At EarlystART, we support every child in reaching his or her inherent potential in the classroom and at home.

Our History

Sam Mann, Founder

EarlystART (formerly United Inner City Services) has served the Kansas City, MO community since 1967. With the leadership of its first Executive Director, Rev. Samuel E. Mann, the organization was created to strengthen the health and vitality of neighborhoods along the 12th Street Corridor. It came to serve as an anchor, connecting families with vital resources for food, rent, and utility assistance, as well as other social services.

A childcare program was added in 1972 with the support of St. Mark Union Church. In 2001, key Kansas City leaders and community partners launched a capital campaign to erect St. Mark Child & Family Development Center at 12th Street and Garfield Avenue. The facility opened in 2004 with a distinctive, creative curriculum and a commitment to a highly trained faculty.

Today, EarlystART has capacity to serve 124 infants, toddlers, and pre-K students as well as their families and caregivers.