Preparing Students for Life Beyond High School.
ACHIEVE of Southwest Missouri has been a trusted partner for families and young adults with disabilities since our founding — providing transition services rooted in dignity, growth, and community.
Who We Are
ACHIEVE of Southwest Missouri is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing comprehensive post-secondary transition services for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Operating on the campus of Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri, we bridge the gap between high school special education and genuine adult independent living by creating individualized programs built around each student's unique strengths and goals.
Our comprehensive curriculum encompasses independent living, career exploration, functional education, and community engagement — equipping our students with the tools to thrive in every dimension of adult life.
Explore Our Program arrow_forward“We want each student to know that their future is full of possibilities. We are here to walk alongside them, encourage them, challenge them, and celebrate every step towards their own level of independence.”
— ACHIEVE Program Director
Non-Profit since 2018. 501(c)(3) Organization.
EIN: 47-4705905 · Springfield, Missouri
Making a Measurable Difference.
What Guides Everything We Do.
Dignity First
Every person deserves to be treated with full respect. Our language, environment, and programming reflect a deep commitment to human dignity.
Self-Determination
We believe students are the authors of their own lives. Our role is to provide the tools, support, and encouragement to make their own informed choices.
Community Belonging
True independence includes genuine community connection. We work to integrate students into the broader fabric of our community.
Continuous Growth
Every student is on a journey. We celebrate small victories and understand that growth looks different for each individual.
Family Partnership
We walk alongside families, not just students. Caregivers are valued partners in every aspect of a student's transition journey.
Accountability
We hold ourselves to the highest standards of program quality, outcomes measurement, and transparent stewardship of donor resources.
Rooted at Evangel University.
Our partnership with Evangel University is the cornerstone of the ACHIEVE experience. Students attend classes, eat lunch, attend campus events, and form friendships with Evangel students — creating an authentic collegiate environment that builds confidence and social skills.
This unique model allows ACHIEVE students to develop in a real university setting while receiving the individualized support they need. Peer mentors from Evangel's education programs gain valuable experience while building meaningful relationships with our students.
Visit Our Campus
Schedule an in-person tour of our Evangel University hub and see our program in action. Tours are available Monday–Friday, 9am–3pm.
Schedule a Campus TourThe People Behind ACHIEVE.
Our dedicated staff bring decades of combined experience in special education, vocational rehabilitation, social work, and disability advocacy.
Program Director
Leadership & VisionGuiding ACHIEVE's strategic direction, program quality, and community partnerships to ensure every student achieves their full potential.
Lead Educator
Direct Student SupportEducators who design individualized learning plans, deliver daily instruction, and support students in achieving personal milestones.
Job Coach
Work-Site SupportIndividuals who model, instruct, and set appropriate expectations and/or modifications at work sites.
Ready to Learn More?
Whether you're a prospective student, family member, or community partner — we'd love to connect with you. Reach out or schedule a tour today.