What You Do Matters

November 6, 2019

This testimony is from a staff member with our Renovations program. We are so appreciative of our staff that work tirelessly for the clients they support.

I got to experience a seemingly random, unexpected, but beautiful moment today. I was called on for help today by Damion. I (like several others) have received many calls like this from Damion, but today was different. It wasn’t a “hey, I need you to do x, y, z for me” it was a “I have this problem, what direction should I take to fix it myself?” I didn’t think much of it at first but I figured I had time and I was willing to help. He had lost his ID but needed to get one to cash his paycheck so he could get groceries. Through several rounds of troubleshooting we had a new ID in hand along with some cash. We decided to go ahead and get groceries. As I watched him, it hit me, just a few years ago this seemed impossible. Just a few years ago Damion was just a kid with mental illness, thrown into placement, fighting for attention and suffering from entitlement. Just a few years ago he was getting in trouble by police in the alley behind his home. Just a few years ago, while having a broken arm, he was using the other to rip a mailbox out of the ground and swing it at staff.

Today, he was problem solving, using his brain and enjoying help. He was being picked up from HIS apartment, to cash HIS pay check, to by HIS own groceries with plans to cook dinner for himself when he got back home. I share this story to say this:

What you are doing is worthwhile. If you are discouraged right now, you are doing good work. If you have the fire, keep it burning. It wasn’t just Progressions that got Damion to this place in life. It was every staff, every Program Supervisor, every nurse, and every person that fed into him along the way. Thank you to everyone who invests in people at their worst and holds on to see their best. What you are doing matters!

The Arc of the Ozarks becomes eFactory Partner

October 10, 2019

As the newest partner of the eFactory, The Arc is supporting entrepreneurship and innovation in southwest Missouri. The Arc believes this partnership will spread the importance of inclusion in the workforce and be a resource to entrepreneurs.

Known as a hub for innovation, the eFactory provides entrepreneurs the resources they need to be successful. The eFactory opened its doors in March of 2013 with one goal in mind: to serve as a one-stop shop for small business owners and entrepreneurs throughout southwest Missouri. Today, the eFactory covers all the bases- everything from office space to growing companies to custom trainings for established businesses.

“We are the front door of entrepreneurship,” stated Rachel Anderson, director for the eFactory. “If you have an idea, or if you’re already in business and you need help growing your business, come here, and we can help you out.”

Professional and leadership trainings will be provided to staff through this partnership, as well as conference room use and coworking space. The Arc’s Training Department will lead this partnership with innovative ideas and collaborations.

“We cannot begin to express how excited and grateful we are for the networking and growth opportunities this partnership will provide to our staff and to the individuals supported here at The Arc of the Ozarks,” stated Candece Hite, leadership and development coordinator for The Arc of the Ozarks. “Beyond that, we are thrilled for the awareness this will bring to our mission as well as the community our staff work so passionately to support daily.”

Successful Second Year of Wings for Autism®

August 26, 2019

On August 24th, The Arc of the Ozarks, Allegiant Airlines and The Arc of the United Sates co-hosted the Second Annual Wings for Autism® event at the Springfield-Branson National Airport. This event was held in partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Abilities First and JW Terrill. Wings for Autism® is an airport “rehearsal” created to alleviate some of the stress that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families experience when traveling by air.

At arrival, participants received a passport to guide them through the boarding process and a backpack full of sensory activities and snacks. After receiving their boarding pass, individuals went through TSA before boarding the aircraft. Once onboard, flight attendants went through the flight and safety procedures and answered any questions the individuals had. Following the experience, participants were given McAlister’s boxed lunches and cupcakes from Star Cakes.

“This event has been extremely beneficial for my family,” stated Jennifer Proctor, a parent of two identical twin girls with autism. “Every day is a new day. This event helps with the predictability of the flying process. We could not have asked for kinder staff throughout the whole process.”

This event is open to all individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Springfield area and beyond who seek a safe, but realistic experience of travelling through an airport. 65 families were able to attend this second annual event.

“We are so appreciative of the Springfield-Branson National Airport and Allegiant Airlines for working with us a second year,” stated Family Advocate and event organizer, Elizabeth Obrey. “We have seen the positive impact Wings for Autism® has had on the families participating.”

11th Sporting Clays Tournament draws 120 marksmen

August 19, 2019

On Saturday, August 17th, The Arc of the Ozarks 11th Annual Sporting Clays Shoot took over Ozarks Shooters Sports Complex. The 95-degree heat didn’t keep the 120 shooters from having fun and supporting a good cause.

The shoot is held to raise funding for The Arc’s ISL (Individualized Supported Living) Start-up fund. Specifically, this fund aids with items that include deposits on new apartments, furniture and various moving expenses. Nearly $11,000 was raised for the ISL Start-Up Fund.

