City: Kansas City, MO

Category: Retirement

Telephone: (816) 444-1121

Address: 5200 Oak (and other locations)

Description: The Shepherd’s Center movement was started in 1972 by 25 Catholic, Jewish, and Protestant congregations in one area of Kansas City. The goal was to create programs that would enrich the lives of seniors, help them to remain independent, and to celebrate life. The first center was a smashing success from the start. Each Friday, 400 to 500 men and women took classes on everything from painting and journaling to learning to play bridge. Soon the center was helping 4,000 people stay active and engaged in life. The genius of the program is that it is an interfaith ministry by and with older adults rather than a ministry to them. Many of the programs are taught by senior volunteers. Shepherd’s Center soon became a model for other programs throughout the country, and an ad hoc committee was formed in 1973 to respond to requests from other communities. The Shepherd’s Centers of America was incorporated a year later. Today this organization coordinates nearly 100 independent Shepherd’s Centers throughout the country. Centers in the Kansas City area provide classes in foreign language, computers, tai chi, and creative writing; there are dozens of classes and groups. In addition, senior volunteers go into the community to help their neighbors. A few of the 25 services are Meals on Wheels to deliver a hot noontime meal to those who can’t leave their homes; Wheels That Care, providing free transportation to doctor’s visits, pharmacies, and grocery stores; Respite Care to offer short-term relief for caregivers of homebound loved ones; and Care Home Contacts, to visit nursing home residents who don’t have family or friends. There are other Shepherd’s Centers throughout the city. Contact the number above or go online to learn more.