR LONG TERM CARE NURSES: ASLTCN / PADONA), 660 Lonely Cottage Dr., Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972, 610-847-5396, Fax: 610-847-5063

AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR PARENTERAL AND ENTERAL NUTIRION: (A.S.P.E.N.) 8630 Fenton Street, Suite 412, Silver Spring, MD 20910, 301-587-6315, Fax: 301-587-2365

Anorexia Bulimia Association, American, 425 E. 61st St. New York, NY 10021, 212 734-1114. Counseling, referrals, information and publications aabainc.org

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders offers free information and a referral to a therapist by writing to AN-AD, PO Box 7, Highland Park, IL 60035. Include a self addressed stamped business envelope. Their hotline number is 708 831-3438

ANXIETY: Anxiety Disorders Association of America, 6000 Executive Blvd., Rockville, MD, 20852, 301 231-9350 or 900 737-3400 ($2 per minute). Information and publications.

Academy of Aphasia, One Waterhouse St., Pediatric Urology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, 617 726-3877 is involved with the problem of speech

National Aphasia Organization The National Aphasia Association is a nonprofit organization that promotes public education, research, rehabilitation and support services to assist people with aphasia and their families.

American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers, 155 East Superior St. Chicago, IL 60611. Has information on its designations such as the MAI and referrals and publications

American Society of Appraisers, Herndon, VA, 800 ASA-VALU has information and publications on all types of property.

Appraisal Institute, 875 N. Michigan Ave. #2400, Chicago, IL 60611-1980, 312 335-4100 has information on designations , referrals, publications

Institute of Business Appraisers, PO Box 1447, Boynton Beach, FL 33425 407 732-3202. Business valuation and appraisal information

National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts, Sale Lake City, UT. Business valuation and appraisal information

National Association of Master Appraisers offers a free directory of real estate appraisers in the U.S. Write to Directory offer, PO Box 12617, San Antonio, TX 78212-0617, 800 229-6262

Personal Property- Appraisers Association of America (212 867-9775) or the American Society of Appraisers (800 272 8258)

ARACHNOIDITIS: is a disorder which causes severe, chronic, intractable pain. It is the inflammation of one of the spinal cord coverings, the middle covering, the arachnoid, that causes arachnoiditis.

ARBITRATION: Most security arbitrations occur before the NASD, but investors who have purchased investments through the individual exchanges can contact the exchanges directly and pursue cases through that entity. The selection can make a substantial difference in ultimate return. If you are willing to accept less than full settlement, you may contact the NASD office regarding mediation.

American Arbitration Association, (AAA) 140 West 51st St., New York, NY 10020 212 484-4000. Information on all types arbitrations

Cincinnati Stock Exchange, 36 East Fourth St., Ste 906, Cincinnati, OH 45202, 312 786-8898

Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board, 1818 N. St., NW, Ste 800, Washington, DC 20036, 202 223-9347

National Association of Security Dealers, 33 Whimall St. New York, NY 10004, 212 480- 4881. Information on security arbitrations and mediation

NASD OMBUDSMAN: If you think you did not get a fair hearing in an arbitration, you can call the NASD and complain about the staff's misconduct, etc. 888 700-0028

Philadelphia Stock Exchange, 1900 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19103, 215 496-5000

The Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association, 404 365-0150, 800 292-0077 can refer you to a local lawyer. Use extreme diligence in selecting an attorney for securities matters. There is no formal training and an inexperienced and unknowledgeable attorney can ruin a case.

The Securities Arbitration Commentator, 201 761-5880 has a service called the Advocate Record which analyzes past awards and lets you gauge the ability of the principals involved Cost is $25 to $75

Securities Exchange Commission, 450 Fifth St. NW, Washington, DC, 20549, 202 272-7440. Information on security and investment issues

ARCHITECTS: The American Institute of Architects, 1735 New York Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20006, 202 626-7461

ARSON: Wetip Hotline, 800 47-ARSON takes anonymous tip and leads concerning crimes. Offers rewards

American College of Rheumatology, 60 Executive Park South, Ste. 150, Atlanta, Georgia, 30329 has information on osteoarthritis by sending a self addressed stamped envelope. Primarily for medical practitioners

Arthritis Consulting Services, 4620 N. State Road 7, Ste 206, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33310, 800 327-3027. Free information on a holistic approach to treatment.

Arthritis Foundation, 1314 Spring St. NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, 404 872-7100, 800 283-7800 (Information Line). Extensive information, publications and referrals to local chapters

National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease Clearinghouse, Box AMS, Bethesda, MD 20892 310 495-4484. Information and publications

ASBESTOS: Asbestos Information Hotline, 800 447-7590, 215 735-1188, provides information on assistance to victims and their families.

ASPERGER SYNDROME: Asperger Syndrome Education Network- This is a neurological disorder affecting 2.5 million Americans and is a condition of social disability

ASSOCIATION of JUNIOR LEAGUES: 660 First Ave, New York, NY 10016-3241, 212 683-115, is an international organization of women to promote voluntarism and to improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER: ADHD: Between 4% and 12% of school age children- 75% of whom are boys- have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders at CHADD, 499 NW 70th Ave. Ste 101, Dept. P, Plantation, FL 33317, 305 587-3700, 800 233-2322. Information, publications and referrals to a support group in your area.

National Attention Deficit Disorder Association, 800 487-2282, provides support to individuals and their families. Publications

AUCTIONEERS: National Auctioneers Association, Overland Park, Kansas, 913 541-8084

Autism: origins, causes, etiology: the cause of autism: the use of diet, rhythm, music and dance.

Autism Research Institute, 4182 Adams Ave., San Diego, CA 92116 Send a large self addressed stamped envelope for more information

Autism Society of America, 7910 Woodmont Ave. #650, Bethesda, MD 20814, 800 3- AUTISM, Information and publications

Autism Services Center, Prichard Bldg., 605 9th St. PO Box 507, Huntington, WV 25710, 304 525-8014, Information , assistance, group homes

Facilitate Communication Institute, Syracuse University, 370 Huntington Hall, Syaracuse, NY 13244-2340

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bldg. 31, Room 2A32, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-51331, has extensive information and publications

AUTOMOBILE SAFETY: The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have a "Drive It Safe" brochure available by calling 800 824-BONES or writing the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 6300 N. River Rd. Des Plaines, Ill, 60018, 708 823-7186, 800 346-AAOS . The NHTSA hotline is 800 424-9393

AHCPR has a free pamphlet, "Understanding Acute Low Back Problems" by calling 800 358-9295 or by writing to AHCPR Publications Clearinghouse, PO Box 8547, Silver Spring, MD 20907

Back Pain Association of America, PO Box 135, Pasadena, MD 21123-0135 has information on spine centers around the country. Send a self addressed stamped envelope

FDIC, Office of Consumer Affairs, 550 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 29429 800 424-5488

Federal Reserve Board, Consumer and Community Affairs, Mail Stop 198, 20th & C St. NW, Washington, DC 20551, 202 452-3946

Office of Thrift Supervision, Consumers Affairs Division, 1700 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20552, 202 906-6237, 800 842-6929

US Comptroller of the Currency, Compliance Management, Mail Stop 642-C, 490 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20219, 202 622-2000

Bauer Financial Reports, PO Drawer 145510, Coral Cables, FL 33114-5510; 800 388-6686, $10 for a summary report

FDIC, Disclosure Group, Room F-518, 550 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20429, offers a Report of Condition and Income Statement (Call Report) for $6 each. Provide the institution's name and location, year and quarter requested, contact person, phone number and mailing address. For Savings Associations' Thrift Financial Reports, write to 1700 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20552

IFC Financial Publishing, 700 Walnut Drive, Hartland, Wisconsin, 53029, 800 525-5457. Five page reports are $30 each. Need name of institution, city and state.

Uniform Bank Performance Report (UBPR) is available for $45 from the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council at Department 4320, Chicago, IL 60673

Veribanc, PO Box 461, Wakefield, MA 01880; 800 442-2657, $10 for the first "instant rating" report and $5 for each additional report.

BARTERING EXCHANGES: Bartering refers to trading of ones own goods and services for that of another rather than paying cash.

American Trade Exchange, 27801 Euclid Ave. Ste 610, Euclid, OH 44132 216 731- 8030

Barter Systems International, 4254 Gatecrest, San Antonio, TX 78217 210 650-9300

Business Exchange International, 600 S. Carson Ave. Ste 312, Los Angeles, CA 90036 213 935-2929

Cascade Trade Association, 21400 International Blvd., Ste 207, Seattle, WA 98198 206 870-9290

International Trade Exchange, 2080 Peachtree Industrial Ct., Suite 110, Atlanta, GA 30341 770 458-6135

National Commercial Exchange, 106 Four Seasons, Ste 107B, Chesterfield, MO 63017 800659-6578

The Family Violence Prevention Fund, 383 Rhode Island St. Ste 304, San Francisco, CA 91403, 415 252-8900, 800 777-1960, offers a free Community Action Kit with tips on what to do if someone you know is being abused. Publications

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, PO Box 18749, Denver, CO 80218-0749, 303 839-1852 offers support for battered wives. Information and publications

National Council on Child Abuse and Family Violence, 1155 Connecticut Ave. NW, Ste 300, Washington, DC 20036, 202 429-6695, Helpline at 800 222-2000. Information and publications

National Domestic Violence Project of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery has many plastic surgeons who will, FOR FREE, repair damage done by abuse. Candidates must be out of the abusive relationship 800 842-4546

Parents Anonymous/Abusive Parents, 520 S. Lafayette Park Place, Ste 316, LA, CA 90057, 800 421-0353 provides info on the prevention and treatment of child abuse

BEHCET'S DISEASE: American Bechcet's Disease Association, 800 7-BEHCETS, 602 917-9603 offers support and information and referrals to physicians. Publications

American Enuresis Foundation, PO Box 54556, Tulsa, OK, 74155-0556. They provide individual programs tailored to help alleviate the problem.

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bldg. 31, Room 2A32, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-51331 has extensive information and publications

National Institute of Mental Health, Public Inquiries Office, Room 15 C-05, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857 301 443-4513

BIG BROTHERS/BIG SISTERS: 230 N. 13th St. Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215 567-7000. Matches children with mentors. information and publications.

BIOFEEDBACK: When information about a person's own brain wave patterns are made available, he or she can learn to change them, and in so doing, affect other aspects of his or her life. Learning and behavior problems of children, mental decline of the elderly, mood disorders, addictions, and irrational violence often reflect deficiencies in the way the brain regulates itself and this site provides articles, reports, clinic locations and more that may be helpful for a loved on.

American Council of the Blind, 1155 15th St. NW, Ste. 720, Washington, DC 20005, 800 424-8666 provides referral service and up to date information on low vision devices, treatment, etc. Publications.

American Foundation for the Blind, 11 Penn Plaza, Ste 300, new York, NY 10001 212 502-7600, 800 232-5463 has information for the blind and their families and well as education and training programs to educators, health care workers and other volunteers. Publications.

The Center for the Partially Sighted, 720 Wilshire Blvd. Ste 200, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 800 481-3937. Send stamped self addressed envelope for free newsletter.

Foundation Fighting Blindness, 800 683-5555, TDD 800 683-5551 Free Amsler grid (printed vision test), pamphlets, information on support networks, and/or referrals for people with retinal degenerative disease.

Guidedog Foundation for the Blind, Inc., 371 E. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown, NY 11787, 516 265-2121, 800 548-4337 provides free rehabilitation training through guide dogs.

Job Opportunities for the Blind, 800 638-7518, is a nationwide reference and referral service for questions concerning employment and blindness. Publications

National Association for the Parents of the Visually Impaired, 800 562-6265, provides support and information.

National Society to Prevent Blindness, 500 East Remington Road, Schaumburg, Illinois, 60173-4557, 800 331-2020, 312 843-2020. Their primary function is to educate the public about preserving sight and preventing blindness. Publications include a family home eye test.

Research to Prevent Blindness, 645 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10022, 800 621-0026

Recording For the Blind: 20 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, 609 452-0606. Provides recorded educational books for free on loan to blind and other print handicapped people.

Children's Leukemia Research Association, National Leukemia Association, 585 Stewart Ave. Ste 536, Garden City, NY, 11530, 516 222-1944. Funds research and provides financial aid.

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America, Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, NY 10605, (914) 949-5213 ext.8715, 800 955-4572 provides financial assistance and has information and publications

National Hemophilia Foundation, Soho Bldg., 110 Greene St. Ste 406, New York, NY 10012, 212 219-8180, hotline at 800 424-2634 offers counseling, research, information and publications

National Marrow Donor Program, 3433 Broadway St NE, Ste 400, Minneapolis, MN 55413-1762, 800 654-124755 has information and provides a registry of bone marrow donors

Sickle Cell Disease Branch of above organization 301 496-6931 has information and publications

Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, 200 Corporate Drive, Ste 495, Culver City, CA 90230, 301 216-6363, 800 421-8453 has information and publications

BLOOD PRESSURE: Citizens for Public Awareness on Blood Pressure and Cholesterol, PO Box 30374-HBP, Bethesda MD 20824 has information on calcium channel blockers and other high blood pressure medication. 301 951-3260

BOND INFORMATION: Under a July 1995 SEC ruling, municipalities must give underwriters information regarding the status of the bond issues as well as their own fiscal health. Bondholders can get information on 650,000 municipal bonds by calling 800 BOND-INFO.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 630 N. River Rd. Park Ridge, IL 60018 708 832-7186 for information on joint replacement, arthroscopy, common foot problems, neck, lock back and shoulder pain, etc. Send self addressed stamped letter and a request for particular topics.

American Podiatric Medical Association (AMPA) 9312 Old Georgetown Rd., Bethesda MD 20814, 3011 571-9200, 800 FOOT CARE.

American Society for Bone and Mineral Research, 1200 19th St. NW, Ste 300, Washington, DC 20036, 202 857-1161

A BMT newsletter is a free bi monthly publication for former and prospective BMT patients. 1985 Spruce Ave., Highland Park, Ill 60035, 708 831-1913. For $5 you can get the guidebook Bone Marrow Transplants

National BMT Link: 800 546-5268. This is a clearinghouse of information on Bone Marrow Transplants including up to date medical reports, a list of attorneys who handle insurance reimbursement cases and a peer support network

National Bone Marrow Donor Program, 3433 Broadway NE, Ste 400 St. Paul, MN 55107, 612-6275, 800 652-1247 is a registry of donors and has information and publications. The Asian American Donor Program can be reached at 800 59DONOR

Bone Reconstruction Association for Care and Education BRACE, the Bone Reconstruction Association for Care and Education, is a nonprofit charitable organization formed to provide financial assistance for the surgical correction of bone and joint deformities.

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA: 1325 Walnut Hill Lane, Irving, Texas 75038-3096, 214 580-2000

BRAILLE: American Printing House for the Blind, 1839 Frankfurt Ave., Louisville, KY 40206 502 895-2405 offers Braille books and computers for the blind.

BRAIN INJURIES: The Forget-Me-Not organization is for "Building Life Options for Brain Injury Survivors and Their Families"

Closed Brain Injury Clinical Trial: A closed brain injury occurs when the damage to the brain is not due to the penetration of bone or foreign matter into the brain, but the soft brain tissue inside is damaged by its sudden impact against the inner skull. These injuries can cause unconsciousness, but not always. Many people may recover without any problems. Others, however, may continue to suffer from a variety of symptoms, including memory loss. It becomes more frustrating and complicated when the person with the brain injury doesn’t realize that he or she has such a loss.

Acoustic Neuroma Association, 404 237-8023, PO Box 12402, Atlanta, Georgia has information

American Brain Tumor Association, 2720 River Rd. Ste 146, Des Plaines, IL 60018, 708 827-9910. Patients may call 800 886-2282. Offers counseling, supports research, has information and publications

Breast Cancer Answers Hot Topics; Ask a Breast Cancer Question; Frequently Asked Questions; Breast Cancer Resources; Questions You Should Ask Your Doctor; Clinical Trials; About Breast Cancer Answers

Cancer Information Center, National Institute of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, 800 4-CANCER. Fund raising agency

Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, 212 W. Van Buren, Chicago, IL 60607, 312 986-8338, 800 221-2141 provides free information referrals, written materials and emotional support.

Breast Implant Information Center, Office of Consumer Affairs, HFE-88, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MO 20857, 310 443-3170 is the federal source on breast implants.

Breast Implant Registry, Medic Alert Foundation International, 2323 Colorado Ave. Turlock, CA 95381-9986, 800 892-9211 has information and publications

BREAST PROSTHESIS: Contact Baylor University Medical Center, 800 422-9567. They have an inexpensive video that offers realistic help and information.

Burns United Support Group, 441 Colonial Court, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236, 313 881-5577. Support groups, information and publications

National Institute for Burn Medicine, 909 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, 313 769-9000. Information and publications

National Orgainzation for Burn Survivors, 11 Rust Hill Road, Levittown, PA 19056, 800 888-2876. Information on the self help services available, provides pyschological assistance

BUYER'S BROKERS: There are significant legal and financial implications on the purchase of real estate depending on who is representing you and where their fiduciary obligation lies. A buyer's broker should exclusively represent the buyer. In addition to the organizations listed below, you might check your local Realtor Board.

Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council, 800 648-6224 offers an accreditation program for buyer's agents called the ABR (accredited buyer representative). Information and referrals

National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents, 303 670-4304, 800 986-2322, provides referrals to its membership.

Buyer's Resource, 800 359-4092 is a brokerage franchise that will provide referrals to its offices.

American Cancer Society, 1599 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta GA 30329, 404 320-3333, 800 ACS 2345, education, publications, referrals. Offers special services

Bloch National Cancer Hot Line, 800 433-0464 gives newly diagnosed cancer patients the chance to talk with other individuals who have been successfully treated with the same kind of cancer.

Cancer education- for consumers, educators and health professionals. Provide clinicla info, newsletter and more.

Cancer-Pain promises the latest and most accurate info on state-of-the-art management of cancer pain. Includes a caregiver's guide.

Cancer Risk AssessmentThe Harvard School of Public Health's online cancer-risk assessment tool. Just answer a few questions at the free Your Cancer Risk site.

Cancer survival This site will provide you with helpful information including suggestions for increasing survival odds, recommended reading and useful links to important cancer sites on the internet.

Cancervive, Inc. 6500 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90048, 213 203-9232 offers support groups for cancer survivors

Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation: 7910 Woodmont Ave. Suite 460, Bethesda, MD 20814, 202 659-5136, has volunteer pediatric oncologists and on staff legal experts to help with health or disability insurance company to get coverage and guidance and emotional support. Much more. Free copy of "The Candlelighters Guide to Bone Marrow Transplants in Children". Hotline crisis number is 800 366-2223

Gynecologic CancersThis is a good Website for health professionals as well as patients. It includes general information about gynecologic cancer and medical supportive care for cancer patients. It also has information on cervical cancer, endometric and uterine cancers, fallopian tube cancer, gestational trophoblastic cancer, ovarian cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer. This Website, overall, is very informative. As well as having information on cancers, it includes some brochures and answers to frequently asked questions.

Hair for cancer patients: Locks of Love, 2925 10th Ave, Ste 102, Lake Worth, FL 33461

National Cancer Care Foundation, 1180 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, 212 221-3300 offers counseling and guidance, financial assistance for patients and families

National Cancer Institute, Cancer Information Service, 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 31 Room 10A24, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-5583, 800 4Cancer (422-6237) Monday through Friday from 9am - 7pm has specialists who can search the NCI's Physician Data Query data base for information on state of the art treatments and clinical trials. Information and publications

National Children's Cancer Society, negotiates with insurance companies and hospitals on children's behalf and offers financial assistance for bone marrow transplant expenses. 800 532-6459.

National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, 1010 Wayne Ave., 5th Floor, Silver Spring, MD 20910, seeks to communicate that there is productive life following diagnosis of cancer.

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, 500 NE Spanish River Blvd. Ste 14, Boca Raton, FL 33431 888 682-7426 has a free brochure with self addressed stamped envelope.

Skin Cancer Foundation, 245 Fifth Ave, Ste 2402, New York, NY 10016, 212 725-5176 has information and publications

A book on Radiation Therapy- Coping with Radiation Therapy, by Daniel Cukier and Virginia McCullough- helps one to know what to expect, side effects, emotional concerns, etc. $14.95 800 255-2665

The University of Pennsylvania has an excellent site that discusses many cancers, survivorship rates, causes, clinical trials and much. much more. Very complete and informative.

CANCER CARE: Provides professional counseling, insurance and entitlement counseling, education programs and referrals and a limited amount of financial aid but just for NY, CN and NJ 212 221-3300

CANCERFAX: 301 402-5874. Has a list of fact sheets available from the National Cancer Institute database that go automatically to your fax machine.

CANCER TRIALS LINK: Those seriously ill with cancer may want to consider a clinical trial. This site, by the National Cancer Institute, addresses the questions as What Is a Clinical Trial, What are the Phases of Clinical Trials, What is a Clinical Trial Protocol, Where are Trials Conducted, Who Can Participate in a Trial, How are Trial Participants Protected and more.

