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We’re here to help.

Our compassionate and knowledgeable team is here to address your unique needs and provide the best possible care for your child’s neurodevelopmental journey.

Learn more

Teaching for a stronger community.

We are here to equip learners with the essentials skills needed to create positive change in the lives of people with developmental differences.

Learn more

Researching for a better tomorrow.

Our goal is to unlock discoveries that will revolutionize the lives of individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental diagnoses.

Learn more

Researchers & Studies

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We’re here to help.

Our compassionate and knowledgeable team is here to address your unique needs and provide the best possible care for your child’s neurodevelopmental journey.

Learn more

Teaching for a stronger community.

We are here to equip learners with the essentials skills needed to create positive change in the lives of people with developmental differences.

Learn more

Researching for a better tomorrow.

Our goal is to unlock discoveries that will revolutionize the lives of individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental diagnoses.

Learn more

Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment

205 Portland Street, Columbia, MO 65211

573-884-6052

STRIVE

Self-Determined Transition Readiness Through Individual Vocational Experiences (STRIVE)

STRIVE is an innovative post-secondary education and independence program at the University of Missouri tailored specifically for 18-to-30-year-olds with autism or similar diagnoses.

With a focus on non-credit employment and life skills development, STRIVE offers two semesters of comprehensive training, empowering individuals to thrive in various aspects of life. Through our specialized curriculum and supportive environment, we foster growth, independence, and a future full of opportunities.

Thanks to generous private and public support, the $8,000 program cost per student is reduced to only $3,000. With that investment, STRIVE participants will receive 300 hours of skill instruction, 60 hours of mentorship, and up to 300 hours of work experience during the two-semester program.

Some financial assistance is available by completing this application.

Prepare for the future with STRIVE’s 3 pillars:

Direct skill instruction led by staff from the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment

Job experience and coached feedback

Peer mentoring for participants; parent support for caregivers

STRIVE Graduation 2022

Admission Requirements:

  • A strong desire to become more independent and work competitively
  • Autism diagnosis or a diagnosis with similar symptoms; documentation may be required
  • Age 18-30 years (exceptions may be made by STRIVE staff)
  • No longer enrolled in high school
  • Comprehensive (both nonverbal and verbal) IQ at or above 85 (verification may be required)
  • Completed Admissions Checklist and Online Application (see below)

Application Materials:

Online Application

Paper application available by request.

Release of Information

for confirmation of autism diagnosis and other health records as needed.


Questions?

Contact Jaclyn Benigno at strive@missouri.edu or (573) 882-2077