Ability KC

Ability KC Ability KC brings together the Rehabilitation Institute of Kansas City and Children's Therapeutic Learning Center.

Ability KC brings together Rehabilitation Institute of Kansas City and Children's Therapeutic Learning Center. Whether an individual is born with or experiences in life a physical, developmental, or behavioral condition, a person is not defined by disability nor does it limit quality of life. We invite you to join the journey in helping others and changing the conversation from disability to ability.

A heartfelt thank‑you to the Corporate Banking team from for dedicating their afternoon to volunteering at Ability KC’s...
04/23/2026

A heartfelt thank‑you to the Corporate Banking team from for dedicating their afternoon to volunteering at Ability KC’s Mary Shaw Branton Therapeutic Preschool. Their hands‑on support, from organizing the library to cleaning furniture to brightening up our playground planters, made an immediate and meaningful impact for our kiddos and staff. We’re truly grateful for our Ability KC Champions who show up to volunteer with such generosity and care, and we appreciate their ongoing partnership and commitment to our mission.

In October of 2024, Brian was riding in the Oklahoma sand dunes with friends when the UTV he was in suddenly rolled, cru...
04/15/2026

In October of 2024, Brian was riding in the Oklahoma sand dunes with friends when the UTV he was in suddenly rolled, crushing his right arm and causing severe injuries. After six surgeries over four months, he ultimately required a below‑the‑elbow amputation.

When he arrived at Ability KC, Brian immediately began pre‑prosthetic training. His goals were clear: regain independence and get back on his motorcycle. His occupational therapist, Megan, focused on strengthening his residual limb, improving scapular mobility, and helping him integrate his prosthesis into everyday tasks. She also pushed him to work through challenging activities to build the long‑term joint integrity and functional habits he’ll rely on moving forward.

A meaningful part of Brian’s journey has been connecting with others who have experienced limb loss. Alongside friends, he helped launch Bikers for Limbs, a community effort raising funds for people who need prosthetic care and may not have access to it. Turning his experience into advocacy has given him a renewed sense of purpose and a way to support others navigating similar challenges.

This month, we recognize Brian’s determination, his leadership within the limb‑loss community, and every individual working toward their goals after amputation.

Several of our pediatric patients and their families were gifted an unforgettable experience at Kansas City Current’s Te...
04/14/2026

Several of our pediatric patients and their families were gifted an unforgettable experience at Kansas City Current’s Teal Rising Week, thanks to the generosity of our partners at United Way of Greater Kansas City and friends at KC Current. The joy on their faces was incredible, but the impact reached even further. For many caregivers, this outing offered a meaningful moment to simply enjoy time together, reconnect, and create memories that bring strength and comfort.

We’re deeply grateful for partners who understand that supporting a child means supporting the whole family, and we truly appreciate that our patients were given this special opportunity.

Yesterday, as part of Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, Ability KC was honored to host Dr. Jordan Borrell, ...
04/09/2026

Yesterday, as part of Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, Ability KC was honored to host Dr. Jordan Borrell, from the University of Kansas Medical Center, whose groundbreaking research is reshaping how we understand pain after amputation.

Dr. Borrell shared powerful insights with our teams on detangling pain pathways and the brain’s remarkable neural plasticity following limb loss. His work on phantom limb engagement, prosthetic and assistive device use, and neuromuscular rehabilitation strategies highlights innovative approaches that can improve quality of life for individuals experiencing trauma to the central and peripheral nervous systems.

We’re grateful for the knowledge he shared and the deeper understanding it brings as we continue supporting our limb loss community. Thank you, Dr. Borrell, for spending time with our team and contributing to this important month of awareness.

We’re proud to celebrate an exciting achievement from Ability KC’s Assistive Technology team. After presenting their inn...
04/08/2026

We’re proud to celebrate an exciting achievement from Ability KC’s Assistive Technology team. After presenting their innovative Game n’ Gab model at the Closing The Gap conference last October, Riley, OTD, OTR/L, and Lily, SLP, were invited to expand their work into a full article, now featured in CTG’s national newsletter.

Their article highlights how adaptive gaming and AAC can create motivating, functional communication opportunities by blending speech and occupational therapy. It shows how inclusive gaming can boost engagement, strengthen communication between group members, and support meaningful social participation for individuals with communication differences.

The piece also reinforces the essential role assistive technology plays in fostering independence, expanding access, and enhancing quality of life. As shown in the photos of our Game n’ Gab group, this recognition reflects the deep expertise within our Assistive Technology program and the impact that thoughtful, interdisciplinary assistive technology interventions can have on communication, confidence, and social connection.

We’re grateful to the families who allow us to share their stories and to our team whose dedication continues to shape what’s possible for individuals using assistive technology.

Today, we had the incredible honor of welcoming a group of KC Current players and staff to Ability KC, an opportunity ma...
04/06/2026

Today, we had the incredible honor of welcoming a group of KC Current players and staff to Ability KC, an opportunity made possible through our partner, United Way, as part of their Impact Bus Tour.

