Business Details
48 Years
experience
Empowering Independence for People with Disabilities
Founded in 1978, Whole Person has been a steadfast advocate for individuals with disabilities, empowering them to achieve independence and dignity. Our mission centers on connecting people with disabilities to essential resources, fostering self-determination, and driving systemic change within the Kansas City community. As a consumer-controlled Center for Independent Living, we are led by individuals with disabilities who bring lived experience to every program and initiative. Over our 45+ year history, we have expanded our reach across multiple counties in Missouri and Kansas, offering tailored services that address housing, transportation, employment, and daily living challenges. Our advocacy efforts have significantly improved accessibility in public spaces, transportation systems, and local businesses while promoting positive representation of disability issues in media.Through peer support networks, employment services, and home care programs, we provide comprehensive support that adapts to evolving community needs. Our commitment to Universal Design principles ensures our physical spaces and services remain accessible to all, reflecting our core belief that everyone deserves equal opportunities. With a diverse team of professionals and volunteers, we continue to break down barriers while maintaining financial transparency and accountability. Our educational initiatives and community partnerships amplify our impact, creating lasting change that extends beyond individual support. By combining direct service provision with systemic advocacy, we strive to build a more inclusive society where people with disabilities can thrive on their own terms.
Services
Advocacy
Independent Living Training
Home Health Care
Employment Services
Peer Support Groups
Medical Transportation
Consumer Directed Services
Community Integration
Disability Education
Personal Care Assistance
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of specialized experience in disability services
- Consumer-controlled organization led by individuals with disabilities
- Comprehensive support covering housing, employment, and healthcare
- Proven advocacy record improving regional accessibility standards
- Universal Design principles in all facilities and programs
What people say
Life-changing support
Dedicated advocates
Accessible programs
Empowering environment
Community-focused
Services
Independent Living Training
We provide personalized training to develop essential life skills for individuals with disabilities. Our program covers home management, financial literacy, healthcare navigation, and community engagement. Participants gain confidence through practical experience while maintaining full autonomy in decision-making.
Consumer Directed Services
Missouri residents receive Medicaid-funded home care services managed directly by clients. We handle payroll administration while clients maintain control over their care plans. Services include daily living support, medical assistance, and household management tailored to individual needs.
Employment Services
Our vocational rehabilitation program connects individuals with disabilities to meaningful employment opportunities. Services include skills assessment, job training, workplace accommodations, and ongoing support for both employees and employers. We partner with local businesses to create inclusive work environments.
Peer Support Groups
We facilitate peer-led support groups that foster connection and shared learning among individuals with disabilities. These groups provide emotional support, practical problem-solving, and advocacy training while promoting social inclusion through community events and activities.
Home Health Care
Professional medical care delivered in clients' homes across Missouri. Our licensed caregivers provide skilled nursing, therapy services, and personal care assistance. We coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive treatment plans for individuals with complex medical needs.
People
Rick O'Neal
Chair
Rick leads our board with extensive nonprofit governance experience. He advocates for disability rights through policy work and community engagement. His leadership focuses on expanding accessibility initiatives and strengthening organizational accountability.
Kelly Carter
Vice Chair
Kelly brings decades of disability advocacy experience to her board role. She specializes in employment equity and accessible education systems. Currently spearheading efforts to improve vocational training programs for young adults with disabilities.
Shelia Wright
Secretary
Shelia manages board operations with expertise in nonprofit administration. Focuses on financial transparency and strategic planning. Works closely with staff to ensure program alignment with organizational mission and community needs.
Questions
What types of disabilities do you support?
We serve individuals with physical, sensory, and mental disabilities including mobility impairments, visual/hearing loss, chronic illnesses, and developmental conditions.
Are your services free?
Most core services are free through grants and Medicaid funding. Some specialized programs may have sliding-scale fees based on income.
How do I apply for home care services?
Contact our intake team at 816-561-0304 to complete an eligibility assessment. Missouri residents qualify through Medicaid; Kansas residents use KanCare programs.
Do you offer transportation assistance?
Yes, we coordinate accessible transportation options including medical transport and community mobility training programs for independent travel.
Can I volunteer if I don't have a disability?
Absolutely. We welcome all volunteers who support our mission. Opportunities include mentoring, event planning, and administrative support roles.
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