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING: American Industrial Hygiene Association, AIHA Publications, 2700 Prosperity AVe, Ste 250, Fairfax, VA 22031. Send a self addressed stamped envelope for "Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Cold Weather Killer"

National Alliance for Caregiving , 301 718-8444 is a national resource center that has information on elder care conferences, books, training for family members

National Association for Family Day Care, 1331-A Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Ste 348, Washington, DC 20004 or PO Box 71268, Murray UT 84107, 801 268-9148 focuses on care for children. Information and publications

The Older Women's League (OWL), 666 111th St. NW, Washington, DC 20001, 202 783-6686 is the first national organization to recognize the role women play in caregiving. Free information, many publications.

Hiring Home Caregivers, Helen Susik, Impact, $11.95 + $3.50 shipping 800 246-7228

Home Care for Older People: A Consumer's Guide, Anne Werner and James Firman, $12.50 to United Seniors Health Cooperative, 1331 H St. NW, Ste 500, Washington, DC 20005. Also has many other worthwhile publications

You and Your Aging Parent, Barbara Silverstone and Helen Kandel, Pantheon, $14.95

CARE MANAGERS: The National Association of Geriatric Care Managers, 1604 North Country Club Road, Tucson, AZ 85716, 602 881-8008 offers, for $25.00, its national directory. Has information on policies and coverage for long term care. Free referrals to managers nationwide

CATARACTS: For information write to Cataracts, Box 8547, Silver Spring, MD 20907; 800 358-9295

CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION: CDC, National Center for Prevention Services, Division of Immunization, Atlanta, GA 30333; 404 639-3747, 800 CDC-1311, publishes pamphlets on adult immunization, health, nutrition, dental health, health resources utilization, contraception, etc.

CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL: 6525 Belcrest Rd. Room 1064, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, 301 436-8500

American Academy for Cerebral Palsy & Development Medicine, 6300 N Riverside Rd., Ste. 727, Rosement, IL 60018, 708 698-1635. Information and publications

Cerebral Palsy Cerebral Palsy can be a frustrating condition because of the various ways in which it manifests itself. There are several forms of cerebral palsy, such as spastic, athetoid, ataxic, or a mixture of these. While it is a condition that affects movement, posture and coordination, there can be associated conditions which are more likely to occur in children who have cerebral palsy.

Cerebral Palsy: People with this disease / disability can even get free information and evaluation from doctors and can possibly qualify for lifetime benefits.

Cerebral Palsy "Kid Power" The mission of this site is to help families whose children are mildly affected by cerebral palsy and/or other disabilities receive the services, equipment and therapies, both traditional and alternative, that are needed. They also work to help educate parents and professionals on the topics of alternative therapies and milder forms of disability.

Cerebral Palsy Study Children with cerebral palsy often do not grow the same as other children. These researchers are trying to find out why, and they've turned to the Web to search for people who might want to participate in their study.

Forms of Cerebral Palsy Cerebral Palsy is a motor disorder appearing in children before the age of three years, due to damage of the brain before the it has fully developed.1 The damage to the brain affects strictly the motor system, producing poor coordination, poor balance, or abnormal movement patterns. Children with Cerebral Palsy may also have other kinds of neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, mental retardation, learning disabilities, or attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.

United Cerebral Palsy Association, 1522 K St. NW, Ste 112, Washington, DC 20005, 202 842-1266, 800 USA-5UCP. Information, education, publications, support groups and referrals

Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) reports the charities figures but uses its own calculations to determine whether the charities meet the CBBB standards. For a list of the 150 most asked about national charities and if they meet the voluntary standards of the Philanthropic Advisory Service, send $2.00 with a SASE to PAS, Council of Better Business Bureaus, 4200 Wilson Blvd., #800, Arlington, VA 22203, 703 276-0100

The Evangelical Council on Financial Accountability, 800 323-9473, review 850 religious members regarding standards and the truthfulness in fund raising.

The National Charities Information Bureau, 19 Union Square West, New York, NY 10003-3395, 212 929-6300, 800 501-NCIB provides information about charities that solicit funds nationally and evaluates agencies by its eight standards of philanthropy.

National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy, 2001 S ST. NW, Ste 620, Washington, DC 20009, 202 387-9177

Charles Bonnet syndrome--elderly people and visual hallucinations ( Anu Jacob, Sanjeev Prasad, Mike Boggild, Sanjeev Chandratre)

Factor	Probability
US Average	0.0088300
US Male	0.0140000
Us Female	0.0128000
White Male	0.0139000
White Female	0.0127000
Black Male	0.0148000
Black Female	0.0132000
Married Male	0.0093000
Divorced Male	0.0187000
Married Female	0.0085000
Divorced Female	0.0170000
Heart Disease	0.0039000
Cancer	0.0019900
Suicide	0.0001230
Murder	0.0000900
Firearms	0.0001120
Accident	0.0003800
Auto Accident	0.0001760
Airline Accident	0.0000010
As One Year Old	0.0104000
1 Yr Old Male	0.0115000
1 Yr Old Female	0.0091000
Child Abuse	0.0000178
Child Abuse SMH	0.0000066
Child Abuse in SFH	0.0000004
Child Abuse in Families	0.0000003
Child Firearm Accident	0.0000016

Annual Probability of Death in the US

SMHs are 1.6 times more fatal to children than SFHs, 12 times more fatal than firearms, and 44 times more fatal than families.

Of 22.5 million children living in 18.8 SMHs, 422 are fatally abused each year--one death per 44,550 SMHs.
Of 2.1 million children living in 1.8 million SFHs, 25 are fatally abused each year--one death per 72,000 SFHs.
Of 37.6 million children living in 31.3 million families, 16 are fatally abused each year--1 death per 2 million families.
Of 70.1 million children living around 230 million firearms, 430 are killed by firearm accidents each year--1 death per 535,000 firearms.
Of 430 children killed by firearms, 322 are killed in SMHs.
Even if firearm ownership could be reduced by 90%, there would still be 23 million firearms in the US, which would not be much "safer" than 230 million.
Outlawing SMHs would reduce both fatal child abuse and accidental firearm deaths by 70%.

Source: Donna Shalala, "National Child Abuse Prevention Month" and "Child Maltreatment 1994: Reports from the States to the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect". Patrick Fagan, Heritage Foundation, "THE CHILD ABUSE CRISIS: THE DISINTEGRATION OF MARRIAGE, FAMILY, AND THE AMERICAN COMMUNITY", Rick Thoma, "The Dirty Little Secret: Abuse in Foster Care"

Children's Division of the American Humane Association, 63 Iverness Drive East, Englewood, CO 80112-5117, 303 792-9900 has information and publications

Compassionate Friends, PO Box 3696, Oak Brook, IL 60522, 312 990-0010, 877 969-0010 provides help for families that have lost a child of any age through accident, illness, assault, suicide, etc.

Friends of the Children: This "intent is to bear witness to the issue of child sexual abuse, to educate and to give hope.

International Society for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, 332 South Michigan Ave. Ste 1600, Chicago, IL 60604, 312 663-3520 has information and publications

National CASA Association, 100 West Harrison St. North Tower Suite 500, Seattle, WA 98119-4123, 800 628-3233. CASA is court appointed special advocate. These are people who could cut through the red tape, serve as fact finders, independently assess a child's needs and convey them to a judge. There are now about 52,000 volunteers nationally

National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, 330 C St. SW, Washington, DC 20201, 202 205-8586 is an agency of the US Department of Health and Human Services and has extensive information and publications

National Child Abuse Hotline, 800 422-4453 provides crisis intervention and counseling on child abuse. Referrals. Take calls in 140 languages

The National Committee for Prevention of Child Abuse, PO Box 2866, Chicago, IL 60690, 312 663-3520, 800 55-NCPCA, provides information and works to stop child abuse before it occurs. Also offers a hotline under Help American Families, 800 CHILDREN

National Council on Child Abuse and Family Violence, 1155 Connecticut Ave. NW, Ste. 300, Washington, DC 20036, 202 429-6995, 800 222-2000

Parents Anonymous, 520 South Lafayette Park Place, Ste 316, Los Angeles, CA 90057, 213 410-9732, 800 775-1134 is modeled after AA and is for rehabilitation and support of child abusing parents

SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests), 8025 S. Honore, Chicago, IL 60620, 312 874-2500

Child Care Aware, 800 424-2246 provides referrals to comunity based agencies that help find child care. Free brochure on tips, checklist and more.

KIDS LINK: An extensive site delving into Fears, Friends, Parenting Styles, Sleep, Toilet Training, Aggression, Anxiety Disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autistic, Asperger's and Other Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, (Manic Depressive Illness), Conduct Disorder, Depressive Disorder, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and much much more.

National Academy for Nannies, 800 222-NANI, provides information on hiring a Nannie

National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Association, 2116 Campus Dr. SE, Rochester, MN 55904. Free checklist on areas to review for daycare by calling Child Care Aware, 800 424-2246. Other national information.

National Association for the Education of Young Children, 1509 16th St. NW, Washington, DC 20036, 202 232-8777, 800 424-2460. Information and publications and has an accreditation of child care centers.

CHILD DAYCARE: National Institute on Child Daycare, 409 3rd St. SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202 488-7475

CHILD SUPPORT: National Child Support Enforcement Association, Hall of State, 400 North Capitol, NW, Ste 372, Washington, DC 20002, 202 624-8180 is involved in enforcing child support laws. Information and publications

The AD COUNCIL-COMMITMENT 2000, 261 Madison AvE, 11th Floor, Dept. P, New York, New York, 10016 is a non profit organization that conducts campaigns for the public good and is sponsoring Raising a Better Tomorrow, a 10 year initiative for children.

The Alliance for Youth is headed by General Powell and is tyring to get computers in our schools.

AMERICA'S PROMISE- THE ALLIANCE FOR YOUTH: 1 800 55-YOUTH is an organization under Colin Powell to solicit contributions from businesses and non profits to create safe places for after school, recruit mentors, more.

Back to Sleep, 31 Center Dr., Building 31, Room 2A32, Bethesda, MD, 20892-2425, 800 505-CRIB has information about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Because I Love You , PO Box 2062, Winetka, CA, CA 91396-2062 is an organization designed to help parents with children of all ages who have behavioral problems. It covers drugs, runaways, truancy, verbal and physical abuse, curfew, dress codes and the problem friends as well as the aggravating things like messy rooms, chores not being done and lower than expected school grades. It provide referrals to other resources. It is not for profit and has no religious, political, medical, corporate or municipal affiliation.

Child Alert: This site is provided as a resource regarding missing, abducted, and runaway children and contains links to most of the similar organizations in the U.S. and Canada. 1-888-CHILD-ALERT

Child Find of America, PO Box 277, New Platz, NY, 12561, 914 255-1848, 800 I AM LOST acts as contact point for missing children. Information and publications

Children's Rights Council, 220 I ST NE, Ste 140, Washington, DC 20006-4362 has information and publications for parents and professionals on how to handle divorce so it's less stressful on children.

Child Welfare League of America is an association of almost 1,000 public and private nonprofit agencies that assist over 2.5 million abused and neglected children and their families each year with a wide range of services. It is the nation's oldest and largest organization devoted entirely to the well being of America's vulnerable children and their families. 92% of contributions is spent on charitable purposes.

Children's Wish Foundation, 7840 Roswell Rd, Ste 301, Atlanta, GA 30350, 800 323-9474 grants wishes to terminally ill children

Common Sense about Kids and Guns: The organization recognizes that it is the responsibility of adults to protect children from guns. 877 955-KIDS

The Dream Factory, PO Box 188, Hopkinville, KY 42240 grants wishes to seriously ill children

Grant a Wish Foundation, PO Box 21211, Baltimore, MD, 21228 800 933-5470 helps make terminally ill children's wishes come true.

Kids-Now Connects childrens with low cost and free health insurance. Call 1-877 543-7669 to find out if kids qualify

Kidsrights, 10100 Park Cedar Dr., Charlotte, NC, 29210, 800 892-5437 has info for parents on how to establish programs to prevent teen suicide.

National Center for Missing and Exploited children, 2101 Wilson Blvd. Ste 550, Arlington, VA 22201, 703 235-3900, 800 843-5678 acts as clearinghouse for parents and agencies searching for missing children

National Child Safety Council Childwatch, 800 222-1464, has information on drug abuse, household dangers, etc. Sponsor of the missing kids milk carton program

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bldg. 31, Room 2A32, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-5133 has extensive information and publications on such topics as developmental disability, birth defects, etc.

National Hotline for Missing and Exploited Children. 2101 Wilson Blvd., Ste 550, Arlington, VA, 22201, 800 843-5678 operates a hotline for reporting sightings of missing chlidlren and children exploited by crime, prostitution and pornography.

National Legal Resource Center for Child Advocacy and Protection, American Bar Association, 1800 M Street, NW, South Lobby, Washington, DC 20036, 202 331-2200 uses the legal system to protect children

National Runaway Switchboard, 3080 N. Lincoln, Chicago, IL 60657, 800 621-4000 provides counseling and referral to runaway children under 18

National SIDS Foundation, 8200 Professional Drive, Ste 104, Landover, MD 20785 301 459-3388, 800 369-SIDS (7437) will supply information about local chapters where parents can share grief with others when a child dies.

Make a Wish Foundation of America, 2600 N. Central Ave. Ste. 396, Phoenix, AZ 85004, 602 240-6600 grants wishes to terminally ill children who are not apt to survive their 18th birthday.

Missing Children Help Center, 410 Ware Blvd., Ste 400, Tampa, FL 33619, 813 623-5437, 800 USA-KIDS acts as contact point for missing children. Information and publications

Parents of Murdered Children, 100 East 8th St. B-41, Cincinnati, OH 45202, 513 721-5683 supports local chapters for parents of murdered children

Pediatric Projects, Inc., PO Box 51555, Tarzana, CA 91357, 818 705-3660 distributes medically oriented therapeutic books and toys to children undergoing health care. Helps parents help children cope with illness, disability, etc.

Prevention Yellow Pages A worldwide directory of programs, research, references and resources dedicated to the prevention of youth problems and the promotion of nurturing children

St. Judes Children's Research Hospital works towards helping children with cancer. 800 877-5833

Stand for Children, 800 734-6805 has a focus on healthy children and early childhood education.

Stop Child Molestation, Call 888 773-8368 to find out what to do about a potential child molester.

Toughlove, PO Box 1069, Doylestown, PA 18901. Send a self addressed stamped envelope for infomation about help for your children.

Your Time--Their Future is a national public education campaign developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Campaign urges adults to become involved in volunteering, mentoring, and other efforts that help young people, ages 7-to-14, participate in positive activities that build skills, self discipline, and competence.

CHILDREN OF AGING PARENTS : (CAPS), 1609 Woodburne Road, 302A, Levitown, PA 19057 provides a national directory of support groups for caregivers of the elderly. 215 945-6900, 800 227-7294. Individual membership is $20 per year and includes a bi-monthly newsletter.

CHIROPRACTIC: American Chiropractic Association, 800 986-4636 has information about chiropractic health care.

CHOLESTEROL: The National Cholesterol Education Program has information on eating right. 800 575-WELL. A service of the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services

CHOKING: Stop the Choking Game- info on this terrible activity by children and teens

CFIDS Association, PO Box 220398, Charlotte NC, 28222, 804 362 CFID, 800 44 CFIDS funds research, has information, publications

Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Association of America, 800 442-3437 is a patient advocacy group that can refer to support groups and has free information.

National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Association, 818 313-2000 is a non profit organization that has general information and uses volunteers to answer questions.

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bldg. 31, Room 7A32, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 , 301 496-5717

National Institute of Mental Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857 301 443-4513

CHRONIC ILLNESS NET: The site covers chronic illnesses including AIDS, cancer, Persian Gulf War Syndrome, autoimmune diseases, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, heart disease and neurological diseases. This site speaks to many different people--researchers, patients, laypeople, and physicians, etc.

Chronic Illness/Pain Support Serves people who live with chronic illness or pain, caregivers and churches, through programs and resources in a Christian environment,including newsletters, daily devotionals, chat and Bible studies.

CIRCUMCISION: National Organization of Circumcision Information Resource Center, PO Box 2512, San Anselmo, CA 94979, 415 488-9883 has information and publications

CIVIL LIBERTIES: The National Task Force on Civil Liberties in the Workplace can explain state privacy laws and advise you about legal claims. 212 944-9800

CLAUSTROPHOBIA: National Institute of Mental Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857 301 443-4513

CLEFT PALATE: American Cleft Palate Association, University of Pittsburgh, 1218 Grandview Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15211, 800 242-5338 has list of plastic surgeons, dentists and speech pathologists but does not make referrals. Information and referrals to support groups

This site- Center Watch Clinical Trials Lising Service: - is designed to be a resource both for patients interested in participating in clinical trials and for research professionals. A wealth of links and info on cardiology, oncology, neurology, pediatrics, AIDS, Alzheimers, Migraine Headaches and much, much more.

Clinical Trials, from the National Library of Medicine is a free database of 4,000 studies and 47,000 sites nationally

CLOSE CAPTIONING: National Captioning Institute, 1900 Gallows Road, Vienna, VA 22182, 800 533-9673 and 800 950-0958 for the deaf and speech impaired.

American Education Excellence Organization, US Channel of Commerce for Higher Education, Box 127, Rule, Texas, 79547, has a list of over 400 scholarships. Send $1 with a stamped addressed envelope.

The College Board, 45 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, 212 713-8150 has numerous publications

Educational Communications Scholarship Foundation, 721 N. McKinley Road, PO Box 5012, Lake forest, IL 60045-5012

Octomeron Associates, PO Box 2748, Alexandria, VA 22301. $8.75. Many publications on college aid

Student Loan Marketing Association, (Sallie Mae), 1025 Thomas Jefferson St. NW, Washington, DC 20007, 202 333-8000, 800 806-3679 will provide, for free, guidance and information about loans, aids packages, deadlines, etc.

T Rowe Price 800 638-5660. Free guide, "Paying for College: A Step by Step College Planning Guide". Check other large mutual fund families

US Department of Education, Federal Student Aid, Information Center, PO Box 84, Washington, DC 20044; 800 433-3243, has information about college financial aid, student loans, grants, work study programs, etc.

COMMUNITY CARE RETIREMENT FACILITIES: Commission at 1129 20th Street NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20036-3489.

CONSERVATORSHIP: the Alameda County Bar Association, 360 22nd St. Suite 800, Oakland, CA 94612 has a video called "With Heart: Understanding Conservatorship" for $59.95.

CONSUMER INFORMATION CENTER: Catalog Request Dept, Pueblo, CO 81009, 719 948-3334. Over 200 free or low cost booklets on Medicare, health care and other issues, etc. An excellent of unbiased information. Recommended.

CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION: Washington, DC, 20207, 301 504-0580, 800 638-2772. You can report a dangerous product or a product-related injury.

CONTINUING CARE ACCREDITATION COMMISSION: 901 E St. NW, Ste. 500, Washington, DC 20004 offers the "Accredited Facilities List".

Association for Voluntary Surgical Contraception, 79 Madison Ave. New York, NY 10016, 212 561-8000 has information and publications on male and female sterilization

Family of the Americas Foundation, PO Box 1170, Dunkirk, MD 20754, 301 627-3346, 800 443-3395 offers sex education to teenagers and has publications

Human Life International, 301 670-7884 has extensive publications on birth control

COPYRIGHT: Copyright Office, Public Information Office, 202 707-3000 provides copyright information and borchures.

CORD BLOOD FOUNDATION AND REGISTRY: The use of blood from the umbilical cord can be used to treat Hodgkin's disease, sickel cell anemia, luekemia and more. 888 267-3256

Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation. Jason P. Krug, Special Programs Coordinator, Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation 302 West Main Street # 100, Avon, CT 06001-3681, 800-753-2357, 860-676-8166, fax: 860-676-8337 has info on the birth defects caused by CDLS. Referrals

COSMETICS: Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Division of Colors and Cosmetics, 200 C Street SW, Washington, DC 20204, offers advise and information on adverse reactions to cosmetics.

CBI/Equifax, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374, (800) 685-1111, $8 in most states

Trans Union, 1561 E. Orangethorpe Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92631-5207, (800) 858-8336

Consumer Credit Counseling Service, 800 388-2227 has 1200 national offices that help you set a budget and negotiate with creditors. General counseling is free, other services cost about $9 a month.

Debtors Anonymous, General Service Office, PO Box 920888, Needham, MA 02492-0009, 781-453-2743, is a support group that has meetings in major cities across the country.

Debt Counselors of America is the nation's first non-profit, Internet-based debt counseling agency. Information designed to help consumers solve their credit and financial problems, including publications, free software, and answers to individuals' credit questions

Debt Relief Institute, 611 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Ste 020, Washington, DC 20003-4303 has forms to help you assess your financial situation. Fill them out, send to the institute and they provide a proposal to potentially solve the problems. $5.00 to the Debt Relief Kit Offer

The Federal Reserve System, Publications Services, Mail Stop 127, Board of Governors, Federal Reserve System, Washington, DC 20551, has a bi-annual publication "Shop: The Card You Pick Can save You Money" and includes information on fees, interest rates and grace periods.

The National Foundation for Consumer Credit (NFCC) is a network of 1450 non-profit agencies that provide money management education, confidential budget, credit, and debt counseling, and debt repayment plans for both individuals and families. 800 388-2227 They can negotiate with credit card companies to design budgets and repayment plans. But since it's backed by the credit card companies, it may appear on your credit record.

CREDIT UNIONS: National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund, 1776 G. Street, NW, Washington, DC 20456, 202 682-9640. Guarantees depositors up to $100,000

CREMATION: The Internet Cremation Society is an organization that screens cremation service providers throughout the U.S. and Canada and selects just one per geographic region to be included in its on-line listing. Each society's prices are among the lowest available in its area and most service the entire state in which they operate.

