Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Allen.
Hi Karen, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was a single parent raising two children while working two to three jobs and going to school to better our lives. In March of 2001, I underwent surgery on both of my feet, which forced me to stop for a moment as I had to rely on others to care for me. I went from being constantly busy and self-sufficient to having to rely on others for my care. That season was deeply humbling and, at times, depressing.
One day during my recovery, when I was finally able to sit up, I found myself sitting on my front porch crying and praying. I asked God why He created me, because if life was only about having children, working endlessly, and going to school, it felt empty to me. In that moment, the story of the Samaritan woman came to my heart. As I reflected on her story, I realized that the very day she went to draw water was the day she encountered Jesus and discovered her purpose.
That realization shifted something deep within me. I understood that what felt like a broken moment in my life was actually the doorway to my calling. That day, I was given my purpose: to restore broken arrows—to give them aim, hope, and purpose.
I started my business with no money at all. I literally picked up chairs off curbs and from thrift stores to furnish my space. In June of 2026, I will celebrate 25 years in business. This is the short version of a journey marked by faith, perseverance, and obedience.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all. It has been a struggle from day one. What has sustained me is my faith and a deep love for the people I serve. Those two things have kept me committed through every challenge.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
By training, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I hold a PhD in Advanced Studies of Human Behavior, a Doctorate in Spiritual Counseling, and a Master’s degree in Counseling.
In June of 2001, I founded Jacob’s Well of Kansas City Ministries, a nonprofit organization that I led for 16 years. In 2017, I transitioned the organization into a for-profit model, always with the same mission: unlocking the door of purpose in the lives of others. I also operate a sole proprietorship, Karen Allen, LPC, where I primarily work with women who need mental health support.
My for-profit organization is The Carousel Adult Day Care, which originally operated under the nonprofit. The Carousel is a medical-model adult day care program serving veterans, adults with special needs, and individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease. We operate two outpatient dementia care units and are nationally certified in the TDI model of dementia care.
The Carousel is a place where people are not just cared for—they are happy and thriving. We are currently operating out of our third facility, which was formerly the historic Dunbar School, acquired through the Kansas City Public Schools Repurposing Initiative.
What sets me apart is my unwavering faith, my love for those I serve, and the fact that I have sustained this work for 25 years relying primarily on Medicaid funding, without community or philanthropic support. We are a quiet gem in the community, doing meaningful work every day. Here, lack of funding is never a barrier—because I believe God provides for what He produces.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I am sure they do not know my full story of how this business came to be. I was in a low place when God showed me he had need of me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://carouseladultcare.com/
