GROW
A THANK YOU FROM RYAN.
On behalf of everyone at Della Lamb Community Services, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your support during this time of great need and growth. Your generosity and dedication make an incredible difference in the lives of those we serve.
Your contributions and volunteer efforts have helped us to provide critical resources, assistance, and services to those in our community who need it most. Your support has enabled us to continue our mission of providing education, employment, and social services to those people in our community working towards self-sufficiency.
As we navigate the challenges of this past year and look ahead to the future, we are grateful for your steadfast commitment to Della Lamb and the people we serve. Your kindness, presence, and compassion are instrumental in our efforts to walk alongside our city's most vulnerable.
So, from the bottom of our hearts, we say thank you. Thank you for your unwavering support, your generosity, and your willingness to give of your time and resources to make a difference in the lives of others. You are truly making a kinder Kansas City.
Ryan Hudnall Executive Director
A SNAPSHOT OF THE KINDNESS OF KANSAS CITY
donors were first-time givers. Moved by the plight of refugees, access to a team, social services, or early education, 328 donors made an immediate impact on our city's vulnerable.
Individuals were served by Della Lamb in 2022 across all programs, with many individuals taking part in numerous programs creating a true wraparound approach to client care.
organizations were identified by the United Way of Greater Kansas City to be a part of the Impact100, and Della Lamb is honored to be a part of this incredible group.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
EARLY EDUCATION IS A GROWING NEED FOR FAMILIES, BUT THE INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO WANE. ALL THE WHILE, CHILDREN STILL GROW, TEACHERS PERSEVERE AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS STEP UP.
DEMOGRAPHICSATAGLANCE
GROWING
LANGUAGE
Speech and language skills are crucial for a child's development, as they impact not only their ability to communicate effectively but also their social and academic success. Early intervention by a speech pathologist can help identify and address potential communication difficulties in children before they start school, setting them up for future success.
Della Lamb's partnership with Rockhurst University's Speech Pathology program is an excellent example of how early intervention can benefit children from all backgrounds, regardless of their socioeconomic status. By providing free speech and language services to children in need, Rockhurst's students are helping to level the playing field and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed
The children of Della Lamb received approximately 576 hours of speech therapy in 2022 While all Della Lamb students benefit from reading and communication lessons, 21 children received one-on-one support from the Rockhurst Speech Pathology students Some little learners will continue to receive services in the future, though many graduate from the program each year
64
LITTLE LEARNERS SERVED, FED, COMMITTED TO, AND EDUCATED IN 2022.
Speech pathology students and their program moderator work with Della's children to improve their ability to communicate effectively, including skills such as vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, and articulation. They also address social communication skills, such as turn-taking, eye contact, and conversation skills. By improving these skills early on, children are better prepared for the social and academic demands of school.
We are extremely proud to be a diverse and multi-lingual school, though it does come with communication hurdles. By understanding the nuances of a child's native language, the speech pathology students tailor their interventions to be more effective and culturally sensitive, helping children to develop their speech and language skills in a way that is meaningful and relevant to them This is especially important for our little learners who have a range of different first languages
Early intervention by a speech pathologist can have a significant impact on a child's development, setting them up for success in school and beyond Della Lamb's partnership with Rockhurst University's Speech Pathology program is a fantastic example of how community organizations can come together to support children and families in need, providing critical services that can make a real and lasting difference in their lives
NATIONWIDE,
HIGHEST SCORES
Della Lamb students received the highest scores in the Kansas City Pre-K Co-Op in preparing students for Kindergarten. Our students went from only 2 children being ready for kindergarten at the start of the school year to 92% being kindergarten ready at graduation. Research has consistently shown that children who receive highquality early education have better outcomes in terms of cognitive development, school readiness, and social-emotional skills.
