The Next Step

Where Your Goals Guide the Way.

Whether you’re planning for early childhood, school, adulthood, or life on your own, the personalized support coordination through The Next Step is a steady partner to help you move forward and build a life filled with meaning, independence, and connection.

About This Program

What is The Next Step?

A Targeted Case Management provider will work with the individual/responsible party to identify specific needs and goals and a plan will be developed to access all available resources to meet those goals. This can be as simple as a yearly face to face meeting, school advocacy, or direction on accessing other services within the community. It can also be as involved as accessing funded services offered by the Department of Mental Health through various funding sources.

Each person is paired with a Support Coordinator who:

  • Identifies personal goals
  • Connects people with resources
  • Coordinates services tailored to each person’s unique needs
  • Assists in accessing therapies and employment supports
  • Supports life planning and transitions
  • Builds meaningful community connections

Eligiblity

  • Eligibility is determined by your local regional office at 417-895-7400

  • Diagnosis of an developmental disability prior to age 22

  • Diagnosis of an intellectual disability prior to age 18

How Does the Process Work?

  1. Contact The Springfield Regional Office at 417-895-7400 and ask for information.

  2. Intake process

    • Application
    • Screening & assessment
    • Eligibility determination

  3. Support Coordinator assigned

    • A Targeted Case Manager will reach out to learn more and help get started
    • An intake meeting is scheduled to begin creating a personalized support plan

  4. Person Centered Support Plan created

    • Identify needs
    • Develop a plan of action

In Their Own Words

Hear What People Are Saying

  • “Abilities First has been an incredible resource for us. They have supported us during tough times, especially during IEP meetings. Our coordinator has consistently provided updates on community events that we could participate in with our son. They also assisted us in finding resources when our insurance would not cover certain items, including grants to help us obtain what we needed.”

    — The Next Step person served

  • “I started my career at Abilities First in 2010 with The Next Step. Having the opportunity to come alongside families and individuals in the IDD community has been such a joy. Some of the families and individuals we work with I have known for 15 years and being able to be a part of their progress and the ups and downs of their journeys is so rewarding. An effective Support Coordinator is hard working, compassionate, creative, and organized. It is so encouraging and uplifting to work for a company that values a healthy work/life balance. At The Next Step we have the freedom to work very independently but also encourage teamwork and collaboration. I know that Abilities First is making a difference in my community and I love being a part of that.”

    — Support Coordinator, The Next Step