Thompson Foundation awarded $15,000 grant from 15 and the Mahomies Foundation

Nov. 6, 2024

The Thompson Foundation has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation to help create a universally accessible outdoor playground at the University of Missouri's new Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment, set to open in spring 2026. Designed to support children of all abilities, this playground will be a vibrant space where children can develop essential social, emotional, physical and mental skills while having fun.

The 15 and the Mahomies Foundation, founded in 2019 by Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, is dedicated to enriching children's lives. By focusing on health, wellness and resource support for communities in need, Mahomes' foundation has contributed to numerous impactful initiatives.

Connie Brooks, the executive director of the Thompson Center, recently attended the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation Gala, accepting the check from Mahomes himself.

"The new playground will offer so much more than a place to play; it's an environment where kids can practice important life skills in a setting designed specifically for them," Brooks said. "This grant from the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation will help make that vision a reality, and we're excited to bring it to our community."

This accessible playground is part of the Thompson Center's new, state-of-the-art facility, which will double the number of patient rooms and allow for the expansion of its world-class care.