TEACHER SHORTAGE
Della Lamb is licensed to serve 133 students 6 weeks through Pre-K, but due to a nationwide teacher shortage, our daily attendance is around 55. The lack of teachers in the industry negatively impacts families who need quality early education and childcare. Children who attend high-quality early education programs have been shown to have better academic outcomes and improved social and emotional skills, and are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college.
poverty were enrolled in preschool com with 76% of their counterparts with a fa income of five times the poverty level according to the RAND Corporation Wh low-income families benefit most from quality early education, they statistically the least access to it both financially an geographically. The Historic Northeast h predominantly low-income population, many families struggle to find affordabl childcare options, and with only 18% of households in this area having access to vehicle, they are further limited in their to access childcare facilities.
Our 2022 graduation showcased twice as many students than years past due to our second Pre-K classroom opening in the Fall of 2021. That means twice as many children were prepared to tackle Kindergarten head-on!
67%
PRE-K GRADUATES FREE & REDUCED LUNCH
Our geographic location and partnership with the KC Pre-K Cooperative allow us the opportunity to meet the needs of the families around us. There is a direct correlation between impoverished neighborhoods and the scarcity of childcare options. All children deserve quality early education.
HIGH-QUALITY EARLY CHILD CARE INCREASES CHILDREN’S READINESS FOR SCHOOL AND NARROWS THE SO-CALLED ACHIEVEMENT GAP BY HALF.
YOUTH SERVICES
PLAY HARD, DREAM BIG, AND ACHIEVE GREATNESS.
17 SCHOLARSHIPS
Participation in youth sports has been linked to improved academic performance, increased self-esteem, and decreased likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors. For underprivileged children, these benefits can be even more significant as they may lack access to other resources that can promote these outcomes In 2022, 17 of our girls' basketball players accepted scholarships to play college basketball with dozens of younger players receiving offers.
112 LASTING IMPACTS
Moreover, our programs provided a safe and structured environment for children to learn and grow. In our football program, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our players and provide opportunities for them to develop positive relationships with their peers, coaches, and mentors. Through our partnership with COMBAT, all 112 football players were impacted by speakers and positive activities focusing on drug and crime prevention education.
"I love seeing progression in players. To see how much each player and the team grows from the start of the season to the end is amazing."
-COACH CHRIS GIBBS
3RD GRADE FOOTBALL COACH
"[My favorite thing is] the growth and development of the players, their self-confidence and watching them archieve their goals."
-COACH DUANE SMITH
15U SSB BASKETBALL COACH
AS WE REFLEC THE IMPACT OUR YOUTH SP PROGRAM O THE PAST YEA ARE PROUD O ACHIEVEMEN OUR PARTICIP LED PRIMARILY BY VOLUNTEER COACHES.
resources mentoring, teaching, and building up the youth participants on their teams
resilience, teamwork, and a strong work ethic that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors
meets. Track is a growing sport as it is one of the more accessible programs for youth
National Championship and were ranked among the top freshmen in the country
winning isn t the most important thing, it does teach players that hard work pays off
ADOLESCENTS WHO PLAY SPORTS ARE 8 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE AT AGE 24 THAN THOSE WHO DO NOT PLAY SPORTS.
REFUGEE SERVICES
IN 2020, WE WELCOMED 38 INDIVIDUALS. IN 2022, WE WELCOMED 469.
40+ VOLUNTEER GROUPS
from faith-based organizations, corporations, and even neighborhoods came together to help our new neighbors. Some groups focused on community building projects while others prepared homes for families or collected resources for newcomers.
REFUGEE FAMILIES
representing 55 individuals were supported by Co-Sponsor teams. Co-Sponsor teams partner with a new family to walk with them during their transition to the US. The official time commitment is 6 months, though relationships are built and friendships continue even after the family reaches self-sufficiency.
469 INDIVIDUALS
GROWING ARRIVALS SINCE 2014 866 INDIVIDUALS SERVED
The number of clients served and clients who arrived are different due to standard carryover services depending on the date of arrival as well as the self-sufficiency level of clients from previous years. As families grow, their new babies also become clients. In 2022, at least 10 babies were born to our newly arrived refugee families.
