about us
The promise that started it all became a nonprofit, a greenhouse, and a movement for opportunity in northwest Missouri.
THE PROMISE
Sometimes, a single conversation can change the course of a life. For Lettuce Dream, conversations between two friends about their children’s futures became the beginning of something neither could have imagined.
The story began years ago when two sorority sisters, Diane and Sandy, found themselves raising children with developmental disabilities. As mothers, they often talked about the future and wondered what adulthood would look like for their children. They dreamed of a world where individuals with disabilities would have opportunities to continue learning, find meaningful work, and be recognized for their abilities rather than their limitations.
Those conversations planted a seed.
Before that dream could take shape, Sandy was diagnosed with cancer. As her health declined, she asked Diane to keep believing in the vision they had shared. Sandy promised she would do everything she could from heaven if Diane would continue the work here on earth.
The dream comes true
After Sandy's passing, Diane carried that promise with her. Years later, that shared dream became Lettuce Dream.
Lettuce Dream is more than a nonprofit. It is the fulfillment of a promise, a testament to enduring friendship, and a belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to learn, work, contribute, and belong. Through meaningful job training, supported employment, and partnerships with local businesses, Lettuce Dream empowers individuals with disabilities to build confidence, gain independence, and achieve competitive employment in the community.
everyone deserves the
opportunity to work
Our mission is to provide career education and grow community inclusion opportunities for people with disabilities.
Our vision is that all people have equal access to achieve their career goals and contribute to their community.
LEADERSHIP TEAM
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Jennie Moore
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Jennie earned her B.S. in Sociology with a minor in Gerontology from Northwest Missouri State University. With more than 20 years of experience in the disability field, her background spans direct care, case management, residential services, employment services, and leadership. Jennie was one of the founding members of Lettuce Dream, serving as the organization’s first Board Secretary before becoming Executive Director in 2021. She leads the organization’s programs, partnerships, and continued growth with a focus on expanding opportunities for people with disabilities.
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Alex Chang
GREENHOUSE MANAGER
Alex earned his B.S. in Agricultural Science from Northwest Missouri State University, with a background in agronomy, horticulture, and nursery production that began through his involvement in FFA. He first became involved with Lettuce Dream as a college volunteer, where his interest in agriculture and our mission eventually grew into a career. Today, as Greenhouse Manager, Alex oversees year-round hydroponic production while creating a welcoming environment for participants, students, and volunteers to learn and work alongside each other.
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Brenda Wheeler
PROGRAM MANAGER
Brenda earned both her B.S. and M.S. in Education with an emphasis in Learning Disabilities from Northwest Missouri State University. She spent 29 years in education, teaching special education and elementary students across a variety of grade levels and subjects. Brenda joined Lettuce Dream in 2022, bringing decades of experience supporting individuals with different learning needs to her role as Community Employment Program Manager. She now helps individuals identify their strengths, build workplace skills, and find success in employment while building strong relationships with local businesses throughout the community.
board of
directors
Our Board of Directors is made up of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about our mission and committed to strong, responsible leadership.
Interested in joining our board?
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Krista is the President of Focused Forensic Solutions LLC, a forensic accounting and fraud investigation firm. Krista is an active member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs and the Beverly Shelton Girls Town Club.
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David retired from Northwest Missouri State University after teaching 33 years in the political science department. He has a grandson with Down syndrome and he believes in opportunity for all people.
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Sharon retired from Maryville R-2 schools as the personnel accountant. She is actively involved in the community of Conception Junction.
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Diann has dual B.S. degrees in marketing and management from Northwest Missouri State University. Diann is a founding member of Lettuce Dream.
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Inspired by her son with autism, Diane founded Lettuce Dream after seeing firsthand the challenges people with disabilities face in finding meaningful employment. She believes everyone deserves the opportunity to work, contribute, and feel valued in their community. That belief became the heart of Lettuce Dream and continues to guide its mission today.
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Nicole is a fifth grade teacher at South Nodaway R-IV in Barnard, MO. She is an active volunteer in Special Olympics. She has a son with a disability and is a strong advocate for inclusion in the community.
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Sherri has worked at Kawasaki Manufacturing in Maryville for 20 years as a laborer. She is active in the community.
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Dottie is a retired high school special education teacher. Her passion is integration of individuals with disabilities into the community.
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Philip currently serves as the Maryville R-II superintendent. Phillip is a member of the Rotary Club, the Nodaway County Emergency Services Board and is an active member of his community.
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Kevin is a rural postal carrier and farmer in Nodaway County. He has a daughter with a disability, and he is a strong advocate for inclusion and education.
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Brenda worked at NSK Industries for 21 years where she worked as an Operations Specialist. She serves on the Clearmont City council, does the books for the Clearmont volunteer fire department, and is involved in the Community Club.
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Carol retired as an instructor in special education at Northwest Missouri State University having served 17 years. She is a strong champion of inclusion, education, access and community integration for people with disabilities.
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Richard retired after 25 years of owning and operating VanVactor Lumber Company in Grant City. He is an active member of Rotary, Boy Scouts, and Grant City Jaycees.