Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Developmental Services in Springfield
Founded in 1954, the Developmental Center Of The Ozarks (DCO) has dedicated over six decades to empowering individuals with developmental and physical disabilities. Our mission centers on removing barriers to inclusion, offering tailored therapies, educational programs, and habilitative services for all ages. With a focus on independence and community integration, we provide early intervention therapy, employment support, adult day care, and technology-driven learning.Our team of licensed therapists and educators delivers services in natural settings, ensuring accessibility and personalized care. As a locally rooted organization, we reinvest 100% of donations into the Springfield community, maintaining transparency and accountability through strategic oversight by our board of trustees.
Services
Therapy Services
Employment Services
Adult Day Center
Early Child Care & Education
Community Based Learning
Technology & Learning Center
Details
- Year established: 1954
Highlights and features
- We have provided employment services for over 35 years with individualized job matching.
- Our multidisciplinary therapy team offers physical, speech, and occupational therapy.
- Community-based programs promote inclusion through volunteer opportunities and skill-building.
- We reinvest 100% of donations locally, ensuring direct community impact.
- Licensed professionals deliver services in natural settings like homes and daycares.
Associations and certifications
- nationally accredited
Services
Therapy Services
Our licensed therapists provide physical therapy, speech/language pathology, occupational therapy, and special instruction tailored to individual needs. Services occur in natural settings like homes and daycares, ensuring accessibility for infants through adults. This multidisciplinary approach promotes developmental progress and functional independence.
Employment Services
We help individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment through interest-based job matching and on-the-job training. Our nationally accredited program has supported successful placements for over 35 years. Services include resume development, interview preparation, and workplace accommodation assistance.
Adult Day Center
This program offers social interaction, leisure activities, and personal care support for adults with disabilities. Participants engage in arts, music, and community outings at a relaxed pace. The center focuses on maintaining dignity while fostering friendships and life skills.
Early Child Care & Education
Our inclusive daycare serves children aged six weeks to six years, with and without disabilities. Trained staff use developmental models to build foundational skills through play-based learning. The program emphasizes early intervention to prepare children for future educational success.
Community Based Learning
This initiative develops independence through real-world activities in small-group settings. Participants practice self-advocacy, safety skills, and volunteer work within the community. The program bridges gaps between education and independent living for adolescents and adults.
People
Marisa DeClue
Executive Director
Marisa DeClue leads DCO's strategic initiatives with over two decades of nonprofit leadership experience. She oversees organizational management and ensures alignment with our mission of inclusion and empowerment.
Robin Helsel
Community Resource Director
Robin Helsel directs public relations and community engagement efforts. She connects local resources to DCO programs, enhancing visibility and support for our services across the Ozarks region.
Jeanette Stacye
Early Child Care Director
Jeanette Stacye manages inclusive early childhood education programs. She specializes in developmental models that prepare young children with and without disabilities for future learning success.
Torri Brunkhorst
Adult Day Center Director
Torri Brunkhorst oversees adult programs focusing on social engagement and personal growth. She creates inclusive environments where adults with disabilities build relationships and life skills.
Nora Goller
Therapy Team Lead
Nora Goller supervises our multidisciplinary therapy team. She coordinates physical, speech, and occupational therapy services delivered in homes and community settings across the Ozarks.
Questions
What populations does DCO serve?
We serve infants, children, and adults with developmental or physical disabilities, as well as those without disabilities through inclusive programs.
How can I enroll in DCO programs?
Visit our website to access enrollment forms for childcare, therapy, or adult programs. Contact our administrative team for assistance.
Does DCO offer financial assistance?
While we don't provide direct financial aid, donations help cover out-of-budget expenses. Contact us to discuss individual circumstances.
Are volunteer opportunities available?
Yes! Volunteers assist in childcare, events, and administrative tasks. Register through the Missouri Family Care Safety Registry to begin.
What makes DCO unique?
We combine therapy, education, and employment services under one mission while reinvesting 100% of donations locally for community impact.
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