Inside Scoop SPRING 2022
JUNIOR LEAGUE OF KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
Women building better communities
In This Issue
INSIDE SCOOP COMMITTEE
President’s Letter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Morgan Mitchell, Editor
Community Council: Reentering the Community. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Lauren Marbach
2022-2023 Community Volunteers & Grants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Jordan Sedlacek
Making an Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Planning Council Synopsis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
BOARD OF DIRECTORS President – Kimberlee Ried
Introducing Leigh Salinas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
President-Elect – Susan Moss
Member Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Executive Director – Celeste Greenlee
New Member Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Director of Community – Sophie Doroba
Second Annual Little Black Dress Initiative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Holiday Mart 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Step-Up Director of Community – Abigail Curry Swafford Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Monica Curls Director of Finance – Megan Allen
C3KC Returns to Union Station. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Step-Up Director of Finance – Heather Callaway
Sip & Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Director of Fund Development – Meghann Aberle
2021-2022 Governance Updates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Step-Up Director of Fund Development – Lilly Coye
The Community Fair 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Sweet Potato Risotto Recipe from Chef Shanita McAfee-Bryant. . . . . . . . . 15
Director of Marketing – Kimberly Craig Step-Up Director of Marketing – Amber Crosby Director of Membership – Sarah Koci Scheilz
League Finances: How We Do What We Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Director of Planning – Stephanie Davis
Member Website Upgrades Are Coming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Director of Sustainers – Deanna Diebolt
2022 Member Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Director of Training – Ash Parulekar
Comings & Goings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Bylaws Chair – Kelsey McLellan Huber Nominating Chair – Courtney Raupp Board Assistant – Melanie Smith
2021-2022 COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD Sara Anthony, J.D., Senior Employment & Litigation Counsel, Compass Minerals Gary Baker, Ph.D., Director of Community Building Initiatives, UMKC Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership Jeffrey Byrne, President & CEO, Byrne Pelofsky + Associates
2021-2022 AGENCY PARTNERS Community Volunteers & Grants Bridging the Gap Inclusion Connections Lazarus Ministries MINDDRIVE
Ann Davis, Ph.D., M.P.H., Ralph L. Smith Professor of Pediatrics, Director, Center for Children’s Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition, University of Kansas Medical Center
Phoenix Family
Kimiko Black Gilmore, Assistant City Manager, City of Kansas City, Missouri
Wayside Waifs
Ann Hackett, Ph.D., Talent & Culture Executive, UMKC Henry W. Bloch School of Management
Signature Programming
Scott Hall, J.D., Senior Vice President for Civic and Community Initiatives, Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City
Mary Thompson O’Connor, Senior Vice-President, Logistics, Country Club Bank
Newhouse
Solace House
Amethyst Place Jewish Family Services
Jovanna Rohs, Ph.D., Director of Early Learning and Head Start, Mid-America Regional Council
Operation Breakthrough
Dia Wall, Anchor/Reporter, KSHB TV 41
Synergy Services
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Rose Brooks Center
From Our Pesident This past year has been an amazing experience, and I want to thank each of you for giving me this opportunity to lead our organization. We began our year aiming to move out of COVID-19 and the pandemic, and while that was certainly a struggle, we were still able to ensure our mission was possible. We returned to hybrid meetings and in-person fundraisers. We continued with our second year of a newer fundraiser, the Little Black Dress Initiative, and we brought back our Healthy Living Fairs, rebranded as Community Fairs. This year, our members raised the most money to date for C3KC, and we established new relationships with Community Volunteer & Grant partners Bridging the Gap and MINDDRIVE. Requests for our Community Kits soared to over 1,000, and we rolled out an extensive array of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training opportunities. I am also happy to share that we were able to make some facility updates and improvements at JLKCMO Headquarters this League year. Be on the lookout for improved technology, a new roof, and upgraded security measures. This summer, we will roll out a more user and member-friendly new Digital Cheetah member portal. None of our work in the Kansas City community would be possible without all of you. Thank you for being a member, continuing to show up, and working toward making Kansas City better. With gratitude,
Kimberlee Ried