CREUTZFELDT-JACOB: disease is a rare neurological disorder. The symptoms of CJD include severe dementia (mental deterioration), incoordination, and muscle twitching or jerking. The link goes to a grass roots organization that provides all sorts of information and opportunities for families to interact with others who have with the disease.

CRIME: Youth Crime Watch of America, 305 670-2409 helps teens and adults set up crime watch programs in schools and communities.

CROHN's and COLITIS: Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, 444 Park Ave. South, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10016-7374, 212 685-3440, 800 932-2423 is a support group for the disease that can effect the entire alimentary tract. Referrals and information

Cystic Fibrosis Associates, 6931 Arlington #200, Bethesda, MD 20814, 800 FIGHT CF. Information, publications, referrals to local facilities, provides a money saving pharmacy.

Association for Death Education & Counseling 860-586-7503, 638 Prospect Ave., Hartford, CT 06105. ADEC is dedicated to improving the quality of death education and death related counseling and caregiving.

Soros Foundation: Project on Death in America The Project on Death in America seeks to transform the culture of dying by supporting initiatives in research, scholarship, the humanities, and the arts, and by fostering innovation in the provision of care, public and professional education, and public policy.

DENTAL:

American Association of Orthodontists, 460 N. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141, 800 222-9969, has info on orthodontic treatments and referrals.

American Dental Association, 211 East Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611, 312 440-2500, 800 621-8099, sponsors research, has information and publications

National Institute of Dental Research, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bldg. 31, Room 2C35, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-4261 provides information and numerous publications.

DEPRESSION: Note that while this heading focuses on depression, the groups below may be able to help in many many areas affecting children, adults and the elderly. Do not hesitate to call for assistance.

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Washington, DC 202 966-7300. Information and publications

American Psychiatric Association, 1400 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202 682-6220

American Society for Adolescent Psychiatry, 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301 718-6502, 800 899-6338. Information and publications

Covenant House Nineline: 800 999-9999. Crisis intervention, referral and information for troubled teens and families

Depression: This site is Internet's central clearing house for information on all types of depressive disorders and on the most effective treatments for individuals suffering from Major Depression, Manic-Depression (Bipolar Disorder), Cyclothymia, Dysthymia and other mood disorders.

Depression Awareness, Recognition and Treatment Program, Room L, Rockville, MD 20857

Depression questionnaire: Go to Mind Health to see if you have the clinical signs for depression. A clinical pyshiatrist at UCLA found the on line tests as effective as two standard depression diagnostic instruments.

Depression and Related Affective Disorders Association, John Hopkins Hospital, 601 North Wolfe St. Baltimore, MD, 21205, 301 987-4647. Publications

Families Anonymous: 800 736-9805. Support for friends and family concerned about a loved one's drug or alcohol use

The Geriatric Psychiatry Alliance, 888 664-6444, has a brochure called Depression in Late Life. Free.

Depressive and Manic Depressive Association, 730 N. Franklin Street, Suite 501, Chicago, Ill, 60610, 312 642-0049, 800 950-6264, has a list of local support groups, information and publications

National Foundation for Depressive Illness, PO Box 2257, New York, NY 10116, 800 248-4344. Information and referrals to support groups

National Institute of Mental Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857 301 443-4513, 800 969-6642

National Runaway Switchboard: 800 621-4000 has a 24 hour hotline for runaway and homeless youth and their families

Teen Help Adolescent Resources: 800 400-0900. Refers struggling teens to long term residential programs

Recovery, Inc. 802 N. Dearborn, Chicago, IL 60610 can help people cope with depression from various causes. Local meetings. Send a self addressed stamped envelope for more information

Youth Crisis Hotline: 800 448-4633. Counseling and referrals for teens in crisisThe National

AARP Fulfillment (EE0713), PO Box 22796, Long Beach, CA 90801-5796 and request Backgrounder: Depression in Later Life (D14220) or If You're Over 65 and Feeling Depressed (D14862).

The Depressive Awareness, Recognition and Treatment Program and the National Institute of Mental Health has a free booklet, If You're over 65 and Feeling Depressed.Also has list of local support groups. National Institute of Mental Health, American Psychiatric Association, Dept. DE, 1400 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005, 24 hour hot line at 800 421-4211

The Oregon State University Extension Services has a 34 page booklet, Depression in Later Life: Recognition and Treatment for $1.50. Write to OSU, #PNW347, Publications Orders, Dept. P, Agricultural Communications, Administration Services, Room A422, Corvalis, Oregon, 97331-2119

DERMATOLOGY: American Academy of Dermatology, 930 North Mecham Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173-0230, 847 33-0230 provides publications, information and referrals.

DES: It is now known that DES (diethylstilbestrol) exposure is related to health problems in the children of the women who took it, and in the women themselves. If you were exposed to DES, you may need special health care.

The American Society on Aging has debuted the newest educational module in its "Live Well, Live Long" website. Titled "Diabetes Prevention and Management: Small Steps With Big Rewards," this vital resource for professionals serving elders is available free online. Created in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Diabetes Education Program, it contains information and tools to meet the challenge of preventing and managing diabetes in older adults. The new online module offers a nuts-and-bolts approach to developing successful programs: All the tools a provider needs to support older adults in preventing or managing diabetes are in this one, user-friendly resource."

American Association of Diabetes Educators, 444 North Michigan Ave., Ste. 1240, Chicago, IL 60611, 312 661-1700, 800 832-6874 counsels those who have diabetes about managing the disease. Provides referrals to a diabetes educator near you.

The American Diabetes Association, 1660 Duke St., Alexandria, VA 22314, 800 342-2383, has publications, offers educational seminars, special camps for kids and support groups.

Children with Diabetes All kinds of info and other links for insulin dependent diabetics.

Diabetes Prevention Program National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse 888 377-5646 is a nationwide study. Volunteers get free medical care and help with diet and exercise.

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, 8600 NW 53rd Terrace, Ste 202, Miami, FL 33166, 304 477-3437, 800 321-3437 provides specialized patient care, education for patients and families, and other information.

National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, 1 Information Way, Bethesda, MD 20892-3560, 301 468-2162 has publications and acts as a resource and local referral service for those that have diabetes, their caregivers and medical professionals.

National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bldg. 31, Room 9A04, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-5133

Tele-Library, 800 847-SCAN us a hot line for diabetes and self monitoring information

DIARRHEA: Diarrhea Prevention and Control, National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, PO Box NDDIC, Bethesda, MD 301 468-6344. Information and publications

DIET:
The American Dietetic Association, 216 West Jackson Blvd., Ste. 800, Chicago, IL 60606-6995 offers the Consumer Nutrition Hotline offering answers to particular questions, publications, etc. 800 366-1655

The AICR (American Institute for Cancer Research) has free information on nutrition and how your diet is affecting your health by calling 800 843-8114

International Food Information Council, 1100 Connecticut Ave. NW, Ste. 430, Washington, DC 20036 202 296-6540 has information and publications

Human Nutrition Information Service, Room 325A, Federal Building, Hyattsville, MD 20782, 301 436-8498 has information and publications including Dietary Guidelines for Americans

National Heart Savers Association, 4601 S. 76th St., Omaha, NE 68127, 402 339-3813, promotes heart health by focusing on the dangers of a high fat and cholestoreol diet. Offers public health screenings.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has The Obesity, Eating Disorders and Energy Regulation Program, 301496-5133.

"Dietary Guidelines for Americans", Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81002. They have many other booklets on the subject.

Chron's and Colitis Foundation, 444 Park Ave South, NEY, NY 10018, 800 343-3637 provides info on digestive diseases and diagnosis and treatment.

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, Box NNDIC, Bethesda, MD 20892 301 468-6344 acts as an information and local referral service for those that have disorders of the digestive tract.

Accent on Information, PO Box 700, Bloomington, IL 61702, 309 378-2961 has information and publications to help the disabled live more effective lives.

Accessibility Information Center, National Center for a Barrier Free Environment, 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Ste 1006, Washington, DC 20036

American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association, 717 Pendleton St., Alexandria, VA 22314, 703 836-7116

The Arc- The Arc is the national organization of and for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families. It is devoted to promoting and improving supports and services for people with mental retardation and their families. The association also fosters research and education regarding the prevention of mental retardation in infants and young children.

Association of Birth Defect Children, Orlando Executive Park, 5400 Diplomat Circle, Ste. 270, Orlando, FL 32801, 407 629-1466 provides information to all regarding birth defects and research in prosthetics, acts as support group.

Association for Persons with Severe Handicaps, 7010 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 206 523-8446 publishes much material for persons with severe handicaps. Makes referrals.

Center of Persons with Disabilities, Clearinghouse on Disability Information, US Department of Education, Switzer Bldg., Room 3132, Washington, DC 20202-2524, 202 205-8241 has information, referrals and publications

Devereux Foundation, 19 South Waterloo Road, Devon, PA 19333, 800 345-1292 provides information on treatment programs for children, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric, emotional, neurological and developmental handicaps.

DISABILITY: The government's "one stop" site for disability resources and services

HEALTH Resource Center, 202 939-9320, 800 544-3284 has information on post secondary education for the handicapped and learning disabled.

Jobs Accommodation Network, 800 526-7234 provides ideas for accommodating the disabled and handicapped in the workplace.

Mobility for the Disabled Info for the disabled on wheelchairs, ramps, medical equipment, and much more.

National Center for Youth with Disabilities, PO Box 721, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, 800 333-6293 provides information, referrals

National Council on Disability, 800 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC, 20008, 202 267-3846. Information and publications

National Information Clearinghouse for Infants with Disabilities and Life Threatening Conditions, 800 922-9234 makes referrals to support groups for financial, medical, legal and educational assistance for families with disabled children.

National Organization on Disability, 910 16th St. NW, Ste 600, Washington, DC 20006, 800 248-2253.

The One Shoe Crew, Georgia Hehr, R.N., 86 Clavela Ave.., Sacramento, CA 95828 is a national amputee group that has at least one support group in each state.

Wheelchairs/vans: Viewpoint Mobility is the maker of North America's wheelchair accessible minivan, the Vision™. The Vision™ is a rear-entry, lowered floor modification that is seamlessly engineered to make Daimler-Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors minivans as barrier-free as possible.

DIVERTICULITIS: The site lets people share their experience of diverticulitis and find some basic information on symptoms, treatment etc.

DOWN SYNDROME This is the original World Wide Web site composed of contributions from experienced professionals and knowledgeable parents who are subscribers to the Down Syndrome listserv and newsgroup.

National Down Syndrome Congress, 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Lane, Atlanta , CA 30328-1655, 800 232-NDSC has information and publications. Referrals

Down's Syndrome Society, National, 666 Broadway, New York, NY 10012, 212 460-9330, 800 221-4602, has information, publications and provides referrals

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institute of Health, Bldg. 31, Room 2A32, Bethesda, MD 301 496-5133

Gateway Foundation, 819 S. Wabash, Ste 30, Chicago, IL 312 663-1130 covers about five midwest states

National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers, 1 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Ste 860, Washington, DC 20001, 202 371-6731 has facilities, referrals, information and publications.

Cost Containment Research Institute, PD260, 611 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Ste 1010, Washington, DC has a booklet called "Free and Low Cost Prescription Drugs" for $3.00

Generic Pharmaceutical Industry Association, 1620 Eye St. NW, #800, Washington, DC 20006, 202 833-9070 has information and publications on generic medicines

Pharmaceutical Manufacturer's Association 800 762-4636 might provide assistance if you do not have insurance and cannot afford the cost of drugs. Ask your doctor to call.

The University of Maryland, Madeline Feinberg, Director, Elder Health Program, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 20 North Pine, Baltimore, Maryland, 21201 has several free brochures on the use of generic drugs, over the counter medications, vitamin and nutritional supplements, high cholesterol and even one on travel and medications. Send a self addressed stamped envelope.

Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD), 660 Airport Freeway, Ste 310, Hurst, Texas 76053, 817 268-MADD

Remove Intoxicated Drivers (RID), PO Box 520, Schenectady, NY 12301, 518 393-HELP has 154 chapters in 42 states.

Dwarfism Genetics Home Reference: Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, National Library of Medicine

Center for the Rights of the Terminally Ill, PO Box 54246, Hurst, TX, 76054-2064 817 656-5143 has information and publications.

Center to Improve Care of the Dying, offers education, advocacy and research, 202 467-2222. By the George Washington University Medical Center

Choices in Dying, Inc, 200 Varick St., New York, NY 10014, 800 989-WILL. This is the national council for the right to die. They distribute living will and health care proxy forms that conform to all 50 states, free of charge, with an instruction booklet explaining the peculiarities of each state's laws.

Compassion in Dying, offers counseling and reviews cases of inadequate pain management, 503 221-9556

Concern for Dying- Society for the Right to Die, 250 W 57th St. New York, NY 10107 212 246-6962. Information and publications

Hemlock Society USA, PO Box 11830, Eugene, OR 503 342-5748, 800 247-7421. Supports voluntary euthanasia. Information and publications.

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institute of Health, Bldg. 31, Room 2A32, Bethesda, MD 301 496-5133

National Institute of Deafness and other Communication Disorders, Bldg. 31, Room 3C35, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-7243, 800 241-1044

National Institute of Mental Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857 301 443-4513. Information and publications

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 301 496-5751. Information and publications

Orton Dyslexia Society, 800 ABCD-123 is a clearinghouse for information on Dyslexia. Provides information and publications

National Eating Disorder Hotline and Referral Service, 800 248-3285 offers referral service and information. Therapists can return calls if you need to speak to one.

Rader Institute for Adolescent and Adult Treatment of Eating Disorders, 800 255-1818, sets up free consultations for treatment of eating disorders. Publications.

EE BONDS: Savings Bond Questions and Answer Book, U.S. Savings Bond Marketing Office, Department of the Treasury, Washington, DC. 20226. If you just want to know the current rate, call 800 487-2663

ELDERHOSTEL: 75 Federal St. Boston, MA 02110-1941, 617 426-8056 offers over 1,800 low cost trips for seniors across the world. They stay at off season hotels, dormitories, convents, cottages or inns.

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, 1604 N. country Club Road, Tucson, AZ 85716, 520 881-4005. These attorneys specialize in the legal needs of older people.

National Senior Citizens Law Center, 777 S, Figueroa, #4230, Los Angeles, CA 90017, 212 236-3890 provides support on legal problems for the elderly poor. Information and publications.

ELDERLY HOTLINE: National Eldercare Locator Service, 800 677-1116 between 9-5 Monday through Friday. Give the name, address and zip code of the person to be assisted and a description of the service needed and the "Eldercare Locator" taps into its network of adult care centers, legal assistance, home health services and transportation options.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: These are programs designed and run by professionals to help employees and their families cope with problems of alcoholism, family discord, divorce, depression, financial difficulties, etc. For information, send a self addressed stampede envelope to EAPA, 2101 Wilson Blvd., Suite 500, Arlington, VA 222201.

ENDOMETREOSIS: Ednometriosis Association, 8585 North 76th Place, Milwaukee, WI 53223, 800 992-3636

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: The Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse, 800 363-3732, has free information on energy efficient appliances.

ENURESIS: American Enuresis Foundation, PO Box 54556, Tulsa, OK, 74155-0556. They provide individual programs tailored to help alleviate the problem.

Indoor Air Quality Clearinghouse, 800 438-4318, has information on indoor air quality

National Lead Information Center Hotline, 800 532-3394, has information about lead poisoning prevention. Referrals to state agencies

National Radon Hotline, 800 SOS-RADON, provides information on hour to detect and reduce radon in the home. Operated by National Safety Council

Safe Drinking Water Hotline, 800 426-4791 provides information on drinking water regulations. Makes referrals to other EPA organizations.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY: 401 M St. SW , Washington, DC 20460, 202 260-7751.

National EB Registry, c/o Madeline Weiner RN, 1 Boline Heights, Campus Box 3369, Chapel hILL, nc 27514-3369 OR

American Epilepsy Society, 638 Prospect Ave. Hartford, CT 01605, 203 232-4825. Information and publications

The Epilepsy Foundation of America, 800 332-1000, 301 459-3700 provides information, referrals and publications.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION: (EEOC) 1801 L St. NW, Washington, DC 20507, 202 663-4900, 800 669 EEOC is a federal agency to help prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin

EQUAL RIGHTS ADVOCATES: (ERA), 1663 Mission St., Ste 550, San Francisco, CA 94103, 415 621-0672. Women's national law center

ESCROW: The American Homeowners Association , 800 470-2242- has Homeowner's Escrow Refund Guide for $9.95 that might provide the insight you need to determine if your escrow fund account is overfunded, etc.

ESTATE PLANNING: This is a very detailed area and the attorneys associated with the organizations below have additional background and education in the field.

The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, 3415 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 460, Los Angeles, CA 90034, includes attorneys who must have practiced for at least 10 years in the field.

"Before I Go, You Should Know", a 20 page end of life planning kit by the Consumers Alliance 20 page booklet. It includes a state specified will and durable power of attorney for Health Care. Contains the brochure "Death Away from Home," a directory of U.S. funeral consumer groups, and a checklist of other important documents to store here (like military discharge papers). . $10 to Funeral Consumers Alliance, PO Box 10, Hinesburg, VT, 05461

National Association of Estate Planning Councils, 840 Kenneshaw Ave. #6, Marietta, GA 30060, 404 427-4930

The National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys, 410 17th St. Suite 1260, Denver, CO 80206, 800 638-8681

ETHICS: Joseph and Rose Kennedy Institute of Ethics, National Reference Center for Bioethics Literature, Georgetown University, 202 687-3885, 800 633-3849, provides free searches on bioethical topics.

The American Physical Therapy Association, PO Box 37527, Washington, DC 20013 has a booklet, For the Young at Heart: Exercise Tips for Seniors with a self addressed stamped envelope.

American Volkssport Association is an international walking organization. 800 830-WALK

The Cross Country Ski Areas Association, 259 Bolton Road, Winchester, New Hampshire, 03470 has information on how and where to do cross country skiing.

EXPORT-IMPORT: Export-Import Bank of the United States, 811 Vermont Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20571, 800 424-5201 provides information on everything from loans to insurance.

FAIR HOUSING: A representative can determine the amount of homeowners coverage and locate suitable insurers. 800 910-7315

Family Resource Coalition, 200 South Michigan Ave. Ste 1600, Chicago, IL 60604, 312 726-4750, represents community based family support organizations working to strengthen the family and the quality of child development. Publications

Motherless Daughters, Cherokee Station, Box 20710, New York, NY 10021-0074 provides support for women whose mothers have died. Send a stamped self addressed envelope for information.

LEAD LINE, 800 287-4763 offers unbiased information on a wide rage of problems- potty training, college programs, primarily as the relate to the hard of hearing.

National Association for Family Day Care, 1331-A Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Ste. 348, Washington, DC 20004, 602 838-3446, 800 359-3817. Operates national assessment and credentialling program for accreditation of family day care providers. Publications

Parents Without Partners, 401 Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611, 301 588-9354, 800 637-7974

United Families of America, 220 I Street NE, Ste 150, Washington, DC 20002, 202 546-1600 works to strengthen the family. Publications

FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT: 800 959-FMLA offers information to clarify the misunderstood law

FAMILY PHYSICIANS: American Academy of Family Physicians, 8880 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64114-2797, 800 274-2237 is a professional organization of family doctors that provides public education, referrals and has publications

FAMILY VIOLENCE PREVENTION FUND: 383 Rhode Island St. Ste 304, San Francisco, CA 91403, 415 252-8900, 800 777-1960

FAT: National Alliance to Advance Fat Acceptance, PO Box 18860, Sacramento, CA 95818, 916 558-6880, 800 442-1214. Seeks to improve quality of life for fat persons. Information, local chapters, publications.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION: 9th and Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20535, 202 324-3691

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION: 1919 m st. nw, Washington DC, 20554, 202 632-7000

FEDERAL COUNCIL OF AGING: A bi-partisan citizen committee charged with assisting the President on the special needs of older Americans. Contact FCof A, 330 Independence Ave. SW, Room 4280, Washington, DC 20201, 202 619-2451

FDIC/ FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION: Division of Compliance and Consumer Affairs, 550 W 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20429. 800 934-3342 or 202 898-3773. They can help on issues from deposit insurance to equal credit opportunity at banks. Write to them for their free booklet of "Insured or Not Insured". It will help you determine if your account qualifies for the $100,000 coverage.

FDIC Division of Compliance and Consumer Affairs, 550 17th St. NW, Washington, DC, 20429, 202 942-3100, 800 934-3342 has information about consumer protection.

Executive Office of the President, The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, DC, 20500 202 456-1414

Department of Agriculture, Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20500, 202 447-2791

Department of Commerce, Herbert Hoover Bldg., 14th ST. and Constitution Ave. Washington, DC, 20500 202 377-2000

Department of Education, 400 Maryland Ave. SW , Washington, DC 20202 202 708-5366

Department of Energy, James Foresal Bldg. 1000 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20585 202 586-5000

Department of Health and Human Services, Herbert Hoover Bldg., 14th ST. and Constitution Ave. Washington, DC, 20201 202 475-0257

Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD Bldg. 41 Seventh St. SW, Washington, DC 20410 202 708-1422

Department of the Interior, Interior Bldg. 18th & C Streets, Washington, DC 20240, 202 208-3100

Department of Justice, 10th St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20530, 202 514-2000

Department of Labor, Frances Perkins Bldg., 200 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20210 202 523-6666

Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh St. SW, Washington, DC 20590, 202 366-4000

Department of the Treasury, 1500 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20220 202 566-2000

Department of Veteran Affairs, 810 Veterans Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20420 202 233-4000

FEDERAL INFORMATION CENTER: 800 347-1997. Answers questions about any federal program or agency. Operated by the General Services Administration and researchers have said it is pretty reliable and accurate.

FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION: (FNMA or Fannie Mae) This organization provides mortgages for thousands. It has free publications on buying a house and selecting a mortgage and other information. 800 688-HOME. Information on reverse mortgages is available by calling 800 732-6643

FEDERAL RESERVE BANKS & BRANCHES: If you want to buy treasury bills, notes or bonds directly, contact the Treasury or Federal Reserve Bank to get forms and instructions.

Atlanta Securities Service Dept. 104 Marietta St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, 404 521-8653

Birmingham Box 830447, Birmingham, AL 35283 (1801 Fifth Ave. North) 205 731- 8708

Los Angeles Box 2077, Terminal Annex, Los Angeles, CA 90051 (950 S. Grand Ave.) 213 624-7398

New York Federal Reserve, P.O. Station, NY, NY 10045 (33 Liberty St.) 212 720- 6619

Oklahoma Box 25129, Oklahoma City, OK 73125 (226 Dean A. McGee Ave.) 405 270- 8652

Salt Lake City Box 30780, Salt Lake City, UT 84130 (120 S State St.) 801 32-7843

Seattle Securities Service Dept., Box 3567, Seattle, WA 98124 (1015 Second Ave.) 206 343-3605

FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM/FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD: Division of Consumer and Community Affairs, 20th St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20551; 202 452-3000

Public Reference Branch, Washington, DC 20580; 202 326-222. Has brochures on preventing credit problems and financial fraud.

FEET: American Podiatric Medical Association, 9312 Old Georgetown Rd., Bethesda, MD 20814, 301 571-9200, 800 FOOTCARE has free information and publications

Fibromyalgia Alliance of America, PO Box 21990, Columbus, Ohio, 43221-0990, 888 717-6711.

Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome A resource for those wanting to learn about fibromyalgia or learn how to fight the disease. Contains over eighty articles on fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Certified Financial Planners: Two Denver Highlands, 10065 East Harvard Ave., Suite 320, Denver, CO 80231

Chartered Financial Consultants: American College of CLU & ChFC, 270 Bryn Mawr, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, 215 526-1000

Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. 4200 Wilson Blvd. 8th floor, Arlington, VA 22203, 703 276-0100 has information on how to select a financial planner, brokers and many other subjects.

FIRE PREVENTION: National Fire Prevention Association, 800 344-3555. Develops fire prevention codes, and provides information on fire prevention, firefighting procedures and fire safety.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, PO Box 70274, Washington DC, 20024, Att: Publications, offers a free booklet about what to do when flooding occurs. 202 646-4600, 800 358-9616.

The National Flood Insurance Program in Baltimore publishes flood zone maps for the country. 800 358-9616. To purchase flood insurance, call 800 427-4661. Also check with your local city or county agencies.

FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION: 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857, 301 443-317 0, 800 422-6237 has information on many issues including mammograms

The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is a nonprofit education and advocacy organization that focuses on improving the safety and nutritional quality of our food supply and on reducing the carnage caused by alcoholic beverages.

FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Hotline, 800 332-4010, answers questions about food safety and specific illnesses caused by bacteria.

Meat and Poultry Hotline, 800 535-4555 provides hints on handling, preparation, storage and cooking of meat, poultry and eggs. Sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture.

National Food Safety Database has all the info on making sure that what you eat is safe. Part of the Department of Agriculture's Cooperative Extension Service

Fannie Mae (Federal National Mortgage Association), Box 13165, Baltimore, MD 21203

Resolution Trust Corporation (RTC) 800 431-0600 (May be out of business by time of printing)

FOSTER CHILDREN: Orphan Foundation of America, 800 950-4673, provides help for older foster children through education, scholarships, workshops.

National Fraud Exchange, (NAFEX), 800 822-0416, has a database of registered and unregistered financial advisors that includes articles, trade association files, legal histories and more. A searh costs $39 for the first name and $20 for each additional and is intended to bring up information not previously in other databases.

The National Fraud Information Center, 800 876-7060, provides numbers of local state and federal agencies and private non profit organizations to contact. One of their publications is "Telephone Scams and Older Consumers". Provides referrals to appropriate agencies

Each state has one or more contacts for fraud of all types- investments, auto repair, health fraud, etc. Many of the 800 numbers are toll free only within the state.

COMPETITIVE CASKETS INC. SELLS DIRECT TO PUBLIC AND DELIVERS ALL FUNERAL PRODUCT TO YOUR CHOICE OF FUNERAL HOME OR CHURCH, OR ADDRESS.

Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards, 15 Northeast 3rd Street, PO Box 497, Washington, Indiana 47501 812 254-7887. It represents licensing boards in 47 states and provides information on laws and accepts and responds to consumer inquiries or complaints about funeral providers.

Continental Association of Funeral and Memorial Services, 6900 Lost Lake Road, Egg Harbor, WI 54209, 800 458-5563. Has information, encourages cost efficiency and advance planning

Cremation Association of North America, 401 North Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60610, 312 644-6610. More than 750 members.

Direct Casket: 800 73-Casket. You can get a casket for a discount. Savings are reportedly up to 75%. The cheapest is around $300.

Funeral and Memorial Societies of America FAMSA ,6900 Lost Lake Rd. Egg Harbor, WI 54209, 414 868-3136 is an association of nonprofit consumer operated memorial societies for simplicity, dignity and economy in funeral arrangements. Information and referrals.

Funeral Service Consumer Assistance, Program National Research and Information Center, 2250 E. Devon Ave. Ste 250, Des Plaines, IL 60018, 800 662-7666. Designed to help assisting consumers and funeral directors with disagreements.

International Order of the Golden Rule, PO Box 3586, Springfield, IL 62708, 217 793-3322, approximately 1,500 members by invitation only

Jewish Funeral Directors of America, Inc., 250 West 57th Street, #2329, New York, NY 101097, 212 582-9744. Approximately 200 members

National Funeral Directors Association, 11121 West Oklahoma Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53227, 414 541-2500. Largest education and professional association with about 14,000 members. Information and brochures.

National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, 1800 East Linwood Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64109 816 921-1800. About 2,000 of black funeral providers.

National Selected Morticians, 1616 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201, 708 475-3414, Free information. Members must comply with Code of Good Funeral Practice. Publications and information

Pre Arrangement Association of America, 6321 Bury Drive, Ste 8, Eden Prairie, MN 55346, 612 937-5879. Approximately 400 members with primary focus to provide pre arrangement purchases of funeral goods and services.

VIRTUAL CEMETERIES: Depression, guilt, grief, frustration- literally every emotion impacts us when a loved on dies. The internet has fostered some online graveyards where the bereaved can leave messages for the deceased, place virtual flowers, flowers- even videos. Not only can they be a source of direct comfort, but they are also a method where out of state mourners can pay respects. Here is the site for the World Wide Cemetery and Virtual Memorials and another for the Virtual Pet Cemetery .

Gam ANON International Service Office, PO Box 157, Whitestone, NY 11557, 718 352-1671. Referrals to local groups, information and publications

Gamblers Anonymous, PO Box 17173, Los Angeles, CA 90010, 213 386-8789, 800 287-8670. Has information, publications and referrals to local groups.

Gay and Lesbian Switchboard, 212 777-1800 provides legal referrals, counseling and other information.

Gay Men's Health Crisis: 129 West 20 Street, New York, NY 10011, 212 807-6664; 212 337-1950. Information and publications

International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, 540 Castro Street, San Francisco, ca 94114 415 255-8689 monitors human rights for gays and lesbians internationally

Lesbian and Gay Community Services Center, 208 West 13th St. New York, NY 10011, 212 620-7310

National Center for Lesbian Rights 415 621-0674. Has information and publications

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, 1734 14th St. NW, Washington, DC 20009-4309, 202 332-6483 provides lobbying, has information and publications.

Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays( PFLAG), 1726 M St. NW, Ste 400, Washington, DC 20036, 202 638-4200 has over 300 local chapters worldwide that promotes health and well being of gay, lesbian and bisexual persons, their families and friends.

National Genetics Federation, 180 West 58th Street, New York, NY 10019, 212 245-7443 acts as a clearinghouse for information, analysis. Offers referrals and has publications.

National Society of Genetic Counselors, Dept. P, 223 Cantebury Drive, Wallingford, PA 19086 offers a one to two hour evaluation for $300.

GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA: 1275 K St. NW, Suite 350, Washington, DC 20005, 202-842-1275, Fax: 202-842-1150

GIRLS: Women's College Coalition, 202 234-0443, Operation Smart Girls, 212 689-3700, Girls Count, 508 287-4485, National Coalition of Girls Schools, 508 287-4485. Many young girls do not take advantage of their educational opportunities. For information that might help them, contact the above organizations

The Glaucoma Foundation hotline, 800 GLAUCOMA, provides free information and referrals to eye care specialists.

Office Consumer Affairs, Food and Drug Administration, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20858 301 443-3170. Information and publications

GLUTEN INTOLERANCE: Gluten Intolerance Group of North America, PO Box 23053, Seattle, WA 98102-0353, 206 325-6980 offers children's services, provides counseling, information and publications.

AARP Grandparent Information Center, 601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049, 202 434-2296

Foster Grandparents, 800 424-8867, has 24,000 foster grandparents who are serving 80,000 children and teenagers.

Grandparents/Children's Rights, 5728 Bayone Ave. Haslett, MI 48840, 517 339-8663 protects the rights of grandparents and children to have access to each other

Grandparents United for Children's Rights, 137 Larking St. Madison, WI 53705 also works with the National Coalition of Grandparents (same address). 608 238-8751

National Coalition of Grandparents, 137 Larkin St. Madison, Wis 53705, 608 238-8751 has info on state laws regarding grandparent rights and a list of attorneys.

ROCKING (Raising Our Children's Kids: An Intergenerational Network of Grandparenting) links custodial grandparents with support groups. Four informational booklets are available for $2 (7/95) to Rocking, Inc., PO Box 96, Niles, MI 49120.

GRAY PANTHERS PROJECT FUND: 1424 16th St. NW, Ste 602, Washington, DC 20036 202 387-3111 seeks to change laws and attitudes that discriminates against people due to age.

GRIEF: Grief Recovery Hotline, 800 445-4808 provides counseling services on coping with loss.

Virtual Cemeteries: Depression, guilt, grief, frustration- literally every emotion impacts us when a loved on dies. The internet has fostered some online graveyards where the bereaved can leave messages for the deceased, place virtual flowers, flowers- even videos. Not only can they be a source of direct comfort, but they are also a method where out of state mourners can pay respects. Here is the site for the World Wide Cemetery and Virtual Memorials and another for the Virtual Pet Cemetery .

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF AMERICA: 9200 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, Maryland 20814-3896, 301 530-6500

GAP Grandparents as Parents, P.O. Box 964, Lakewood, CA 90714 (provide a long self addressed stamped envelope for info.)Facilitates the sharing of experiences and feeling s among grandparents raising their grandchildren.

GRANDPARENTS INFORMATION CENTER: 601 E St. SW, Washington, DC 20049. A service of AARP also refers custodial grandparents to support groups nationwide, publications, financial assistance and advocacy.

AARP Widowed Persons Service (202 434-2260) can help a person cope with the loss of a loved one.

Grief Recovery Institute, 800 445-4808, provides counseling services on coping with a loss.

HAIR LOSS: Alopecia Areata Foundations, 710 C. St. Ste. 111, San Rafael, CA 94901

415 456-4644 has support groups and information for people who have suffered permanent hair loss

HANDGUN VIOLENCE: Center to Prevent Handgun Violence, STOP Parent Brochure, 1225 Eye St NW, Ste 1100, Washington, DC 20005, 202 289-7319 offers a free brochure, "Keep Your Family Safe from Firearm Injury". Send a self addressed stamped business envelope.

Americans with Disabilities Act Information Line, 800 514-0301, provides information to individuals, businesses, etc. on disability and has publications.

Health Resource Center, 800 544-3284, is a national clearinghouse for people with disabilities who seek education and training after high school. Information and publications

National Center for Youths with Disabilities, 800 333-6293, 612 626-2825, has information and resources regarding adolescents with chronic disabilities. Publications.

Paralyzed Veterans of American, 800 424-8200, provides a brochure stating the rights of the disabled air passenger.

Cleo, Inc, 3957 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH 44121, 800 321-0595 has a selection of aids and self help devices.

National Headache Foundation, 5252 North Western Ave, Chicago, Il 60625, 800 843-2256 is an information resource for headache sufferers. Promotes research, educates the public and has publications

HEAD INJURY: National Head Injury Foundation, 1776 Massachusetts Ave NW, Ste 100, Washington, DC 20036. The National Head and Brain Injury Family Helpline, 800 444-6443 provides assistance to families and head and brain injured victims.

American Association of Health Plans, AAHP, 1129 20th ST. NW, Washingtoin, DC 20036, 202 778-3200. You can check with them to see if your plan is accredited by them.

American Health Information Management Association, 800 335-5535, PO Box 700, Park Ridge, IL 60068-0700 has a booklet "Your Health Information Belongs to You" which refers to your rights to receive information on your medical history.

CDC AIDS and Diseases fax information service 404 332-4565. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has numerous documents on all types of diseases.

Center for Patient Advocacy, 1350 Beverly Rd. Ste 108, McLean, VA 22101, 800 846-7444 provides assistance to people having problems with their managed care plan

Families USA, 800 699-6960, is a non profit organization that has been fighting to improve America's health and long term care system for more than a decade. Information and publications.

FREE HEALTH INSURANCE FOR THE DISADVANTAGED: PSI is a non-profit charitable organization, primarily dedicated to subsidizing the high cost of health insurance premiums and co-payments for persons with specific chronic illnesses and rare disorders. Families requiring assistance in maintaining the high cost of their health insurance premiums or co-payments are offered assistance based upon the severity of medical and financial need.

Health Care Education Associates at 714 240-2179 has "AIDS and Aging- What People Over 50 Need to Know".

Healthfinder Consumer healthcare information from the U.S. Government, with selected online publications, databases, web sites and support groups.

ODPHP National Health Information Center, PO Box 1133, Washington, DC 20013-1133 800 336-4797 is a referral service where they can direct you to the appropriate organization.

UC Berkeley Wellness Letteris rated the No 1 newsletter on preventative medicine. Send $15 for one year trial subscription to PO Box 420148, Palm Coast. FL, 32142

HEALTH CARE COST HOTLINE: To get data on medical and dental services in your zip code, you can call at 800 383-3434. They help determine if you are paying too much. Average inquiry cost is $6.00.

HEALTH INSURANCE: Health Insurance Association of America, 1025 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 202 223-7780 can answer questions on your health insurance.

Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA), 800 638-6833 has information about Medicare and Managed Care.

Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, One Renaissance Blvd. Oakbrook Terrace, IL 80181, 630 792-5800 has a brochure "Helping You Choose a Quality Health Plan". Information

National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) at 202 628-5788, 800 839-6478. They offer a list of accredited HMO's and accreditation summary reports. They also have "Choosing Quality: Finding the Health Plan That's Right for You" by sending a self addressed stamped envelope to NCQA Publications, PO Box 533, Annapolis Junction, MD 20701-0533

The Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf has a speech and hearing checklist. Send a self addressed envelope to 3417 Volta Plave NW, Washington, DC 20007

American Hearing Research Foundation, 55 East Washington St. Chicago, IL 60602 312 726-9670

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), 10801 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852,, 800 638-8255 (except MD), 301 897-8682 (Maryland)

American Tinnitus Association, PO Box 5, Portland, OR 97207-0005, 503 248-9985, 800 634-8978. Publications and support groups, supports research.

Better Hearing Institute, PO Box 1840, Washington, DC 20013, 800 327-9355 educates the public about the problems with uncorrected hearing loss and available medical, surgical hearing aid and rehabilitation assistance. Publications

Dial-a-Hearing Screening Test, 800 222-3277, has information and makes referrals to local numbers for a two minute hearing test. Referrals to local organizations.

Hearing Aid Helpline, 20361 Middlebelt Rd., Livonia, MI 48152, 800 521-5247. Information and publications.

Hear Now, 9745 E. Hampden Ave., Suite 300, Denver, CO 80231-4923, 800 648-4327, accepts old hearing aids that it recycles for low income children and adults.

International Hearing Society, 20361 Middlebelt, Livonia, MI 48152, 313 478-2610, Hearing aid Helpline 800 521-5247. Information, possible financial aid, publications

Lead Line, 800 352-8888 has information on deafness and raising and educating a deaf child. Referrals to parents, professionals and resources

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders Clearinghouse, Information Office, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 496-7243, 800 241-1044, 800 241-1055 (TTY) provides information about hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech, and language.

Self Help for Hard of Hearing People, Inc., 7800 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, MD 20814, 301 657-2248 (voice) or 301 657-2249 (TDD, Telecommunications Display Device) offers chapters nationwide and information and publications.

Tinnitus : Ringing in the ears is a common problem that affects about 17% of the general population around the world and about 44 million people in the USA. It causes significant suffering in about 4% of the general population (10 million in the USA). This site by Pawel J. Jastreboff, Ph.D., Sc.D. of the University of Maryland Tinnitus & Hyperacusis Center provides information, new treatment techniques and more.

Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 122 South Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603-6107 is a professional organization of psychiatrists who are doctors specializing in physical rehabilitation.

Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, PO Box 8547, Silver Spring, MD 20907, has numerous publications available by calling 800 358-9295 or writing to AHCPR Publications Clearinghouse.

American Heart Association, 7320 Greenville Ave., Dallas TX 75231, 214 373-6300 is the nation's largest voluntary organization that funds research and sponsors public education programs. The Stroke Connection of the AHA may be contacted directly at 800 553-6321. Get a free publication, Getting to the Heart of the Family: Know Your Risk for Heart Disease and Stroke by calling 800 332-2253

Heart Disease Research Foundation, 50 Court St., Brooklyn, NY, 11201, 718 649-6210 is engaged in trying to prevent heart disease through education, early diagnosis and treatment. Answers questions for patients and professionals.

Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National, Information Center, 4733 Bethesda Ave. Ste 530, Bethesda, MD 20814 301 951-3260 is the government's principal agency for research on diseases of the blood, heart and lungs. Dial 800 575-WELL for recorded information on cholesterol and high blood pressure. You can leave your name and address to receive written information.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Office of Scientific and Health Reports, Building 31, Room 8A06, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 301 496-5751 is the government's principal organization for research and information on neurological diseases including stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease.

National Rehabilitation Information Center, 8455 Colesville Rd.., Suite 935, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3319, 800 346-2742 provides information about disabilities and rehabilitation.

National Stroke Association, 300 East Hampden Ave., Englewood, CO 80110, 800 787-6537 is the only national organization that focuses solely on stroke prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. Publications.

Cardiac Rehabilitation, Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) Publication Clearinghouse, PO Box 8547, Silver Spring, MD 20907, 800 358-9295 has free patient guides, Recovering from Heart Problems through Cardiac Rehabilitation and "Living with Heart Disease: Is it Heart Failure? Parent and Family Guide" and others.

The Alliance of Aging Research and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute has a brochure on Congestive Heart Failure called "It's Time for a Heart to Heart", 800 497-0360

HEMOPHILIA: National Hemophilia Foundation, 110 Green St., Room 203, New York, NY 10012, 212 219 8100 provides information and support

The Hepatitis C Foundation (HCF) is a non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to providing support and education to patients and their families dealing with the disease.

HEREDITARY DISEASES: Hereditary Disease Foundation, 1427 Seventh St., Ste 2, Santa Monica, CA 90401 is a resource is you have concerns about an inherited disease. It has the distinction of spending less that 1% of each dollar for promotion, salary and office expense.

The American Social Health Association can provide information on Herpes by calling 800 230-6039 or write their Herpes Resource Center at ASHA/HRC, Dept. PR45, PO Box 13827, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709. The Hotline number is 877 478-5868 between 5 pm and 10 pm Monday through Friday

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bldg. 31, Room 7A32, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 , 301 496-5717, offers general information on Herpes I and II

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Dept P, PO Box 1420, Arlingtoin, VA 22210-1420. Send a self addressed stamped envelope for a free booklet, "Shopping for a Safer Car".

Foundation for Hospice and Home Care, 519 C Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, 202 547-7424 is dedicated to helping people maintain care in their home as long as possible as an alternative to institutional care.

National Association of Home Care, 519 C Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, 202 547-7424 represents a variety of agencies that provide home health services. Publications

National League for Nursing, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019-1350, 212 989-9393, 800 669-1656 accredits home health care agencies, nursing homes and community health programs. Publications.

The American Society of Home Inspectors at 800 743-2744 can tell you if the inspector is a member of its group. It has standards of practice, continuing education and a code of ethics. Also check, if available, with your state's Contractors Licensing Board. They should be licensed.

