For Immediate Release
Southern Bank Sponsors 2025 Family Events, Supporting Inclusive Experiences for Families Across the Midwest
Easterseals Midwest is proud to partner with Southern Bank, a trusted financial institution with more than 135 years of experience serving the Heartland. Known for its deep community roots and commitment to innovation, Southern Bank is the official sponsor of all 15 of our family events this year.
This generous support allows us to continue expanding our reach and impact, providing inclusive, sensory-friendly experiences for families across Kansas, Illinois, and Missouri. Over the past year alone, we’ve welcomed 3,052 families to eight events held at beloved venues such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Magic House, City Museum, and Butterfly House, as well as at our signature Milk & Cookies and Sensory-Friendly Trick-or-Treat events. These gatherings help individuals with sensory-processing needs enjoy public spaces in a safe and welcoming environment, offering opportunities that are often inaccessible due to their unique challenges.
Southern Bank’s commitment to our work runs deeper than sponsorship. Their values of community, compassion, and inclusion perfectly align with our efforts to support and empower families of individuals with disabilities.
“We are incredibly grateful to Southern Bank for their generous sponsorship of our family events throughout the region,” said Tom Barry, Chief Development Officer at Easterseals Midwest. “Thanks to their support, we’re able to host more than a dozen events this year that both educate the community about disabilities and create inclusive, sensory-friendly experiences for individuals with autism.”
Beyond event sponsorship, Southern Bank is also committed to helping families plan for the future. Their financial experts offer valuable education on creating special needs trusts, setting up dedicated savings accounts, and exploring long-term planning solutions tailored to families living with disabilities.
“At Southern Bank, we understand that caring for a loved one with a disability comes with emotional and financial responsibilities,” said Diane Wakefield, Senior Vice President and Director of Wealth Management at Southern Bank. “Our team is here to help families plan for the future with compassion and expertise, whether that means establishing a special needs trust, setting up dedicated savings accounts, or navigating long-term financial strategies. We’re committed to providing the tools and guidance families need to ensure their loved ones are supported today and for years to come.”
This partnership stands as a powerful example of how organizations and community-minded businesses can come together to create lasting, positive change. Whether it's making community events more accessible or providing meaningful opportunities for connection and learning, Southern Bank is helping us ensure that every family feels seen, supported, and included across the Midwest.
