How Shepherd’s Center in Kansas City, Kansas started
The idea of a Shepherd’s Center in Kansas City, Kansas began with the discussion of four central-city pastors of different denominations in the spring of 1985. They were aware of the changing nature of their neighborhood and that both their congregations and the surrounding community included a large population of older adults.
The Task Force
A Task Force of area clergy, older adults and several agency representatives was formed early in 1986, and their efforts brought the Shepherd’s Center into being. A considerable number of meetings and careful planning by the Task Force resulted in the establishment of a board of directors in June of 1986 and also the first program event in October of that year — Adventures in Learning — that had more than 300 persons attending.
We continue to develop
In reality, the Shepherd’s Center began with — and has continued to — develop in ways which far exceeded our original expectations.
One of the chief reasons for the success of this interfaith organization of older adults is the enthusiasm and dedication of more than 200 volunteers. Their efforts make the numerous Shepherd’s Center programs and services possible for over 1200 older adults in our community.
Our volunteer efforts are enabled by paid staff consisting of an Executive Director and a professional Finance Administrator. Programs include Friends for Seniors, Minor Home Repair, and Caring Calls.
The board of directors, volunteers and participants reflect the culturally diverse nature of the Kansas City, Kansas community. This racial, economic and denominational diversity is highly valued by the organization.
Our partner centers across the U.S.
The Shepherd’s Center of Kansas City, Kansas is an accredited Center of Shepherd’s Centers of America. Some 75 Shepherd’s Centers are providing services and programs for older adults across the United States.
Become a volunteer
The Shepherd’s Center partners with local congregations and numerous agencies within Wyandotte County. What makes us truly special is that we’re primarily driven, organized and operated by our amazing volunteers.