FAQ

SERVICES

What does Rainbows do?

The mission of Rainbows United is to enhance the lives of children with special needs and their families by bringing together community resources and providing customized services.

At Rainbows we provide many vital services for children birth through age 21. We are on the leading edge of implementing the most effective therapies for children with special needs. 

How many children are served through Rainbows?

During Fiscal Year 2025, Rainbows United served more than 3,904 children and families through our comprehensive programs in Sedgwick, Sumner, and Butler counties. 

Where are services for children provided?

98% of Rainbows’ services are provided in family homes or other community settings accommodating family schedules.

Rainbows Academy preschool and pre-k classrooms (3223 North Oliver Avenue) offer center-based programs for both typically-developing children and children with special needs ages 2 to 5 years old.

What is TCM, Targeted Case Management?

As a long-time recognized leader in Kansas, Rainbows’ case managers help families overcome barriers. They match the needs of each child and family with available community resources and access to those services through TCM. They add a special touch by meeting with other persons involved in the child’s life including teachers, therapists and care providers, to make certain every aspect is working in the child’s best interest. Rainbows uses a family-centered approach encouraging each family to make their own choices and letting the case manager advocate and coordinate the services to make the family’s wishes a reality.

How much does a screening or evaluation cost?

The professionals at Connecting Point provide information and referrals for young children, answer questions and share schedules for monthly developmental screening clinics. A wealth of information awaits you through Connecting Point. Screen for Success is a great place to start. Visit the contact page for hours of operation. 

What is the ratio of children to staff?

At Rainbows Academy each classroom is staffed with a Lead Teacher, and Assistant Teacher, and two paraprofessionals. Our 2 – 5 year-old classrooms are 4:1.

Are Lead Teachers at Rainbows Academy Certified?

Yes. Lead Teachers have a minimum Child Development Certification (CDA), two – four years of college experience in early childhood or a Master’s degree in early childhood with an emphasis in working with children with special needs.

No expulsion policy

Rainbows will not discontinue or terminate a child from services due to challenging behavior. We provide customized service for each child in our care.

FUNDING

What are the major funding sources for Rainbows?

Rainbows United receives funding from many sources, both public and private, including Federal and State education funds (partially through a partnership with USD 259 Wichita Public Schools), United Way of the Plains, Sedgwick County, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Social and Rehabilitation Services, Medicaid, private insurance, family fees, grants, events, and private individual donations.

What is Rainbows United Charitable Foundation? 

Rainbows United Charitable Foundation, Inc. was established in 2003 as a separate 509(a)(3) charitable organization for the purpose of securing the long-term financial stability of Rainbows United, Inc. Originally solely responsible for endowed and planned gifts, RUCF now collects, manages and distributes all private charitable funds supporting Rainbows. A Board of Directors oversees RUCF operations. The role of RUCF is to provide an extra layer of oversight to ensure charitable dollars are used for their intended purpose. 

Does Rainbows have an up-to-date 990?

Rainbows’ files IRS Form 990 annually. Visit Guidestar.org to view.

LEADERSHIP

Who is leading Rainbows?

View our Board of Directors Member Directory.
View our Charitable Foundation Board of Directors Member Directory.
View our Leadership Team Directory.

JOIN OUR TEAM

What kinds of volunteer opportunities are available?

There are many ways volunteers can help meet the needs of children with special needs and their families in our community. We offer one-time and long-term volunteer opportunities for both individuals and groups.

Are there current job openings?

For a current list of benefits and openings visit Careers at Rainbows.

HISTORY

Is Rainbows affiliated with a national organization?

Rainbows United is 100% local in Wichita, Kansas. Founded in 1972 as a developmental training center for children with severe, multiple disabilities who were ineligible for special education services provided through the public schools. Today Rainbows provides center-based, community-based and home-based service options for children and youth with special needs.  Service components added in the past decade include hearing and vision specialty services, family support care, case management services, autism services, supported family living, foster care for children with special needs, therapies, and therapeutic childcare.

Learn more about the history of Rainbows!