When Steve Greer’s son Johnny was born with Fragile X Syndrome and Autism, it became clear that their family’s journey would be different. As Johnny approached adulthood, the lack of vocational opportunities for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) became painfully apparent. That’s when Steve, a Kansas City hospitality veteran with over 50 years in the industry, decided to turn a personal challenge into a purposeful mission.
Drawing from his decades of experience—as VP of Gilbert Robinson (Houlihan’s, Bristol, Plaza III), longtime owner of the Golden Ox, and former President of the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association—Steve began bringing Johnny to work. Whether vacuuming, filling ice bins, or pouring beer at the American Royal, Johnny thrived in the restaurant environment. Steve quickly saw a greater need: Johnny wasn’t the only one capable and eager to work—there were many others with IDD facing the same barriers.
In 2017, Steve founded Johnny Boy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on vocational training in the hospitality industry for individuals with IDD, including Autism and Down Syndrome.
At the heart of the foundation is the “Hand in Hand” Program, developed by Steve himself. It offers:
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On-Site Training for workplace-ready individuals, integrating them into real restaurant or hotel jobs over 1–3 weeks.
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Exploratory Training, a 6–8 week program for small groups to rotate through various hospitality roles—from hosting and dishwashing to bussing and cleaning.
This unique model is made possible through deep industry ties. With board members rooted in hospitality and endorsements from major organizations like the GKCRA, MRA, and Kansas City Chefs Association, Johnny Boy has strong community backing. Partners like Minsky’s, SPIN Pizza, Jack Stack BBQ, and the Hilton President Hotel provide real-world training grounds.
Collaboration is key. Johnny Boy works closely with local organizations such as Inclusion Connections, Down Syndrome Innovations, and Easter Seals—offering its program at no cost, unlike many others.
As Kansas City gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Steve and his team are on a mission: train and place at least 100 individuals in meaningful hospitality roles. For Johnny and so many others, this isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to belong, to contribute, and to shine.
Learn more at https://johnnyboy-foundation.org/