First Steps provides early intervention for families with children from birth to age three with developmental disabilities and delays. The goal of the program is to make sure that families have the necessary resources to raise a healthy, happy and successful child. After qualifying for the program, each child is assigned a service coordinator who assists in developing a team to meet those goals. Funded by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Abilities First serves over 900 children in a 13-county area in South Central Missouri. The Next Step provides targeted case management for people with developmental disabilities age 3 and over. Support coordinators provide individualized assistance in planning full and meaningful lives for people with developmental disabilities. Funded through an inter-governmental agreement with the Missouri Department of Mental Health, The Next Step brings together services and programs that enable citizens to reach their dreams. The Next Step serves over 1500 individuals in Greene County. Community Support Services works with an additional 150 individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid covered services by connecting them to community resources. Art Inspired Academy provides an inclusive experience for individuals to participate in the creative arts, including theatre, music, movement and art. Students express themselves through artistic experiences while improving communication, motor skills, social skills, and confidence. For many students, these classes are the first interaction with someone with a disability or a different background. Students learn that while everyone has their differences, overall, we are all the same. Abilities First Employment Services is designed to meet the needs of people with developmental disabilities who want to work and the needs of local employers to have a reliable workforce. The employment team acts as an advocate to ensure the individual is receiving appropriate services and their employment needs and desires are being met. A special emphasis is placed on youth transitioning from high school to employment. Artisan Elements creates and sells innovative hand-cast custom wall tiles, table tops, commercial and residential outdoor benches and large planters/firepits from recycled paper or glass, concrete and commercial additives. We are dedicated to environmental sustainability and providing inclusive employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Inspired Boutique is an upscale resale shop featuring name-brand women’s clothing, jewelry, collectibles, household items and furniture. Inspired Boutique is an opportunity for community awareness and provides creative inclusive job opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. By engaging the community, Inspired Boutique hopes to build relationships and improve inclusive opportunities. Grant Funding is provided to local non-profit agencies and direct support services for early intervention, residential services, independent living assistance, employment and transportation. These funds are provided by the citizens of Greene County through a property tax levy to support individuals with developmental disabilities. The Abilities First Board of Directors is responsible for administering these funds.
