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
    Learn Our History

    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.

    • Amputation
    • Arthritis
    • Brain or Head Injury
    • Cancer
    • Cardiac Conditions
    • Cerebral Palsy
    • Chronic Fatique Syndrome
    • Degenerative Disease
    • Diabetes
    • Environmental Sensitivity
    • Epilepsy
    • Fibromyalgia
    • Hearing Disabilities
    • HIV/AIDS
    • Learning Disabilities
    • Lupus
    • Mental Health Disabilities
    • Multiple Chemical
    • Muscular Dystrophy
    • Multiple Sclerosis
    • Polio
    • Renal Conditions
    • Respiratory Conditions
    • Sensory Sensitivity
    • Spina Bifida
    • Spinal Cord Injury
    • Stroke
    • Visual 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.

    • Rick O'Neal - Chair
    • Kelly Carter - Vice Chair
    • Sheila Wright - Secretary
    • Scott (Richard) Glaser - Treasurer
    • Kim Richey - Member
    • Phil Yoakum - Member
    • Roxanna Shaffe - Member
    • Tony Waterhouse-Leal - Member

    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.”
    360 Architecture
    7 Principles of Universal Design

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

    • Equitable Use: Accessible and usable for diverse abilities.
    • Flexibility in Use: Accommodates varied preferences and abilities.
    • Simple & Intuitive: Easy to understand for all users.
    • Perceptible Information: Communicates effectively across sensory abilities and conditions.
    • Tolerance for Error: Reduces risks from unintended actions.
    • Low Physical Effort: Comfortable and efficient with minimal fatigue.
    • Size & Space: Suitable for all body sizes, postures, and mobility.