November 2017 - Paws KC

On November 4, 2017, throngs of wine lovers and foodies sipped their favorite beverages and noshed on delectable bites from local restaurants, all in part to support PawsAbilities. The popular annual Wicked Wine Walk’s proceeds will help support job skills training program for young adults with developmental disabilities. Charitable spirit was on full display at the event, with attendees generously supporting a raffle for baskets of wines, liquors and PawsAbilities dog treats, toys, and bandanas. A display of PawsAbilities products was also available for purchase.

Participants in PawsAbilities make a variety of dog treats from scratch ingredients, including peanut butter and grain free biscuits. Other job skills are taught including sewing skills, creating themed doggie bandanas featuring KC Royals, KC Chiefs and other sports fabrics. Throughout the year holiday themed fabrics are utilized, giving buyers fun gift options for their favorite pooches.

Thanks to all who attended in support of the Wicked Wine Walk, and to those who worked to make the event a great success.

Executive Director Debbie Horn founded Inclusion Connections in 2013 in response to the need she saw in her son, Matthew, who has Down syndrome. There were few educational and social opportunities in Kansas City, and she believed his lack of job skills would limit Matthew from reaching his full potential.

Today, Inclusion Connections provides thousands of hours of year-round opportunities for teens and young adults with developmental disabilities in Kansas City. An Activity Center in Olathe, KS is the heart of IC, and a second group is located in Liberty, MO. Programs focus on: healthy nutrition, cooking and exercise; access to art, theater and music; job skills training and self-advocacy classes; and summer camps in both locations.

PawsAbilities program, implemented in 2016, offers young adults job skills training with the opportunity to make and sell dog treats, toys and bandanas. Participants also have the opportunity to help run a storefront in Olathe. Today, several local banks purchase PawsAbilities treats to give out in their drive throughs, and products are available in a variety of retail locations and veterinary offices. We have a booth at the Olathe Farmers Market each summer, and engage in other Kansas City events including the well-known Overland Park Holiday Boutique. Of course, PawsAbilities products can be purchased online as well.

With the help of many local businesses, individuals, and foundations, Inclusion Connections and PawsAbilities continue to grow and prosper! More information can be found at ICPawsAbilities.org or ICkc.org.