10,000+ CLIENT SERVICES
SinceDellaLambbecameanofficialResettlementAgencyin2014, thenumberofclientswelcomedhasebbedandflowedduetothe presidentialdetermination,COVID-19,andotherfactorsInthefirst 42weeksof2021,wewelcomed57refugeesInthelast10weeks, wewelcomed201AfghanevacueesTheyear-over-yearincrease from2021to2022doesnotproperlyrepresentthehugeleapinthe numberoffamilieswelcomed,housed,andserved,withthevast majorityofAfghanevacueesstillreceivingservicesofsomekindin 2022
*ThesenumbersexclusivelyrepresenttheReception&Placementandthe AfghanParoleeAssistanceprogramsWalk-insseekingassistancearenot included.Walk-Insin2022includethosefromUkraineandCuba,among otherpopulations
2022 ARRIVAL DEMOGRAPHICS
0-14|175CHILDREN 15-64|288EMPLOYABLETEENS/ADULTS 65-92|6SENIORADULTS
First language spoken by those who arrived in '22:
More than 10,000 official services, touchpoints, meetings, and check-ins were provided by our Refugee Services team in 2022 Our newly launched Health & Wellness team made an immediate impact, coordinating 2,237 transportation arrangements or rides and scheduling 849 medical appointments These services also include the distribution of bikes that were donated through our Bikes for Refugees program These 10,000 services do not include the interactions and impact made by hundreds of volunteers supporting our new neighbors through our House to Home and Co-Sponsorship programs Nor do these services include the countless client interactions that occurred at the hotel in the first five months of the year following the arrival of those evacuated from Afghanistan as part of Operation Allies Welcome. These services from case managers and volunteers ranged from ELL to childcare and SNAP enrollment to sharing meals together
SELF-SUFFICIENCY RATE
Our Matching Grant program saw a 94% self-sufficiency rate for all employable adults enrolled in the program "MG" is an employment program designed to ensure refugees become selfsufficient within 240 days of arrival The average wage for Matching Grant clients was $17.32.
IMPACTFUL RESOURCES
The women of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Xi Tau Omega Chapter provided a complete restock of bath towel sets for the hundreds of Afghan evacuees who moved into their new homes Della Lamb was honored to be invited to speak at their Founders' Day celebration and share our mission with this incredible group of women
MEANINGFUL EMPLOYMENT FOR NEW NEIGHBORS
In an extraordinary journey of resilience and empowerment, four Afghan women defied cultural norms and found employment at a US flag-making company in 2022. Guided by the support of Della Lamb's employment team, these women, armed with exceptional sewing skills, now contribute to the production of US flags. These images capture their pride as they explore their new workplace, symbolizing their courage to challenge societal expectations and redefine their roles as they sew the fabric of their new nation
Their employment holds deep significance as it represents not only their personal triumph but also the support they received from their families, friends, and case managers. Coming from a society where Afghan women are typically not empowered to work outside the home, these women have shattered those barriers With the support of their loved ones, they have embraced the opportunity to contribute financially, fostering a new sense of independence and empowerment
Additionally, their involvement in the production of US flags highlights their connection to their adopted country. By sewing these patriotic symbols, they not only showcase their skill and dedication but also forge a deeper bond with the values of freedom and unity represented by the American flag
These women serve as a testament to the transformative power of support, opportunity, and determination. These photos embody the resilience of these Afghan women as they embark on a new chapter in their lives, defying societal norms and embracing their roles as contributors to their new community. Their story inspires others, highlighting the potential for women from diverse backgrounds to overcome barriers, redefine their identities, and find empowerment through meaningful work.
SPECIAL DELIVERY & DISTINCT SERVICES
For National Volunteer Week, the Research College of Nursing had service days throughout the city. We were lucky to have this wonderful group, including former President Dr. Wilson, join us This group of medical professionals and students delivered 12 hygiene/necessity boxes to Afghan families and assessed medical needs while there. Thank you for using your gifts and education to serve KC’s newest neighbors
KANSAS CITY'S WORLD REFUGEE DAY 2022
CELEBRATE REUNITE CONNECT
In partnership with the North East Public Library, Della Lamb was a leading organizer for World Refugee Day 2022. Dozens of agencies came together to serve and celebrate the diversity that our newest neighbors have brought to our city.
