Children need hope, understanding, and compassion to learn and reach their potential.  The St. Louis Learning Disabilities Association helps children by giving them the education and support necessary to be successful.

Vision

The Learning Disabilities Association (LDA) provides hope and a brighter future for children of all ages who have learning disabilities and atypical learning styles.  LDA improves the quality of life for individuals and their families by ensuring successful learning experiences, strengthening social skills, and helping to develop the skills and confidence that are necessary for a happy and productive life.

LDA serves as the preeminent resource and service provider in the St. Louis region, where observation, consultation, and diagnostic testing services are provided to help identify the best possible options for students to reach their potential.  The organization works closely with school counselors, teachers, administrators, parents, physicians, and learning specialists to ensure optimum learning opportunities for each child who learns differently.

Personalized tutoring services are provided at the LDA headquarters and at satellite sites throughout the St. Louis region.  Highly regarded experts in the field teach seminars and symposia for educators, family members, and professionals in the field.  Parents receive training, referrals, and coaching to assist them in supporting and nurturing their child.  LDA promotes best practices through demonstrating effective teaching skills and providing coaching for teachers and professionals.

LDA works in partnership with other organizations to advocate at local, state and federal levels for better public policy and adequate resources for young people with special needs.  It also works with leaders in higher education to ensure that the educational curriculum for current and future teachers and school administrators includes up-to-date information about how to work effectively with children with learning disabilities.

LDA is known for its high-quality, innovative programs and its ability to help children become successful members of the community.  Because it is widely recognized for its excellence and leadership in the field, members of the media and the professional community regularly seek information and advice from LDA on how to deal with young people who have special needs.  

LDA relies mainly on funding from corporations, foundations and individuals. Income also comes from fundraising events, program and testing fees, and contracts with schools. LDA does not receive federal or state government funding or any support from the United Way.