Amerispec, 1141 Lake Cook Drive, Suite C-1, Deerfield, IL, 60015, 800 909-8090 has a free guide "Home Inspection Guide for Buyers and Sellers'

HOMELESSNESS: National Resource Center on Homelessness and Mental Illness 800 444-7415, provides information regarding the treatment, services and housing needs of the homeless with sever mental illnesses. Publications

HOME REPAIR DIRECTORY: The Consumer Education Research, 800 872-0121 has the "Consumers Guide to Home Repair Grants and Subsidized Loans". For a list of over 7,000 sources of loans and grant programs offered by government, utility companies, etc., send $18.95.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE INFORMATION: National Insurance Consumer Hotline 800 942-4242

American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine 800-371-2349, The international organization of physicians dedicated to the advancement of palliative medicine in the management of patients with terminal illness. Includes information on Certification in Hospice and Palliative Medicine administered by the American Board of Hospice and Palliative Medicine

Children's Hospice International, 800 242-4453, 703 684-0330, provides information and referrals to children's hospices. Offers support for children and their families and does research, provides technical assistance, etc. Publications

Hospice Association of America in Washington, 228 7th Street, SE, Washington DC 20003, 202-546-4759 DC at 202 546-4759

Hospice Education Institute in Essex, Conn, 203 767-1620, 800 331-1620 has information and makes referrals to local programs.

National Hospice Organization, 1901 North Moore St., Suite 901, Arlington, VA 22209, 703 243-5900, 800 658-8898 has volunteers with special training in care for patients and families before, during and after the death of a patient.

"Hospice Benefits under Medicare" Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81002. Free. always check with CIC for their extended material.

HOSPITAL BILLS: Some people are overcharged on medical bills and may need help in deciphering what they really have to pay. Here are some firms that can review the bills and possibly get rebates. Note that charges are involved so call several and compare services and fees. Remember, however, that if the bill is under Medicare and you disagree with charges, the normal consensus is that you always appeal. AARP has forms to help with this an you may not need to engage someone else.

Diversified Healthcare Information, 615 781-4213, analyzes bills up to $20,000 for $45. Direct negotiations with hospital or insurer cost extra.

Family Management Services, 703 352-4582 charges $609 per hour or 40% of savings.

MedReview, 800 397-5359. Sample fees are $100 for a $10,000 bill; $15 for a small doctor bill

National Association of Claims Assistance Professionals, 708 963-3500 refiles claims denied by insurers. Directs to closest auditors.

HOTEL DISCOUNTERS: If you travel frequently to major cities, a discounter attempts to get you a room well below the standard rack rate.

HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT/HUD: 451 7th St. SW, Washington, DC 20410, 202 708-1420, 800 669-9777, has information on fair housing and many federal programs including 203K, etc.

HOUSING FOR SENIORS: The Consumer Housing Information Service for Seniors (CHSS) provides information regarding options for the renter or homeowner.

HUMOR: Humor may be able to help in healing. "Laughter boosts activity of body cells that attack tumor cells and viruses". Click for the Web Site by the American Association for Therapeutic Humor

World Hunger Year, 505 Eighth Ave., 21st Floor, New York, NY 10018, 800 548-6479

Bread for Our World, 1100 Wayne Ave., Ste 1000, Silver Spring, MD 20910, 301 608-2400

Huntington's Disease Research, Department of Medical Genetics, Indiana University Medical School, Medical Research Bldg., 975 W. Walnut St., Indianapolis, IN 46202-5251

HYPOTHERMIA: National Institute for Aging, 2209 Distribution Circle, Silver Spring, MD 301 495-3455, 800 222-2225. Information and publications.

Hysterectomy Education Resources and Services Foundation, 422 Bryn Mawr Ave. Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004, 215 667-7757 has information, publications and provides referrals, counseling and legal advice.

IMMUNE SYSTEM: Immune Deficiency Foundation, Courthouse Square, 3565 Ellicott Mills Drive, Unit B2, Ellicott City, MD 21043, 410 461-3127 has information and publications, offers referrals, supports research

American Foundation for Urologic Disease, AFUD, 300 West Pratt St. Ste 401, Baltimore, MD 21201-2463, 800 242-2383. They have a brochure called "It Takes Two" designed for couples to read together

Impotents Anonymous (IA) may be reached at Impotence World Service, 119 S. Ruth St., Maryland, Tenn, 37803. Send $1 and a self addressed stamped envelope for information. (1/95)

Impotence Information Center, 800 843-4315 for impotence information; 800 543-9632 for prostate information. Information about causes and treatment

The Geddings Osbon Foundation Impotence Resource Center, 800 433-4215, provides non biased information on the diagnosis and treatment of impotence. Physician referral. Tapes and publications

Incest Resources, Inc. C/O Cambridge Women's Center, 46 Pleasant St. Cambridge, MA 02139 is an organization of survival therapists. Provdes tapes, books and other resources to survivors of incest

Incest Survivor Information Exchange, PO Box 3399, New Haven, CT 06515 is a clearinghouse of information that benefits survivors of incest

Incest Survivors Resource Network International, Inc. PO Box 7375, Las Cruces, NM 88006 is an educational resource for survivors. It has a helpline at 505 521-4260 staffed by incest survivors and offers education and information.

Survivors of Incest Anonymous Inc., PO Box 26870, Baltimore, MD. 21212. Send self addressed stamped envelope for location of a support group in your area.

Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, AHCPR, Publications Clearinghouse, UI-P, PO Box 8547, Silver Spring, MD, 20907, has a free booklet called "Urinary Incontinence in Adults: A Patients Guide, Understanding Incontinence" and many others. Send a postcard with your full name and address or call 800 358-9295.

Alliance for Aging Research, 2121 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006, 202 293-2856, offers "Incontinence: Everything You Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask". Send a postcard with your full name and address.

American Foundation for Urological Disease Inc., PO Box 554, Baltimore, MD 21203-0554 provides information on prostate disease, bladder conditions and sexual functions and operates the Prostate Cancer Support Group Network. They have a free booklet "Prostate Cancer: What Every Man Over 40 Should Know".

American Physical Therapy Association, PO Box 37527, Washington, DC 20013. Send a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope for info on Incontinence

American Urological Association , 1120 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21201 301 727-1100 Encourages research on the treatment of the urinary tract. It's estimated that between 11 and 17 million adult Americans- 85% of them female- cannot control their urine. But it's often manageable.

Bed Wetting Revolution, PO Box 680441, Houston, TX, 77268-0441. Each program is tailored to the child and can cost as much as $550

Continence Restored, Inc. 407 Strawberry Hill, Stamford, CT 06905
Dry Generations has a $10.00, 28 minute video on "Managing Adult Incontinence" , 206 728-2467

Help for Incontinent People, (HIP) PO Box 544, Union SC 29379, 803 579-7900, 800 BLADDER is a nonprofit organization for people with urinary incontinence. Send $1 and a self addressed stamped long business envelope for brochure

Incontinence Information Center, 800 843-4315, provides information on the causes and treatment of incontinence.

International Association for Enterostomal Therapy, 2081 Business Center Dr., Suite 290, Irvine, CA 92715, 714 476-0268 is an organization of nurses who specialize in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers and the management of incontinence, wounds and ostomies.

National Institute on Aging. Write for "Age Page: Urinary Incontinence" to National Institute on Aging Information Center/UI, PO Box 8057, Gaithersburg, Md, 20898-8057

Proctor and Gamble has information on incontinence and for caregivers of incontinent parents. 800 ATTENDS

The Simon Foundation for Continence, PO Box 815, Wilmette, Ill 60091, 800 23 SIMON, Send a long, stamped self addressed envelope for information.

University of Washington, Medical Center, Dr. T.G. Bavendam, 1959 NE Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98105, 206 548-3300 has information on urinary tract infections

Center for Surrogate Parenting, 8383 Wilshire Blvd. Ste 750, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 213 655-1974 arranges for surrogate parents.

RESOLVE, National Infertility Association, 1310 Broadway, Dept. DA, Somerville, MA 02144-1731, 617 643-2424, offers mutual support groups for couples with infertility problems. Has information and publications. Send a stamped self addressed envelope.

INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS: The New Issues newsletter tracks IPO's. 800 327-6720.

INSECTS: Mosquito Link: What to do about getting rid of them, how to treat bites, etc., etc.

AM Best Co., Ambest Rd, Old Wick, NJ 08858, 908 439-2200 si one of the oldest ratings services and has extensive information and publications. Material is also usually found in a library.

The Insurance Forum newsletter, March/April edition, includes ratings for 1,600 companies. $10.00, PO Box 245, Elletsville, Indiana 47429

INSURANCE ILLUSTRATIONS: James Hunt, CFA/IG, 8 Tahanto ST. Concord, NH 03301, 603 224-2805 is the life insurance actuary for the Consumer Federation of America who will run a rate of return analysis on an in force illustration for $40.

American Council of Life Insurance has a free copy of What You Should Know About Buying Life Insurance, 800 338-4471. The consumer help line is 800 942-4242 and is co-sponsored with the III below.

Independent Insurance Agents of America will provide information on all types of insurance. 800 221-7917

Insurance Information Institute: 110 William St., New York, NY 10038, 212 669-9200. The trade group also offers a toll free Hotline for information on property and casualty insurance at the National Insurance Consumer Helpline- 800 942-4242.

INSURANCE INSTITUTE FOR HIGHWAY SAFETY: 1005 North Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22201 If you buy a high profile car or one subject to a lot of repairs, expect to pay a lot of insurance. But what cars may not be a problem? Write to the Institute above and ask for Highway Loss Data Chart

INSURANCE POLICIES: If you have lost a policy- quite common with a deceased person- contact the American Council of Life Insurance, Policy Search Division, 1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20004. It's search is free.

INTERIOR DESIGN: American Society of Interior Designers, 608 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Washington, DC 20002, 202 546-3480

INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE: For list of tax forms call 800 TAX-FORM. Main office at 1111 Constitution Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20224 202 566-4115

INTERNATIONAL SOUNDEX REUNION REGISTRY: PO Box 2312,Carson City, Nevada 89702 provides the ability of a mother who gave up her child for adoption to be found by the child later in life. Birth parents and children can register and when the child is of legal age, a match can be made. Send a stamped self addressed envelope and request forms

The Interactive Services Association and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children have a free pamphlet called "Child Safety on the Information Highway". 800 843-5678

As a general guide, if you are on the Internet, a tremendous amount of information is available, just for the asking. Simply use one of the search products to get to the appropriate home page. For example, the IRS has a home page where you can download all the forms for a tax filing, tc.

INVESTMENT INFORMATION: Investment Institute, 1401 H St. NW, 12th Floor, Washington, DC 20005-2148, 202 326-5800 has information and numerous publications on investments.

IRON OVERLOAD DISEASE ASSOCIATION, 433 Westwind Drive, Dept. L, North Palm Beach, FL 33408-5123. Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is an inherited disorder that causes people to absorb too much iron and can cause chronic fatigue, diabetes, cancer and heart disease. The Centers of Disease Control have identified HH as the most common genetic disease in the U.S. For info, send a long self addressed stamped envelope (64 cents).

JOB CORPS: PO Box 193768, San Francisco, CA 94119, 800 733-JOBS or 800 JOB-CORPS to find out about enrolling in Job Corps, hiring Job Corps graduates or volunteering to help Job Corps students

Private Citizen, Naperville, FL, 800 288-5865 is an advocacy group that focuses largely on thwarting invasive marketing and might even help you file a law suite against such marketers.

If you would like to stop receiving junk calls, send your phone number to Telephone Preference Service, PO Box 9014, Farmingdale, NY 11735-9014. To stop junk mail, write to Mail Preference Service, Direct Marketing Association, PO Box 9014, Farmingdale, NY 11735-9014. Include your full name and address including zip codes and ask to have your name removed from mailing lists.

KIDNEY: National Kidney Foundation, 30 E. 33rd ST., New York, NY 10016, 800622-9010, offers information, publications. It has free donor cards and a "Family Discussion Guide"

LABOR LAWS: "Handy Reference Guide to the Fair Labor Standards Act" Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81002. You need to write for prices.

LAWYERS: The National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA) will refer you to local privacy lawyers. 600 Harrison St. Ste 535, San Francisco, CA 94107

HUD, 451 7th St. SW, Washington, DC 20410, 202 708-1420, 800 669-977, has a pamphlet called Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home

National Lead Information Clearinghouse, 800 424-5323 has pamphlets and disclosure forms to protect yourself from lead poisoning

American Leprosy Missions, One American Leprosy Mission Way, Greenville, SC 29601, 800 543-3131

LIFE INSURANCE QUOTES: These firms can quote four or so of the lowest cost policies that they have in their computer- though they may not be the lowest overall (and probably won't be for individual/family (non business) circumstances). Some are available only in certain locales:

Insurance Information Inc., Cobbelstone Court #2, Rte 134, South Dennis, MA 02660, 800 472-5800. for $50 it will guarantee it will save a caller $50 over current policy or $50 will be refunded.

Insurance Quote, 3200 North Dobson Road, Building C, Chandler, AZ 85224, 800 972-1104

AM Best, Ambest Road, Oldwick, NJ 08858, 908 439-2200. Bestline 900- 900 420-0400- is an automated current rating service that costs $2.50 per minute. You need to key in a code number for Best Insurance Reports- probably available at your library.

Annuity Review Board, 3835 N. 32nd. St., Ste. 6, Phoenix, AZ 85018, 602 953-0599 provides detailed financial info on insurers and reviews policy provisions for individual annuity policies.

Duff and Phelps , 55 East Monroe St. Chicago, IL 60603, 312 629-3833. Several publications

Insurance Forum, PO Box 245, Elletsville, IN 47429, publishes a "watch list" of underperforming companies.

Journal f American Society of CLU and ChFC, 270 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, 215 526-2524 has bimonthly publications on current insurance issues.

Moody's Investor Services, 99 Church St., New York, NY 10007, 212 553-1658. Also has an Insurance Rating Desk at 212 553-0377, free. Other publications.

National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 120 W. 12th St. Ste 1100, Kansas City, MO 64105, 816 842-3600 is a voluntary organization that develops standards for the industry.

National Insurance Consumer Organization, 121 N. Payne St. Alexandria, VA 22314 provides consumer oriented manuals and advice

Standard and Poor's, 25 Broadway, New York, NY 10004, Insurance Rating Desk 212 629-1527, free; many other publications

Weiss Research, 2200 N. Florida Mango Rd., West Palm Beach, FL 33409, 800 289-9222, has a "Letter Grade" for $15 per rating by phone. Other publications

LIFE INSURANCE REVIEW: When buying a policy- and certainly when considering replacing an existing policy, review it very carefully. You might consider- and it is probably money well spent- in seeking professional objective advice for this very involved and personalized area. Some organizations offering advice are listed below. As always, I make no statements whatsoever as to their knowledge or competency.

American Council of Life Insurance, 1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20004-2599, 202 624-2000. It offers "A Consumer's Guide to Life Insurance" for free.

Consumer Federation of America will analyze a policy for $40- $35 for each additional policy. 202 387-6121

National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 444 North Capitol St. NW, Washington, DC 20001

National Insurance Consumer Organization, 121 North Payne St., Alexandria, VA 22314, 707 549-8050. It will analyze a variable life policy against others for $35.00

LIMITED PARTNERSHIP SECONDARY MARKETS: These firms will buy limited partnership interests, but the price may vary considerably from one to another. Be sure to shop at least three for different bids. It is also beneficial if you can get a recent copy of Dow Jones Investment Advisor since they list recent sales of different partnerships interests. However you may have to contact a financial advisor since this publication is probably not at your library.

EVEREST PROPERTIES, 199 S. Los Robles Avenue, #440, Pasadena, CA 91101 (626) 585-5920 (626)585-2938 - Fax

Literacy Volunteers of America- This organization combats the problem of adult illiteracy. PO Box 761, Syracuse, New York, 13214-0761, 315 445-8000, 888 472-5599

National Center for Family Literacy, Waterfront Plaza, Suite 200, 325 West Main Street, Louisville, KY, 40202-4251, 502 584-1133, works with over 1,000 national communities to reduce illiteracy.

Rolling Readers, PO Box 927315, San Diego, CA 92192, 800 390-READ has chapters that promote reading

LIVER: Liver Foundation, American, 1425 Pompton Ave. , Cedar Grove, NJ, 07009, 201 256-2550, 800 223-0179. Information, publications, referrals

AARP offers a Legal Guide for the Elderly for $5.00, PO Box 96474, Washington, DC 20090-6474

Choice in Dying, 200 Varick St., NY, NY 10014 800 989-WILL will send a state specific instructional package and forms for $3.50

The Medical Directive, PO Box 6100, Holliston, Mass, 01746-6100, 800 214-4553 offers a medical directive (Two for $6, five for $11)

LONG TERM ACUTE CARE HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA: (LTACHAA) 1301 K Street NW, Suite 1100 East Tower, Washington, DC 20005

Lung Line Information Service, 800 222-5864, has information on asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, etc. Service of National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, 1400 Jackson St. Denver, CO 80266

Lupus Foundation of America, 4 Research Place, Ste 180, Rockville, MD 20850, 301 690-9292, 800 558-0121, provides support, has information and publications

The Lyme Disease Foundation, One Financial Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103, 860 525-2000, Fax 860 525-TICK, 24 hour automated hotline 800 886-LYME, E-Mail: Lymefnd.aol.com

LYMPHOMA: The Lymphoma Research Foundation of America is the foremost national non-profit organization providing funds for lymphoma research and educational information for lymphoma patients.

MAD DADS: (Men Against Destruction- Defending Against Drugs and Social Disorder). This organization with 50 chapters in 14 states provides mentors, friends and positive role models to youth. MAD DADS National Headquarters, 3030 Sprague St. Omaha, NB 68111, 402 451-3500

MAMMOGRAM: Check with the Federal Food and Drug Administration, 800 422-6237 which can help you locate a certified facility

MANUFACTURED HOUSING: Information on construction, state consumer protection laws, renting vs. buying land and more by sending a postcard to AARP fulfillment (EE0819), PO Box 22796, Long Beach, CA 90801-5796

MARFAN SYNDROME: National Marfan Foundation 800 862-7326 A genetic disorder of the connective tissuemost notable in tall people.

MATERNITY SERVICES: Smithlawn is a non profit organization that helps all people nationally.

MEALS ON WHEELS: 280 Broadway St. #214, New York, NY 10007, 212 964-5700 is a program for providing meals to homebound seniors. Information and publications.