Ability KC staff and patients shared how our interdisciplinary teams deliver specialized, comprehensive medical rehabilitation services for children and adults across ages and abilities. The players and staff toured our Main Campus facility, engaged with patients, and saw firsthand the innovative tools and approaches used across our programs each day.

We’re grateful to and for creating space to highlight the impact of Ability KC’s work and the importance of community partnerships in expanding access to life‑changing services. It was a truly meaningful day of connection, learning, and advancing our mission together!

April is Limb Loss & Limb Difference Awareness Month, and stories like Vanessa’s remind us why this month matters. In No...
04/02/2026

April is Limb Loss & Limb Difference Awareness Month, and stories like Vanessa’s remind us why this month matters.

In November 2025, a seemingly minor spot on her lower leg quickly turned into a serious infection, ultimately leading to a below‑the‑knee amputation. Vanessa came to Ability KC at the beginning of this year and immediately began pre‑prosthetic training. Just a few short weeks ago, she received her new prosthetic leg and started the hard work of rebuilding strength, endurance, and confidence in her new normal.

Her goals are deeply personal: staying active with her kids and returning to the cake‑decorating business she built from scratch. With the support of her full interdisciplinary team, she’s making powerful strides every day.

One of the most meaningful moments of her journey so far was leading an OT meal‑prep group and teaching others her cake‑decorating skills. Sharing a piece of her passion with fellow patients wasn’t just therapeutic, it was a reminder of who she is and everything she’s working toward.

This month, we honor Vanessa’s strength, her voice, and every individual navigating life after limb loss. Their goals guide our care. Their resilience inspires our work.

We were glad to host the LifeStreams, LLC team earlier this week for a Lunch & Learn focused on brain injury services an...
03/26/2026

We were glad to host the LifeStreams, LLC team earlier this week for a Lunch & Learn focused on brain injury services and the role of Home and Community Based Services (HCBS). The discussion offered valuable insight into efforts and best practices, giving our team new perspectives to strengthen the rehabilitative care and community supports we provide.

Collaborations like this help us enhance continuity of care, expand resources, and improve the overall experience for the individuals and families we serve. We appreciate partners who share our commitment to advancing high quality, person centered care across regions.

After experiencing a brain injury in a motor vehicle accident last September, Olivia began her rehabilitation journey at...
03/25/2026

After experiencing a brain injury in a motor vehicle accident last September, Olivia began her rehabilitation journey at Ability KC. When she arrived, she had memory loss, double vision, balance challenges, and limited use of her left arm. Through OT, PT, and Speech Therapy, she worked to rebuild strength, vision, and cognitive skills.
 
Over the months that followed, she made major gains, improving her balance, reducing double vision, and regaining strength in both arms. In Speech Therapy she focused on strengthening her memory, processing speed, problem solving, and reading skills as she prepares to return to work and work toward her driving permit.
 
Olivia says memory work was the hardest early on, but also where she’s seen the most progress. She’s proud she has stayed true to herself and credits her therapists for challenging her but keeping her motivated.
 
Today, she’s focused on daily routines, returning to work, and eventually driving. Her message to others navigating life after a brain injury: “No matter how hard it is, it gets better.”
 
This Brain Injury Awareness Month, we’re celebrating Olivia’s progress and reminding others that rehabilitation takes time, support, and persistence, and every step forward counts.

Shoutout to Andi — a true Champion of Ability! This year for her birthday, she chose to skip receiving gifts and instead...
03/20/2026

Shoutout to Andi — a true Champion of Ability! This year for her birthday, she chose to skip receiving gifts and instead asked for toys and items to donate to Ability KC’s Pediatric and Adolescent Program. The collection included fun books, interactive toys, sensory items, and more.

Her thoughtful generosity will bring plenty of smiles and meaningful moments of play for the kiddos we serve. Thank you, Andi, for choosing to make an impact in such a special way 🎁💚

Spots are filling up fast for the Ryan Owenby Memorial Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Shamrock Hills Golf ...
03/19/2026

Spots are filling up fast for the Ryan Owenby Memorial Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Shamrock Hills Golf Club!

This meaningful event celebrates the life and legacy of Ryan Owenby, and every contribution directly supports Ability KC’s life‑changing programs, from innovative therapies to inclusive recreational opportunities that empower individuals of all ages.

We’ll be teeing off rain or shine, so gather your team and get ready for a day that makes a real impact.

🏌️‍♂️⛳ Secure your spot today! Learn more by visiting our website at https://abilitykc.org/event/ryan-owenby-memorial-golf-tournament-benefiting-ability-kc/

Address

31st Street & Main St
Kansas City, MO
64108

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8am - 4:30pm
Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+18167517700

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Ability KC brings together Rehabilitation Institute of Kansas City and Children's Therapeutic Learning Center. Whether an individual is born with or experiences in life a physical, developmental, or behavioral condition, a person is not defined by disability nor does it limit quality of life. We invite you to join the journey in helping others and changing the conversation from disability to ability.