Among the lasting benefits of the successful school district boundary change that brought Independence and Sugar Creek neighborhoods into the Independence School District is a continued focus on the needs and opportunities in Western Independence. Elected officials, business organizations, civic leaders and the school district have all turned attention toward Independence’s foundational neighborhoods and cited their renewal as a top priority.
The NorthWest Communities Development Corporation has been providing stability and leadership in the area since its incorporation in 1997 and is considered the “go to” organization in Western Independence for identifying the deficiencies and assets of the business and residential districts.
The NWCDC service area is bounded by Sterling Avenue on the east, 23rd Street on the south, and the Independence city limits on the north and west, although the agency’s impact is felt far beyond the physical borders. More than 12,400 people, representing about 10 percent of Independence’s total populations live within this area.
Services for youth and senior citizens, public safety and investment in housing are among the NWCDC’s priorities. It created and operates the Fairmount Community Center which is open to area residents for meals, educational programs and social events and sponsors the Fairmount Plaza Apartments which offers affordable housing for low-income senior citizens.
Recognizing housing as a primary need to retain and attract homeowners to the area, the NWCDC operates the Northwest Independence Home Repair Program which assists residents with maintenance and repairs to preserve and potential increase the value of their homes. Additionally, the organization proactively seeks real estate within the area and initiated new construction and rehabilitation of six properties last year.
On Thursday, March 25, the NWCDC will host its annual fund drive dinner at the Truman Memorial Building in Independence. The evening provides not only an opportunity to support the efforts of the NWCDC but also allows the greater community to understand and appreciate the positive changes that are currently taking place in Western Independence and gain a greater comprehension of the development prospects for these historic neighborhoods.
The evening celebration will commence at 6 p.m. with a reception followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Special guest for the evening will be Bert Berkley who will be presented with the inaugural Richard A. King Civic Engagement Award sponsored by King Hershey, Attorneys at Law and presented by the NWCDC.
Sponsorship opportunities beginning at $1,000 are available and single tickets may be purchased for $65. Reservations may be made by contacting the NWCDC at 816-252-5094.