“The ISL Start-Up fund is essential for our clients moving into their own homes to get a fresh start,” stated Mike Powers, President/CEO. “We are so appreciative of the support for this event and look forward to bringing new sponsors in each year.”

This year, a delicious lunch of tri-tip, beans and chips was served to all participants sponsored by Henry’s Towing. While the Ozark Shooters staff tallied up the scores, door prizes including Bass Pro gift cards, hunting essentials and insulated cups were given away.

The 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners from each flight won prizes of Bass Pro gift cards and bragging rights.

This event could not be possible without the many sponsors that aided in making it successful including our presenting sponsor, Commerce Trust. Our supporting sponsors included Central Bank of the Ozarks and (CSI) Central States Industrial. CSI brought 37 shooters to the event and have been instrumental in the growth of the event over the years.

Mark your calendars for next years event taking place Saturday, August 15, 2020. Contact The Arc at 417-864-7887 for more information on the ISL Start-Up Fund and other services provided.

Results HERE

30th Birthday Celebration for Price Cutter Charity Championship

July 31, 2019

Sunday, July 28th wrapped up another year of success for the Price Cutter Charity Championship. The Arc of the Ozarks sponsored Go Blue FORE Autism Championship Sunday spreading awareness of the many autism services the organization provides. The Arc was set up on the 18th green under a blue tent. Staff and community members from The Arc volunteered their time to share information about The Arc’s autism services. Blueberries and cream popcorn generously donated by Ozark Mountain popcorn was a big hit again this year.

Blue was visible all over the course as players, spectators and volunteers showed their support. Families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder were admitted free.

Many spectators attended to watch a great game of golf and support their favorite local charities. This was the PCCC’s 30th year and 49 local children’s organizations were involved. The Arc once again sponsored VIP Parking has been involved with the tournament for 14 years.

The champion of the Price Cutter Charity Championship, Harry Higgs took home $126,000 and earned his PGA Tour card with this win. Higgs, finished Sunday with a 5-under-par 72 for a four-day total of 266 – or 22 strokes under par – at Highland Springs Country Club. That was two strokes better than runners-up Steve Wheatcroft and Andrew Svoboda.

Over the course of the weekend, thousands of people came out to the tournament and supported organizations like The Hope Foundation, Children’s Smile Center and Big Brothers Big Sisters. All the funds raised will be directed at children’s programming in each organization. The funds received for The Arc will go back to our No Limits Summer Camp program.

Mark your calendars for next year, July 23 -26, 2020.

Victoria’s New Kidney

July 10, 2019

After a long road of being on dialysis, Victoria needed a kidney transplant. She had been on dialysis for 2 years before her transplant journey began. Victoria is an Arc client that was in kidney failure when she came to The Arc. Arc staff didn’t know why she was in kidney failure but knew something had to be done.

Victoria was tasked to to lose around 100 pounds to be eligible for transplant surgery, plus maintain a healthy weight. Victoria worked to lose the weight and maintain the weight loss. Her hard work paid off and this past April, she and her team visited a transplant committee in Tulsa. It was then that she was approved to be on a kidney transplant list.

Staff helped Victoria and supported her success by planning menus to follow her strict diet guidelines. Her staff also encouraged her to exercise as frequently as possible to help enhance the weight loss. The staff were with her through the high points and the struggles, always ensuring to be positive role models throughout the process.

“Victoria worked hard to get her transplant and she is very proud of herself,” stated Monett program supervisor, TaLisa Spain. “It took a team, a complete team, being on the same page for months and months to help see Victoria’s goal achieved.”

Victoria is planning to work when she’s healed and able. She also is hoping to work to become independent enough to be alone in her home.

Arc Clients Volunteer to Park Cars

June 14, 2019

The Arc of the Ozarks’ clients teamed up with Price Cutter, to help park cars for the Thursday, June 13th Springfield Cardinals game. This was also the evening of The Arc’s “Arc in the Park”.

Price Cutter is offering parking to fans to help give community members a cheaper parking option near Hammons Field, while giving back to local charities.

Parking is just $10 at the Price Cutter located at the intersection of St. Louis and National during Cardinals games. About an hour and a half before the game’s start time of 7:10p.m., The Arc of the Ozarks’ clients helped park the cars in the lot. “Our clients are always thrilled to be out in the community doing a variety of things,” stated Angie Perryman, family advocate for The Arc. “It’s an extra bonus that the money raised from the parked cars goes back to us and our No Limits Summer Camp.”

Price Cutter, began offering this parking option as an alternative to the $14 cost for the Hammons Field Parking and as a way to give back to the community. Throughout the Cardinals’ season, the company invites local children’s charities to participate by helping to park cars. All the money raised from parking those vehicles in turn goes back to those that volunteer.

