OUR GOAL IS TO BREAK DOWN BARRIERS

To push the boundaries of every person’s potential so there are no limitations. We strive to be innovative so that transformation is possible… and permanent. We help families find the resources they need for their family member with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism or other developmental disability. We are dedicated to ensuring all people have the opportunities they need.

OUR MISSION

Turning Abilities Into Opportunities

OUR VISION

All people with developmental disabilities live the life they choose.

CORE VALUES

  • One Team, One Mission
  • Accountable, Respectful Service
  • Transparent Stewardship
  • Hold the Rope

Dedicated to Inclusion

Exclusion

Segregation

Integration

Inclusion

100% of individuals we serve have opportunities to experience full-inclusion.

FULL INCLUSION:

  • Everyone has opportunities to experience acceptance and a sense of belonging as a community member.
  • People with and without developmental disabilities live, love, learn, work, and play side by side.
  • People are supported for success.
  • All people have opportunities for meaningful relationships and experiences.
  • People recognize that full inclusion benefits everyone involved by bringing together different abilities and perspective to make a greater whole.

Ensuring all people

have the

opportunities

they need

HISTORY

In 1978, the citizens of Greene County voted to levy a property tax to support services for people with developmental disabilities. The funds are administered by the Board of Directors of Abilities First through grant funding of local non-profit agencies and direct support services for:

  • Early Intervention
  • Residential Services
  • Independent Living Assistance
  • Transportation

2023 Grant Funding Recipients

Arc of the Ozarks
Art Inspired Academy
Artisan Elements by Choices
Community Education
Champion Athletes of the Ozarks
Developmental Center of the Ozarks
DMH/Partnership for Hope Waiver
EnCompass Academy
Inspired Boutique
MSU Foundation (Bear Power)
Nova Center of the Ozarks
Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation
SWI Industrial Solutions
Springfield Workshop Transit Company
Willard Parks and Recreation
Kiwanis Foundation of Springfield South