As a young child, Jim Leiker recalls riding in the car with his family as they drove past The Capper Foundation in his hometown. His parents pointed at the building and commented about it being a very good place where children with disabilities received the help they needed. He remembers thinking about what a special and “cool” place it was because of this.
In 1992, Leiker was named President & CEO of Easter Seals Capper Foundation and 16 years later, he continues to believe the organization is very special and “cool” because they enhance the independence of people with disabilities, primarily children.
Leiker has proactively led the organization through major changes as a premier communitybased disability service provider, expanded services and the number of people served, achieved several successful fundraising campaigns, facility renovations and expansion and affiliation with Easter Seals. Along with a very caring and skilled staff, he implemented a strategic planning process and developed well-defined mission, vision, goals and strategies. Leiker continues to work collaboratively with a strong Board of Trustees and many volunteers, resulting in wide-spread community involvement and support of the organization.
Leiker serves on the Kansas Autism Task Force enacted by the Kansas Legislature, leading creation of a statewide autism plan and introducing legislation for funding so all families will have access to early diagnosis, treatment, support, services and resources. He directs Easter Seals government relations efforts, serves on the InterHab Board and Government Relations Committee, drafts and monitors legislation at the Kansas Statehouse, advocates and testifies there and works closely with legislators on developmental disability and early-intervention issues.
Leiker led the expansion of autism services at Easter Seals Capper Foundation and established its Autism Spectrum Resource Center and Parent Autism Support Group meetings. He facilitates focus groups with parents of children with autism and professionals in the region. Leiker is actively involved in a number of civic, religious and professional organizations. He earned his master’s degree from Wichita State University and three bachelor’s degrees from Washburn University of Topeka.
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