Northeast Kansas Community Action Program Inc

 2010 - 2011 Head Start Annual Report to the Public

One Window of Opportunity

Has Head Start touched your life?

Right now, more than 6,343,000 American children under 6 years old are living lives shaped by hunger, stress, and need. Head Start can offer them a way out, but only a fraction of eligible children are able to attend.

Let's show the country and Congress how important Head Start's Window of Opportunity can be for America's most vulnerable children. One Window of Opportunity (below) gives a child's view on the difference an early education experience can make.

Click here to learn how to write or share your story on the National Head Start Association website.

NEK-CAP, Inc.’s Announces 2011 Award Recipients

Pictured from Left to Right: Back Row:  Shannon Flach, Keith Zachariason, Deb Ellis (C/S Director), Robin Hennigh (Family Network Specialist Atchison, Doniphan Counties), Jeanette Collier (Executive Director).  Front Row:  Lavetta Pope (Family Network Specialist Pottawatomie, Riley Counties), Heidie Hennen, Alec Elfner, Linda Grier (C/S Office Manager). 

The Kansas Association of Community Action Programs (KACAP) hosted the Annual Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at the Top of the Tower in Topeka honoring the eight (8) Community Action Agencies in Kansas.  NEK-CAP, Inc. would like to recognize and congratulate their 2011 award recipients.

Shannan Flach and Keith Zachariason, representing the Wamego City Hospital, received the KACAP Award for Collaborative Excellence.  The Wamego City Hospital was recognized as a business that has demonstrated outstanding initiative in creating and participating in community collaboration that has significantly contributed to the success of NEK-CAP in fulfilling our mission to advocate for and improve the lives of low-income people and communities. 

Alec Elfner, Hiawatha, received the KACAP Caring Service Award.  Alec was recognized as an individual who has contributed significant volunteer time and energy to support the efforts of NEK-CAP, Inc.  Alec exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism through the efforts of a new or gently owned donated coat program.  Alec and his mother, Denise, have received and donated over 500 coats to children in need of a warm coat since 2008. 

Heidie Hennen, Atchison, received the KACAP Personal Responsibility and Achievement Award.  This award recognizes Heidie as a family who has endeavored to make a better life for herself and her family.  Heidie worked very closely with NEK-CAP, Inc. and also demonstrated personal perseverance in overcoming obstacles.  Heidie says she is determined to stay financially stable by maintaining a budget, and has put monies aside for emergencies.   

NEK-CAP, Inc. serves the needs of the low-income population through services to individuals and families.  These include self-sufficiency programs (S.M.I.L.E.), Family Self-Sufficiency Program (through Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program), Housing with Opportunities (Supportive Housing Program), Head Start, Early Head Start, (education for children and adults), employment related services, weatherization, and emergency assistance for rental and utility assistance. NEK-CAP, Inc. is committed to helping people thrive now and ending poverty for future generations.

NEK-CAP, Inc. specializes in facilitating partnerships between local governments, social services, and the private sector toward the goal of improving community life for all people.  They help empower families and individuals so they can achieve their highest potential.  NEK-CAP, Inc. provides a variety of services in Atchison, Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Marshall, Nemaha, Pottawatomie and Riley counties.   For more information about NEK-CAP, Inc. services call 888-904-8159 or visit www.nekcap.org.

2011 State and Regional Award Head Start Association Winners!

Pictured:  Michael Bayles & Mary Koehn of Hammersmith Manufacturing and Carol Bauer of NEK-CAP, Inc.

It is with great pleasure to announce that Carol Bauer, NEK-CAP, Inc. Head Start ERSEA/ Parent Involvement Specialist has been selected by both the State and Regional Head Start Association as the 2011 Staff Member of the Year – Family Community Partnership Professional with an Emphasis on Parent Involvement award winner. Carol has been a valued employee for over 30 years and has made a huge impact on the lives of so many enrolled families in our program.

In addition to Carol’s award, the National Head Start Association Corporate Award has been given to Hammersmith Manufacturing located in Horton.  Hammersmith Manufacturing has provided the Brown County Head Start Center located in Horton with equipment and opportunities that have helped staff provide quality services i.e., office and classroom computers, tables for parent activities, and supplies for a special Thanksgiving feast for the families. A special ceremony was held to recognize both Carol and Hammersmith Manufacturing at the state and regional level. It is quite unique to have two nominees selected from our agency as regional winners. Congratulations to both Carol Bauer and Hammersmith Manufacturing.

Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.