Newsroom

Latest News

08/11/2025

KDADS supports DSNWK with grant

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, was recently announced as the recipient of a grant from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).  

This grant will be used to acquire and implement key training programs to enhance staff competency and improve service delivery within the day service model. These training programs are designed to provide staff with specialized skills and knowledge, ultimately leading to better outcomes for individuals with I/DD. 

In addition, staff will have access to better training tools to help them provide effective education for individuals served. As a provider, implementing these additional curriculums, training, and certifications, DSNWK will be in better alignment with the new Day Service licensing expectations. 

“With this grant our staff will have the additional tools needed to be skilled, knowledgeable, and prepared to provide person-centered services based on a person's desired lifestyle that promotes their independence, community inclusion, and personal growth within the new day service model,” states Jerry Michaud, President. “This investment in high-quality curriculum will ensure that the training is both effective and respectful of the unique needs of the individuals we serve. This will aid in helping those served having greater inclusion and independence within the community.”

07/31/25

Midwest Energy supports DSNWK’s Kid-Link with grant

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK), was recently announced as the recipient of a $1,000 grant from Midwest Energy, Inc. This award will be used in DSNWK’s Kid-Link Early Intervention Program to provide Transition Backpacks.

The Transition Backpacks are provided to every Kid-Link child in the program upon turning 3 years old. Each Transition Backpack includes items from the developmental areas that are of importance for the child as they grow in their communication, social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills. 

“These backpacks have been helpful to parents in continuing their children’s learning,” states DSNWK President Jerry Michaud. “We are grateful for Midwest Energy’s support and the children are always excited to get the backpacks.”

The DSNWK Kid-Link Early Intervention Program provides a system of services to help infants and toddlers from birth to age three who have a developmental delay, diagnosed disability, or are at risk for a developmental delay including vision and hearing impairments. 

DSNWK would like to thank Midwest Energy for their generous support of the people we serve.

07/16/25

DSNWK Awarded Community Service Tax Credits

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) has been awarded $162,000 through the Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits through the Kansas Department of Commerce at the 50% rate. The tax credits are available to donors on a first come, first served basis and are expected to go quickly.

Tax credits are an incentive for donors to give to charity and non profit organizations. Any tax credit issued by DSNWK that exceeds the state tax liability of the donor is refunded to the taxpayer.  “The donor can use the tax credit against their unpaid Kansas state taxes, or receive the credit back as a refund,” said Jerry Michaud, President/CEO of DSNWK.

Businesses and individuals subject to Kansas income tax are eligible to receive a tax credit through this program. Donors giving at least $250 to DSNWK may qualify for a 50% tax credit. For example, a donor making a $1,000 gift receives a $500 tax credit when they file their state taxes, making the net cost to the donor only $500.

“We are very thankful and excited to once again have the opportunity to offer these tax credits for donors,” said Michaud. “These donations will be used for essential improvements and upgrades to accessibility, safety, security, and capacity needs in DSNWK locations. These improvements not only provide a better quality of life for those we serve, but also ensure our service settings are efficient and sustainable.” 

DSNWK’s goal is to improve the accessibility, safety, security, and capacity needs through upgrades to developmental centers and group homes, which serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the 18 northwest Kansas counties.

The CSP Tax Credits provide an opportunity for non-profit organizations and public healthcare entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns involving community service, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and technical training, and healthcare services. Awarded nonprofits were chosen through a competitive application process. This year approximately $4.1 million in funding was awarded to 30 organizations across the state.

If you or your business are interested in donating to DSNWK and to receive tax credits, please reach out to the DSNWK Major Gift and Planned Giving Officer at 785-625-5678.