West iNd Connection was established to create a safe and progressive community for all to live, work, play and visit.  We aim to create a positive progressive culture and strengthen awareness for all members of our city through arts programs, neighborhood initiatives, and public events.  Our intention is to explore all possibilities for fostering partnerships that support local programs in our core pillars: Arts, LGBTQ+ Community, Animal Welfare, and Community Care.

Connecting and listening to local teachers, we discovered art supplies and instruments were slim to none and teachers come out of their own pockets to see that every child experience the Wonderful World of Art. At that very moment, being inspired to leave the world a better place, we wanted to help! One of our main fuel and driving forces has been business connections.

Since 2011 B-Vogue Salon & Art Gallery connected with local artists to hang and sell their work at the cost of 25% of any sales. That % is used to help 1 local Elementary School and helps to provide:  clay and stain each year, a new kiln, Family Holiday packages, needed rugs and class room risers. “Art Feeds & Inspires” 

The Phyllis Manley Folk Celebration was conceived by Jennifer Holmes shortly after Phyllis passed as a memorial to the deep love and friendship they formed at The Backroom Gallery and that was shared by all who knew her in the vibrant musical community that she loved and supported throughout her life and even during her illness.  Phyllis inspired all who knew her and was loved universally by those whose lives were touched by her sweet smile, loving kindness, and commitment to friendship and community.  It is with great honor  we create this event believing it would have pleased Phyllis to know it was bringing people together in a circle of friendship, music, and love and that the proceeds would benefit children's art programs.  The Backroom Gallery is no more, but the love goes forward in collaboration with Westind Connection and our vibrant community of art and music lovers! The Celebration will continue a tradition of supporting arts in elementary education.

As members of this community our goal is to continue bringing awareness to the needs of our people. To be visible and valued is one of the greatest rewards. We strive to support the LGBTQ+ Community in all ways possible. Inspired by Adam Lambert Thad McCullough turned his birthday into a fundraiser for his local LGBTQ+ community and in the past 5 years has raised over $11,500! Thadapalooza is an Annual fundraising event that now helps provide scholarships and support to local Gay Straight Alliance Clubs and dreams of supporting the LGBTQ+ community of Independence, Missouri! 

The city we choose as our home is important to us! From curbside beautification to grass roots neighborhood initiatives we strive to make our community better for all its citizens! One of the funding events for the Community Care pillar is the Heart 2 Heart Connection!

We are animal lovers! We would love nothing more than to see every animal loved and cared for.  We look forward to creating a strong presence of support for animal welfare in Independence, Mo. We're working on an annual event to support this cause! Stay tuned!