is to strengthen the lives of individuals with disabilities by creating inclusive opportunities for community involvement, access to meaningful employment, and better options for supported living.
Ou R V A lue S :
O ur m|s S | ON : are focused on bringing the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities to light and working together to greatly increase access and opportunities.
Inclusion Connections’ model not only meets the needs of our community but consistently exceeds expectations, offering a wide range of programming that surpasses our goals year after year. Advancing the independence of each individual we serve remains essential—whether through meaningful employment, preparation for supported living, or opportunities in fitness, the arts, and social engagement. Our students are, and will always be, at the heart of everything we do.
Our year-round program offers educational classes and social activities specially designed to build self-confidence and create life-long learning opportunities.
PawsAbilities Workforce Development provides meaningful jobs and ongoing support, creating and selling handcrafted pet products.
At BelongKC, adults with developmental disabilities can thrive in a supportive environment tailored to their needs—focusing on health, employment, and greater independence through customized living solutions.
The 10th Annual FashionAbility Gala was hosted by Inclusion Connections on February 17, 2024 at Olathe Embassy Suites. The event was once again sold-out thanks to the tremendous support from attendees and sponsors, including presenting sponsor, UnitedHealthcare!
Our grand total raised was $888,000, with TOP MODEL peer-to-peer campaigns contributing nearly $175,000 to that figure. On stage performances were enjoyed by more than 700 attendees, with Board of Directors President Jon Twidwell and Executive Director Debbie Horn both being honored.
Through inspiring fashion presentations and heartfelt testimonials, we were reminded of the importance of embracing diversity and creating a more inclusive community. We are grateful for the generosity and commitment to our mission – this signature annual event enables Inclusion Connections to continue our vital work in empowering individuals of all abilities.
Now in its 10th year, the PawsAbilities Workforce Development Program ensures that individuals with developmental disabilities in the Kansas City area are not left behind. At the core of our work is hands-on training for the skills needed in today’s workplaces, with a strong emphasis on matching each young adult with job opportunities that align with their strengths, interests, and goals.
Students gain practical experience in areas such as sewing, baking, packaging, inventory management, operating a pointof-sale system, janitorial tasks, and customer service. In addition, educational classes build foundational pre-employment skills— creating resumes, identifying job interests, conducting online job searches, and participating in mock interviews.
Our dedicated Employment Specialists work closely with each participant to ensure a thoughtful and individualized path to employment. The program equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to not only secure a job but to thrive in the workplace.
Ultimately, our goal is to empower each participant to achieve the highest level of independence possible.
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Each jobholder received one-on-one assistance, ensuring long-term workplace success
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PawsAbilities mobile pop-ups brought products to 100 businesses and events to expand skills and generate revenue 207 |Nd|v|duAls serVEd with job training, placement, job coaching and transportation PErSONAl|ZEd JOB COACHING 100 BuS|NESSes &
Supported Individuals in from local businesses and schools joined our mission
Significant progress was made on the BelongKC initiative in 2024, marking a pivotal year in the project’s development:
Rick Oddo joined the team as Project Developer, bringing valuable expertise to the development phase.
The Capital Campaign continued with strong community engagement. The Steering Committee remained active and focused, working diligently toward completing the fundraising goal.
Strategic planning and negotiations led to a reduction in overall project costs, improving financial efficiency.
The organization began the process of applying for Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to support long-term affordability and sustainability.
With these advancements, the organization remains on track to break ground in 2026, aligning with its mission to foster belonging and community.
At Inclusion Connections, every success story is made possible by the generosity and commitment of our donors. Your support fuels our mission to empower individuals with developmental disabilities through meaningful employment, education, and life-enriching experiences.
Because of you, students are gaining confidence, learning vital skills, and stepping into more independent futures. Your contributions—whether through event sponsorships, monthly giving, in-kind donations, or one-time gifts—create opportunities, open doors, and change lives.
We are deeply grateful for your partnership. Your belief in our mission helps us grow, evolve, and dream bigger. Together, we are building a more inclusive community— one where everyone belongs, contributes, and thrives.
Your trust matters. That’s why we maintain a Platinum Seal of Transparency with Candid—ensuring our work and finances are open, accountable, and impact-driven.
Inclusion Connections was the proud beneficiary of the Kansas City Young Matrons’ 2024 Magic Ball, receiving $297,000 for the BelongKC Supportive Living initiative.
Inclusion Connections was honored as a Gold Winner for Website Design and Content at the 2024 Philly Awards.
The organization was the Beneficiary of Subaru of Olathe’s Share the Love Campaign that took place over the 2024 Christmas season.
