Darryl and Stephanie Answer

Nearly nine years ago, Stephanie helped start a microchurch in her home, which has since grown into a network of spiritual families across the KC metro, now a Hub in the KC Underground. New Community focuses on grace, healing, liberation, and being rooted in neighborhoods.

This year, New Community launched an initiative for non-speaking autistic children, introducing the Spelling 2 Communicate (S2C) method. Despite limited practitioners in Kansas and Missouri, Stephanie partnered with an Oklahoma-based expert to bring S2C to Kansas City, raising awareness and providing sessions for 12 students, with more families eager to join.

Supported by Azul Esperanza, which aids Latino families with disabilities, this initiative is expanding access to communication and education. Two public schools are exploring the method, and Stephanie’s pursuit of MO licensure and Medicaid provider status promises even broader reach. This is a key part of New Community’s mission for justice and inclusion.