Welcome to Impact Support Services! Whether you’ve known us as ACT (Alternative Community Training) or are hearing about us for the first time, we’re excited to share our story, evolution, and how you can join us in building a more inclusive community in Columbia, MO and beyond.
Our Beginnings
In 1975, our town was a different place. The population was much smaller, and amidst the era’s growth and innovation, ACT was founded. At that time, organizations like ours were much less common, so our mission was clear: to provide the most effective ways to meet the educational needs of children with disabilities.
Our Evolution
Nearly 50 years later, our mission has expanded. We now strive to create an inclusive community where everyone belongs, participates, and is valued. Our mission today is to connect people to meaningful experiences to live the life of their choosing. Here are the five essential services through which we fulfill this promise:
- Residential Services: Supporting individuals to live independently as active community members.
- Day Services: Offering skill-based programs that cater to individual goals and interests for adults seeking social inclusion.
- Community and Family Services: Providing creative, flexible, and supportive services and resources that meet individual and family needs at home or in the community.
- Youth Services: Specializing in after-school programs for middle and high school students to help them acquire and retain self-help, socialization, and adaptive skills for successful community living as adults.
- Career Services: Partnering job seekers with local businesses to establish mutually beneficial recruitment and retention relationships.
Looking Ahead
As we approach our 50th anniversary in 2025, we reflect on our journey and the impact we’ve made. The word “impact” resonates deeply with us. Our organization has impacted our community, local businesses through our career services, and the lives of individuals and families who partner with us. Making a true, life-changing impact remains the core of our mission.
Embracing Change
In the fall of 2023, we transitioned from Alternative Community Training to Impact Support Services. This new name reflects our growth and continued dedication to our mission. Our organization is still guided by four core values:
- Honor the Individual
- Evolve to Meet the Need
- Transform the Community
- Do What Is Right
We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our mission, values, and how you can be a part of our journey towards creating a more inclusive community. Join us in making an impact!