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Community Council: Reentering the Community By Sophie Doroba Director of Community The Community Council had an eventful 2021-2022 League year as they reentered the Kansas City community as much as possible. The Community Council is made up of Signature Program Committees, Community Volunteers and Grants (CV&G) Committees, and the Action Team. SIGNATURE PROGRAMS This year, our Signature Programs included Healthy U Family Meals, Empower to Succeed, Community Kits, and the return of the Community Fair. Healthy U Family Meals provided over 350 bags of groceries to our agency partners and filmed nine instructional cooking videos, along with returning to in-person cooking classes. Our Empower to Succeed Committee remained virtual but delivered 12 presentations via Zoom to over 83 participants at Rose Brooks and Amethyst Place. Our Community Kits Committee donated over 1,000 toiletry, family activity, and mental wellness kits to moms and kids at numerous agencies throughout the metro. The committee was so efficient in compiling kits
that they needed to hold a donation drive during the February General Membership Meeting for additional supplies. Last, the Community Fair on April 30 was a success as we were able to partner with Synergy Services to provide a variety of services to the Kansas City community. COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS & GRANTS COMMITTEES As for the CV&G Committees, they continued to remain flexible as our partner agencies navigated returning to in-person programming. Our Inclusions Connections Committee spent over 130 hours working with individuals with disabilities through the League-inspired Girls Club. Our Phoenix Family Committee spent over 44 hours meeting with kids after school to help develop their reading skills. Although our Solace House Committee met virtually, they still provided 114 hours of grief counseling. Our Wayside Waifs volunteers returned to the shelter and spent over 204 hours working with the animals and providing educational services.
Bridging the Gap Committee members spent plenty of time in nature, planting 10 trees and working 96 hours on other projects, including at various recycling centers. The Lazarus Ministries Committee served as personal shoppers in the Lazarus Boutique or as table service waitstaff and partnered with our Action Team to provide additional volunteers to the organization. Finally, the MINDDRIVE Committee spent 62 hours working with STEM students. ACTION TEAM Our Action Team also rose to the occasion this year, providing over 275 volunteer hours at over 30 events. They also graciously opened the events up to all Community Council members for additional volunteer opportunities. While it continued to be a challenging year with the pandemic, being able to get back into the community and volunteer together has meant the world to our Community Council members and our agency partners.
THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
Sparking Change FOR MORE THAN 108 YEARS
Our Mission: The Junior League of Kansas City, Missouri is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
SOCIAL SERVICE
CHILD & MATERNAL HEALTH
CIVIC INVOLVEMENT
EDUCATION & THE ARTS
Mattie Rhodes—1914
First Prenatal Clinic—1919
Kansas City Zoo—1990-2014
Nelson Atkins Museum Docent Program—1934
The Children’s Place—1979
Ronald McDonald House—1987
Folly Theatre Restoration—1985
MOCSA—1983
Junior League Health Clinic—1920-1945
Union Station Restoration—1994
Rose Brooks Children’s Program—1987
Mid America Immunization Coalition—1993
Harvesters & University Academy BackSnacks Program—2009-2014
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And More to Come!
Alvin Ailey Camp—1989 Dramatic Aids Education Project, Coterie Theatre—1995 Children’s Literacy 10 year Initiative—2000-2010
2022-2023 Community Volunteers & Grants By Laurel Zimmerman Community Volunteers & Grants Chair The Community Volunteers & Grants Committee (CV&G) has chosen eight tremendous partners for the 2022-2023 League year. We received 25 applications by the deadline on August 6, 2021. A special committee convened to review the applications and determined that 36 percent did not meet the criteria established for a CV&G grant; 64 percent met or partially met the criteria. The CV&G Committee took the 64 percent that met all or most of the criteria and did a deep dive into the grant applications, agencies, and programs. Members visited the agencies onsite and used these visits to gain an in-depth understanding of the program, volunteer experience, and how funds would be used. Throughout this process, the group evaluated the relationship that would exist with the agency partner, the experience the partnership would bring to our members, how the program and agency align with the League’s mission, and how the grant funds requested would fit into the allocated budget for CV&G grants. Here are the partners that met our criteria and were selected as CV&G partners for the 2022-2023 League year: Friends of JCDS provides basic needs, affordable housing, and lifeenhancing opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Approved grant funding is $2,500 and we are providing nine volunteers to assist with household projects like gardening, painting, and decorating, as well as creating “holiday kits” for JCDS clients. HopeKids KC provides ongoing events, activities, and a powerful, unique support community for families who have a child with cancer or some other life-threatening medical condition. We are providing nine volunteers to help plan and develop HopeDay events.
