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The Learning Disabilities Association of Connecticut Inc. (LDA-CT) is a statewide, nonprofit membership organization that provides services to Connecticut families and professionals regarding learning differences.

LDA-CT's origins date to 1962, when a group of nine parents and professionals met to discuss concerns in obtaining educational assistance for children who had learning problems but were not mentally retarded. In 1964, the Association for Perceptually Handicapped Children was incorporated, and meetings to inform and support parents and professionals took place in various West Hartford locations.

In 1967 the organization's name was changed to the Connecticut Association for Children with Perceptual Learning Disabilities (CACPLD), and a state charter was obtained from the national learning disabilities organization, located in Pittsburgh. During this year, the state of Connecticut passed a major set of laws recognizing the special-education needs of handicapped children, including those with specific learning disabilities (Section 10-76 of the General Statutes).

From 1967 to 1975, the bulk of the organization's work centered on providing awareness of learning disabilities to parents and professionals through written materials, workshops, programs, and conferences by dedicated volunteers. An office opened in West Hartford, and funds were raised through membership dues.

In 1975, Congress passed the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (Public Law 94–142). In response, the organization developed a handbook to advise parents and began an informal Parent Assistance (PA) program, at no cost to participants. In addition, a Professional Advisory Board was established to assist the Board of Directors.

By 1979, the organization had 350 paid members, and chapters were beginning to form around Greater Hartford. Also during this period, a similar organization formed in the Fairfield County area.

In 1981, the name of the organization became the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities (ACLD of Connecticut Inc.) Adults were also offered assistance through information and referrals. Chapters expanded as parents and professionals looked for information and support in their local communities. ACLD volunteer board members worked closely with the chapters as an extension of the work being done in the West Hartford area.

In 1982, the Board of Directors began to discuss the need for a paid executive director or executive secretary, increased public awareness of the LD condition, and fund raising beyond membership dues. In addition, a membership newsletter was developed around this time.

In 1983 the organization met with CACLD, the Fairfield County learning disabilities organization, to discuss mutual needs and goals. Since they had different missions, the two organizations decided against a merger, though they have continued to work together on many projects and issues.

In 1984, ACLD initiated a formal training program to help parents understand the often-complicated implications of the 1975 Public Act 94-142, which provided special education to qualified children with learning disabilities. Parents could now bring advisors or advocates to school meetings. Qualified volunteers had been providing this service to parents - at no cost - for almost 10 years. The following year ACLD received a grant from the Hartford Courant Foundation to train interested volunteers; 20 people were trained in the two years of the grant.

Recognizing the need for a strong fund-raising effort, the organization in 1984-85 applied for grants and solicited corporate donations. In addition, it asked for an organizational review from the National Executive Service Corps (NESC). At this point, ACLD had obtained office space at the American School for the Deaf in West Hartford and had the services of a paid secretary.

In 1986, ACLD received the NESC recommendations and formed task forces to follow the recommendations. The paid membership reached 630, and there were 10 active chapters. Board members participated in a training session provided by the Voluntary Action Center. The Parent Assistance handbook was revised for the third time.

In 1989, the organization hired a part-time executive director; a few years later, it would be able to hire a full-time one.

Between 1990 and 1995 there were three office moves, to two different locations on Constitution Plaza in Hartford and then to the present location at 999 Asylum Avenue. Following the lead of the national organization, ACLD of Connecticut changed its name to the Learning Disabilities Association of Connecticut Inc. Local chapters closed, as information about learning disabilities and related disorders became readily available from other sources, particularly libraries, the Internet, and the State Educational Resource Center (SERC). During this period, two members of our Board of Directors were elected to positions on the national LDA board.

In 1994, the Board adopted a sliding-scale fee for Parent Assistance services, recognizing they include comprehensive record reviews, explanation of evaluations, guidance on the appropriate programs and services for children with special learning needs, familiarity with special education law, and direct support at educational planning meetings.

Between 2000 and 2007, two major events took place. First, the name of the Parent Assistance Program was changed to the Parent Advisor Program, reflecting the role that the PA provides to the clients. Second, funds were received to begin an Adult Testing Program, in which eligible adults could receive evaluations from qualified psychologists at a minimal fee. The testing program began with a paid coordinator; later, a volunteer provided coordination.

LDA of CT has operated without an executive director since 2003. Through the commitment of dedicated volunteers, it continues to serve families of children with special needs by providing information and referrals, direct parent assistance, parent training, conferences, a newsletter called the CIRCUIT, and adult information and referral for evaluations. The part-time office manager coordinates the organization's activities. LDA volunteers provide quality service and professional knowledge in the tasks they perform.

Since 1964, LDA has been dedicated to making a positive difference in the educational experiences of children and adults with learning disabilities and related disorders. With federal and state legislation has come the right to equal access and specialized instruction. LDA is committed to assuring that children, families, and adults are informed of their rights and receive appropriate services. The organization looks to the community to support its important work on behalf of children and adults with learning disabilities and related disorders.