Our Philosophy

We believe the concern for national healthcare starts locally in our community.

As nurses, it is our responsibility to make a difference in the community in which we live.

Our combined efforts, education and expertise in Nursing can make a positive impact on the community of greater Kansas City, our nation and the world.

Our History

We organized to encourage communication and dialogue among Black nurses in Kansas City and to address promoting the health care needs of our community.

Deborah Washam, founding president and a group of 18 nurses both LPNs and RNs, began to meet at a local church to establish the Kansas City Black Nurses Association in December 1992.

The GKCBNA realized that their concerns were common with those of the National Black Nurses Association and received its charter as a chapter of the National Black Nurses Association in 1994.

The GKCBNA is incorporated as a nonprofit organization in Missouri.

Our Mission

• To foster an atmosphere of communication through effective dialogue and support among nurses

• To participate in health promotions to encourage healthy lifestyles

• To mentor and encourage student nurses

• To increase access to health care through participating in the legislative process to ensure health polices are representative of those impacting the Black community