Approved grant funding is $5,000. Inclusion Connections creates inclusive opportunities for community involvement, access to meaningful employment, and better independent living options for individuals with developmental disabilities. Grant funding of $4,000 and eight volunteers will assist in carrying out activities with these individuals through the PawsAbility program and planning and executing evening classes and parties, such as girls club, talent shows, and dance classes.
Lazarus Ministries offers unlimited compassion while providing for the unmet needs of Kansas City’s urban core through a volunteer program that creates awareness and fosters community. Weekend and evening opportunities will allow our 10 volunteers to assist in serving meals at Lazarus Table and selecting clothing and personal items for clients at Lazarus Boutique and Holiday Shop. Approved grant funding is $3,500.
urban teens. Through mentoring, participants build resiliency, avoid risky behaviors, and achieve positive physical and mental health outcomes. A team of eight volunteers will participate in Saturday learning labs to act as role models to help students set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions all while learning about careers in STEM fields. Funding for this program will be $4,000. The Sewing Labs is an inclusive and welcoming community teaching the legacy of sewing for employment, entrepreneurship, and enrichment. Our 10 volunteers will act as mentors and helpers in the classroom, providing support and encouragement for students. Funding for this program will be $3,000. Solace House (Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care) brings expert care, peace of mind, comfort, guidance, and hope to people who are affected by life-limiting illness or by grief. Grant funding of $5,000 and a team of eight volunteers will help facilitate grief support group counseling to children who have faced loss in their lives. Solace House offers one of the only grief support groups for children in the Kansas City metro. These CV&G agencies will provide a variety of opportunities for our members to engage in the community this upcoming League year.
Literacy KC’s mission is to advance literacy within the Kansas City metropolitan area through direct services, advocacy, and collaboration. Approved grant funding is $4,000, and our eight volunteers will assist instructors in teaching ESL students about the use of their community garden while helping them learn English. MINDDRIVE offers STEM, projectbased, experiential learning programs to underserved, at-risk, culturally diverse #jlkcmo | 5
Making an Impact By Susan Moss President-Elect 2021-2022 Over our long and rich history, the JLKCMO has worked hard toward making meaningful impacts on the Kansas City community. To continue this legacy, for the past several years we have been gathering information from you (through in-home meetings and surveys) and from the community to evaluate our overall community strategy. For the past year, we have had a Community Engagement Special Committee in place doing a deep dive and analysis of the data to ensure that the ways we engage with the community are valued by the community; are impactful, fulfilling, and worthwhile to our members; and are a meaningful and smart use of our resources.
be tied to significant monetary contributions to the partner agency given incrementally over the life of the project. Our members will vote to approve each project prior to its implementation.
Community Impact Business Manager: Beginning in the 20222023 League year, a new Community Impact Business Manager will be in place to coordinate between the Finance Council and the Community Council and committees on budget items and tracking required reporting.
Community Volunteers: Active members choosing community involvement as their placement will volunteer at a single community partner. There will be more opportunities for all members to participate in single-day volunteering, so that everyone can contribute even if they are not in a traditional community placement. Each committee will assist in planning these events. The Community Volunteers (CV) team will be working on an updated process so that there is less delay between application approval and implementation. Going forward we will not be pairing volunteer resources with grants, as the grants for our CV&G programs were very small and not impactful. We also will limit the number of CV agencies so we are not spreading ourselves too thin and can focus effectively on a few. The A-Team will stay in place, and we will work to enhance volunteer opportunity tracking, permit repeat agency opportunities where warranted, and encourage the agencies to partner with us in other ways as well.
Signature Programming: The Signature Programs Development and Signature Programs Evaluation teams will be working on an enhanced signature program structure. These will not be rolled out until the 20232024 League year. The goal is to have a limited number of programs developed with an agency partner that have a finite run time for handoff back to the agency (target of approximately 4 years each). The programs will run on a staggered basis, so we are not taking on two new programs at once, and each will include all-member volunteer opportunities. The programs will
Advocacy Efforts: The Civic Conversations and Community Advocacy Committee will be taking a deep look at our Advocacy program
The vision is to provide an organizational structure that allows us to focus on being a big player at the table of emerging community issues. What is changing?
