Light the Path to Empowered Living

Our unwavering commitment to lighting the path to empowered living for those diagnosed with developmental disabilities is embodied in “The Sunlit Way.” Our vision is to create a future where every person has the opportunity to thrive. We believe this path to empowerment starts with providing a supportive environment fostering growth, independence, and achievement.

We strive to fulfill our mission by providing person-centered services, including family navigation, behavior supports, independent living assistance, life skills development, housing opportunities, and socialization. We illuminate pathways for our community through education, expert environment cultivation, illumination of success, and advocacy to represent the needs of our community.

We are dedicated to helping individuals find their unique pathway to success, and through our efforts, we hope to inspire others to join us in our mission to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Sunnyhill Programs & services:

  • The ADVOCACY & FAMILY NAVIGATION SERVICE provides expert knowledge and guidance through systems of care, including access to resources and funding. Combined with strategic peer-to-peer partnerships within the community and the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Coalition, our service illuminates pathways for successful care planning, fostering optimism.

  • SUNNYHILL ADVENTURES CAMP is our organization’s founding location in Dittmer, MO. Our 65-acre campground offers experiences celebrating conservation, cultivation, and recreation for people diagnosed with developmental disabilities. The summer camp experience offers nine weeks of themed summer programming, seasonal mini-camps, and overnight accommodations. With adaptive activities and a “Challenge by Choice” principle, campers gain self-reliance and enriching experiences. The camp is available to individuals within peer agencies and natural homes.

    SUNNYHILL ADVENTURES TRAVEL offers monthly weekend road trips to popular destinations, providing a fun social experience and promoting self-sufficiency through cultural exploration. Adults engage in personal growth, skill development, and community engagement with trip chaperones provided. This program is available to individuals within peer agencies and natural homes.

  • Our APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS (ABA) PROGRAM identifies and targets behaviors, implements tailored supports, and fosters positive change through personalized plans. We collaborate with care teams to ensure comprehensive support and effective outcomes.

  • Our INDEPENDENT SUPPORTED LIVING ASSISTANCE (ISLA AND PRE-ISLA) PROGRAMS provide personalized one-on-one support tailored to the unique needs of individuals aged 18 and over with goals to live independently. We help them identify, develop, and improve living skills to maintain independence goals through non-24-hour assistance.

  • Our RESIDENTIAL SUPPORT SERVICES offer two Individualized Supported Living options that enable individuals to integrate into their communities fully. Our dedicated team works collectively with family members, medical professionals, employment agencies, day programs, community resources, support coordinators, and other natural support networks. Together, we cultivate an environment conducive to success, assisting with daily living activities, transportation, education, employment, recreation, and options that empower individuals to access their communities.

    Our WAIVER-INDIVIDUALIZED SUPPORTED LIVING PROGRAM features up to four roommates carefully matched through complementary lifestyle assessments and individual choice to create a positive living environment. Round-the-clock care provides personalized support based on individual needs. People are supported in collaboration with their team to fulfill their goals and work toward independence.

    The SUNNYHILL INDEPENDENCE CENTER (SIC/ALF) is a vibrant neighborhood setting in Desoto, MO. Here, supported individuals live with peers who share their interests and aspirations. Our inclusive campus features recreational areas and communal spaces for social gatherings. Additionally, bedrooms allow for privacy and relaxation, all overseen by our compassionate staff trained to provide personalized care and maintain staffing ratios based on the needs of the individuals.

How Do I receive Services?

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

  • Funding Sources:

    DDA, DDR, DHSS, DMH,

    Productive Living Board, SB40 Boards

  • Missouri Counties Serviced:

    Jefferson County, St. Charles,

    St. Louis City, St. Louis County

Sunnyhill Programs & Services