ORIGINALLY WRITTEN
Northview Developmental Services Inc. has launched a $1.9 million capital campaign to build a day activities and support-services center.
The Newton-based agency provides community services to people in Harvey and Marion counties with developmental disabilities.
The proposed 16,000 square-foot center would be located on Northview’s Newton campus. Northview has not been able to expand its current facility space to meet the increasing demand for services.
“The need for this expansion in service space is critical to meet the current and future needs of the people we serve,” said Stan Zienkewicz, president and chief executive officer at Northview.
According to agency officials, the project is designed to meet the following needs:
— To enhance Northview’s ability to provide support services to children and adults with developmental disabilities in Harvey and Marion Counties.
— Because of modern medicine and technology, the individuals Northview supports now enjoy a normal life span. Service staff would now be adjacent to individuals participating in day-activity services.
— The level of the needs for people with developmental disabilities have increased both by volume and severity, thus limiting Northview’s ability to provide adequate care to those who need it.
— Northview is presently not in compliance with the space requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
— The Campus Center expands the opportunity for group educational activities to maintain functional skills.
— The new building will provide space for meetings and conferences for diverse groups, including persons in services, families and guardians.
— The State of Kansas has closed two state institutions with plans to close two more. With the completion of adequate facilities, Northview will meet these needs.
Northview is pursuing a public/private funding partnership. Currently, the agency has secured public and private funds in the amount of $1.16 million, or 60 percent of its goal.
Another grant of $322,000 is anticipated to be awarded by January.
To encourage donations from the private sector, Northview has received a commitment of Kansas Department of Commerce state tax credits in the amount of $225,000.
For every dollar donated to the campaign, the donor can reduce his or her state income tax liability by 50 percent of the gift provided. The total donation also can be claimed on federal income-tax returns as a charitable contribution.
The goal for private gifts has been set at $500,000. At the present time, Northview has received gifts and pledges amounting to $260,000.
To receive more information about how to give to the campaign or how state income-tax credits work, contact Barbara Bunting, coordinator of development and community education at 316-283-5170.