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Community Endowment Fund: Through Community Endowment, we will focus on making larger and more meaningful grants rather than the present small ones for emergent needs. The Community Endowment Fund Committee will be tasked over the coming year to work with the Director of Community and the Signature Programs Development team to investigate a reallocation of the funds to make more meaningful and impactful grants.
to see how we can expand to have a more meaningful impact. While our community structure has changed many times throughout the years, we hope and believe that these changes will help us to make meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. Thank you for your input over the past couple of years, helping us to stay strong and relevant in the community.
Planning Council Synopsis By Stephanie Davis Director of Planning 2021-2022
members interested in learning about the League finances and how we budget.
The 2021-2022 Planning Council had an exciting year. As it was the first year to implement the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, we hit the ground running and put together the 2021-2022 Annual Plan in our first meeting of the year. This plan not only included goals for this year but looked ahead to set achievement milestones for the next couple years. Being able to dive into the plan with fresh eyes and ideas was a fun challenge for everyone as we started to get the work moving.
Last, but certainly not least, the Community Volunteers & Grants Committee took on the task of assembling a stellar slate of agency partners that our members will have the opportunity to work with in 2022-2023. We saw a record turnout of applicants from the community this year, which was super exciting for everyone! The committee took it all in stride and turned around interviews in a shortened timeline. We are excited to see some new faces and some familiar faces returning this year. The CV&G Committee is looking forward to seeing how our members engage with these partners in the next year!
The Members-at-Large had a busy year with leading discussions at the Council level around many topics, including ways to enhance member engagement and how we educate members on finances and fund development. The November In-Home membership meetings provided wonderful insight around these topics. With this feedback, we worked with the Finance Council to host our first annual Finance & Budget Town Hall. The event aimed to provide an avenue for
The Planning Council really came together this year and embraced the shift from primarily virtual to primarily in-person. We had some exciting and engaging conversations, which should help to pave the way for additional League growth and adaptation down the road.
(L-R) Benjamin, Rion, Ruben, Claudia and Leigh.
Introducing LEIGH SALINAS
The League’s Communications and Data Specialist Leigh was born in Birmingham, Alabama, but grew up in Richmond, Virginia. She is a graduate of Virginia Tech, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Prior to moving to Kansas City in September 2020, she was Marketing and Communications Manager for Regions Bank in Chattanooga, TN, a position she held for 18 years. Having served on the boards of numerous nonprofits, including the Junior League of Chattanooga, Leigh is honored and excited to be a part of JLKCMO.
LISC Greater Kansas City is happy to support
The Junior League of Kansas City, Missouri and the C3KC Event We're honored to stand with you as we strive to forge resilient and inclusive communities of opportunity.
In her spare time, Leigh enjoys running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with her family and friends. She and her husband Ruben, along with their three children, live in the Northland. Leigh began her new position as our Communications and Data Specialist on October 13, 2021. She can be reached at 816-278-1369 or lsalinas@jlkc.org.
LISC.org/Kansas-City
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Member Spotlight: Admissions Chair & Step-Up By Morgan Mitchell Inside Scoop Editor The last two years brought a lot of challenges to our League, and with them came creative solutions. Admissions Chair Cathy Cisetti and Admissions Step-Up Chair Deborah Williams faced these challenges head-on and their work paid off, with almost 100 New Members joining us next year. Cathy and Debbie are both from the Kansas City area—and they are cousins! While Cathy grew up here, Debbie spent most of her childhood in Texas and returned to Kansas City after college. Cathy has been a League member for six years, and Debbie is in her third year. Cathy has spent the last four years on the Membership Council, which she said “is such a vital part of the working of our League. After all, we’re not a League without our members.” It was a natural step to become our Admissions Chair for the 2021-2022 League. As for Debbie, she learned the step-up position was open through her cousins. It only seemed fitting for them to work together, since Cathy told Debbie about the League and convinced her to join. The role of the Admissions Chair and Step-Up Chair has several facets. First, the duo works to develop recruitment strategies with their committee and plan recruitment events for prospective members to attend and learn more about the League. The Admissions Chair and Step-Up Chair also maintain our digital Intake Program so that they can communicate with interested women who create profiles. On average, one to two new women are interested in learning more about the League EACH DAY. It’s a lot to maintain. Something new Cathy and Debbie started this year is hosting events for incoming New Members before their New Member class officially kicks off in June. These events have been extremely successful with the League’s recruitment numbers,