MEAT & POULTRY: For information on safe food handling and where to report problems, call the USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline at 800 535-4555

Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, 350 Main St. PO Box H-01, Juneau, AK 99811, 907 465-3030

Arizona Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, 801 Jefferson, Phoenix, AZ 85034, 602 234-3655

Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Economic and Medical Services, 7th & Main St. PO Box 1437, Little Rock, AR 72203, 501 682-8650

California Department of Health Services, 714 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916 445-1248

Colorado Department of Social Services, 1575 Sherman St., Denver, CO 80203, 303 294-5800

Connecticut Department of Income Maintenance, 110 Bartholomew Ave. Hartford, CT 06106, 203 566-2008

Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, Delaware State Hospital, PO Box 906, New Castle, DE 19720, 302 421-6139

District of Department of Human Services, 801 N. Capitol St. NE, Columbia Washington, DC 20002, 202 727-0430

Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, 1317 Winewood Blvd.,Tallahassee, FL 32301, 904 488-7721

Georgia Department of Medical Assistance, 2 Martin Luther King Drive, West Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334, 404 656-4479

Hawaii Department of Human Services, PO Box 330, Honolulu, HI 96809, 808 548-6260

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Statehouse, 450 W. State St., Boise, ID 83720, 208 334-5500

Illinois Department of Public Aid, 100 S. Grand Ave. E., Springfield, IL 62762, 217 782-0963

Indiana State Department of Public Welfare, 100 North Senate Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46204, 317 232-4705

Iowa Bureau of Medical Services, Department of Human Services, Hoover State Office Bldg., Des Moines, IA 50319, 515 281-8794

Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services, State Office Bldg., Topeka, KS 66612, 913 296-3271

Kentucky Department of Medical Assistance, 275 East Main St. Frankfort, KY 40621, 502 564-4321

Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, 755 Riverside, PO Box 3776, Baton Rouge, LA 70821, 504 342-6711

Maine Department of Human Services, 221 State St. State House Station 11, Augusta, ME 04333, 207 289-2736

Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201, 310 225-6500

Massachusetts Department of Public Welfare, 600 Washington St., Boston, MA 02111, 617 348-5500

Michigan Michigan Department of Social Services, PO Box 30037, Lansing, MI 48912, 517 372-7540

Minnesota Department of Human Services, 444 Lafayette Rd. St. Paul, MN 55155, 612 296-2701

Mississippi Division of Medicaid, 239 N. Lamar St., Jackson, MS 39201, 601 359- 6050

Missouri Department of Social Services, Broadway State Office Bldg. PO Box 1527, Jefferson City, MO 65102, 314 751-4815

Montana Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services, 111 Sanders St. PO Box 4210, Helena, MT 59604, 406 444-5622

Nebraska Department of Social Services, 301 Centennial Mall So. PO Box 95026, Lincoln, NE 68509, 402 471-3121

Nevada Department of Human Resources, 505 East King St., Carson City, NV 89710, 702 885-4730

New Hampshire Department of Health and Welfare, 6 Hazen Dr., Concord, NH 03301, 603 271-4334

New Jersey Department of Human Services, 222 South Warren St, CN700, Trenton, NJ 609 292-3717

New Mexico Department of Human Services, PO Box 2348, Santa Fe, NM 87504, 505 827-4072

New York State Department of Social Services, 40 North Pearl St., Albany, NY 12243, 518 474-9475

North Carolina Department of Human Resources, 325 N. Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC 27605, 919 821-0803

North Dakota Department of Human Resources, State Capitol Bldg., Bismarck, ND 58505, 701 224-2310

Ohio Department of Human Services, 30 East Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215, 614 466-6282

Oklahoma Department of Human Services, PO Box 25352, Oklahoma, City, OK 73125, 405 521-3646

Oregon Department of Human Services, 318 Public Service Bldg., Salem, OR 97310, 503 378-3034

Pennsylvania State Department of Public Welfare, Health and Welfare Bldg., Seventh and Forster St., Harrisburg, PA 17120, 717 787-2600

Rhode Island Department of Human Services, 600 New London Ave., Cranston, RI 02920, 401 464-2121

South Carolina State Health and Human Services Finance Commission, PO Box 8206, Columbia, SC 29202, 803 253-6100

South Dakota Department of Human Services, Kneip Bldg., 700 Governors Dr., Pierre SD 57501, 605 773-3656

Tennessee Department of Health and Environment, 344 Cordell Hull Bldg., Nashville, TN 37219, 615 741-3111

Texas Department of Human Resources, PO Box 2960, Austin, TX 78769, 512 450-3030

Utah Department of Health, 288 N. 1460 West, PO Box 16580, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, 801 538-6111

Vermont Agency of Human Services, 103 S. Main St., Waterbury, VT 05676, 802 241-2220

Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services, 600 E. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23219, 804 786-7933

Washington Division of Medical Assistance, Department of Social and Health Services, Mall Stop HB41, Olympia, WA 98504, 206 753-1777

West Virginia West Virginia Department of Human Services, Bldg. 6, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305, 304 348-2400

Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services, 1 W. Wilson St. PO Box 7850, Madison, WI 53707, 608 266-3681

Wyoming Department of Health and Social Services, 2300 Capitol Ave., 317 Hathaway Bldg., Cheyenne, WY 82002, 307 777-6778

MEDICAL BILLS: See HOSPITAL BILLS above if you have a bill that you think is incorrect and need assistance in correcting

MEDICAL CARE OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM: helps patients make knowledgeable decisions about whether to undergo high technology, high cost procedures. Fees are based on ability to pay. 7200 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 410, Bethesda, MD 20814

MEDICAL INTELLIGENCE BUREAU: If you have ever been turned down for insurance- life, health, disability- you have probably ended up on a computer database with the MIB located in Westwood, Massachusetts. Once on that file, you may simply be declined further insurance in the future due to your bad health, tendency to engage in risky activities and other "documented risk factors". But mistakes do happen so you may want to write for a copy of your file to MIB, PO Box 105, Essex Station, Boston, MA, 02112 or call 617 426-3660 (costs $8.00). In Canada, the address is MIB, 330 University Ave., Toronto, Canada M5G IR7.You should receive a report in 30 days. You cannot eradicate wrong information yourself- you must document the facts with other physicians reports. Supposedly only 6% of all persons are in their files.

MEDICAL SUPPLIES: Med-Assist is a distributor of medical supplies, first aid and safety supplies. 800 777-2634

Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81002 has a booklet, Medicare and Prepayment Plans and explains how Medicare and an HMO can work together. Vast library of topics for the consumer. Free to inexpensive. Write for list

The Health Care and Financing Administration, 800 638-6833 provides information about Medicare and managed care. Call for booklet Medicare Managed Care.

Medicare Beneficiaries Defense Fund, 1460 Broadway, 8th Floor, NY NY, 10036 has brochures: How to Receive the Medicare Home Health Benefit that explains Medicare home health benefits and is available by sending $1, Box HH; Medicare Health Maintenance Organizations: Are They Right for You?, Box USHM; Medicare and Employer Health Insurance: How They Work Together, Box USEI, Your Doctor Bills: A Medicare Road Map, Box KP, each $2.00. Many others

Medicare Rights Center, 1460 Broadway, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10036-7393, 212 869-3850 provides seniors and people with disabilities information on quality health care. "Getting Care at Home, What Medicare covers" $5

MRC's Rx Hotline for Nonprofit Professionals 877-RXHELP-0 (877-794-3570)- Need help understanding or explaining the new Medicare prescription drug benefit? Call RxHelp, a national hotline dedicated for nonprofit professionals serving the Medicare population, operated from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. EDT by the Medicare Rights Center.

United Seniors Health Cooperative, 202 393-6922 has extensive material for the elderly including information on selecting and using Medicare managed care plans

US Department of Health & Human Resources, Health Care Financing Administration, Baltimore, MD 21207, 800 638-6833

Call Social Security at 800 772-1213 and ask for the toll free number of the Medicare carrier in your state. Ask for the free "Medicare Participating Physician/Supplier Directory".

MEDICARE PEER REVIEW ORGANIZATIONS: They can help answer questions about the access to and the quality of care of Medicare certified facilities.

Arkansas: Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care; Fort Smith 800 824-7586, AR 800-5528

California: California Medical Review; San Francisco 415 882-5800, CA 800 841- 1602

Colorado: Colorado Foundation for Medical Care; Denver 303 695-3333, CO 800 727-7086

Connecticut: Connecticut Peer Review Organization; Middletown 203 632-2008, CT 800 553-7590

Dist. of Delmarva Foundation for Medical Care; Easton 800 645-0011, MD Columbia: 800 492-5811

Florida: Florida Medical Quality Assurance; Tampa 813 281-9024, FL 800 844- 0795

Georgia: Georgia Medical Care Foundations; Atlanta 404 928-0411, GA 800 282- 2614

Illinois: Crescent Counties Foundation for Medical Care; Lisle 708 769-9600, 800 647-8089

Iowa: Iowa Foundation for Medical Care, West Des Moines 515 223-2900, 800 752-7014

Kansas: Kansas Foundation for Medical Care; Topeka 913 273-2552, KS 800 432-0407

Louisiana: Louisiana Health Review Care; Baton Rouge 504 926-6353, LA 800 433 3958

Maryland: Delmarva Foundation for Medical Care; Easton 800 645-0011, MD 800 492-5811

Massachusetts: Massachusetts Peer Review Organization; Waltham 617 890-0011, MA 800 252-5533

Mississippi: Mississippi Foundation for Medical Care; Jackson 601 948-8894, MS 800 844-0600

Montana: Montana-Wyoming Foundation for Medical Care; Helena 406 433-4020, MT 800 497-8232

New Hampshire: New Hampshire Foundation for Medical Care, Dover 603 749-1641, NH 800 582-7174

New Jersey: Peer Review Organization of NJ; East Brunswick 201 238-6236, NJ 800 642-5557

New Mexico: New Mexico Medical Review Assoc; Albuquerque 505 842-6236, NM 800 432-6824

New York: Island Peer Review Organization; Lake Success 516 326-7767, NY 800 331-7767

North Carolina: Medical Review of North Carolina,;Cary 919 851-2955, NC 800 682- 2650

North Dakota: North Dakota Health Care Review; Minot 701 852-4231, ND 800 472- 2902

Oklahoma: Oklahoma Foundation for Peer Review; Oklahoma City 405 840-2891, 800 522-3414

Oregon: Oregon Medical Professional Review; Portland 503 279-0100, OR 800 344-4354

Pennsylvania: Keystone Peer Review Organization; Harrisburg 717 564-8288, PA 800 322-1914

Vermont: New Hampshire Foundation for Medical Care; Dover 802 655-6302, VT 800 772-0151

West Virginia: West Virginia Medical Institute; Charleston 304 346-9864, 800 642-6686

Wisconsin: Wisconsin Peer Review Organization; Madison 608 274-1940, WI 800 362-2320

Wyoming: Montana Wyoming Found for Medical Care; Helena, MT 406 443-4020, WY 800 497-8232

MEDIGAP INFORMATION: may be obtained for $10 from USHC, 1331 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20005-4706

MEMORY IMPAIRMENT STUDY: The site contains info for a memory study of potential Alzheimers victims. 888 455-0655

Menopause News, 2074 Union ST. San Francisco, CA 94123, 415 567-2368 is a newsletter

National Menopause Foundation, 800 MENOASK, has information on nutrition, exercise and other women's health issues. Some fee may be applied.

A respected book on menopause is by Landau, Cyr and Moulton, The Complete Book of Menopause: Every Woman's Guide to Good Health, published by GP Putnam and Sons

American Psychiatric Association, 1400 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202 682-6000 is a society of doctors that supports research and sets standards for care.

American Psychological Association, 1200 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20036 202 955-7600 is a national society that counsels people with mental, emotional or behavioral problems.

National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association, 800 82-NDMDA provids3e information and education about the illness. Publications

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, 2101 Wilson Blvd. Ste 302, Alexandria VA 22201, 703 524-7600, 800 950-6264 for brochure and can direct you to a local Planned Lifetime Assistance Network

National Foundation for Depressive Illness, 800 248-4344 describes symptoms of depression and offers information and referrals.

National Institute of Mental Health, Public Inquiries Office, Room 15 C-05, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857 301 443-4513 conducts research on the causes, prevention and treatment of mental illness. Toll free Helpline at 800 468-1515. They also have several brochures written in Spanish by writing to the address above, Room 7C-02 or calling 800 PANICO

National Mental Health Association, 1021 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314-2971, 703 684-7722, 800 969 NMHA strives for better care and prevention. Publications

National Mental Services Knowledge Exchange Network will provide information about mental health services and resources across the country. 800 789-2647

ABC's Children First mentoring hot line at 800 914-2212. Information and brochures

One to One, 2801 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20007. Send a self addressed stamped envelope for a brochure and other information.

Mesothelioma Resource Center an informational web site designed to be an in-depth resource providing information about mesothelioma, asbestos, and related topics

Headaches Cybertext- site created by Dr. Haas addresses the diagnosis and treatment of the five most common headache types.

MONEY MANAGERS: American Association of Daily Money Managers is a trade group of professional assistants who, for a fee, provide personal bookkeeping for clients who have difficulty handling banking and other day to day financial matters. AADMM, 106 Playford Lane, Silver Spring, MD 20091, 301 593-5462

MORTGAGES: State organizations to call regarding mortgage lenders and brokers

South Carolina Dept of Consumer Affairs Bankers 803 734-9460 Lenders 803 734-2688

MORTGAGE BANKERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA: 1125 15th St. NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC, 20005, 202 861-6500 has various publications including Consumer's Guide to Refinancing your Mortgage.

HSH Associates, 1200 Route 23, Butler, NJ 07405, 800 873-2837, Also mortgage hotline at 201 838-8197 lists national average rates in various areas. For $10, HSH will send a list of mortgages in your area on disk. Call for information on hard copy.

Check services on the WEB- HSH, Bank of America, Norwest Mortgage, Countrywide, etc. Many let you figure out how much you can afford to buy

Federal Home Loan Bank Board, 3900 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20016 202 752-7124 has information on adjustable rate mortgages called . Introducing a New ARM for Today's Homeowners.

Good Advice Press, PO Box 78, Elizaville, NY 12523 , 914 758- 1400, 800 255-0899 has information on how to prepay a mortgage with The Banker's Secret ($17.95)

HSH Associates, 1200 Route 3, Butler, NJ, 07405. 800 873-2837 has a kit you can use to determine whether refinancing is viable.

MOTHERS AGAINST DRUNK DRIVING: 660 Airport Freeway, Ste 310, Hurst, Texas 76053, 817 268-MADD

MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY. 508 Westgate Road, Baltimore MD 21229-2343, Phone: 410-362-6400, Fax 410-362-6401. Referral & Resources Professional outreach, patient support, and public advocacy devoted to the diagnosis, treatment, accommodation, and prevention of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Disorders

The Betaseron MS Resource Center is an interactive online information source, designed to link viewers to the latest MS-related resources and services.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society at 205 East 42nd. St., New York, NY 10017, 212 986-3240, 800 624-8236. Information, counseling, referrals, publications

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY: Muscular Dystrophy Association, 3300 E Sunrise Drive, Tucson, Ariz, 800 572-1717. Information, counseling, referrals, publications

The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, PO Box 291, Minneapolis, MN, 55480 has a tape "Mutual Funds: Understanding the Risk" for free. You can also fax your order to 612 335-2855

The SEC's Office of Investor Education, 800 SEC-0330, has a free 15 page brochure, Invest Wisely; An Introduction to Mutual Funds.

MYASTHENIA GRAVIS: Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, 800 541-5454. Information. Promotes public awareness.

NARCOLEPSY: American Narcolepsy Association, PO Box 26230, San Francisco, CA 94126, 415 788-4793 provides information and national referrals.

NARCOTICS: If you need help with narcotic drugs, contact Narcotics Anonymous, World Service Office Inc., PO Box 9999, Van Nuys, CA 91409, 818 780-3951

NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR THE MENTALLY ILL: This is an umbrella organization for individuals and families affected by serious mental illness. NAMI, 200 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1015, Arlington, VA 22203-3754, 800 950-NAMI

NATIONAL AMPUTEE FOUNDATION: 12-45 150th St. Whitestone, NY 11357, 718 767-8400

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR HOME CARE: 228 7th Street, SE, Washington DC 20003, 202-547-7424

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SECURITY DEALERS: 1735 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20006, 202 728-8000, responsible for overseeing the Over the Counter market and the broker dealers and agents.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SECURITY DEALERS CRD: The Central Registration Depository offers private investors free written summaries of disciplinary actions on registered representatives. Call 800 289-9999

NATIONAL CONSUMERS LEAGUE: Publications on many issues such as health insurance, long term care, consumer rights 202 639-8140, 815 15th St. NW. Ste 928, Washington DC 20005

NATIONAL COUNCIL ON PATIENT INFORMATION AND EDUCATION: (NCPIE), 666 Eleventh St. NW, Suite 810, Washington, DC 20001

NATIONAL CREDIT UNION ADMINISTRATION: Office of Public and Congressional Affairs, 1775 Duke St., Alexandria, VA 22314, 703 518-6330. Charters and supervises federal credit unions. Insures deposits at federal credit unions and many state credit unions.

NATIONAL EASTER SEAL SOCIETY: 2023 West Ogden Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60612, 312 243-8400

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE SERVICE CORPS : (NESC), 257 Park Ave South, New York, NY 10010 212 529-6660. Finds retirees in specialities such as planning, marketing and fund raising for non profit organizations

NATIONAL FAMILY CAREGIVERS ASSOCIATION: 9621 E. Bexhill Drive, Kensington, MD 20895-3104, 800-896-3650

NATIONAL IMMUNIZATION HOTLINE, 800 232-2522 is presented by the Centers for Disease Control and the American Social Health Association. Info on chicken pox, measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, whooping cough and more.

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES: Bldg. 31, Room 7A32, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 , 301 496-5717

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ART and DISABILITIES: 551 23rd St. Richmond, CA 97804; 510 620-0290

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT: (NICHD) 301 496-5133

Communicable Disorders Information Clearinghouse....800 241-1044...800 241-1055 (TTD-TTY)

National Eye Institute...............................................301 496-5248

NATIONAL MEALS ON WHEELS: 800 999-6262 can tell you if there is a program available in your area.

NATIONAL PARK RESERVATION SYSTEM: The Destinet system will allow reservations for many National Parks across the United States. 800 365-2267. For information on the Golden Age and the Golden Access Passports and much more, send for free National Park Information Kit to National Park Service, PO Box 37127, Rm 1013, Washington, DC, 20013-7127.

NATIONAL SUBACUTE CARE ASSOCIATION: 7315 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 424E, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301-961-8680, Fax: 301-961-8681

NATIONAL WOMEN'S HEALTH NETWORK: 202 347-1140. Publishes information on women's health on a variety of subject matter

NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY COALTION: 1711 Connecticut Ave, NW, Ste 206, Washington, DC 20009 provides support to children on many issues.

NORTH AMERICAN SECURITIES ADMINISTRATION ASSOCIATION: (202 737-0900) has the phone numbers for all state security regulators which can provide the background information needed for security brokers.

NURSES: American Nurses Association, Washington, DC Represents the nation's registered nurses. Publications.

The American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, 202-783-2242 has free brochures on choosing a nursing home or assisted care facility, a directory of continuing care retirement communities and information on long term care insurance.

American College of Health Care Administrators, 325 South Patrick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 is interested in complaints on nursing home administrators.

American Health Care Association, 1201 L Street, NW, Washington, DC, 20005, 202 842-4444 is the association of for-profit nursing homes.

Concerned Relatives of Nursing Home Patients, PO Box 18820, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118, 216 321-0403 is an advocate for patients' rights. Publications

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations is now making available the results of inspections performed in 1994. Reports are $30. 708 916-5800

National Association of Boards of Examiners for Nursing Home Administrators, 808 17th St. NW, Ste 200, Washington, DC 20006 issues names, addresses and phone numbers of each states regulatory agency for nursing home administration

The National Citizen's Coalition for Nursing Home Reform, 1462 16th St. NW Ste 202, Washington, DC 20036 can provide pamphlets, and telephone numbers for nursing home advocacy groups, ombudsman programs and long term licensing groups in every state. 202 332-2275.

National Consumer League, 815 15th St. NW, Ste 516, Washington, DC 20005 is interested in quality of care in nursing homes.

Nursing Home Information Service, National Council of Senior Citizens, 1331 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004, 202 347-8800 provides information and referral service on long term care, nursing homes, retirement communities, board and care homes, and home health care agencies.

U CARE WE CARE Links to external websites and contact information for hundreds of homes across the UK.

NURSING HOME THEFT: The Bluegrass Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, 1530 Nicholasville Rd., Lexington, KY 40503 has information on the precautions one should take to prevent theft in the nursing home.

Alliance for Food and Fiber Hotline, 800 266-0200 provides literature on food safety and nutrition

American Dietetic Association Hotline, 800 366-1655, has dietetic and nutrition information

The American Institute for Cancer Research, 800 843-8114, has a nutrition hotline where a registered dietitian will answer personal questions on diet, nutrition and cancer.

Consumer Nutrition Hotline, 800 366-1655 has Registered Dieticians that can provide referrals to local RD's in you area and answer questions about food and nutrition.

Freedom from Fear, 308 Seaview Ave. Staten Island, NY 10305 has a free newsletter with more information on OCD and other anxiety disorders.

Obsessive Compulsive Foundation, PO Box 70, Milford, CT, 06460-0070 has a free packet of information. People with OCD and friends and families can call anonymously for information at 800 639-7462

The Obstetrics & Gynecology Network: A physician reviewed service offering medical professionals, women and industry a home for publishing, accessing information and global interaction.

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION: (OSHA) offers a free consultation on safety and potential work place hazards to small businesses. You will not be cited for deficiencies but must agree to correct the job or health problem. For information , contact the OSHA Office of Information and Consumer Affairs Room N3637, U.S. Department of Labor, Washington, DC 20210, 202 219-8151

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY: Occupational therapists are licensed nationally and should be certified by the American Occupational Therapy Certification Board. 800 729-2682. Requirements for certification include a bachelor's degree, passed a national certification exam and served an internship of at least six months with three months training in both physical dysfunction and psychology. The AOTC address is 4720 Montgomery Lane, PO Box 31220, Bethesda, Maryland 20824-1220

American Occupational Therapy Association , Inc., PO Box 1725, 1383 Piccard Dr., Rockville, MD 20849-1725 301 948-9626 is a national organization for therapists who help disabled patients.

American Physical Therapy Association, 111 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA 22314, 703 684-2782 is an organization of therapists who help patients recover from injury, stroke or other illness by strengthening muscles and improving coordination. Publications

OFFICE OF THE COMPTROLLER OF THE CURRENCY: Charters and Supervises national banks. Compliance Management Division, 250 E St. SW, Washington, DC 20219; 202 874-4820

OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION: Supervises federally and state chartered savings associations plus federally chartered savings banks. OTS Consumer Affairs Office, 1700 G St. NW, Washington, DC 20552; 800 842-6929 or 202 906-6237

National Kidney Foundation, 30 E 3rd St. New York, NY 10016, 800 622-9010 has a free donor card and information

Living Bank, PO Box 6725, Houston, TX 77625, 713 961-9431 800 528-2971 is a non profit organization to help those that wish to donate all or part of their bodies for transplantations, research, etc.

United Network for Organ Sharing, 1100 Boulders Parkway, Ste. 500, Richmond, VA 23225, 804 330-8500. Information, publications and referrals to state agencies.

ORGAN TRANSPLANT FUND: 800 489-3863 assists with community fund raising for organ transplants, including bone marrow transplants. Children's Organ Transplant Association: 800 366-2682, provides grass roots fund raising for adults or children who need bone marrow or other transplants and provides an accounting system for donations.

National Osteoporosis Foundation, 2100 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20037, has information on how to treat and prevent crippling osteoporosis. Publications 202 223-2226, 800 223-9994. It has prepared individualized "Bone Wise" kits people of all ages and these are available by calling 888 442-WISE

The Osteoporosis and Related Bone Disease National Resource Center, 800 565-0466

OSTOMY: United Ostomy Association, 800 826-0826, 714 660-8624, provides support for those who have lost use of bowels or bladder. Support groups and publications

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS: is a Fellowship of individuals who, through shared experience, strength and hope, are recovering from compulsive overeating.World Service Office (WSO), 6075 Zenith Ct. NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124, Telephone 505-891-2664

PAGETS DISEASE: The Paget Foundation, Dept MM, PO Box 341, New York, NY 100-14-4810 has information for $2.00

Arthritis Foundation, PO Box 19000, Atlanta GA 30326, request "Coping with Pain"

Committee on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, 101 N. Wilmot, Ste 500, Tucson, AZ 85711 will give you a list of the 140 out of around 2,000 pain centers that are accredited by the CARF. Or call at 602 748-1212, ext. 151 and leave a message requesting a list of centers.

