Kansas City IEC Trunk or Treat

What makes a distinguished Halloween celebration? For Easterseals Midwest, it's not just costumes and candy: it's community, inclusion, and the small, but cheerful moments that make everyone feel they belong. On October 25, our Gladstone team and the Kansas City Inclusive Employment Committee (IEC) hosted a Sensory-Friendly Trunk or Treat, sponsored by Southern Bank, bringing together more than 120 attendees for a jam-packed afternoon of fun, connection, and huge smiles.

The event transformed the Easterseals parking lot into a colorful, accessible holiday wonderland. Around 10 local businesses joined in the fun, decorating their trunks and handing out candy alongside a couple festively embellished Easterseals vans. Southern Bank joined the celebration with a trunk of the own: a big blow-up owl with the caption "Owl You Need is Southern Bank."

Inside the playground area, Workforce Development staff and the IEC created a sensory-friendly zone. The calm, open-air space was designed for children who might find traditional Halloween events overwhelming. The outdoor setup helped reduce noise and offered ample room for everyone to enjoy themselves comfortably.

From giggling ghosts to stylish superheroes, every family found their place to play, connect, and celebrate the way they wanted. Parents chatted with volunteers, kids filled their buckets with goodies, and smiles filled the air.

As families waved goodbye, many asked the same questions: "Will you be doing this again next year?" The answer seems clear with that kind of excitement. This is only the beginning of the Gladstone Halloween tradition.

Thank you to Southern Bank, our amazing volunteers, and every single family who made this year's Trunk or Treat a day of little moments and big magic.

**NOTE** Please be advised that Easterseals Midwest may have photographers, videographers, and media on hand at any event. Photographic images and video taken during any event are property of Easterseals Midwest and may be used for promotional purposes. By submitting your registration to attend an Easterseals' event, you irrevocably consent to allow Easterseals Midwest to use any photos and video containing your image and/or the images of those you have registered or brought to attend an event without impunity.