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as these ladies can immediately start participating in events that give them a taste of what their New Member Year will be like. Read on to hear more about Cathy and Debbie’s experience in the League. Q: Could you give an overview of your League journey? Cathy: I joined as a new member in 2016. My first placement was on the HappyBottoms Committee. I have had leadership roles on Membership Council ever since, as Dinner Club Co-Chair, Transfer Ed Co-Chair, Admissions StepUp, and now Admissions Chair. Debbie: My New Member year was 2018-2019. I was placed on the Hope and Healing Kits Committee in 2019-2020. Unfortunately, the chair unexpectedly couldn’t stay in her position, so I took interest in being an unofficial step-up to the chair, appointed at the last minute. In 2020-2021 I was the Hope and Healing Kits Chair. Q: What were your favorite parts of this League year? What did you like most about the placement? Cathy: It’s great to be back together again. So much of what makes our League great is being together and being out in the community. I love that we’re able to do that again. Debbie: After the past two years dealing with COVID, it has been amazing to see how many women are interested in joining the League and how excited they are about it! Q: Can you tell me about a few successes for this League year? Cathy: I think it’s been a success that we opened the application window earlier this year than in the past. This prompted a lot of potential new members to join earlier in the year. Debbie: Having events for incoming New Members has been so much fun! Our committee has been able to plan some
Cathy Cisetti and Debbie Williams
great things to give these women a small taste of what the League has to offer! Q: What would be advice you’d give to new members? Cathy: Beyond the New Member requirements, if you are interested in a Dinner Club, check it out! It’s a great way to meet other members. If you have a particular interest, there is probably a training for it! Be sure to sign up. Your experience in the League is what you make it. Debbie: To take advantage of all the League has to offer! There is such a wide variety of trainings, experiences, and volunteer opportunities that would be hard to find anywhere else. Q: What would be your “elevator pitch” for the League? Cathy: There is a feeling when you walk into Headquarters on a busy night that is hard to explain, but you see so many women, at the end of a busy day, still giving their all for a shared common goal. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that! Debbie: There’s something for everyone— no matter your interests. The League has given me a place to learn, grow, lead, and volunteer alongside amazing women with the same ambitions! I think joining the League is a great opportunity for all women! We’re excited to look forward to Debbie’s success as Admissions Chair next year. And as for Cathy, she’ll be on the Board of Directors, as the 2022-2023 Bylaws Chair!
New Member Spotlight: Chelsey of KC Black Owned By Jordan Sedlacek Inside Scoop Committee In July 2020, JLKC New Member Chelsey and her husband were hungry. As they took to their phones to find a restaurant, they might not have agreed on what they wanted to eat, but they did agree on one thing—they wanted to support a Blackowned establishment. They went on the search to find one, hoping to locate a directory that would make it easy. One hour later, and still hungry, they came up empty. They couldn’t find a directory anywhere. Frustrated, Chelsey resolved to do something about it. She would create what she has deemed the modern-day phonebook; she would create a directory for all things KC Black Owned. Fast forward to today, Chelsey has created a strong brand that boasts an evergrowing directory of local Black-owned
businesses (200+). She’s published an eBook to help businesses with their social media strategy and presence, and she’s amassed over 7,000 followers to KC Black Owned’s Instagram page. Plus, she’s a new mom! Read on to learn more about KCBO, as Chelsey reflects on its beginning and looks towards its future: Q: I’ve checked out your site and IG page. It’s branded so well and so easy to navigate. Do you have a background in social media and design? Or, what’s your professional background? A: Thank you! My background is actually in education. I just recently defended my dissertation for my Ph.D. degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Continued on page 10
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Continued from page 9 One thing about being a teacher is that all our skills are transferable; we are able to adapt in any situation. During quarantine, I taught myself social media tips, tricks, and strategies that helped me with KC Black Owned. I also had some help and guidance from Studio 816. Kelsey was a great support and I still contact her today about questions related to my platform! Instagram is ever changing, as it should, based on trends and data. As a result of the changes, I decided to create an eBook with the help of some friends from Made In KC. This eBook has tips, tricks, and strategies for business owners who are selling products digitally. Social media, and technology in general, is growing. The best way, in my opinion, to connect with various audiences and customers is to create a digital footprint and leverage those platforms in order to gain a higher level of