OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - Helping those with disabilities can be a rewarding experience for both the individual and yourself. A Metro organization is now in its seventh year of helping those with developmental disabilities lead independent lives.
Heartstrings Community Foundation is a non-profit organization that runs five businesses in the Kansas City area. They are retail driven and they employ adults with developmental disabilities. They match each of their employees to the right position.
“Not everybody is a sales person,” explains Bunny Higgins, Executive Director. “Not everybody wants to interact with 300-400 people a week. So we find out what they're good at, and what they like to do.”
Heartstrings home base is their home accessories store, On My Own, located in the Metcalf 103 shopping center in Overland Park. They feature new and gently used items. The employees are responsible for all phases of the operation -- from purchasing to displays to sales.
“They understand that they get paid for working and they want to be paid for working. And the best part is they can get paid for working,” Anne Hull, Director of Development said. “They have a good product that they're proud of and they get to make really great friendships.”
Others hit the road with Heartstrings Goody Delivery. They visit dozens of metro businesses selling snacks.
“We go at an appointed time every week,” Higgins says. “They sell high quality snacks off a cart. Laura Little's Fudge, Panache Chocolates, Bitterman's candy. Things you can't buy in a vending machine.”
They buy in bulk, so when they are not on the road -- there's plenty of packaging to do prior to the next delivery run.
Heartstrings also runs a custom gift basket company. They're gearing up for the holidays, fulfilling countless corporate gift orders.
But their wide range of products allows anyone to make a custom gift -- a gift that really gives twice.
“They get these lovely products in a little basket that's beautiful,” Hull says. “And that gives you brownie points right away, because you've given them something nice. But the little tag states that people with developmental disabilities have jobs because you got this gift.”
For more information, visit the Heartstrings Community Foundation Web site. Or call (913) 649-5700.Heartstrings Community Foundation divisions:
“On My Own” Home Accessories Store
“On My Own, Too”
“Sacks on Santa Fe” Fine Clothing & Accessories
Goody Delivery
Custom Gift BasketsBut their wide range of products allows anyone to make a custom gift -- a gift that really gives twice.
