The Mission Project

The Mission Project would like to thank At Home Apartments of KC, JibJab, BridgeFit, Rarified Creative, Buttonwood Financial Group, LLC, and KU Alzheimer's Disease Research Center for sponsoring our annual Independence Walk coming up on Saturday, September 7th!

We are so excited to celebrate the value of independent living for the participants of The Mission Project and grateful for this community and all of our supporters.

If you’d like to sign up to sponsor the Independence Walk and support our participants, check out the link below to learn how to sign up.

▶️ https://givebutter.com/IndependenceWalk

Our participant, Ainsley recently celebrated a Birthday! 🎈🎂🎉

Her family says their favorite thing about her is her sweetness and generosity! She ALWAYS remembers birthdays, anniversaries, you name it. She gives the best cards and gifts and gets so much joy celebrating those shes loves.

Her perseverance has been such a blessing with the challenges she faced due to her diagnosis. Her family is so proud that when she sets her mind to something, she makes it happen! Her family has been diligent in getting her all the support and services she's needed and boy, did she put in the work to succeed!

You are an inspiration to us all, Ainsley! Here's to another year around the sun! 🌞

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream - The official sponsor of Birthdays at The Mission Project!

Our Annual Independence Walk is coming up Saturday, September 7th!

The Independence Walk is a 1 or 2 mile walk to benefit The Mission Project and celebrate our participants’ involvement in the Mission Community. Enjoy a walk through beautiful dowtown Mission, KS, meet new friends and support a great cause.

When: September 7, 2024
Where: Beverly Park, 5935 Beverly Ave, Mission, KS
Time: 8:45 AM Check-In | 9:30 AM Walk Start

More info ▶ https://themissionproject.org/indepedence-walk-2024-a-benefit-for-the-mission-project/

We are extremely grateful to our Independence Walk Sponsors, HAPPYtown and VPR Patient Outreach Program.

At The Mission Project, we believe that disability is not inability. Because of this, our mission is to foster independence and empower individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling and autonomous lives. Through our programs, participants gain valuable life skills, build strong social connections, and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.

Disability Pride Month is not only a celebration but also a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality and accessibility for everyone. It’s a call to action for all of us to advocate for change, challenge stereotypes, and support initiatives that uplift the disability community.

Join us in making a difference ▶ https://themissionproject.org/celebrating-disability-pride-month-with-the-mission-project/

Celebrating Disability Pride Month with The Mission Project A Call To Action For All Of Us To Advocate For Change

✨Welcome to a life of embracing independence and community! ✨

Developmental disabilities does NOT mean a cloistered life. The life of a Mission Project Participant means:

📍 Living independently in an apartment community of their choosing
📍 Opportunity to self direct; making decisions with autonomy
📍 Freedom and access afforded by a walkable community
📍 Volunteer activities – both by and for participants
📍 Collaboration with JCCC CLEAR Program, Mission, KS Parks + Recreation, Down Syndrome Innovations, Rockhurst University Occupational Therapy, and Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training
📍 Community education

The Mission Project's program is centered around creating a vibrant community where participants can thrive and reach their full potential. Learn more at www.missionproject.org

Home - The Mission Project A place where adult persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) live, work, play and participate in the life of the community, living independently with individualized support.

Our participant, Jack recently celebrated a Birthday! 🎉🎈🎂

His family says their favorite thing about him is that he has a great sense of humor! They are most proud that Jack has kept the same job for 10 years and is highly regarded by his employer and his colleagues.

Cheers to you, Jack! We hope you had a fabulous birthday!

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream - The official sponsor of Birthdays at The Mission Project!

The needs of the autism community are evolving, and ongoing support is necessary to ensure that individuals with autism can lead fulfilling and independent lives.

The Mission Project remains dedicated to this cause, working tirelessly to empower those we serve. We invite you to join us in advocating for policies that support individuals with autism and their families. Together, we can make a difference.

Ask your US Rep to renew the law here: https://themissionproject.org/understanding-the-autism-cares-act/

Understanding the Autism CARES Act - The Mission Project Understanding the Autism CARES Act At The Mission Project, we are dedicated to empowering adults with developmental disabilities to live independently and thrive in their communities. One of the key...

📆 Save the Date! 📅

Our annual Independence Walk is coming up on September 7th!

This 2-mile walk through the City of Mission, KS helps fund Mission Project programs while celebrating our participants’ independent living.

When: Saturday, September 7, 2024
Where: Beverly Park: 5935 Beverly Ave, Mission, KS
Time: 9:30 a.m.

Let us know if you're coming ▶ https://www.facebook.com/events/825569342441823

Annual Independence Walk - The Mission Project Mission Kansas Event Supporting the talented participants from The Mission Project drama club May 18th

Our participant, Josh recently celebrated a birthday 🎂🎈🎉

His family says their favorite thing about him is that he loves to try new things, new places, new experiences, and he has a genuine interest in learning. They are most proud that he is a hard worker, both at his job and at home. He takes pride in a job well done.

You are an inspiration to us all, Josh! We hope you had the best day ever. ☺

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream - The official sponsor of Birthdays at The Mission Project!

