About KADEC
Hope is a community effort.
A Better Future for Children and Families
The Kansas Alliance for Drug Endangered Children is a multi-disciplinary collaboration between state agencies, law enforcement, healthcare providers, tribal partners, and community organizations formed to raise awareness and provide resources to Kansas children and families impacted by substance misuse.
Established in 2003, KADEC works to strengthen coordinated, trauma-informed responses across Kansas communities.
The Need in Kansas
In Kansas, approximately 140,860 children are living with parents or caregivers who use substances, and an estimated 5,155 infants are born exposed to substances every year. Harms experienced by drug endangered children are real and preventable, whether from illicit substances like methamphetamine or legal and prescribed substances such as tobacco or opioids.
We believe there is more to the story for these children and their families. Substance misuse isn’t destiny. When we truly see our communities, we can make a difference for our neighbors in need.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower Kansas communities to educate about the impacts of substance use disorders and serve children through training, leadership, and ongoing support.
Our Vision
We envision a Kansas where all children have the opportunity to thrive in environments free from substance misuse.
Every Child Supported.
Our Impact
The DEC approach works best when communities come together to change the outcomes for drug endangered children. This requires commitment from many stakeholders, but our children and communities are worth that effort.
Through collaboration, deliberate action, and follow-through, the DEC approach has led to better outcomes for children and families. For example:
- School Resource Officers have coordinated with local agencies to support children when a caregiver was arrested, helping minimize disruption.
- Law enforcement officers have relied on DEC training to ‘Know the Signs’ of risk and connect children with appropriate services.
- County DEC teams have provided clothing, school supplies, and agency support for vulnerable youth.
- DEC boards across the country distribute backpacks and care packages filled with hygiene items, snacks, games, and information about local support services.
Executive Board
Jennifer Gassmann
Chair
Shelly Schneider
Vice-Chair
Caroline Hastings
Secretary
Sarah Robinson
Treasurer
Learn More and Make a Difference with KADEC
Protecting children is a shared responsibility.
Learn how you can support KADEC’s mission across Kansas.
Raise Awareness
Take Action
