The most recent Community Focus Report highlights the collaborative support, stable standardized test results, and steps towards equity of educational opportunities in the Springfield education system. We are making strides as a community. Our next steps are taking on education outside of the classroom for adult learners, low-income families, and individuals with disabilities to close the achievement gap that continues to exist in our communities. Below are some amazing community partners taking on the gaps and bridging communities.

Abilities First:  AF provides support coordination and programs for people with developmental disabilities. Abilities First is devoted to “expanding opportunities, empower voices, and enable citizens with developmental disabilities to realize their dreams.” Opportunities for service include Art Inspired Academy, Art Inspired, and Inspired Boutique.

The Arc of the Ozarks:  The Arc is a non-profit that serves individuals with disabilities in directing their own lives as valued members of the community. Through the Education and Recreation Programs, you could work alongside Springfield residents at the Timothy Grant Newport Activity Center.

Champion Athletes of the Ozarks:  Champion builds self-esteem, self-confidence and everyday life skills. They devote efforts to enhance the lives of children and adults with disabilities through education, sports competition, teaching basic life skills, creating job experiences and reinforcing good social skills.

Drew Lewis Foundation:  The Foundation offers programming through the Northwest Project to benefit families from diverse backgrounds through social, physical, and educational activities. Their mission is to make our city a better place to live by improving quality of life in Grant Beach and other neighborhoods in northwest Springfield.

Community Partnerships of the Ozarks:  The mission of CPO is to facilitate and promote the building of resilient children, healthy families, and strong neighborhoods and communities through collaboration, programming and resource development. Check out their Events page for information on volunteer events and opportunities to donate!

The Brave Butterfly:  Their mission is to empower low-income and underrepresented people through leadership, ethics, and the Arts. Find out how you can serve with the Brave Butterfly Book Club and work alongside founder, Tami Franklin, in encouraging kids to build personal development skills and personal empowerment.

Center for Dispute Resolution:  The CDR is an organization located within the Department of Communication at Missouri State University. The CDR provides services that give individuals, organizations, and communities the tools they need to productively manage conflicts. Through programming, outreach, training, and research, the CDR is able to accomplish its goals.

Ozarks Public Broadcasting:  OPB consists of community supported, non-profit local NPR and PBS stations. The station relies on the service of volunteers to assist during fundraising pledge drives and other outreach events! Keep on the lookout for future drives.

Ozarks Literacy Council: OLC provides weekly one-on-one tutoring sessions for children and adults. They also do two visits during the semester to read a book and do a simple activity with a pre-school classroom. There is a current need for tutors and conversation partners for adult ESL learners and those who need help reading.

Thank you to all students and community members looking to invest in our community and build bridges. Follow your passion and find your place in our beautiful Springfield!