Why I Give: Casey Halsey and Tom Kokjer

Nestled in the heart of Kansas City near the Country Club Plaza, Saint Luke’s Bishop Spencer Place has been a place for high-quality independent living, compassionate assisted living, short-term rehabilitation, and long-term skilled nursing services for more than 25 years.

In 2016, Bishop Spencer Place became a part of the Saint Luke’s family, offering comprehensive access to Kansas City area’s best physicians, hospitals, and specialty health care providers. Together, Saint Luke’s and Bishop Spencer Place help residents thrive, thanks in part to the remarkable leadership of Bishop Spencer Place’s Board of Directors.

Casey Halsey and Tom Kokjer serve on the board of directors and believe in Bishop Spencer Place’s faith-based mission to ensure the physical, mental, and spiritual health needs of the aging population are met with compassionate care.

Casey’s relationship with Bishop Spencer Place began through his employment with JE Dunn Construction, which was the building contractor for the campus. Casey and his wife, Paula, personally give to Bishop Spencer Place because they believe they may one day find it fits their needs.

“We see Bishop Spencer Place as the preeminent senior living community, given its first-class facilities, location, food, and activities.”

Tom and his wife, Lora, give to Bishop Spencer Place because they consider it a part of a much larger mission of the Episcopal Diocese of Western Missouri that seeks to serve the community, including their own family—Tom’s mother, Harriet, who is a resident.

“I am so proud of the work Tom does for Bishop Spencer Place,” Harriet said.

Together, Casey and Tom are leading philanthropic efforts to support the Bishop Spencer Place mission.

“We believe in the critical need for top-of-class senior care in the community and more specifically as part of Saint Luke’s Health System’s continuum of care,” Tom said.

Residents at Bishop Spencer Place benefit from a seamless transition between levels of care, providing family members with peace of mind.

Saint Luke’s is grateful for Casey and Tom’s passionate leadership. From staff and volunteers to residents and donors, we are grateful for those who are committed to the physical, mental, and spiritual health of our seniors, their families, and ultimately, our community.

To learn more about Bishop Spencer Place or to inquire about a personal donation toward its mission, call 816-932-2252.