At The Mission Project, we understand the unique challenges that families of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities face. We are committed to being your comprehensive resource and support system. Our range of services include educational advocacy, access to essential resources, social & life skill programs, work transportation, MPower Health, fitness & nutrition programs, enrichment & recreational opportunities, community support and mental well-being.

Learn more about The Mission Project here ▶ https://themissionproject.org/

Home - The Mission Project A place where adult persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) live, work, play and participate in the life of the community, living independently with individualized support.

Our participant, Sam recently celebrated a Birthday! 🎉🎈🎂

Sam's family says their favorite thing about him is his ability to get excited about what some people see as small things...a dinner out with family, an afternoon with a friend or spending an hour working on Legos with his dad. They are most proud of the fact that Sam has shown that he can live independently. He is now working 24 hours a week and doing so well at both of his jobs.

Happy Birthday, Sam! We hope you had the best day ever!

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream - The official sponsor of Birthdays at The Mission Project!

Are you the parent of a young child with Down syndrome? Have you thought about their future employment opportunities? You might be able to being working on employment skills sooner than you think! 🧐

Join NDSS and Amanda Myers, a certified employment support professional, as she shares her expertise on preparing individuals with Down syndrome for employment during our FREE webinar on July 10th at 2:00 PM ET!

Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_d2kfU9BuTryv2dUyB0SSng.

Our participant, Nick recently celebrated a Birthday! 🎉🎈🎂

Nick's family says their favorite thing about him is his very big
heart. He has a gentle tender way of caring. He is polite and is always grateful. They are most proud that he has overcome challenges to be able to live somewhat independently. He is a
hard worker and has had the same job for nearly 5 years.

Here's to another year around the sun, Happy Birthday Nick!

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream - The official sponsor of Birthdays at The Mission Project!

Our participant, Julie recently celebrated a birthday! 🥳🎉🎈

Her family's favorite thing about her is her smile, her sense of humor and her cheerful attitude. They are most proud of her ability to function well on her own and her success at work. Her job responsibilities have evolved over the past eleven years, but she has been able to adapt positively to the changes. She genuinely cares about people she knows and their families and pets.

Here's to another year, Julie! Happy Birthday, we hope you enjoyed your special day! ☺️

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream - The official sponsor of Birthdays at The Mission Project!

Ready to rediscover the power of ONE WORD when tackling life’s challenges? The Mission Project’s latest Problem Solvers event dives deep into how a single word can transform your problem solving skills.

By the end of the session, each participant chose a single word that resonates with them deeply and will serve as their focal point for the year ahead. Words like “confidence,” “health,” “balance,” and “courage” were shared, each reflecting on the individual participant’s aspirations and the personal journey they envisioned.

Each participant even received a bracelet with their chosen word!

Read more and view the full photo gallery here ➡️ https://themissionproject.org/one-word-problem-solvers-event/

Our participant, Sawyer recently celebrated his Birthday! 🎂🎉🎈

His family's favorite thing about him is his perseverance. He always keeps trying and has had some real successes in that trying. Their favorite thing about him is that he works hard and always tries to do the right thing. He wants to make a difference.

Happy Birthday, Sawyer! We hope you had the best day ever!

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream - The official sponsor of Birthdays at The Mission Project!

🌟 Art Club Fun with The Mission Project! 🌟

Our instructor Jessica led a tie-dye workshop, and the results are spectacular! 🎨✨ Our participants created their own unique T-shirts, showcasing their creativity and having a blast in the process.

Clubs like Art Club are crucial at The Mission Project because they provide our participants with opportunities to express themselves, build confidence, and foster a sense of community. We're so proud of their artistic achievements! ❤️👕

Our participant, Owen recently celebrated a Birthday! 🎉🎂🎈

His family says they are most proud of Owen's concern for his family's emotional well being. If he notices someone is upset, he wants to help and always provides assurance - "It will be ok."

They are most proud of how well he has adapted to living on his own. He really enjoys his independence.

You are an inspiration to us all, Owen! Happy Birthday to you! 🫶

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream for sponsoring The Mission Project Birthdays and providing gift cards to our participants who are celebrating!

We love seeing our participants embark on exciting summer adventures, Stephen has been doing just during his recent trip to Budapest!

Stephen’s travels really reflect The Mission Project’s purpose of encouraging independence, adventure, and lifelong learning. His journey reminds us all of the joy and growth that come from exploring new places and cultures.

We can’t wait to see where his travels take him next! Keep exploring, Stephen! 🌍✈️

Home - The Mission Project A place where adult persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) live, work, play and participate in the life of the community, living independently with individualized support.

At The Mission Project, we believe in the power of independence for EVERY adult with Intellectual Developmental Disabilities. Our commitment is to cultivate an environment that nurtures self-determination, personal growth, and the celebration of individuality. ✨

Through personalized support plans, we empower our participants to reach new heights, unlocking the true joys of independent living. Learn more at themissionproject.org!

Home - The Mission Project A place where adult persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) live, work, play and participate in the life of the community, living independently with individualized support.