In August of 2021, Mayor Lucas announced that Kansas City would be a welcoming city to our Afghan allies. At World Refugee Day, he met our new neighbors, delivered a speech, and enjoyed the day's festivities.
Hundreds of our clients were in attendance and it was something of a reunion for our new Afghan neighbors. After spending so much time in the hotel and eventually going separate ways to their homes, families were excited to see each other again and share stories from the last few months. We danced, we ate, and we learned about different resources in our city.
A GROWING MENU A GROWING TEAM
When refugees arrive in Kansas City, they bring with them their own cultural practices, such as music, art, and food, which add to the diversity of our community This can create wonderful opportunities for cultural exchange and education, as locals have the chance to learn about the customs and traditions of people from across the globe.
Food is a significant aspect of different cultures that can have a delicious impact on the local community. Our new neighbors bring unique and diverse cooking traditions, using ingredients and spices that may not be commonly used in the local cuisine. In the case of Afghan and Congolese refugees, their traditional cuisines are rich and varied. Afghan cuisine is known for its use of spices like saffron, cardamom, and coriander, while Congolese cuisine is characterized by its use of cassava, plantains, and peanuts At Della Lamb, we enjoy potlucks With the addition of many Afghan team members, the newest staple dish in 2022 was Afghan Pulao Uzbeki along with our long-time favorite, Somalian Sambusas
In addition to the cultural and culinary benefits, welcoming refugees to a city has a positive impact on the social fabric of our community. Refugees often arrive with a strong sense of community and family, which can help to create a more cohesive and supportive environment for everyone. Kuomba Church, a local Congolese congregation associated with the United Methodist Church, held services in our Recreation Center for many months in 2022. As we welcomed families from the DRC, our partnership with Kuomba Church created an easy avenue to introduce our new neighbors to Congolese peers who have deep roots in Kansas City
By embracing the unique experiences and traditions of our new neighbors, our city has created a more inclusive and diverse environment that benefits everyone We are grateful to be a part of a Kansas City that welcomes all
“IT IS THE OBLIGATION OF EVERY PERSON BORN IN A SAFER ROOM TO OPEN THE DOOR WHEN SOMEONE IN DANGER KNOCKS.”
— DINA NAYERI
OPERATION HOLIDAYS
The success of Operation Holidays was a testament to the generosity and kindness of our community. Thanks to the support from volunteers, donors, and our event sponsor The Bacchus Foundation, Della Lamb provided holiday meals via grocery gift cards, warm clothes for children, and gifts for each family member to nearly 400 families
Preparing hundreds of holiday bags is not easy, and we are thankful for the hard work of volunteers who came weeks in advance to prepare families' orders. During the 2day drive-thru event, even more volunteers dedicated several hours to delivering the holiday bags to families' cars, providing a dignified experience for all involved.
The event was made even more special by the presence of several Afghan clients who carpooled and drove up in their own cars to receive their family's items. It was inspiring to see how quickly many of them were able to achieve selfsufficiency, own cars, and have driver's licenses. In total, 1,140 individuals were served, including 533 children. Most of our refugee clients were experiencing their first winter in Kansas City in 2022 and celebrating with classically American traditions was a fun and meaningful experience for them
Our 50th Operation Holidays was made possible by the hard work and dedication of volunteers, and it was a true demonstration of the power of the community coming together for a common cause to bring joy and happiness to those in need during the holiday season.
REGISTRATIONS
Many in our neighborhood know to register for OH each fall, while new Della clients learn about it from their teachers or case workers. It's all hands on deck to ensure the families who benefit from this event are registered. We even host a neighborhood registration day with volunteers and translators to ensure as many people sign up as possible.
