by Jill Ragar Esfeld
jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
OVERLAND PARK — The vision of EMBRACE is simple: Disabilities or learning differences should never prevent a child from receiving a Catholic education.
That inspired more than 500 people to gather at Fiorella Event’s Space in Overland Park on Sept. 26 for the EMBRACE the Harvest Moon celebration and fundraiser.
“A harvest doesn’t happen because of one person,” explained executive director Kim Hammers. “It happens because many people planted and nurtured [it] throughout the year.
“And eventually, you can see the fruits of that labor.”
Success on display
Since 2018, EMBRACE has awarded more than $2.8 million in grants to Catholic schools to support special education personnel and resources.
Since 2020, it has awarded nearly $600,000 in scholarships to Catholic school teachers pursuing advanced training and master’s degrees in special education at Benedictine College in Atchison.
In his blessing before dinner, Archbishop Shawn McKnight voiced his admiration for the ingenuity of EMBRACE founders, supporters and staff in helping Catholic schools be more inclusive.
“That’s my desire,” he said before leading a prayer expressing God’s love for all children.
“What delight You take in each of your children, in all their diversity,” he prayed. “And what care You have for them, excluding none of them from the compass of Your love and affection.”
The success of EMBRACE was on full display as the keynote speaker took the stage.
Juan Santoya spoke about the difference he felt when, through EMBRACE, St. James Academy in Lenexa was able to provide the support he needed as a student with autism.
Through his sophomore year, Santoya received services from a public high school.
“This made it difficult for me to fully participate in school functions and activities,” he said. “But thanks to EMBRACE, everything changed during my junior and senior years.”
St. James was able to hire resource teachers so Santoya no longer traveled back and forth between schools. He was able to fully participate in school activities and attend daily Mass.
He became part of the social structure of his high school, and fellow students were able to get to know him personally.
The outcome proves the impact EMBRACE can have.
“I was nominated for homecoming king,” said Santoya. “And I won!”
He also expressed gratitude for his faith experience.
“My relationship with God has grown deeper,” said Santoya. “And I know when I pray and talk to him, he listens.”
Santoya is headed to Johnson County Community College to study information technology and cybersecurity.
“Being embraced means more than just receiving academic support,” he said. “It means being seen, being valued, being included and knowing that you have a place in your school and in your community.”
A fitting tribute
Another highlight of the evening was the renaming of EMBRACE scholarships after two of the organization’s most ardent supporters: Bill and Jean Dunn.
The couple had a daughter with disabilities, and the Catholic school her siblings attended was not equipped to educate her.
The Dunn family did not want to see that happen to other children.
“From the early days of EMBRACE, [The Dunns] encouraged, supported and generously helped this young organization grow,” said Hammers.
Jean Dunn passed away in 2022 and Bill in May.
“Tonight,” said Hammers, “we have the privilege of giving these scholarships a name that honors two people whose lives embodied faith, generosity, service and a deep commitment to Catholic education.
“From this evening forward, they will be known as the Bill and Jean Dunn, Masters of Special Education, Scholarships.”
The evening ended with a live auction and dance. Funds raised will help more Catholic schools welcome and educate students with disabilities and learning difficulties.
“I’m so grateful to all the supporters of EMBRACE and the people who give so generously so we can help more families obtain that Catholic education,” said Hammers. “At times, it’s overwhelming how generous and compassionate people are.”
EMBRACE (Enriching Many by Reaching All in Catholic Education)
The need continues to grow, as Catholic schools desire to open their doors to all students. EMBRACE is proud to partner with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas to achieve this mission.
To learn more about EMBRACE or make a donation, visit: embraceks.org.