National Chronic Pain Outreach Association, Inc., 7979 Old Georgetown Rd. #100, Bethesda, MD 20814-2429. Send a self addresses stamped business envelope for information on support groups 540- 862-9437

Worldwide Congress on Pain, offers a list of websites devoted to pain management and on line physician Q&A and lists of specialists by location

American Cancer Foundation at 800 4-CANCER, request "Management of Cancer Pain: Adult Patient Guide."

City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Institute, 1500 E Duarte Rd. Duarte, CA 91010, 800 679-4673 and request "City of Hope Patient Handbook for Cancer Pain Management".

A 1992 booklet called "Pain Control After Surgery; Patient Guide" may be obtained from the AHCRP (Agency for Health Care Policy and Research Publications) Clearinghouse, PO Box 8547, Silver Spring, MD 20907, 800 358-9295.

"You Don't Have to Suffer: A Complete Guide to Relieving Cancer Pain for Patients and Their Families" by Lang and Patt, Oxford University Press, 1994.

The American Psychiatric Association has a half hour film called the Panic Prison, 202 682-6220

National Institute of Mental Health, 800 64-PANIC for free information. All callers receive 20 page book called Understanding Panic Disorder and an Anxiety Disorders resource booklet. Also has a 19 minute film titled Panic Disorder: Stories of Hope which can be ordered from Modern Talking Picture Service in St. Petersburg, FL for $14.95, 813 541-7571

PAP SMEARS: For a free brochure on Pap smears and cervical cancer, send a self addressed stamped business envelope to Pap Smear Brochure, American Society of Clinical Pathologists, Box PRI, 2100 W. Harrison St., Chicago, IL 60612

American Paralysis Association, 800 225-0292 funds research to find a sure for paralysis

National Rehabilitation Information Center, 800 346-2742, information and referrals.

National Spinal Cord Injury Association, 800 962-9629 had information on research. Referrals. Mails out New Injury and General Information Packets.

PARENTS: Parents Anonymous, 800 421-0353 has information and referrals to over 2,000 nationwide groups to discuss the problems of parenting.

Parkinson's Disease Foundation, 800 457-6676, provides referrals to physicians and hospitals. Information and publications

Parkinson's Web from Harvard University has info and links to related Web sites.

United Parkinson Foundation, 3600 West Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60610 312 664-2344 funds research and educates patients, health care professionals and the public about the disease. Publications.

PASSPORT: Office of Passport and Advisory Services, 111 19th St NW, Ste 260, Washington, DC 20524-1795, 202 736-7000. If you are afraid of a spouse taking your child out of the country, you can file a Denial of Passport. Call for more info.

PATHOLOGY: The American College of Pathology has free brochures and information on women's health, fibrocystic breast changes, infant care, osteoporosis, second hand smoke, sexually transmitted disease, prostate cancer, papa smears and employee drug testing. 800 522-5678, 325 Waukegan Road, Northfield, IL 60093-4040

PEDIATRICS: The American Academy of Pediatrics has several brochures for nutrition for children. Contact them at PO Box 927, Elk Grove Village, Ill 60009-0927

AARP Pension Equity Project, 601 E Street, NW. Washington, DC 20049 202 434-2070

National Center for Retirement Benefits, Inc. 800 666-1000. The NCRB reviews private plan calculations on a contingency basis of 30%.

National Pension Lawyer referral Service, 617 287-7332, refers you to attorneys who can help you rectify discrepancies in individual pensions.

Pension Rights Center: "Protecting your Pension Money" for $6 , 918 16th St. NW Ste. 704, Washington, DC 20006, 202 296- 3776

Technical Assistance and Inquiries Division, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20210. 202 219-8776

Also contact the Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81002 and ask for "What You Should You Know About the Pension Law". You need to write for prices.

PENSION BENEFIT GUARANTEE CORPORATION (PBGC) : 1200 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202 956-5000, insures defined benefit pension plans up to a certain amount if a company goes bankrupt. If you believe you are entitled to a payment from your previous employer who you cannot contact, write to the Missing Participant Program at the above address for further information.

PEPP, Inc., Parents Educating Parents & Professionals, Inc. "We are a non-profit organization and we provide assistance, give workshops and disseminate information regarding special education issues and services. Our service is free."

PESTICIDES: National Pesticide Telecommunications Network, 800 858-7378, provides information on all topics with pesticides including toxicology, environmental issues, disposal procedures and more. Literature available for small fee.

American Boarding Kennel Association, 4575 Galley Rd., #400A, Colorado Springs, CO 80915, 719 591-1113 has information and publications

Animal Health Institute, 510 Wythe ST. PO Box 1417-D50, Alexandria, VA 22313-1480, 703 684-0011. Information on pet health

American Kennel Club's Companion Animal Recovery maintains a nationwide record of registered animals with microchips or tatoos. 800 252-6894 for information on enrolling.

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 424 E. 92nd St., New York, NY 10128, 212 876--7700

Get the right dog: Do you know which dog is best for you? Do you know where to get the right info on each breed? You do now.

National Animal Poison Control Center at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 800 548-2423 ($30 per case)

Pet Preparedness Guide, C/O Pet Tech Inc. 5800 Severin Drive, La Mesa, Ca 91942, $3.50.

SPAY/USA is a program that provides referrals to vets who offer low cost neutering and spaying. 800 248-SPAY

$9.95 a month for dogs, $6.00 for cats, $13.95 covers more than one pet. Payout and deductible depends on the animal.

$9.95 a month for dogs, $8.50 for cats; $50 deductible; $2,000 maximum per incident.

$11 a month for dogs, $7.67 for cats; pays 80% of cost per incident; $1,500 maximum payout per incident, $8,000 annual maximum.

$9.25 a month for dogs, $6.84 for cats; $50 deductible per incident; $9,000 annual maximum payout.

Social Phobia Social phobia is an intense fear of becoming humiliated in social situations, specifically of embarrassing yourself in front of other people.

TERRAP Programs, 800 2-PHOBIA, refers callers to specialized centers for phobias. Information and publications.

PHYSICIAN REVIEW: These sites offer background checks on physicians nationally.

AMA Physician Select AMA Physician Select provides information on virtually every licensed physician in the United States and its possessions, including more than 650,000 doctors of medicine (MD) and doctors of osteopathy or osteopathic medicine (DO). All physician credential data have been verified for accuracy and authenticated by accrediting agencies, medical schools, residency training programs, licensing and certifying boards, and other data sources.

American Board of Medical Specialities allows the public to verify FREE OF CHARGE the board certification status, location by city and state and specialty of any physician certified by one or more of the 24 Member Boards of the American Board Medical Specialities .

Physician Review This site is provided by the Administrators in Medicine Association of State Medical Board Executive Directors

PICK'S DISEASE Information and Links - This page was setup to provide general information about Pick's disease, links to available information on the Internet, and books, reports, and journals available

For information on problems, contact Dr. Edward Laws, Professor of Neurosurgery, University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville, VA, 804 924-2650

PLANNED PARENTHOOD FEDERATION OF AMERICA: 810 Seventh Ave., New York, NY 10019 212 541-7800 800 829-7732. Has over 900 clinics for information, counseling, services

American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, 800 441-2737 has information about skin disorders and procedures. Referrals to dermatologic surgeons.

American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ASPRS), 444 E. Algonquin Road, Dept. P, Arlington Heights, Il 60005

Plastic Surgery Information Service, 800 635-0635, provides referrals to board certified plastic surgeons. Information, publications

PMS: PMS Access, 800 222-4767, has information on premenstrual syndrome. Publications. Referrals to local physicians

American Association of Posion Control Centers, 800 222-1222; 24 hour hotline and services are free and confidential

International Polio Network, 4502 Mayland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108, 314 361-0474

P-Polio National Inc, Susan Maslar, 3581 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030, 703 273-8171 provides post polio education and support

ASPO/Lamaze (American Society for Psychoprophylaxis in Obstetrics) has referrals to local certified childbirth educators.

National Center for Education in Maternal and Child Health, 202 625-8400 has extensive publications

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 301 496-5133 has extensive publications

Problem Pregnancy hotline 800 228-0332, provides information and counseling about abortion and alternatives. Publications

Smithlawn is a non profit maternity service organization that helps all people nationally

The Medicine Program is an "organization that was established by volunteers dedicated to alleviating the plight of an ever increasing number of patients who cannot afford their prescription medication."

PROBATE: HALT, Suite 300, 1319 F. St. NW, Washington, DC 20004 has a book called The Easy Way to Probate which includes state by state rules. $11.80 includes shipping (1/95)

PROPERTY TAX: Property taxes may be improperly assessed/applied and it is possible to get a refund by submitting correct information and a report to a city agency.

Mortgage Monitor Financial Services, 912 E. Main Street, Ste. 316, Stamford, CT 06902, 800 AUDIT-USA, charges $44.95 for a kit that will help you review your property tax to determine if an error has been made.

"Digging for Gold in Your Own Backyard: The Complete Homeowner's Guide to Lowering Your Real Estate Taxes", REI Press, 36 S. Washington St. Hinsdale, IL 60521 ($24)

National Taxpayers Union booklet "How to Fight Your Property Taxes", 325 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003 ($2.00)

American Foundation for Urological Disease Inc., 300 West Pratt St. Ste 401, Baltimore, MD 21201-2463 provides information on prostate disease, bladder conditions and sexual functions and operates the Prostate Cancer Support Group Network. They have a free booklet "Prostate Cancer: What Every Man Over 40 Should Know".

John Hopkins Prostate Cancer Study, Dept. P, Marburg 134, Baltimore, MD 21287-2101 is conducting research and a free test IF you have had at least three blood relatives who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Print and sign your full name and send, along with your address, the number of relatives who were diagnosed with prostate cancer and how many are still alive to above address. You'll be sent a questionnaire and may be asked to donate a small amount of blood which will be tested free of charge.

The Prostate Cancer InfoLink is designed where ordinary people can gain information about one of the commonest forms of cancer in males.

The Prostate Cancer InfoLink

One of the very best sources of all kinds of information on prostate cancer. Very up-to-date. Broad based with lots of links to other sources.

The Circle
http://rattler.cameron.edu/circle
On line discussion and support for prostate cancer survivors and their families. Wide ranging and very eclectic.

PSYCHOLOGICAL: AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION has an extensive site covering family problems, managing traumatic stress and other life problems, 1200 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20036 offers counseling , referrals and resources.

PTA: National PTA is a non profit organization devoted to acting as an advocate for children and teenagers, 330 N. Wabash Ave., Suite 2100, Chicago, IL 60611, 312-670-6782, 800-307-4PTA

PYRAMID SCHEMES: To determine if a multi-level marketing business is legitimate, contact the Direct Selling Association, 1776 K St., NW, Washington, DC, 20006, 202 293-5760

RADON: EPA Radon Information Line, 800 767-7236, is operated by the National Safety Council and sends information on radon safety in the house.

National Clearinghouse on Marital and Date Rape, 2325 Oak St. Berkeley, CA 94708, 510 524-1582. Information, education and publications

National Coalition Against Sexual Assault, 912 N 2nd St. Harrisburg, PA, 17102 202 483-7165. Information, referrals and publications

Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network, 800 656-HOPE, will refer you to the nearest rape treatment center.

National Organization for Rare Disorders is a non-profit health organization dedicated to the identification, treatment and cure of rare disorders. Abstracts of over 1000 rare diseases are kept at this site, with keyword search engines to help you find your specific interest. 800 999-6673. Referrals to other organizations.

Office or Orphan Products Development, 800 300-7469 has information on drugs for illnesses affecting fewer than 200,000 Americans. Provides referrals to the drug companies that supply such drugs. Sponsored by the FDA

United Homeowners Association in Washington, DC will, for $5.00, give you the sales dates, selling prices and the addresses of as many as 12 houses in the neighborhood that changed hands within the past five years. It's available in California, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, central and southern Florida, metropolitan Detroit and in the metro areas of Colorado and Ohio. 800 842-6644. Have your credit card handy- it's all touch tone phone.

Discrimination: Department of Housing and Urban Development 800 347-3739 or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing at 415 557-2005.

Lenders: Fannie Mae at 800 7FANNIE; California mortgage banks and state chartered credit unions- California Department of Corporations at 800 347- 6995 or 213 736- 3693

Non member Federal Insured State Banks: Office of the Comptroller at 800 934- FDIC

Savings and Loan Institutions: Division of Consumer and Civil Rights at 202 906-6237

State banks of the Federal Reserve System: Division of Consumer and Community Affairs 202 452-3693

REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS: The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts, 1129 20th St. NW, Suite 305, Washington, DC 20036, 202 785-8717 offers some free information

REAL ESTATE MEDIATION: The American Homeowners Foundation in Arlington, Virginia has established a phone mediation service for $99 plus a onetime $25 filing fee. It "buys" a two hour conference call with a mediator. 800 489-7776

National Association of Screening Agencies, 800 462-3033 provides tenant screening for a fee

The National Association of Residential Property Managers, PO Box 10249, Scottsdale, AZ 85271, 800 782-3452 has members who specialize in managing single family rental houses and small rental properties.

Financial Freedom Report, 4605 South Wasatch Blvd. Salt Lake City, UT, 84124 800 289- 9715

Professional Apartment Management, 800 643-8095 is a real estate legal newsletter

Real Estate Investor's Monthly- Reed Publishing, 342 Bryan Dr. Danville, CA 94526, 510 820-6292

Real Estate Newsletter, Tribune Media Services, 435 North Michigan Ave., Suite 1408, Chicago, IL, 60611, 800 788-1225

RECALL list, CPSC, Washington,DC 20207. Find out what products have been recalled

Medical Rehabilitation Education Foundation, 800 368-3513, provides information and referrals to those interested in medical rehabilitation

National Rehabilitation Information Center, 800 34-NARIC, , 800 227-0216, is funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research and provides information and publications on rehab.

REMODELING: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry has a toll free number you can call for remodeling advice and material. 800 440 NARI

REVERSE MORTGAGES: these are available primarily for the elderly with, normally, fully paid for houses and allows a payment against the equity. Vast differences in programs and fees, however, with many scams occurring. Review many programs- even within government offerings - and get independent legal assistance before signing any documents.

American Bar Association Commission of Legal Problems for the Elderly, 1800 M ST. NW, Washington, DC 20036, 202 331-2258

Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th St. SW, Washington, DC 20410, 202 708-1420, 800 669-9777 has information on its "Home Equity Conversion Plan" or HECM.

Fannie Mae offers reverse mortgages and details are available by calling 800 732-6643

National Center for Home Equity Conversion, 7373 147th St. West, Ste,. 115, Apple Valley, MN 55124 ,800 247-6553 has a state by state list of lenders for FHA, privately insured and uninsured reverse mortgages. Send $1 and a self addressed stamped business size envelope.

"Facts for Consumers- Reverse Mortgages", Federal Trade Commission, Office of Consumer/Business Education, Washington, D.C. 20580

The Federal National Mortgage Association's Public Information Office, 3900 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20016, 800 732-6643 and ask for "Money from Home; A Consumer's Guide to Home Equity Conversion Mortgages". Free. Also has nearest FHA lender and information on their "Home Keeper" plan

"Homemade Money" by Ken Scholen, and Home Equity Conversion Information Kit available from AARP Home Equity Information Center, 601 E ST. N.C., Washington, D.C. 20049 Also 340 page book "Retirement Income on the House" for $14.72 for AARP members.

"Retirement Income on the House", and a 1995 book, "Your New Retirement Nest Egg: A Consumer's Guide to the New Reverse Mortgages", $24.95, Ken Scholen, National Center of Home Equity Conversion, 7373 147th St. NW. Suite 115, Apple Valley, MN 55124, 800 247-6553.

REYES SYNDROME: National Reyes Syndrome Foundations, 800 233-7393, 419 636-2679 offers information, publications and referrals to treatment centers nationally.

ROSACEA: For information and physician referral on this skin disease, call the National Rosacea Hotline at 708 382-8971.

The National Runaway Hotline, 800 621-4000, provides confidential crisis intervention and referrals for both children and their families. Runaways between ages 12 and 18 can be provided one way bus transportation if they wish to return home.

Youth Crisis Hotline, 800 HIT HOME, 619 292-5683, provides referrals on numerous issues affecting the youth-child abuse, eating disorders, suicide, etc. Publications

SAVINGS ASSOCIATION INSURANCE FUND: 550 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20429, 800 424-5488. An agency that insures deposits with savings and loan institutions

Department of the Treasury, US Savings Bond Division, Washington, DC 20006, 212 377-7715.

For tables on when Series EE bond interest accrues and on minimum rate guarantees, send a post card to Bureau of Public Debt, Savings Bond Operations Office, Parkersburg, W.V. 26106-1328. Or simply click to the WEB site

Write to Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81002 for "U.S. Bonds: Now Tax Free for Education". $.50

The Government Printing Office can tell you how much your bonds are worth by sending you a redemption table. An annual subscription to the tables for E and EE bonds costs $5.00 from the Superintendent of Documents, PO Box 37194, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954. Specify TRVE for E and TRVEE for EE bonds.

MMR software on the WEB can calculate EE value or has $20 program. MMR Software, PO Box 7116, Washington, DC 20044.

SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS: The National School Volunteer Program provides leadership for school volunteers and builds partnerships between public education and the community. 701 North Fairfax St., Suite 320, Alexandria, Virginia 22314, 703 836-4880

SCORE: The Service Corps of Retired Executives provides education on the formation, growth and success of small businesses through 12,000 working and retired executives and business owners. 800 634-0245 for a location near you.

Commission Headquarters: 450 Fifth Street NW, Washington, DC 20549 202 272-7440. This agency is responsible for protecting investors. It has a 24 hour automated consumer information line at 800 732 0330 where you can request information on how to get your broker's disciplinary history, file for arbitration, tap into the SEC records electronically or order one of eight free SEC brochures.

Northeast Regional Office: 7 World Trade Center, Ste 1300, New York, NY 10048, 212 748-8000

Boston District Office: 73 Tremont St. Ste 600, Boston, MA 02108-3912, 617 424-5900

Philadelphia District Office: 601 Walnut St, Ste 1005 E, Philadelphia, PA 19106, 215 597-3100

Southeast Regional Office: 1401 Brickell Ave. Ste 200, Miami, FL 33131, 305 536-5765

Atlanta District Office: 3475 Lenox Road, NE, Ste 1000, Atlanta, GA 30326, 404 842-7600

Midwest Regional Office: 500 West Madison St., Ste 1400, Chicago, IL 60661, 312 353-7390

Central Regional Office: 1801 California St. Ste 4800, Denver, CO 80202, 303 391-6800

Fort Worth District Office: 801 Cherry St., 19th floor, Fort Worth, TX 76102, 817 334-3821

Pacific Regional Office: 5670 Wilshire Blvd., 11th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90036, 213 965-3998

San Francisco District Office: 44 Montgomery St., Ste 1100, San Francisco, CA 94104, 415 705-2500

SECURITIES INSURANCE PROTECTION CORPORATION (SIPC): 805 15th St. NW, Ste. 800, Washington, DC 20005, 202 371-8300. Insures a securities account against lost or stolen securities to the amount of $500,000, but with not more than $100,000 of that in cash.

SELF ABUSE: Self Abuse Finally Ends is a site that offers help for the 2.3 million Americans who deliberately and repetitively cut, burn, scratch or bruise themselves. 800 366-8288

SELF EMPLOYED: The National Association for the Self Employed, PO Box 612067, Dallas, Texas, 75261, 800 232-6273 offers entrepreneurial advice.

SENIORS ABROAD: 12533 Pacato Circle North, San Diego, CA 92198, Attention Evelyn Zivetz has information about living in hosts homes while traveling abroad or for serving as hosts here.

National Council of Senior Citizens, 925 15th St. NW, Washington, DC 20005 has information on long term care and other health issues.

United Seniors Health Cooperative, 1331 H ST NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202 393-6222 has many good guides to help seniors- such as "Long Term Care: A Dollars and Sense Guide".

S-ANON International Family Groups, PO Box 111242, Nashville, Tenn 37222-1242 is a 12 step fellowship of people affected by sexual addiction of a family member or friend. Send $1.00 for more information

Sex Addicts Anonymous, PO Box 70949, Houston, TX 77270, 713 869-4902. Information, publications and referrals to local groups
Sexaholics Anonymous, PO Box 300 Simi Valley, CA 93062, 805 581-3343 is modeled after AA and is a support group for people with addictive or self destructive sexual behavior

Sexual Addiction The site notes that this"website provides straight answers for those weary travelers of life who want to live free from the shaming bondage of lust."

