February marks the 18 year anniversary for the Thompson Foundation for Autism & Neurodevelopment!
Our mission remains the same: strengthen children and families impacted by autism and neurodevelopmental disorders by raising awareness, advancing public policy, and funding the needs of the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment at the University of Missouri.
Some of the achievements the Foundation has accomplished alongside its partners over the years:
2008
- The Thompson Foundation secures $5M (HB 2023) to purchase the clinical building.
- The Thompson Foundation & Thompson Center work jointly to establish the Missouri Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders and the Office for Autism Services.
2010
- Foundation Board President, Ron Ashworth leads a state-wide team, that succeeds in efforts to make MO the 21st state to require private insurance companies to cover care and therapy for children with autism (HB 1311 & 1341).
- A team organized by representatives of the Thompson Center & the Thompson Foundation publishes Missouri Autism Guidelines for screening, diagnosis, and assessment.
2016
- Governor Jay Nixon awards $5M in funding, allowing the purchase of the R&T Building.
2021
- Bill & Nancy Thompson gift $1M to the University to establish the Ron Ashworth Endowed Professorship in Child Development, filled by Dr. Benjamin Black.
2022
- Foundation volunteers, board members, and staff work tirelessly to secure up to $31.5M in state funding (HB 3020) to construct a new Thompson Center.
2023
- Grand opening for new therapy clinic in R&T Building.
- MU Curators approve construction of new Thompson Center.
2024
- Groundbreaking Ceremony held in April at new Thompson Center construction site.
Thank you, with extraordinary gratitude, to all our friends who support this important work!