Kearney, Missouri is located in Clay County about 15 minutes north of Kansas City and has a population of 8,381. Each September, the city hosts an annual festival celebrating its distinction as the birthplace of outlaw Jesse James. The James farm with the original house and Jesse James’s burial site are a popular tourist attraction. The Kearney School District serves about 3,500 families in Kearney and northern Clay County.
The old firehouse, now the Firehouse Community Center, has been a resource for Kearney seniors and youth for the last few years. Senior Citizens have come to the Firehouse for all sorts of tech support. Many have learned how to use social media and how to purchase items online. Others have gathered for camaraderie by playing cards with others, working on genealogy, or even get their group exercise on.With the help of the community, the Kearney Enrichment Council was able to purchase a small passenger bus that can be used to transport seniors to social outings, doctor appointments, and general outings. The bus can also be used to transport youth involved in the Spark program from schools to the Firehouse and not have to pay for bus transportation. The bus is a great enhancement to services for seniors.