A community effort spearheaded by Leadership Olathe has resulted in a beautiful van donated to Inclusion Connections nonprofit, located in Olathe, Kansas. Farmers Insurance, working with NABC Recycled Rides, provided the van. Collision Works made sure it was in top-notch running order, and Lettersmith KC designed a wonderful van wrap to help advertise the organization and its employment program, PawsAbilities.
Many of the local individuals who participated in this year’s Leadership Olathe, and other supportive community members, attended the presentation ceremony of the van. The event was hosted by Farmers Insurance on Thursday, June 20, 2019.
The van will be uses to transport job-holders to and from jobs, and also to take the Mobile Store around the KC Metro area. Transportation continues to be a major barrier for young adults with disabilities who can not drive. In 2019, PawsAbilities began providing transportation assistance to its training program. Program trainees produce dog treats, bandanas and other pet-related products, gaining translatable job skills in the process. Once individuals are ready, they are placed in community-based jobs which correlate with their skills and interests. The local business community has responded positively by hiring PawsAbilities trainees in a variety of positions.
Inclusion Connections provides opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities, including skills training and job placement, and access to fitness, the arts, and social opportunities. The organization wishes to express thanks to everyone in its Johnson County, Kansas community (and beyond) who helped make this dream come true!
