Support
Central Missouri Autism Caregivers (CMAC)
CMAC is a support group for parents/guardians of those on the autism spectrum who live in Columbia and the surrounding communities. They have a Facebook group for discussion, support, and sharing of resources. They arrange dinners monthly at various restaurants around the area.
Central Missouri Down Syndrome Family Network
This group is for families living in central Missouri, enlightened by an extra 21st chromosome.
If you know of any groups – whether for families of those with disabilities or for children/teens with disabilities – let me know so I can add them.
Fellowship
Alive in Christ
Alive in Christ Lutheran Church strives to be inclusive. To that end, their GROW ministry works with other aspects of their ministry to allow for those of all ability levels to be successful together. Buddies are paired with those who need help during Bible classes, there is a sensory room available if someone needs a calm space, and they host seasonal celebrations designed to be fun for all ability levels.
Broadway Christian
Broadway Christian Church is a Disciples of Christ church that has a service with sign language interpretation, and also hosts a program called All God’s Children that strives to make all areas of church life accessible from Sunday School and VBS to worship, service, and fellowship.
If your church goes above and beyond to be inclusive of varying ability levels, share it with me so they can be added.