DESIGN WISHLIST
We believe the gift of choice is as important as the gift itself, that's why we let the parents decide what type of gift their child would love the most. Our Wishlist is designed with our clients in mind and then shared with Della Lamb supporters who can select exactly which gifts they'd like to send to our families. More than 230 gifts came directly from donors.
PREPARE & DELIVER
Volunteers are the backbone of Operation Holidays. They fill the bags according to the registration form, select the appropriate clothing sizes, audit each bag, and eventually deliver the bags to clients' cars. Hundreds of volunteers help each year, demonstrating the power of community and the willingness to give back to those in need.
Board Member Nancy Lear and fellow members of Country Club Christian Church prepared kids clothes
A group of young volunteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints filled bags with gifts.
The Legal Team from HR Block audited bags, filled in gaps, and decorated our "sleighs".
Contract Funding
2022 & 2021 EXPENSES
2022 & 2021 INCOME
2022 & 2021 NET INCOME
2022 & 2021 ASSETS
2022 & 2021 LIABILITIES & EQUITY
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
TheSchukai Family
A CLASSICALLY KANSAS CITY PARTNERSHIP
The Bacchus Foundation is a historic philanthropic organization in Kansas City. Their primary focus is supporting charitable initiatives and organizations tackling significant social issues. They host various events and fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for deserving causes, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to the designated beneficiaries. In 2022 Della Lamb was selected as their beneficiary.
As key sponsors, the Bacchus Foundation played an instrumental role in supporting two major events hosted by Della Lamb in 2022: Operation Holidays and Illuminate the City Through this collaboration, Della Lamb and the Bacchus Foundation demonstrate the power of community engagement and philanthropy These young professionals are passionate about serving their community, connecting with others, and having a great time while doing it.
One of the key aspects that sets the Bacchus Foundation apart is its commitment to ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to the designated beneficiaries. By minimizing administrative costs and leveraging the dedication of volunteers, the foundation maximizes the impact of its philanthropic efforts
The Bacchus Foundation stands as a shining example of philanthropy in Kansas City With their unwavering dedication, strategic partnerships, and commitment to transparency, they continue to leave a lasting impact on the community, inspiring others to join them in building a kinder Kansas City.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
AT THE HEART OF OUR GRATITUDE LIES A DEEP APPRECIATION FOR OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS. WITH STEADFAST RESOLVE AND UNWAVERING DEDICATION, THEIR SUPPORTIVE LEADERSHIP PROPELS OUR MISSION FORWARD.
MIKE MCCLUSKEY
c h a i r p e r s o n
DAVE SCHUKAI
v i c e - c h a i r
CHERYL REDLINE t r e a s u r e r
NANCY LEAR
s e c r e t a r y
ROBIN BRODER
JILL HERSHBERGER
DOTY HOFFMAN
JANIS KIRKEBY
YVI MARTIN
BRIAN NOWOTNY
YVETTE RICHARDS
LESLEY SMITH
PAT WOOLLEY
DELLA LAMB STAFF LEADERSHIP
RYAN HUDNALL
e x e c u t i v e d i r e c t o r
CORI WALLACE
e n g a g e m e n t d i r e c t o r
MEGAN MCLAUGHLIN
f i n a n c e d i r e c t o r
ASHLEY FOSTER
m a r k e t i n g d i r e c t o r
LATRECIA THORNTON
e a r l y e d u c a t i o n
DANILO AGUILAR
r e f u g e e s e r v i c e s
TONY WOODS
y o u t h s e r v i c e s
125 YEARS OF SERVING KANSAS CITY
1897
Working mothers in Kansas City ar older children at home to care fo children, as they could not afford women of Melrose Methodist Chu Della C Lamb, see the needs of the create a daycare facility in a large 702 Admiral Boulevard. The build named the Institutional Neighbo
October 13, 1904
Plans for a new building o house the daycare and “uplift the neglected North End” are made By this time Della and the other women are caring for up to forty children per day.
