West iNd Connection (WiNc)

West iNd Connection, known as WiNc, is Independence's dedicated LGBTQ+ inclusion center and bookstore on East Winner Road in the Englewood arts district. Founded in 2018 and opened as a permanent space in 2022, it was the first LGBTQ+ community center established for the city of Independence and serves greater Jackson County. WiNc runs support groups, a lending library and bookstore, drag and comedy nights, and hosts the local PFLAG Kansas City satellite meeting. It also organises Independence Pride each June at the nearby Englewood Arts Mainstage. The center received a City of Independence ICON Award in 2026.