Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Nichols.
Kristin, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The Mission Project is a family co-op, supporting individuals who have autism and developmental delays. The organization was started by a group of families 21 years ago. Mission, KS was selected because it is a walkable community. Since most participants do not drive, this allows the individuals in our program to walk to the grocery store, local restaurants, the community center, and in some cases, their workplace. The organization has grown from 4 individuals to 36 over the course of 21 years, all of whom live in their own apartments and hold competitive employment in the community. Opportunities exist to support health and fitness, continued lifelong learning, transportation to and from work, and socialization with others.
Additionally, a new platform has been piloted and will be adopted in 2026 in partnership with an organization in Portland, ME. This platform offers live, virtual interactive courses that enhance employment skills, relationship building, safety, health and socialization. The virtual platform can help individuals statewide overcome barriers related to transportation, geography, or self-confidence to attend in-person activities. It is viewed as an opportunity to promote knowledge and self-confidence, as well as a bridge to in-person connections, all of which enhance socialization and reduction of isolation and loneliness.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have been a lot of learning along the way as the organization has grown. What started out as a family co-operative, with volunteers only, has progressed to a combination of staff and family volunteers. The organization could not operate without both, as families volunteered 5000 hours over the past year alone.
All individuals are living on their own with various supports including personal care attendants, job coaches, case managers, use of alternative transportation, and family support. The Mission Project has started their own transportation and personal care attendant company over the years, as well as developed many family committees to support operations, lifelong learning clubs, legal needs, long-term care planning, and admission to the organization, to name a few. This has taken tremendous time, dedication, and volunteerism.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an occupational therapist and social worker by background. As the executive director, I have looked at the goals of this community based program, factoring independence in activities of daily living, community integration, socialization, and attendance to mental health support needs. All of which have been critical in supporting the highest quality of life and successful outcomes.
This program is unique, in that everyone lives in an apartment they arrange on their own, work in a competitive job in the community, and engage in The Mission Project’s community to have connection to support and enhance quality of life. The family participation is one of the most unique factors, as well as the high level of independence exhibited by participants who have autonomy and self-determination about the choices they make and the way they engage in activities. The Mission Project has allowed it’s Participants to live a lifestyle many only dreamed of, defying the odds. For those with Autism/iDD, approximately 10% live on their own, and 15-20% are employed. With supports, 100% of our participants do both.
We are also excited about our recent expansion of the evidence-based virtual platform, which will allow us to be be further reaching to other individuals who are interested in connection, enrichment, and lifelong learning. It is important to us to offer some of the same types of opportunities for socialization and growth The Mission Project has emphasized with it’s participants. We know there are many individuals in the community who have graduated from high school, and fallen into the gap, experiencing isolation and loneliness. This platform has a vision of creating pockets of community for those living in the Mission Project, as well as those living in the community, to form relationships and expand life skills to increase confidence and knowledge.
What makes you happy?
I am happy when I am engaged with others, deeply connected and sharing in life’s journey. I believe we are designed for relationship, and when we achieve this, we are fulfilled in a way that is not possible through any other avenue.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.themissionproject.org
- Instagram: themissionprojectkc
- Facebook: The Mission Project/Mission, KS
- LinkedIn: The Mission Project
