DCO adds program in Christian County

A Springfield-based nonprofit has expanded its footprint to Christian County with a new program for adults who have developmental disabilities.

Developmental Center of the Ozarks, which is headquartered at 1545 E. Pythian Ave. in Springfield, launched DCO Connects on June 1, according to a news release. Officials say the program is designed to offer hands-on, community-based education and activities for adults seeking a more independent lifestyle. The program is housed at 1824 N. State Highway CC in Nixa, and DCO signed a three-year lease with R & J Legacy LLC for an undisclosed rate, said Chrissy Marsh, assistant executive director for the nonprofit.

Through DCO Connects, participants will actively engage in the community, growing relationships and confidence while building pathways to long-term success, according to the release. The program is certified by the Missouri Department of Mental Health, Division of Developmental Disabilities and approved to serve up to 30 individuals. 

“DCO Connects is really about the community becoming the classroom,” said DCO Executive Director Marisa DeClue, in the release. “Whether it’s accessing an exercise or art class, volunteering with the greater community, participating in regional networking activities – there is so much potential in how we can all promote that sense of belonging. We know that the most successful communities – those who report increased levels of joy – are those where belonging is fostered and encouraged. That’s what we want to see happen.” 

While Marsh said DCO is leasing roughly 5,000 square feet in the Highway CC building, most of the program’s activities will be spent in the community.

DCO officials declined to disclose startup costs for the program, but said support includes grants from CC Links and Forvis Mazars LLP, as well as contracts with DMH.

Marsh said DCO Connects is currently just focused on Christian County.

“In Christian County, as in many communities across Missouri, there is a growing need for opportunities that help people with developmental disabilities discover programs aligned with their interests, strengths and future goals,” Marsh said via email. “While we are not actively exploring additional locations currently, we are always open to future opportunities as our organization continues to grow.”

DCO, which was founded in 1954, ranked ninth last year on Springfield Business Journal’s list of the largest local charitable nonprofits, with 94 employees in 2025. Robin Helsel, DCO’s director of community resource, public relations and marketing, said this morning the employee count has since grown to approximately 100. The nonprofit serves infants, children and adults who have developmental and physical disabilities or developmental delays – as well as those who do not – through therapies, education and habilitative programs.