Sunnyhill Advocacy and Family Navigation Service, in collaboration with the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. network, provides robust support services to empower families navigating disabilities. Our commitment transcends mere assistance; we endeavor to be unwavering allies for families, offering expert knowledge, guidance on systems of care, and insights into intricate funding. Through strategic partnerships within the community, we illuminate pathways for successful care planning, enriching the lives of individuals facing uncertainty and fostering overall well-being within the community.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S., an acronym representing Finding Resources, Important Everyday Needs, and Disability Services, serves as a foundational pillar of support for families embarking on their disability journey. Through close collaboration with a diverse network of organizations, individuals gain access to the necessary tools and resources to navigate the complexities surrounding care.

Sunnyhill Advocacy Services recognizes the multifaceted nature of families’ needs. Our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive support across various domains, ensuring families receive the assistance they require to navigate their unique journey with confidence and resilience.

Sunnyhill Advocacy & Family Navigation Areas of support:

  • Finding Resources: Assistance in locating funding resources and tailored financial support programs to meet your specific needs.

  • Addressing fundamental necessities such as transportation, housing, and access to essential healthcare services.

  • Disability Services: Facilitating connections with specialized disability services and programs to foster independence and overall well-being.

  • Providing personalized care planning services to guide families through complex systems and facilitate informed decision-making.

  • Offering expert advocacy support to ensure families’ voices are heard and their rights upheld throughout the process.

  • Community Outreach: Engaging in outreach initiatives to raise awareness and promote inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

How Do I receive Services?

  • Developmental Disability (DD) diagnosis or anyone suspected of having a developmental disability prior to the age of 22 or someone suspected of having a developmental disability.

  • Funding Sources:

    Productive Living Board

  • Missouri Counties Serviced:

    Greater St. Louis Metro Area

  • for more information on developmental disability resources and supports go to IDD Gateway Resource Guide.

Isaiah’s Empowered Living

Isaiah is a senior in high school who was recommended to SUNNYHILL’S ADVOCACY SERVICE by his teacher, Cara. She wanted information about our family navigation assistance to help Isaiah access post-secondary support resources, such as Social Security benefits, Medicaid, and in-home assistance. Isaiah is an outstanding young man who lost his natural support. He works hard in school, including managing the high school basketball team, running track, and learning independent living skills.

After securing Isaiah’s apartment with support from Madgala, we connected him with supported living services funded through the Productive Living Board. Isaiah is learning essential skills to ensure his success in living independently, such as budgeting, cooking, and navigating his new community. Colton’s Cause provided necessary household items with the help of generous community donations. Isaiah also secured a job within walking distance of his new apartment.

As we look forward to Isaiah’s promising future, we are reminded of the power of collaboration. We firmly believe that individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities can thrive thanks to the exceptional partnership between Sunnyhill and its network of supportive agencies. With the average wait time for supportive services ranging from 6 months to over 2 years, these collaborative partnerships are essential in ensuring timely and effective support is available.

Meet tamico Jones

Director of Advocacy

Hello, my name is Tamico Jones and I am the Director of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Family Advocacy Center, a division of Sunnyhill. I have several years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities. Those experiences include working in direct care, case management, and teaching. This is something near and dear to my heart. Outside of work, I personally have a son with profound disabilities. I understand the difficulties families face when trying to navigate the often lengthy processes it takes to get services for your loved ones who have a developmental disability. I have been there and still continue to face challenges in my personal life with my son.

I look forward to talking to you!

Find out more information about Sunnyhill’s Advocacy & Family Navigation programs.

Sunnyhill Programs & Services

  • Sunnyhill Adventures

    Jayne Grisham, Director

    Sunnyhill offers a one-of-a-kind Adventure Camp and On the Road programs that aim to improve socialization skills. Our 65-acre campground provides a beautiful backdrop, and our activity programming activates sensory points. We also organize weekend getaways to expand cultural knowledge.

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  • Megan Shoults, Director - Jefferson County

    Sunnyhill’s ALF and Waiver programs provide a range of residential options for individuals needing supportive living arrangements. These services offer individualized, and group supports, depending on the needs. Sunnyhill strives to provide a safe and supportive environment for all people.

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  • Amanda Kehoe, Director

    Sunnyhill's ISLA and Pre-ISLA programs are designed to assist individuals in living independently and safely in their own homes. Sunnyhill offers various connection points to ensure people can continue to reside in their preferred environment. Each person is eligible for up to 10 hours of support services per week.

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  • Amy Guignon, Director

    Sunnyhill’s Behavior Supports service is an essential tool in helping individuals to address and manage a range of behavioral issues. Our service is designed to teach daily living skills, create a plan, and decrease problem behaviors. Our service is available for individuals aged from childhood through adulthood.

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  • Becky Mullins, Director - Greater St. Louis

    Sunnyhill’s ALF and Waiver programs provide a range of residential options for individuals needing supportive living arrangements. These services offer individualized, and group supports, depending on the needs. Sunnyhill strives to provide a safe and supportive environment for all people.

    Learn More

  • Tamico Jones, Director

    Sunnyhill's Advocacy service offers tailored support to families navigating housing, healthcare, and education. Our team provides person-centered solutions and connects families with alliance agencies for enhanced community outreach. We empower families to thrive by ensuring they have access to the support they need.

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