Golfers Brave the Rain for Monett Golf Tournament

May 9, 2019

The Arc of the Ozarks raised over $10,900 at the 16th Annual Monett Golf Tournament on Friday, May 3rd. Held at the Windmill Ridge Golf Course in Monett, the scramble format golf tournament also hosted a lunch and silent auction.

The funds raised from the golf tournament will be utilized towards making our Monett kitchen accessible so we may host cooking classes for our clients and community members.

“This tournament has become a staple in our community,” stated Monett Division Director, Sarah Meredith. “We have so many generous businesses who have been by our side all 16 years.”

Despite the rain, a fun day of golf was enjoyed by the 22 teams that participated.

The Arc of the Ozarks team would like to thank its volunteers, supporters, participants and the event sponsors including: Bee Payne Stewart Foundation (presenting sponsor), ASI, Community National Bank, Liberty Electric, First State Bank of Purdy, Freedom Bank, Old Missouri Bank, MEA, Anderson Engineering, First Independent Bank, KPM CPA’s, Jack Henry , Crown KK Realty, CoxHealth Monett, Lily Chemical, Genesis Bolt, Bruner Pharmacy, Netsmart, Bell and Associates, VB Hall Antiques, Coast to Coast, Friendly Tire, DB Graphics, Randall, Mosri & Randall, Square 1 Insurance, Sater Pharmacy and Crown Power and Equipment. Congratulations to the winners:

Championship Flight

1st Dennis Scholl’s Team – 55

Championship Flight

2nd Monett Insurance Center – 56

Championship Flight

3rd Ryan Johnson’s Team – 56

A – Flight

1st Genesis Bolt – 64

A – Flight

2nd Lily Chemical – 65

2nd Annual Open Buddy Bass Tournament reels in significant funds

April 29, 2019

Fishermen from across Missouri hit the waters of Table Rock Lake in the early morning hours on Saturday, April 27 to see who could reel in the largest bass. The 2nd Annual Open Buddy Bass Tournament was held to support The Arc of the Ozarks Residential program and the unmet dental, medical and personal expenses for the clients served.

“The turnout was incredible and exceeded our expectations. It was so encouraging to see anglers from across the state come together to support our individuals. The participants were some of the most laid back, generous donors we’ve ever worked with. We are so thankful they chose to benefit our department and we look forward to growing this tournament year after year,” stated Abby Simek, Assistant Director of Residential Services.

This year, The Arc added a kayak division to the event. Ozark Mountain Trading Company handle the logistics of this division. While the anglers were on the water, the State Park Marina donated use of pontoon boats for clients and staff to take out. Many of the clients had never been on a boat and had a blast.

“We were honored to once again assist The Arc of the Ozarks in this fishing tournament. The tournament has grown exponentially in the last two years and I look forward to the future of this event,” stated Glenn Rosser, owner of Anglers Obsession Guide Service and coordinator of the tournament logistics.

The event wrapped up with a Weigh-In Party where Tri-Tip, coleslaw, baked beans and potato salad we served to the participants. A silent auction with more than 30 items was held. Tara, a Residential client provided a testimony of how The Arc of the Ozarks has enriched her life.

1st Place Total Weight 14lbs 10oz. – Cole Findley and Jeff Barrickman

2nd Place Total Weight 14lbs – Dave Austin

3rd Place Total Weight 13lb 11oz. – Jeff Ladwick and Ken Harp

4th Place Total Weight 12lbs 13oz – Justin Nave and Craig Yocum

5th Place Total Weight 12lbs 13 oz. – Brian Watson and George Watson

6th Place Total Weight 12lbs 7oz – Lee Muschler and Vic Muschler

FOR FULL RESULTS, CLICK HERE.

Out of the 67 boats competing, the biggest bass weighed in at 4lbs and 1 ounce caught by Cody Millican.

It was a beautiful day of fishing for a cause and raised over $11,000 for the unmet needs of the clients in our Residential Department.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 25, 2020 for the 3rd Annual Open Buddy Bass Tournament.

Mission in Action

March 26, 2019

J is a 15 year old that has been with The Arc since December of 2017. J grew up in foster care placements and behavioral health settings as he has a history of aggression, elopement and property destruction.

J is a sophomore at Joplin High School and has struggled with anxiety and aggression at school in the past. He is now making great strides in his learning and confidence at school. In fact, he recently read his first book completely and independently at school.

On April 25th, J will compete in Special Olympics for the first time. This is something he is very excited to participate. When asked if he wanted to run the 100 meter or the 200 meter, he replied “I want to run the whole thing.” He then ran the 400 meter in 1:56! He now wants to try out for cross country and track next August and has been running with the Assistant Track Coach of Joplin High School.

J did not have an adequate pair of running shoes but has recently been sponsored by The Runaround in

Joplin. He was fitted for a pair of custom shoes at their shop and spent time with the shop’s mascot. He has been running with his staff each day for the last few weeks and is very excited for this opportunity. His face lights up when he is on the track.