Kansas City Indian Center
About Kansas City Indian Center
The Heart of America Indian Center, Inc., operating as Kansas City Indian Center, was founded in 1971 to address the unique needs of American Indians relocating to Kansas City, MO during a transformative period in tribal history. What began as a cultural and spiritual gathering among local elders evolved into a formal organization committed to preserving traditional American Indian values while advancing community members socially, educationally, and economically. The center's roots reflect a response to post-World War II relocation policies and reservation termination initiatives that brought American Indians to urban centers, creating a need for culturally-grounded support services. Today, Kansas City Indian Center remains a vital community anchor, providing not just social services but a place where American Indian people of all tribes can connect, celebrate their heritage, and access resources for health, welfare, and cultural enrichment. The organization's leadership and staff—many of whom are tribal members themselves—embody the center's commitment to both honoring traditional ways and embracing modern life. By promoting fellowship, encouraging artistic pursuits, and stimulating economic advancement, Kansas City Indian Center continues its decades-long mission of supporting American Indian families and individuals throughout the Kansas City area.