COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Partnering with TNC Community

Champion Inclusion Across the Kansas City Community

TNC Community invites businesses, organizations, and community leaders across Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, and surrounding Missouri communities to partner with us in championing equity and inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Our partnership levels are designed to create meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships—supporting high-quality care, inclusive programs, and employment opportunities while offering partners authentic community engagement and local visibility.

A Trusted Missouri Nonprofit With Deep Local Roots

Founded in 1949, TNC Community is a longstanding Kansas City–area nonprofit organization providing residential services, community connections, and employment pathways for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our homes and programs are embedded in neighborhoods across Independence, MO, and the greater Kansas City metro, ensuring individuals we support are active, valued members of their communities.

Through partnerships—including our collaboration with Howdy Homemade Ice Cream in Lee’s Summit, MO—we work alongside local businesses to create inclusive opportunities that strengthen our entire region.

 

Founding spouses: Robert E. Bruner, MD,
and Virginia C. Bruner, RN

US President Harry S. Truman served as a member
of our Board of Directors

Community Partnership Levels

Whether you’re a small business, corporation, or family foundation, your partnership helps expand access to safe homes, meaningful employment, and community connection for individuals with IDD in the Kansas City area.

Inclusion Partner

Supporting Inclusion With Growing Visibility | $2,500 – $4,999

Ideal for: Local businesses and organizations looking to begin their inclusion journey.

Benefits Include:

  • Logo recognition on the TNC Community website

  • Annual recognition on TNC Community social media platforms

Impact: Your partnership helps promote inclusion and awareness for individuals with disabilities throughout the Kansas City metro.

TNC Community supported individuals and staff at the Annual TNC Day Picnic

Belonging Partner

Leading the Way in Inclusive Community Support | $5,000 – $9,999

Benefits Include:

  • Logo recognition on the TNC Community website

  • Annual membership to the Howdy Homemade Ice Cream Fan Club (Lee’s Summit, MO), including:

    • Invitation to quarterly member-only events

    • One free monthly pint of ice cream (in-store)

  • Annual social media recognition

  • Recognition during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (March):

    • Social media post

    • Email newsletter feature

    • Blog post recognition

Impact: Belonging Partners help foster connection, dignity, and joy for individuals with IDD across Kansas City and surrounding Missouri communities.

KC Wolf stopped by TNC Community headquarters to surprise supported individuals

Empowerment Partner

Driving Long-Term Impact Through Inclusion | $10,000 – $24,999

All Belonging Partner benefits, plus:

  • Featured partner story across TNC digital platforms:

    • Social media spotlight

    • Email spotlight

    • Blog post feature

  • Digital logo recognition inside Howdy Homemade Ice Cream (Lee’s Summit, MO)

  • 10% discount on Howdy Homemade Ice Cream catering services

  • Invitation for you and a guest to the annual TNC Community Day Picnic to connect with individuals, families, and staff

Impact: Empowerment Partners play a transformational role in expanding inclusive employment, residential care, and community access in the Kansas City region.

The recently opened Howdy Homemade Ice Cream shop in Lee’s Summit, in partnership with TNC Community

Legacy Partner

Creating Lasting Change Across Our Community | $25,000 +

All Empowerment Partner benefits, plus:

  • Logo recognition on both the TNC Community and Howdy Homemade Ice Cream websites

  • Named space opportunity within a TNC Community home or gathering space

  • Priority access to future event sponsorship opportunities (2027+)

Impact: Legacy Partners leave a lasting imprint—helping shape a more inclusive future for individuals with disabilities across Missouri and beyond.

TNC Community supported individual with staff at the 75th Anniversary Luncheon in November 2024

Let’s Build an Inclusive Kansas City Together

By partnering with TNC Community, you’re investing in people, neighborhoods, and a more equitable future. Together, we can create opportunities that celebrate abilities, strengthen communities, and inspire lives of dignity, belonging, and joy.