Adrian
Even though the Blarney Breakfast event has been adapted to a virtual event, the event is important to Rainbows as a major fundraiser. Opportunities to support Rainbows are now focused online and through local media. Items that would be sold at the event, will be available online at RainbowsUnited.org. Imagine you’re an 11-year-old boy whose […]
Blarney Breakfast
Osbaldo is a sweet, affectionate, and loving child. He loves going to school and playing with other children. He loves to play basketball and swim at the YMCA. Osbaldo has Autism and sometimes struggles to communicate. He is able to use simple words but will rarely use phrases. Since he does not say phrases, his […]
Karina Vargas, Targeted Case Manager
“To me, all children no matter their background are equal and deserve the best quality life,” said Karina Vargas, Targeted Case Manager. “Rainbows is the place to make that happen. I love everything about my job.” As a Targeted Case Manager, Karina’s days are never the same. They can differ from scheduling meetings, updating client […]
Margaret Shook
This year, I am overwhelmed with gratitude to be celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Blarney Breakfast. The event has experienced many changes over the years and grown into one of the longest running special events in Wichita. However, one thing has remained the same, the steadfast support of the community to support children with […]
Alexia Foster, Infant/Toddler Services
http://198.211.108.227/team/alexia-fosterWhen I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”-Fred Rogers That is why I love this program. There are always people helping.-Alexia J. Foster
Celebrate!
By Carol J Martin, Finance Department, RUI Winter in Kansas can be long and gray, but February 14 is set aside to brighten spirits by remembering all the people who make life special, like family and friends. If you are looking for fun and simple things to do with your whole family, here are some […]
Alice Boutz
Mental Health Specialist Alice Boutz has always had a passion for early childhood and early interventions. “I’ve had two family members that have received early childhood interventions in the Kansas City area,” she said. “After first hearing about Rainbows when I moved to Wichita in 2012, I felt like it was the place I wanted […]
Family Support Services
Before joining the Rainbows’ team, Teresa Shackelford had no previous experience working alongside children with special needs. Teresa had moved back to Wichita and was looking for a job where she felt she could make a difference rather than working sales. Her daughter worked for Rainbows and suggested she give Rainbows a try. “She said […]
A Family Legacy
Samantha Ritchie is continuing the legacy of the Ritchie family’s tradition as a friend to Rainbows. “My family has been involved with Rainbows for a long time and my older sister volunteered at Rainbows when she was in high school,” said Sammie. Her great grandfather supported Rainbows in the early years and many family members, […]
Ayah and Fritz
Kelly and Scott have two children. Both have received Rainbows’ services in their home. Kelly says she has appreciated having Rainbows’ Physical Therapist, Rhonda come to their home over the last 18 months. “Having Rhonda come to our home has been great,” said Kelly. “I find her visits so supportive as a parent learning how […]