Wishing our participant, Stephen a very Happy Birthday! 🎉🎈🎂

His family says their favorite thing about him is his loyalty and how he will always stand up for his friends and family. They are most proud of his courage and determination that he showed when he began living independently. He worked hard to learn how to take care of himself and always overcomes his fears!

We hope your day is filled with all of your favorite things, Stephen!

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream for sponsoring The Mission Project Birthdays and providing gift cards to our participants who are celebrating!

The Mission Project Drama Club recently put on a spectacular talent and drama show for their friends and family members, showcasing the incredible talent and growth of the participants. The show included a mix of group and individual performances. There were stand up comedy routines, heartfelt solos and duets, captivating short story readings, and impressive voice impressions.

Thank you to our wonderful Drama Club instructor, Stephanie who brings expertise from Coterie Theatre and Heart of America Shakespeare Festival! Our participants have reached new heights of expression and confidence!

Read more about The Variety Show and view the photo gallery ➡️ https://themissionproject.org/the-mission-project-drama-club-variety-show-recap/

Mother’s Day was extra special this year for The Mission Project participant Amelia and her Mom, Judy! They celebrated their incredible bond by completing the KC Express and Mother's Day 5K together!

As we celebrate month, we’re reminded of our commitment to the 7 Pillars, particularly Pillar 6: Healthy Choices! At The Mission Project, we support our participants in facing mental and physical health risks head-on with individualized fitness support.

Cheers to Amelia and her Mom for showing us healthy living and strong bonds! 🏃‍♀️💪

Learn more about The 7 Pillars here ➡️ https://themissionproject.org/the-seven-pillars/

✨Saturday, May 18th is the BIG day!✨

Our participants have been working very hard to showcase their exceptional talent, including singing and dancing solos, skits, monologues, and maybe even a puppet show! 🎭

Join us to support our participants at The Mission Project Variety Show May 18th at 6:30pm!

More info ➡️ https://themissionproject.org/portfolio/drama-club-performance/

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! 🧠💚 Let's take a moment to practice mindfulness, a powerful tool for staying present and supporting our mental well-being. Did you know that mindfulness isn't just for some people—it's for everyone, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Mindfulness means being in the present moment. Practicing mindfulness is for everyone, including people with intellectual and developmental disabilities!

FACT: Being mindful can help support your thinking skills, like attention and memory (Van Vugt, 2015).

Try this mindful activity!

The Drama Club is working hard preparing for The Mission Project Variety Show coming up this Saturday, May 18th at Mission, KS Parks + Recreation! You can expect plenty of exceptional talent to be displayed, including singing and dancing solos, skits, monologues, and maybe even a puppet show!

Refreshments will be available - our participants sure would appreciate your support! The doors open at 6:30pm.

More info: https://themissionproject.org/portfolio/drama-club-performance/

At the Mission Project, supporting individuals like Justin is at the core of our mission and purpose. It's what drives us every day and is the heart of our organization!

We can't wait to see where your journey takes you next, Justin!

Meet Justin, a remarkable athlete whose passion for sports and dedication to his community are truly inspiring. On the field, he has been a Special Olympics Kansas athlete for 3 years. He continues to excel in various sports, including basketball, bowling, and bocce, but softball is his favorite. Despite not yet attending the USA Games, Justin's sights are set on this prestigious event as a future goal.

Off the field, Justin proudly holds a certificate of completion for Athlete Leadership training, showcasing his commitment to personal growth and leadership within the Special Olympics community. He remains active in his community, including family and church activities. Additionally, he works part-time at the University of Kansas Health Systems and is part of the Mission Project, which allows him to live independently.

For Justin, Special Olympics isn't just about sports—it's about belonging, friendship, and staying physically active. Justin's journey is a testament to the transformative power of sports. With his unwavering determination and infectious positivity, Justin continues to shine brightly, both on and off the court. We can't wait to see where his extraordinary journey takes him next! 🏀🥎🎳🏅

Celebrating May Birthdays at The Mission Project!🎉🎈🎂

Elli's family says they are so proud that she never quits trying at life! She wants to fully engage with life's opportunities and the people in her life, including family, friends, work colleagues, and acquaintances. Elli is always willing to try new things, ask questions, meet people, and explore.

You are such an inspiration! We can't wait to see where your next year takes you! Happy Birthday, Elli!

Thank you to Foggi Ice Cream for sponsoring The Mission Project Birthdays and providing gift cards to our participants who are celebrating!

The Mission Project’s 20th anniversary celebration was a momentous occasion filled with gratitude, reflection, and hope for the future! The beautiful program highlighted the 20-year history of The Mission Project and awards were given to recognized supporters. When participants took to the stage to talk about what The Mission Project has meant to their lives, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. John Holt - FOX 4 News made the celebration extra special as the Master of Ceremonies.

*Thanks to our sponsors and those who donated time and resources: Baloons by: Jubilee Balloon Co, Desserts by: Nothing Bundt Cakes

Read more about the evening and view the full photo gallery here: https://themissionproject.org/20-years-of-impact-the-mission-projects-celebration-recap/