Supporter Spotlight: Theresa Van Goethem

For Theresa Van Goethem, supporting the KC Blind All-Stars Foundation (KCBAS) and the Kansas State School for the Blind (KSSB) is both a professional calling and a deeply personal family journey.

Theresa first saw the power of KSSB through her work in USD 500’s special education department, but the mission hit closest to home through her grandchildren, who have received blind and visually impaired services since infancy. Over the years, the KCBAS also became a meaningful way to honor loved ones—first through memorial gifts for a friend in 2014, and later in memory of her late husband in 2023.

Theresa sums up the work of KCBAS in one word: Purpose.

“People who are sighted take sight for granted,” Theresa shares. “It’s important for each of us to understand that persons who have limited vision or are totally blind can be independent, contributing members of our community.”

What inspires her most is the dedicated  staff working daily to help every student reach their full potential. She hopes her contributions ensure teachers have the exact materials and supplies they need to succeed. When asked what “ability” means to her, Theresa offers a grounded perspective: “Each of us has ‘ability’—whether natural or learned. We each have to decide how to use our abilities to be successful.”

Her advice to potential donors is simple: take a campus tour. She believes that once you walk the halls and meet the students, supporting the mission becomes an obvious choice.

Theresa has faithfully backed the annual KCBAS 5K Run/Walk for years through donations. She  loves how it unites the community around these incredible students. You can stand alongside Theresa in empowering KSSB athletes and students! The annual KCBAS 5K Run/Walk takes place on September 19. Register or donate today to support the KC Blind All-Stars!