Let Us Help

Support for Every Stage of Life. Guidance Every Step of the Way.

We help people with developmental disabilities, and the families and professionals who care about them, find the support, resources, and programs they need to thrive. Whether you’re a parent or caregiver seeking answers, an adult looking for support, or a school or business working to become more inclusive, you’re in the right place.

How We Can Help

First Steps

Early Childhood (Birth–Age 3)

Concerned about your baby or toddler’s development? We serve as the regional entry point for Missouri First Steps, which provides early intervention services like speech and physical therapy for children under age 3.

We’ll help determine eligibility
Assign a Service Coordinator
Connect you with trusted therapy providers

Call 417-866-0404 ext 1 for more information.

Learn About First Steps

The Next Step

Support That Grows With You

Looking for long-term support for your child, teen, or adult loved one? Our support coordination program, The Next Step, serves Greene County residents of all ages with developmental disabilities.

Support Coordinators help you and your family by:

Advocating for your needs
Connecting you to community resources and supports
Creating and updating your Person Centered Service Plan (a living document you can change anytime)
Support continues through all life stages

Call 417-866-0404 ext 2 to see if you’re eligible.

Learn About The Next Step

DD Health Home: Steps Forward

Health Home Support

At the heart of the DD Health Home: Steps Forward program is a partnership. Each person is paired with a Nurse Care Manager and a caring team of health professionals including doctors, nurses, therapists, nutritionists, and behavioral specialists, who provide one-on-one education and consultation. We work closely with each person to create a personalized plan that supports better health and well-being.

Available for people of all ages who have a developmental disability and either have, or are at risk for, a chronic health condition
Focused on whole-person wellness and care coordination

Call 417-866-0404 ext 4 for more information.

Learn About Steps Forward

Art Academy

Creative Classes for All Abilities

Art Academy offers classes in creative arts, active movement, theatre, and music enrichment. Art Academy encourages skill development aligned with the person’s goals and provides art classes where people with and without disabilities can create, connect, and grow through artistic expression. Our classes are designed to match each student’s interests and abilities, promoting creativity, confidence, and social connection.

Scholarships and funding options available
Includes Art to Market program for aspiring artists

Call 417-866-0404 ext 3 for more information.

Learn About Art Academy

Community Education

Supporting Communities Where Everyone Belongs

Community Education partners with schools, businesses, nonprofits, and civic organizations to promote inclusion and support self-advocacy for people with developmental disabilities. Our goal is to foster welcoming environments where everyone can live, love, learn, work, and play in their community.

Provide education about inclusive practices and how this benefits the community
Provide training and resources to help people with developmental disabilities become strong self-advocates
Equip families and caregivers with tools to support and advocate for their loved ones