Growing Futures is here for kids and families during the years that matter most. The earliest years of life shape everything that follows, and when families have the right support, children can thrive.
We provide early education and family-centered programs that meet families where they are, honor their experiences, and support the whole child. That means high-quality learning environments, trusted relationships, and real-world resources that help families feel confident, supported, and connected.
From pregnancy through preschool, Growing Futures partners with families to build strong foundations. Because kids only get one childhood, and it deserves care, stability, and possibility.
about us
rooted in Johnson County
Growing Futures serves children and families throughout Johnson County, working alongside our community to support early learning close to home. The families we serve come from different backgrounds, cultures, and circumstances but they all share the same goal: giving their children the best possible start. Our programs are designed to reduce barriers, strengthen family support systems, and create safe, consistent environments where kids can grow.
our mission
We nurture strong beginnings for children through a comprehensive early educational approach that supports and empowers families.
explore our programs
Every family’s needs look different. That’s why we offer program options designed to support early development while partnering closely with caregivers.
Early Head Start Center-Based
A nurturing classroom setting for infants and toddlers that supports early learning, social-emotional development, and healthy growth.
Head Start
A comprehensive preschool program for kids ages 3–5 that builds confidence, curiosity, and readiness for kindergarten.
Early Head Start Home-Based
One-on-one support that happens right at home, offering guidance, early learning activities, and resources during a child’s earliest years.
Our Impact
96%
Kindergarten Readiness Rate
223
Students Served in 2024-2025
60
Years of Proven Experience
10K +
Children Served in JoCo
our leadership team
Larry Lewis
Executive Director
larry@growingfutures.org
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His commitment to serving families has been a part of Larry’s professional journey since the very beginning. During his endeavor as a child and youth development professional, Larry has gained the experience of leading large nonprofit organizations through fundraising projects, partnering with local companies, and establishing positive connections in the community to bring awareness to the need of quality care and education for all children from all backgrounds.
Tanesha Thompson
Program Director
tanesha@growingfutures.org
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As a former head start participant, she values early education and recognizes the importance of having a holistic approach in working with the entire family. Tanesha started as a Family Support Advocate with Growing Futures in 2014 and has worked on both the center-based and home-based side providing weekly home visits and directly supervising the Family Educator.
Chris Stibbs
Director of Development
chris@growingfutures.org
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Chris Stibbs is a self-proclaimed (but confirmed by others) loud human investing his passion in Kansas City’s philanthropic community. Beyond his professional role, Stibbs demonstrates his commitment to community service through his position on the Board of Directors for reStart, Kansas City’s leading homeless services agency, and as President of The Loop, a millennial networking group. Stibbs has been recognized in Ingram’s 20 in their Twenties issue, the Class of Rising Stars through the Independent, and 20 to Know in Nonprofit by the Kansas City Business Journal. He is also a graduate of the Centurions Leadership Program through the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.
Suzanne Handlin
Human Resources Director
suzanne@growingfutures.org
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Her experience consists mostly of working in the medical field but has also worked in HR for a property management firm, software, and the movie theater industry. Most of her time spent at Growing Futures is building relationships with the staff, mentoring, and recruiting. Suzanne chose Growing Futures because she sees the need in the community for an organization that will wrap their arms around a family and child in need.
Tama Byrnes
Director of Finance
tama@growingfutures.org
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Tama Byrnes brings more than four decades of financial expertise to Growing Futures. She began her career with 13 years in public accounting, developing a strong foundation in auditing, compliance, and fiscal accountability. For the past 31 years, she has dedicated her skills to the nonprofit sector, serving as a finance director and ensuring sound financial management, transparency, and sustainability. At Growing Futures, Tama oversees all aspects of fiscal operations, providing the stewardship and stability that allow the organization to focus on its mission of nurturing children and strengthening families.
Do Work That Matters
Working at Growing Futures means showing up for children and families every day and knowing your work truly makes a difference. If you care deeply about early education and community impact, we’d love to meet you.
Be Part of Something Bigger
Whether you volunteer, partner with us, attend events, or give, your involvement helps Growing Futures continue showing up for families when it matters most.
questions? let’s talk.
If you’re a parent, partner, or community member looking to connect, we'd love to hear from you.
