About Us

Our Story

The Whole Person, a non-profit organization, connects people with disabilities to the right resources and works for positive community change in Kansas City.

Who We Are

The Whole Person (TWP) is a non-profit, consumer-controlled Center for Independent Living (CIL), led and supported by individuals with significant disabilities, including board members, staff, and volunteers.

Founded in 1978, with widespread grass-roots support, strong consumer control, and a diverse, professional staff. We are a passionate voice of empowerment and advocacy for all persons with disabilities. For 45+ years, we have been a leader in representing people with disabilities in the greater Kansas City area.

Our Mission

TWP connects people with disabilities to resources, supports independent choice, and advocates for community change.

For 45+ years, TWP’s advocacy, alongside local partners, has led to:

  • More curb ramps across the metro area
  • Increased accessibility in businesses, programs, and facilities
  • Greater visibility of people with disabilities in the community
  • Improved transportation options
  • Enhanced media coverage and attitudes toward disability issues

Founding Member, Susie Haake

Who We Serve

We support individuals with physical, sensory, and mental disabilities through free programs for those with significant disabilities. We serve the following counties in *Missouri: Cass, Clay, Jackson and Platte. We serve the following counties in *Kansas: Johnson, Leavenworth and Wyandotte.

People with disabilities and their families

Schools

Businesses

Local Government Agencies

Volunteer Groups

Hospitals and the Medical Community

Civic and Religious Organizations

Veterans

Anyone seeking assistance

*Our In-Home Care and Home Health Care are available in Missouri only. Consumer Directed Services (CDS) in Missouri and Home and Community-Based Services in Kansas (HCBS). 

*The Whole Person’s Employment Services program provides services for MISSOURI RESIDENTS primarily through Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation. KANSAS RESIDENTS may contact Kansas Vocational Services, which is provided through the Department of Children and Families (DCF), at 1-866-213-9079. See our Employment Services page for more information.

We offer support to people across a full range of physical, sensory, and mental disabilities.

Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors guides and promotes The Whole Person, supporting its mission through committee work and financial contributions.

At least 51% of members are individuals with significant disabilities, serving as role models for our consumers.

The Board meets monthly on the 3rd Monday in the Community Room and via Zoom.

The TWP Public Meeting Code of Conduct Policy applies to all persons attending public meetings of the Board of Directors (“Board”) of The Whole Person, Inc. (“TWP”). Please contact The Whole Person if you need further information at 816-561-0304.

3710 Main Street, Kansas City, MO

About Our Building

The Whole Person, Main office on Main Street, Kansas City, MO

Transforming a 1929 urban textile factory into an office space for The Whole Person (TWP) was no ordinary project. Beyond adapting the Goodenow Textiles Company Building to accommodate 99 employees, many with disabilities, TWP aimed to showcase Universal Design at its best.

Located at 3710 Main, the headquarters support revitalization efforts, accessibility, and community impact, positioned along main transit lines for maximum outreach.

“Taking an urban 1929 textile factory in the heart of the city and giving it a new purpose is already challenging. But when the building needs to be adapted for use by a nonprofit that works with people with disabilities, not just incorporating Universal Design but exemplifying it in an environmentally responsible way, then the project starts to get interesting.”
7 Principles of Universal Design

Universal Design creates spaces that are accessible, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or status.