The History of
CC LInks
In 1986, Christian County, Missouri, experienced a turning point in their support for the developmentally disabled. A special election held on June 3 resulted in the passage of a tax levy by a resounding 2-to-1 margin. This success paved the way for significant progress in the years to come.
Recognizing the need for effective management of the newly levied funds, on August 18, 1986, the County Commissioners appointed a 9-member Board of Directors. This board was entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the distribution of the tax money to support individuals with developmental disabilities.
The significance of this commitment was emphasized when Christian County Enterprises, Inc. (CCE) held its groundbreaking ceremony on February 22, 1987. This event marked the start of a tangible effort to create a supportive environment for those with developmental disabilities. While the construction of the CCE facility was underway, work initially began at Nixa Christian Church, providing crucial services until the completion of the permanent building in August 1987.
Over the years, the Christian County Board demonstrated unwavering support by funding numerous non-profit agencies dedicated to the cause. These organizations included Arc of the Ozarks, CCBDD Family Support, CC Respite Care, Christian County Enterprises Sheltered Workshop, Champion Athletes, A Sporting Chance, Concerned Citizens for the Handicapped of Christian County, Developmental Center of the Ozarks, Finley Group Home, Nova Center of the Ozarks, Parent to Parent/Kids On Block, Region VI Council, Special Force Family Ministries, Special Olympics, “Sara Says” Storytime, and the Visually Impaired.
A significant milestone was reached in 1995 with the completion of the CCE addition, allowing for the expansion of services and the continued support for individuals with developmental disabilities.
In 1998, the Concerned Citizens for the Handicapped of Christian County (CCHCC) initiated discussions that would ultimately lead to the creation of Crowhaven Apartments. This endeavor took shape with the filing of a HUD grant on July 7, 1998. Progress updates on an Adult Day Care facility were presented by the Developmental Center of the Ozarks on May 6, 1999. The vision started to become a reality when a contract for land was signed on Care Avenue in Nixa for Crowhaven Apartments on July 15, 1999. Just two years later, on July 19, 2001, Crowhaven welcomed its first seven residents.
In recognition of the importance of collaboration, the Christian County Board passed a motion on June 20, 2002, to join the Missouri Association of County Developmental Disabilities Services (MACDDS). This move was followed by the unanimous acceptance of revised By-Laws on August 15, 2002.
November 2010 witnessed another significant development as the CCBDD began providing case management services under the direction of Abilities First, a Greene County Senate Bill 40 Board. With the dedication of 3.5 full-time staff members, the organization successfully served 130 individuals, solidifying their commitment to comprehensive support.
The Partnership for Hope initiative made strides when it was signed into Missouri law on October 1, 2010. CC Links, responding to this opportunity, launched the Partnership for Hope in November 2011. Initially serving 15 individuals with PFH Medicaid waiver-funded services, CC Links has now expanded its reach to over 60 individuals. The waiver aims to prevent or delay institutional services for individuals who require minimal support, enabling them to continue living in the community. In October 2012, CC Links appointed its first Executive Director, Andrea Swope.
The transformative journey continued as the Board changed its name to CC Links in January 2013. Under the CC Links name, the TCM program has grown significantly and now serves over 600 individuals.
In 2016, the Board saw a need for transportation services and approved funding OATS Transportation for employment opportunities. This program continues to expand as the county continues to grow.
In February 2019, the Board closed on a new building at 1548 N. Commercial Road in Nixa and immediately began the process of renovating the building. After almost a year, the Board and the TCM Program moved into the new facility in January 2020. CC Links continues to grow and reinforces their commitment to support individuals with developmental disabilities within Christian County.
Address
1548 N. Commercial Rd.
Nixa, MO 65714
Contact Us
Phone: 417-494-4982
Info@christiancountylinks.net
Office Hours
Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM