The Kansas City Individual Engagement Committee (IEC) at Easterseals Midwest is proving that inclusion can come in many forms. This time: art.
After discovering the Parade of Hearts, a region-wide public art experience showcasing 150 six-foot heart sculptures across the Kansas City area, IEC Co-Chair Will Wiley envisioned an opportunity to display the Easterseals mission in an unprecedented, creative way.
With the incredible ability art has of bringing people together, and when Will heard about the Parade of Hearts’ call for artists, he knew this was something that could be done together as a committee. Something that represents all of us.
At the next IEC meeting, Will presented the idea, and it gained momentum quickly. Enthusiasm from the individuals served, staff members, and Art Coordinator Cassi Weaver gave the group motivation to begin brainstorming ideas that reflected their shared values of belonging and community connection.
The collaborative design was aptly titled “Inclusion Starts with the Heart.”
Will, along with Co-Chair AJ Olivarez, aimed for the heart to show that inclusion isn’t only a concept, it’s something we live and breathe every day. That everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and a part of the community.
Throughout weeks of collaboration and creative ideas, the team submitted their design, never imagining that out of hundreds of entries across the region, their concept would be chosen.
This fall, the Kansas City IEC received their blank heart sculpture, officially beginning the process of bringing their vision to fruition. The final piece will join the Parade of Hearts 2026 public art exhibition, where it will be displayed with other artist-created hearts throughout the Kansas City area.
“The moment we found out we were selected, we were beyond excited,” said Cassi. “This project is more than art. It’s a celebration of inclusion, creativity, and the people who make Easterseals Midwest’s mission come alive.”
The Parade of Hearts aims to inspire pride, unity, and connection across the region. For the IEC and Community Services team, it’s also a reminder that inclusion begins with an idea above the art. It begins with people coming together to create something with meaning.
About Parade of Hearts:
Parade of Hearts 2026 is a Kansas City region-wide celebration brought to life through a magical, free public art experience featuring one-of-a-kind heart sculptures by local artists. It amplifies tourism, cultural pride, and connection while inviting all to feel the spirit, creativity, and generosity of the heartland.
Coming in 2026: Look for “Inclusion Starts with the Heart” across Kansas City as part of the Parade of Hearts public art experience!
