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. 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 – with over 300 persons attending.

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 225 volunteers whose efforts make the 12 Shepherd’s Center programs and services possible for over 1200 older adults in our community. Their efforts are enabled by paid staff consisting of an Executive Director (MSW) and a Director of Home Services (LBSW), who coordinates the Friends for Seniors, Minor Home Repair, and Caring Calls programs. Contract staff includes a Community Outreach Coordinator (LSCSW), who is responsible for Volunteer Management and Marketing as well as Program Development for Senior Express; a Financial Administrator; and a Senior Express Coordinator. 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.

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.