Meet Janel Bowers, the  Director of Development for Friends of JCDS that joined the team in November of 2015.

“I cannot remember a time when someone has gone to her with a question, request, and/or issue and she’s responded in the negative; her response is also “yes, and” and usually goes above and beyond the initial request. Janel asks for input and feedback from Team Leaders and residents and then actually takes that feedback and turns it into action.”

Education/Certifications

Masters of Arts in Philanthropy and Development, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Bachelors of Arts in English, Kansas State University

If asked, Janel will tell you that she wants to live in a world that is inclusive and filled with innovations that allow everyone opportunities to be who they are.

Janel has strong ties to the intellectual and developmental disabilities field, serving as a volunteer, the court appointed guardian and conservator for the last 18 years through the Kansas Guardianship Program, and having worked in Community Living, Supported Employment and Sheltered Workshops throughout her career.

Janel will tell you that she drives to work with a big smile on her face each morning because this is the perfect job, EVER. She gets to see the transformations made in people’s lives every day. “This is more than a job: I’m on a mission to help you get it… really get it! People are people, and they all want the same thing- a place to call home, friends to hang out with, and a job that gives them purpose- the rest is just stuff…”