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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

Special Needs Trusts: What Are They & How Should I Fund One?

Please join us for a discussion and Q&A about planning your estate and financial strategies to care for your loved one with a disability. We’ll be joined by two experts: Nikki Mitchell, J.D., CELA, attorney and owner of Mitchell, Brown & Associates and Sarah Vehige, CFP, ChSNC, financial advisor with Edward Jones.

Building Dignity of Risk: The Impact of Choice on Quality of Life for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

There is dignity in making choices, accepting the associated risks, and learning from those choices—a concept called Dignity of Risk. In relation to supporting adults with developmental disabilities, Dignity of Risk is a person-centered framework that promotes self-determination. It is about supporting the person to make the decisions that they want to make, while staying safe. Based on findings from academic literature, this presentation will cover what Dignity of Risk is, how it is connected to quality of life, and suggestions for how to support it. 

Pathway to Success: A Transition Resource Event

Families and students of all ages who are impacted by a disability are invited to attend this FREE event! Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experts and learn about the various agencies that provide support during the transition process for students and young adults.

Mastering Autonomy Through The Transition Into Adulthood

How many desire seeing people on the autism spectrum master autonomy as adults? Transition and adulthood combined are a tall task for many people. Many folks on the autism spectrum have struggled with mastering autonomy through the Transition into Adulthood. Mr. Durany will share about his experiences mastering autonomy through the Transition into Adulthood. He will breakdown what it takes to master autonomy through various phases of adulthood.

Building Social Connections with Hayley and Matthew Leach Webinar

Join us for a discussion on effective strategies for building and maintaining meaningful social connections in both college and the workplace. Gain insights on fostering relationships, navigating social dynamics, and finding supportive communities. Hayley and Matthew will share their experiences with social groups and communities they have found supportive.  

Thompson Foundation, ACE Program Receive Local Impact Grant

The Thompson Foundation for Autism & Neurodevelopment was awarded the Autism Speaks 2023 Local Impact Grant. This grant will go towards funding the Thompson Center’s Accessing Career Experiences (ACE) program. This grant was awarded to 23 organizations from 13 states that serve the autism community.  

Pathway to Success: Transition Event

This is a FREE transition resource event for families and students impacted by a disability. We encourage caretakers of students of all ages to join us for this event. It is never too early to think about the transition process. You will be able to talk with experts and learn about building independence.