MISSION

 SWD proudly serves the Greater Kansas City Area, with a focused commitment to Jackson County and the 18 zip codes east of Troost. These neighborhoods—rich in culture, resilience, and untapped talent—are at the heart of our mission. By centering our work in communities historically excluded from economic opportunity, we ensure that residents have direct access to high‑quality training, career pathways, and the support needed to build strong, stable futures. 

Our mission is to strengthen communities by expanding equitable access to high‑quality soft skills education, vocational training, and career pathways that reduce barriers to opportunity and help prevent the conditions that lead to crime. We invest in people first—supporting youth, adults, and families with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to secure meaningful work and build stable futures.

By improving program quality, advancing hands‑on workforce training, and partnering with neighborhoods, employers, and local institutions, we help create safer, more connected, and economically vibrant communities. Our commitment is to ensure every learner—regardless of background—has a clear path to success and a supportive community standing behind them.