1910
The Institutional Neighborhood H continues to expand its service offering summer classes for child ages 5-14 Sixty students attend classes, which are taught by volunteers By 1912 the summer c has grown exponentially, with th hundred students in attendanc
1942
The Institutional borhood House care ldren whose parents ployed by the defens try during World Wa children receive regu als and visits from th ng Nurses Association
June 13, 1941
The Institutional Neighborhood House’s gymnasium is recognized in the Kansas City Star as a popular community center for newcomers Immigrants from Italy, Poland, Mexico, and Syria, as well as Jewish people fleeing persecution in Europe, gather in the facility
e 12, 1995
first Della mb football mp is heldized by Della member and rmer New eans Saint Henry Childs.
2007
After decades of offering basketball to low-income families, the girls basketball program begins to exceed expectations By 2018, the Running Angels become nationally recognized and sponsored by Adidas Over 100 young women have gone to college through the avenue of basketball.
1999
Della Lamb opened the first charter school in the State of Missouri targeted to help the children of refugee and immigrant families by giving them the special attention needed to succeed academically
2008 & 2010
Travis and Trevor Releford, former Della Lamb youth basketball players, begin their NCAA Division I basketball careers at the University of Kansas and University of Alabama, respectfully Both continue on to play professional basketball for over a decade
2014 Community becomes a d refugee ent agency es of serving d immigrants a variety of mming,
2015
Dexter McDonald, a former Della Lamb youth football player, is drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 7th round of the NFL Draft.
2017
The Della Lamb Charter School spins off and rebrands as Kansas City International Academy, now a close partner of our Early Education Program
Jan. 27, 1951
Della C Lamb dies at the age of 76 She continued her service to her city and to others until her passing
1960
The Institutional House catches fire and burns to the ground Services are forced to pause but not for long
July 22, 1961
Ground is broken for a new building at 500 Woodland Avenue, which is where the organization remains to this day
June 22, 1969
Della Lamb begins offering adult education courses They are taught by student teachers from the University of Missouri – Kansas City
1973
Della Lamb hosts its first annual Operation Santa Claus program It provides holiday gifts and meals for families in need
1993
Della Lamb holds the first Operation Thanksgiving, giving frozen turkeys, potatoes and other classic Thanksgiving food to 250 families
February 1, 1995
Representative Karen McCarthy rises on the floor of the United States House of Representatives to honor the work of Della Lamb
Community Services
1946
The Institutional Neighborhood House is renamed the Della C. Lamb Neighborhood House to honor her decades of service
March 2020
States begin to implement shutdowns order to prevent the spread of COVIDFollowing state and federal protocol
Della Lamb s Early Education cente reopens to ensure children are cared while parents return to work The De Lamb Food Pantry remains open to se community members in need.
April 5, 1962
The new building opens It includes space for social workers a well-baby clinic, a daycare, a oster family program, and recreational activities.
September 28, 1976
The Building Code Board of Appeals approves Della Lamb to be Kansas City’s first round-the-clock daycare center This eases the burden of parents who work the night shift and cannot find childcare.
1988
The Della C Lamb ymnasium is completed nd titled the Mabee Multi-Purpose Center.
March 2021
Della Lamb hosts a COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic to serve our atrisk neighbors while overcoming language barriers and other accessibility obstacles
November 2021
In 1 week, Della Lamb welcomes 119 Afghan evacuees By March 2022, 351 Afghan evacuees were welcomed by the Refugee Services team
November 2020
Operation Santa Claus and Operation Thanksgiving are combined to become Operation Holidays We shift to a drive-thru style for social distancing purposes
August 15, 2021
Taliban fighters enter Kabul and the Afghan government collapses. Millions of Afghans flee the country and the US plans to aid and resettle Afghan allies
December 3, 2022
Illuminate the City, the first fundraising gala in over a decade, brings together passionate Della Lamb supporters to celebrate 125 years of serving Kansas City and envision the next 125.
November 2022
Della Lamb Community Services celebrates 125 years of serving Kansas City's most vulnerable thanks to the passionate supporters, donors, and volunteers for more than a century
- DELLA LAMB COMMUNITY SERVICES -
