A new facility in Fort Smith is set to significantly expand services for children with developmental delays, providing daily treatment for up to 240 children. Located at 1340 S. Waldron Road, the center will also create 120 new jobs, according to Marvin Maurras, co-founder of Kids Unlimited. The renovation, valued at $1.863 million, was approved under local building permits.
“Our mission is to support families and children with developmental disabilities through various services, including therapy and educational support,” said Glen Rounsaville, vice president of Kids Unlimited. “We have therapists, teachers, and staff dedicated to meeting the unique needs of each child.”
Founded 15 years ago in Jonesboro by Maurras and Shelly Keller, Kids Unlimited, along with its sister organization Miracle Kids Success Academy, operates 12 licensed facilities across the state. These facilities provide care for approximately 850 children daily.
The new facility, which opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 31, will become the largest early intervention center in Arkansas. It will replace the current Fort Smith location at 5400 Euper Lane, which serves around 80 children. The new facility will eventually close the older location.
The center offers a variety of services, including diagnostic screenings, therapy sessions, and specialized medical care, all of which require a physician’s recommendation. Services provided include speech, occupational, and physical therapy. The facility accepts ArKids First and private insurance, with some families opting for private pay options.
The new Fort Smith center spans 15,000 square feet, featuring advanced therapy spaces such as a 1,000-square-foot sensory gym. Keller explained, “The kids think they’re just playing, but every part of the gym is designed to aid in therapy, like improving motor skills.”
In addition to the sensory gym, the facility will include sensory rooms, a feeding lab, individual therapy offices, and dramatic play centers for play-based learning. A 1,500-square-foot training room will also be available for ongoing employee education, community training, and support meetings.
“We wanted a space that could serve both our staff and the community,” Maurras said. “It’s all part of our vision to give back, provide resources for families, and engage more deeply with the community.”
The building is designed with specialized spaces to ensure individualized care for each child. Future regional centers will use the Fort Smith facility as a model, Maurras added.
“This is all about the kids,” he said. “The changes we see in these children’s lives are permanent, and we bring hope to families. Once fully staffed, this new center will meet a significant demand in the community.”
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