NOW Legal Defense and Education Fund 212 925-6635. Information and publications, referrals

National Association of Working Women, 216 566-1699 Hotline 800 522-0925 offers counseling, information and publications

Sexual Harassment Resources Laws and policies on sexual harassment. A long list of resources provided by the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Those with both male and female organs are usually classified as hermaphrodites, but there are others with similar clinical conditions. The Intersex Society of North America offers peer support, education. ISNA, PO Box 31791, San Francisco, CA 415 436-0585

Turner's Syndrome Society of the United States, Lynn-Georgia Tesch, 3539 Tonkawood Road, Minnetonka, MN 55345, 612 938-3118 provides information and publications

American Social Health Association, PO Box 13827, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, National Sexually Transmitted Disease Hotline 919 361-8488, seeks to prevent, control sexually transmitted diseases. Information, referrals, publications

Burroughs Welcome Co., a pharmaceutical company, has a booklet called There's Something You Should Know by writing to PO Box 9132, McLean, VA 22102

HPV Support Program, Dept PR98, PO Box 13827, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, has info on genital human papillomavirus (gential warts). Include $1.00 for handling

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bldg. 31, Room 7A32, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 , 301 496-5717. Information and publications

SHARED HOUSING: Seniors citizens may like/need to share their home both for the company and for the finances. The National Shared Housing Resource Center in Washington can provide information and technical assistance. Local agencies assume the task of recruiting, matching and arranging for persons to share a home. 410 235-4454

National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Office of Scientific and Health Reports, Building 31, Room 8A06, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 301 496-5751

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bldg. 31, Room 7A32, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 , 301 496-5717. Information and publications

Human Growth Foundation, 703 883-1773, 800 451-6434, provides parent education on the physical and emotional problems of short people.

Little People of America, 7238 Piedmont Dr., Dallas, TX 75227-9324 800 24-DWARF offers support and education. Information and publications

American Sleep Apnea Association, 1424 K St. NW, Ste 302, Washington, DC 20005 offers information, newsletter and a support group network

American Sleep Disorders Association, 6301 Bandel Rd. Suite 101, Rochester, Minn. provides the names and addresses of sleep centers. Send a large self addressed stamped envelope.

The Better Sleep Council has a free booklet by sending a self addressed stamped envelope to Seniors Tips, 333 Commerce St., Alexandria, VA 22320-0534, 703 683-8371. Women might Ask for Better Sleep Tips for Women

National Center on Sleep Disorders Research, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Information Center, PO Box 30105, Bethesda, MD, 20824-0105. Offers information about insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and sleep apnea

NATIONAL SLEEP FOUNDATION: , 1367 Connecticut Ave. NW, Ste 200, Washington, DC 20036, 202 785-2300. Information available by sending a self addressed $.55 cent stamped envelope.

Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation, Dept. A, PO Box 7050 Rochester, Minn, 55903-7050. Send a self addressed stamped envelope for information on RLS, the 70 national local support groups and local sleep specialists.

SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION: 1441 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20416, 202 653-6365. The SBA Answer Desk can be reached at 800 8-ASK-SBA

Office of Smoking and Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Centers of Disease Control, Mail stop K-50, 4770 Buford Highway NE, Atlanta, GA 30341-3724, 301 443-1575. Has information and publications. A fax line at 404 332-4565 has innumerable articles that can be sent directly to your fax machine.

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION: Office of Public Affairs, PO Box 17743, Baltimore, MD 21235, 410 965-0945, 800 772-1213. Ask for copies of form SSA 7004 that you send to get approximations of what your social security benefits will be when you retire.

SOCIAL SECURITY HANDBOOK: Guide to Social Security and Medicare by William Mercer Co. 1500 Meidinger Tower, Louisville, Kentucky 40202-3415, Tel. 502 561-4541

SOCIAL SECURITY PROBLEMS: National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives, 6 Prospect St. Midland Park, NJ 07432, 201 444-1415 has lawyers who specialize in social security disability problems. Call for a referral to a local representative.

SPINA BIFIDA: Spina Bifida Association of America, 131 Hewlett Neck Road, Woodmere, NY 11598

SPINAL CORD INJURIES: The National Spinal Cord Injury Association, 6701 Democracy Boulevard, Suite 300-9, Bethesda, Maryland 20817, (301) 588-6959 Phone, (301) 588-9414 Fax, has a free book on spinal cord injuries for children.

STATE INFORMATION OFFICES: Each state has an information office who directs callers to the appropriate office

Alabama	205 261-2500	Montana	406 444-2511
Alaska	907 465-2111	Nebraska	402 471-2311
Arizona	602 255-4900	Nevada	702 885-5000
Arkansas	501 371-3000	New Hampshire	603 271-1100
California	916 322-9900	New Jersey	609 292-2121
Colorado	303 866-5000	New Mexico	505 827-4911
Connecticut	203 240-0222	New York	518 474-2121
Delaware	302 736-4000	North Carolina	919 733-1110
District of Columbia	202 727-1000	North Dakota	701 224-2000
Florida	904 488-1234	Ohio	614 466-2000
Georgia	404 656-2000	Oklahoma	405 521-1601
Hawaii		Oregon	503 378-3131
Idaho	208 334-2411	Pennsylvania	717 787-2121
Illinois	217 782-2000	Rhode Island	401 277-2000
Indiana	317 232-1000	South Carolina	803 734-1000
Iowa	515 281-5011	South Dakota	605 773-3011
Kansas	913 296-0111	Tennessee	615 741-3011
Kentucky	502 564-3130	Texas	512 463-4630
Louisiana	504 342-6600	Utah	801 533-4000
Maine	207 289-1110	Vermont	802 828-1100
Maryland	301 974-2000	Virginia	804 786-0000
Massachusetts	617 727-2121	Washington	206 753-5000
Michigan	517 373-1837	West Virginia	304 348-3456
Minnesota	612 296-6013	Wisconsin	608 266-2211
Mississippi	601 359-1000	Wyoming	307 771-7011
Missouri	314 751-2000

Food and Drug Administration, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, 301 295-8012

"Anabolic Steroids: Losing at Winning" discusses the side effects of the drug. Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81002. You need to write to them for a list of publications and prices (all inexpensive)

STOCK RATING SERVICES: Analysis of companies by different methods. Many are available at your local library.

Moody's Investors Services, 99 Church St., New York, NY 10007, 212 553-0300, 800 342-5647

STOCK SEARCH: You can find out the value of old stocks or bonds for a fee from RM Smythe 800 622-1880, Stock Search International 800 537-4532, the Directory of Obsolete Securities published by Financial Information, Inc, 30 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ, 07303, 800 367-3441, or perhaps the National Quotation Bureau in New Jersey, 800 732-7868 (Minimum $50)

National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke, 31 Center Dr, MSC 2540, Bethesda, MD 20892-2540, 301 496-5751 has information on Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, head and spinal disorders, stroke, deafness, speech disorders, etc.

National Stroke Association, 300 East Hampden, Englewood, CO 80110-2654, 303 762-9922, 800 STROKES. Education, information and publications

National Mental Health Association, 1021 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314-2971, 703 684-7722, 800 969 NHMA

National Center for Stuttering, 800 221-2483, had information. Provides treatment and training for speech professionals

National Stuttering Project, 5100 E La Palma Ave. Ste 208, Anaheim Hills, AC 92897, 800 364-1677 has a goal to bring dignity, education and empowerment to children and adults who stutter.

Stuttering Foundation of America, PO Box 11749, Memphis, TN 38111-0749, 800 992-9392, provides information and help to stop stuttering. They can provide referrals to speech pathologists who have earned certificates from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

American Association of Suicidology,, 4201 Connecticut Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20008 can provide information by sending them a self addressed stamped envelope

American Suicide Foundation, 1045 Park Ave., New York, NY 10028-1030, 212 410-1111, 800 531-4477. Offers assistance, research, information and publications

S.A.F.E Alternatives, Linden Oaks Hospital, 852 West ST., Naperville, IL 60540 and enclose a self addressed stamped envelope for info on coping with potential suicide and self injury.

Samaritans, 500 Commonwealth Ave., Kenmore Square, Boston, MA 02215, 617 247-0220 is a special group of volunteers trained to help those considering suicide or persons who have lost a friend or relative to suicide.

Suicide Bereavement, PO Box 187, Park City, UT 84060, 801 649-8327. Support groups for family survivors, information, referrals and publications

TALLNESS: Tall Clubs International , 800 521-2512, provides referrals to social organizations locally

National Association of Enrolled Agents, 800 424-4339, provides confidential referrals to EA's nationally. Publications

TEEN OUTREACH PROGRAM: 713 627-2322, Cornerstone Consulting Group, TOP National Project, PO Box 710082, Houston, TX 77271-0082. Helps teens prevent pregnancies

TELEMARKETING: If you want to get your name off national telephone sales lists, you need to write to Telephone Marketing Services, C/O Direct Marketing Association, PO Box 9014, Farmingdale, NY 11735-9014. You must provide your complete name, home address, ZIP code and telephone number. If unwanted calls continue, contact the Federal Trade Commission, Bureau of Consumer Protection, Pennsylvania Ave. at Northwest Sixth St., Washington, DC 20580, 202 326-2222

TELEVANGELISTS: If a loved one has been victimized by a televangelist, call the Trinity Foundation at 800 229-VICTIM. They might be able to provide assistance in getting the money back.

TESTICULAR CANCER: The Testicular Cancer Resource Center is offered by Testicular Cancer survivor Chris Brewer and exists to empower the public with knowledge about this very treatable form of cancer. First timers to the site can begin their education with the Cancer Primer, refer to the TCRC Dict ionary for any questions, and then graduate to The Self Exam. Other sections here include personal stories, information about testicular implants, and interviews with celebrities like Scott Hamilton.

The Thyroid Foundation of America, Inc, Ruth Sleeper Hall, 40 Parkman St., Boston, MA 02114 has information with a self addressed stamped 55 cent envelope

The Thyroid Society for Education and Research, 800 849-7643 has information, booklets

TIMESHARES: National Timeshare Council, 1220 L St. NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20005, 202 371-6700. Information of vacation units

TINNITUS : Ringing in the ears is a common problem that affects about 17% of the general population around the world and about 44 million people in the USA. It causes significant suffering in about 4% of the general population (10 million in the USA). This site by Pawel J. Jastreboff, Ph.D., Sc.D. of the University of Maryland Tinnitus & Hyperacusis Center provides information, new treatment techniques and more.

TOURETTE SYNDROME ASSOCIATION: 42-40 Bell Blvd., Ste 205, Bayside, NY 11361. Send $2.00 for information

TRAFFIC SAFETY: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Auto Safety Hotline, 800 424-9393 provides information on safety belts, automobile recalls.

TRAUMA: American Trauma Society, 800 556-7890 has information for health professionals and the public and provides answers about trauma and medical emergencies

Access America, Inc., 800 284-8300 has information on insurance protection for medical, legal or travel help.

The International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, a non profit organization, has a brochure that lists 850 English speaking physicians in over 130 countries who have agreed to treat travelers for a set price. To join, write them at 417 Center St. Lewistown, NY 14092 or call 716 754-4883

Centers for Disease Control and Preventions International Travelers Hotline, 440 639-2572

TREASURIES: You can buy treasury instruments direct from the various Fed Banks by calling them up, getting a (relatively) simple form, filling it out and sending in a check.

Bureau of Public Debt, Department A, Room 429, 1300 C Street, SW, Washington, DC 20239-1000, 202 874-4000 (recorded message tells you the date of the next auctions)

Fed Bank of Richmond, Public Services Dept., PO Box 27471, Richmond, VA 23621 has "Buying Treasury Securities" for $.50

Information pamphlet is available from the Fed Bank of NY, Issues Division, 1st Floor, 33 Liberty St., New York, NY 10045, 212 720-6619

TRICHOTILLOMANIA: This is the uncontrollable urge to pluck out ones eyebrows and eyelashes. Contact the Trichotillomania Learning Center, 1215 Mission St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Provides research, referrals, networking.

Administrators, 9940 Timber Valley Drive, Indianapolis, Ind, 46250 has a list of the state offices for unclaimed bank accounts, etc. that have reverted to the states and may be collected by relatives. Send a stamped self addressed envelope.

UNITED STATES STUDENT AID FUNDS: PO Box 3028, Chandler, AZ 85244, 800 824-7044 has information and publications regarding Stafford loans for students and Federal Plus loans for parents.

UNITED WAY OF AMERICA: 701 North Fairfax St. Alexandria, Virginia 22314-2045, 703 836-7100

UNICEF : The organization works for survival, protection and development of all children worldwide through education, advocacy and fundraising.

National Kidney and Urologic Disease Information Clearinghouse, 3 Information Way, Bethesda, MD 20892, 301 654-4415. Information and publications.

University of Washington Medical Center, Dr. T.G. Basvendam, 1959 NE Pacific St. Seattle, WA 98105, 206 548-3300

U.S. COAST GUARD: Their information hotline at 800 368-5647 has information on boating safety and referrals to boating organizations.

USDA: The United States Department of Agriculture, 800 535-4555, can tell you about possible contamination problems with products.

Usher Syndrome: New Insights Lead to Earlier Treatment, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

VACATIONS: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, Publications Unit, Dept. P, 130 Webb Bldg., 4401 N. Fairfax Dr. Washington, DC 22203, 800 344-WILD has a free booklet, A Visitor's Guide, which indicates some of the most scenic areas in the country to watch wildlife, fish, go hiking, etc.

VACCINATIONS: Immunization Action Coalition, PO Box 4627, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55104 has brochures about vaccinations. Send a self addressed stamped envelope.

VASECTOMY: Contact AVSC International at 212 561-8093 for more information on male contraception.

VENTURE CAPITAL: National Venture Capital Association, 1655 North Ft. Meyer Drive, Ste 700, Arlington, VA, 22209, 703 351-5269 has information about venture capital firms in your area.

VETERANS: The Consumer Center, 1980 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, NJ 07040, 800 872-0121 has "The 1995 Complete Guide to Federal and State Benefits for Veterans, Their Families and Survivors". Cost is $16.95. Other publications.

VIATICAL SETTLEMENTS: This refers to the purchase of a life insurance policy from a terminally ill person. Prices vary tremendously as does the quality of companies. Numerous emotional and financial issues need be considered. Caution advised.

American Council of Life Insurance, 1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20004-2599 800, 942-4242 has a free brochure called "What You Should Know About Accelearted Death Benefits".

The FTC has a free brochure called Viatical Settlements: A Guide for People with Terminal Illness. Send a postcard to Viatical Settlements, Federal Trade Commission, Box P, Room 403, Washington, DC 20580-0001

National Viatical Association, 1200 19th St. NW, Ste 300, Washington, DC 20036, 800 741-9465 offers a free list of its 14 members that buy life insurance policies from the terminally ill.

Viatical Association of America, 1200 19th St. NW, Ste. 300, Washington, DC 20036-2422, 202 429-5129 has information on 30 companies- about half of all in existence.

U.S. GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION Consumer Information Center has booklets on all topics including Viatical Settlements, loans and accelerated death benefits.

A few listings of Viatical companies are shown below. However prices will vary considerably, so at least three "bids" are suggested. Those with "F" are funding companies which means they have their own source of money to buy polices. Those with "B" match polices with other investors and act as Brokers. All of those below are licensed in California. Always check licensing requirements in each state. State Insurance Department phone numbers are listed in this Guide.

VICTIMS: National Association for Victim Assistance: (NOVA) 1757 Park Rd. NW, Washington, DC 20010, 202 232-6682 provides a national advocacy for victims rights, help for crime victims and will help locate assistance in your local community.

Center for the Prevention of Sexual and Domestic Violence, 1914 N. 34th St. Ste 105, Seattle, WA 98103, 206 634-0115 offers workshops, consultations, publications, information and referrals.

Elder Abuse and Family Violence, Clearinghouse on Family Violence, PO Box 1182, Washington, DC 20013, 703 821-2086. Information and publications

National Center on Women and Family Law, 799 Broadway, Ste 402, New York, NY 55445, 212 674-8200 has information and publications

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, PO Box 18749, Denver, CO 80218, 800 842-4546, 202 638-6388 has information and publications

American Academy of Ophthalmology, Box 7424, San Francisco, CA 94120-7424, 415 561-8500, 800 222-EYES is a group of doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. Publications. They have 7,500 opthamologists who volunteer to help the poor with eyesight problems. Send self addressed stamped envelope for information.

American Foundation for the Blind, 11 Penn Plaza, Ste. 300, New York, NY 10001, 212 502-7600, 800 232-5463

American Optometric Association, 243 N. Lindberg Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141, 314 991-4100 has optometrists who diagnose and treat conditions of the eyes. Their VISION USA hotline 800 766-4466 has information for help to low income families. Publications.

Association for Macular Diseases, 210 E. 64th St. New York, NY 10021, 212 605-3719. Send business size SASE for information.

Glaucoma Research Foundation, 490 Post St. Ste 830, San Francisco, CA 94102, 415 986-3162, has material on glaucoma, newsletter, eye donor and phone support network

International Association of Lions Club collects unused and outdated eyeglasses for those anywhere in the world who are unable to them. Call 800 747-4448 to learn where you can send your unneeded glasses.

Lighthouse National Center for Vision and Aging, 800 2nd Ave., New York, NY 10017, 800 334-5497, 212 808-5544 (TDD) is a hotline that provides information and resources on vision and aging.

National Association for Visually Handicapped, 22 W. 21st. St., New York, NY 10010 212 889-3141 is the only non profit organization devoted to those that are not totally blind but who do not have adequate vision. Distributes books and newspapers with large print.

National Eye Care Project, sponsored by the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Knights of Templar Eye Foundation, Inc., offers medical eye care to the low income elderly through 7,500 ophthalmologists at 9,300 locations nationally. Call 800 222-EYES for information.

National Eye Institute, Information Office, 2020 Vision Place, Bethesda, MD 20892-3655 301 496-5248 is the government's principal agency for funding research and distributing information to health care professionals. Publications

National Retinitis Pigmentosa Foundation, 800 683-5555 has information. Does research and retina donor programs.

Opticians Association of America, 10341 Democracy Lane, PO Box 10110, Fairfax, VA 22030, 703 691-8355 is a group of opticians who fit, supply and adjust glasses and contact lenses that have been prescribed by a ophthalmologist or optometrist.

VISION USA, 243 N. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141, 800 766-4466. If you are low income with no health insurance, there are optomertists throughout the US that can provide glasses at no cost.

AARP Volunteer Talent Bank, 601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049, matches volunteers with local volunteer opportunities.

America's Promise: Offers a range of volunteer opportunities for working with youth. 888 55-YOUTH

Christmas in April: Works to rehabilitate housing, particularly for low income elderly or homeowners with disabilities, 800 4REHAB9

Federal Domestic Volunteer Agency (ACTION), 1100 Vermont Ave. NW, Washington DC, 20525, 202 634-9108 is the umbrella organization for all federally sponsored volunteer programs- foster grandchildren program, retired senior volunteer program, etc.

Habitat for Humanity: Volunteers help in the construction of low income housing, 800 HABITAT

Landmark Volunteers: LANDMARK VOLUNTEERS is a nonprofit summer service organization for high school students. The program offers the opportunity to spend two weeks working at one of several important historical, cultural, environmental or social service institutions.

National Federation of Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers, Inc. 368 Broadway, Ste 103, Kingston, NY 12401 914 331-1358 , 800 350-7438, helps congregations of all faiths minister to frail, disabled older people and their families.

Points of Light foundation, 1737 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006, 202 729-8000, 800 59-LIGHT works to enhance the abilities of people to address community problems through volunteering and can refer you to your local volunteer center.

Volunteers of America: The "community-based affiliates offer programs that serve those most in need, including abused and neglected children, homeless individuals and families, the frail elderly, youth at risk, people with developmental and physical disabilities and chronic mental illness, and ex-offenders returning to society, among many others."

TOPS- Take Of Pounds Sensibly, 4575 South 5th St., Milwaukee, WI 53207, 800 932-8677. Provides information on sensible diets. Makes referrals to local chapters.

Weight Watchers International, 500 N. Broadway, Ste. 200, Jericho, NY 11753, 516 949-0400. Local groups, support, information and publications

WHEELCHAIRS: Whirldwind Network, Wheeled Mobility Center, College of Engineering, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway Ave, San Francisco, CA 94132 helps people live independent lives throughout the world with their designs.

Used Wheelchairs- Used Wheelchairs USA carries a constantly rotating stock of 30-40 used electric wheelchairs -- usually 50% to 70% less than new

Inter National Association for Widowed People, PO Box 3564 Springfield, IL 62708 217-787-0886. Information, publications, offers referrals and has support groups.

Theos Foundation, 1301 Clark Bldg., 717 Liberty Ave., Pittsburg, PA 15222, 412 471-7779. Local groups, information and publications

WOMEN'S HEALTH: National Women's Health Network, Information Clearinghouse, 514 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

Xeroderma Pigmentosum Society, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that provides a focal point for information about this rare genetic disorder and to record the activities of XPS, which is dedicated to helping xp patients and their families.

YMCA of the USA: 101 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois, 60606-7386, 312 977-0031

YOGA: This exercise combines stretching, breathing and relaxation methods. The American Yoga Association can be reached at 800 226-5859

This directory was not designed to show every listing for every problem that exists but to hopefully provide those national contacts that can put you in the right direction. If you need further information and assistance, please contact your local library. Also write the Consumer's Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81009 and request the Consumer's Resource Handbook and the Consumer Information Catalog.

As stated, names and addresses change frequently. I will be neither responsible for returned mail or misdirected calls. If you want to suggest a listing, have an update or find an error, write to the address below, Email or fax your request.