KETCH

In 1962, at a time when sending persons with developmental and intellectual disabilities to state institutions to live out their lives was common, a group of parents in Wichita, Kansas joined forces to move in a different direction.  Their mission was to provide work skills training for their children so that they could enjoy a productive future in their own community. Then, in 1964, the Kansas Elks Association took this small program under their wing and incorporated it into what is today the Kansas Elks Training Center for the Handicapped (KETCH).  From its humble beginning, it has grown and branched into providing a residential program, and a variety of day programs developed specifically to fit each person’s needs, serving over 300 persons daily.  Additional services offered include nursing and transportation.

The KETCH mission stands true today to promote independence for persons with disabilities through innovative learning experiences that support individuals' choices for working, living, and playing in their community.  The unifying goal at the core of KETCH values is to empower individuals to reach their personal highest level of independence.

KETCH programs are designed to meet the individual needs of adults with intellectual and developmental disabililties through daily life skills training, development of work skills, and assistance with in-home activities.