Category: Volunteers

West-Central Independent Living Solutions (WILS) is proud to announce that Teri joins the WILS Board of Directors, bringing with her a wealth of experience, deep community roots, and a lifelong commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Teri’s unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion makes her a perfect fit for WILS’ mission and vision.

Teri is a certified advanced and Missouri-licensed interpreter currently working as an educational interpreter with the Warrensburg R6 School District. With over 12 years of experience in the field, she has worked closely with students of all abilities, ensuring that each one has equal access to education and meaningful support throughout their academic journey.

What makes Teri’s perspective especially valuable is her lived experience as a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA). “As a Child of Deaf Adults, I have a profound appreciation for diverse perspectives and the needs of individuals with disabilities,” she shared. “I also understand the importance of fostering inclusive, accessible communities.”

Teri is deeply involved in her local community in a variety of ways. She serves on the board of the nonprofit Love Over Circumstances, helps organize events as the assistant director of the Miss Higginsville Pageant, and is an active volunteer at New Life Church, where she supports church ministries and community outreach initiatives. She also co-teaches American Sign Language (ASL) classes, promoting inclusive communication and stronger community connections.

Teri and her husband Brian live in Higginsville with their three children—London, Beckett, and Brooks. Her commitment to empowering others, passion for accessibility, and dedication to building inclusive spaces perfectly align with WILS’ mission, and we are honored to have her leadership and insight as part of our team.

Welcome to WILS, Teri—we are so glad you’re here!

If you’re passionate about accessibility and inclusion like Teri, we’d love to have you join us! Learn how you can get involved by visiting our Community Outreach page.

At WILS, we believe that community support begins with the people who care. Volunteers are the backbone of many of our efforts, and their dedication to helping others is felt in every program and event we organize. A recent example of this unwavering commitment was seen during our Community Care Bags assembly event.

The energy in the room was palpable, as volunteers came together with a shared mission: to support individuals in need in our community. Each volunteer approached the task with enthusiasm, knowing that their small act of packing a bag would make a big difference in someone’s life. From food items to personal care essentials, every bag was filled with the kind of thoughtfulness and care that only comes from volunteers who genuinely want to help others.

As the assembly lines of volunteers moved smoothly, conversations flowed, smiles were exchanged, and everyone worked side by side. It wasn’t just about filling bags; it was about filling hearts. Volunteers took the time to ensure that every item was carefully selected and placed with care, knowing that the recipients would feel the love and consideration behind each gesture.

The Community Care Bags are just one example of the many ways volunteers contribute to WILS’ mission. Whether it’s supporting our transportation services, helping with outreach, or providing administrative assistance, our volunteers are essential to making everything we do possible. Their hard work enables us to reach and support individuals who might otherwise be left behind.

This event not only highlighted the generosity of our volunteers but also underscored the power of community. When we come together, whether as staff, volunteers, or community members, we create a stronger, more supportive environment for everyone.

At WILS, we’re proud to say that we couldn’t do it without our volunteers. Their energy, dedication, and selflessness are a testament to the spirit of community that drives us every day. We look forward to many more opportunities to work together, build relationships, and continue making a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.

If you’re interested in volunteering or would like more information about how you can get involved, please reach out to us today. There’s always room for more helping hands at WILS!