visibility. Q: Did you ever think you would be an entrepreneur? A: No! I thought I would just spend my life teaching teachers how to teach! While I am still conquering that mission, I have added my business to my platform and am learning new things each day. I am so thankful for the partners that I have connected with to support me in this new endeavor. Q: What hurdles did you have to overcome in building your business? What were some unexpected hiccups and/or blessings? A: What began as an idea for a Black business directory has manifested into an essential resource for Black businesses in KC with the support of community partnerships. I think I help break down barriers for Black businesses with my partnerships in the community. I call myself The Lorax. I’m always speaking for Black businesses, trying to provide insight as to what they need as I learn. Stakeholders in the community genuinely want to support. “Locate. Support. Repeat.” is the KC Black Owned motto, and I can admit there have been times I've cried, times where I've been told “no.” I am
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challenging myself to have a vision. And I'm learning that I am not doing this work alone. Q: When reflecting on the business you have built, businesses and people you have helped, and goals you have achieved, what are you most proud of and why? A: The people! I have connected with so many people who are looking to support Black-owned businesses or even need business or social media advice. I feel like a modern-day phonebook! One thing I always say is that my main goal is to locate, support, and repeat the process with Black-owned businesses around the area! This is not a MOVEMENT; it is a LIFESTYLE! The connections I am making with folks are everlasting and real! It makes my little KCBO heart so happy! Q: Nearing two years in operation, what’s next for KCBO? A: This year, we are striving to continue growing our directory and memberships. We also connected with some partners this year who are interested in hosting a variety of events throughout the city. KCBO members and I will continue to work together to increase their social media footprint digitally through workshops and other networking gatherings. As we continue to build, a team will be necessary as I cannot juggle this too much longer on my own (especially with a new baby), but, we are looking for opportunities to apply for grants and earn capital to grow and scale KCBO.
OUR SIGNATURE CANDLE RETURNS A warm, festive scent reflecting the atmosphere of Holiday Mart and the spirit of our League. Notes of cranberry and pine, poured in Kansas City by Pickwick & Co. and available for $25 at League Headquarters (online after July 1st).
Q: What made you want to join the League? A: I grew up watching my mother volunteer and participate in JL of Charlotte, North Carolina. She was a part of multiple committees and served on the Board. Once I moved to Missouri, I knew that I wanted to be a part of an organization where I could give back and volunteer while meeting amazing, likeminded women striving to do the same in their community. Q: What's been your favorite League experience thus far? A: Honestly, the small group meetings. My small group has been so supportive like family, as I am not from here. We have connected and done some events together that have brought us close together. I know that small groups are an essential part of the New Member process that can aid in retention. Q: Do you see any opportunities for the League and KCBO to team up? A: Members, I need your support. If you know a Black business owner, please email me at kcblackowned@gmail.com or you can have that owner contact me directly, or visit our website, www. kcblackowned.org. Members, come out to our events and share events from our Instagram page. Supporting Blackowned businesses is not a movement; it is a lifestyle. Continue to support as best you can. Support may look different for various households, but do what suits you best. If you would like to donate to KCBO, we would appreciate it!
Second Annual Little Black Dress Initiative By Elizabeth Valenti Smith Individual Giving Chair Originally founded by the Junior League of London, in 2021 the Junior League of Kansas City, Missouri, launched the first annual Little Black Dress Initiative in this community. Year two of the campaign brought great success, with over $17,000 donated during the weeklong campaign in January. These are critical funds to support the League’s mission to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women, and improve communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. There were many firsts this year for our Little Black Dress Initiative campaign, including coverage on KCTV-5 News. In addition to sharing the work of the League on the morning news, we also had our first official sponsor, Scoobie located in Prairie Village, KS. The Little
Black Dress Initiative wrap-up event at Scoobie raised additional funds for the campaign through a Shopportunity event for League members and collected over 10 contractor bags of clothes from League members that were donated to our community partner, Lazarus Ministries. Thank you to all who participated in the second annual campaign as advocates,
to all of you who gave financial support, and to those who followed along on our social media accounts. A special thank you to the Marketing Council, who worked very hard on the turnkey communication materials for the campaign. You have all helped our League to make a positive impact in our community!
Empowering a better future with sustainable energy. Evergy is proud to sponsor the C3KC Conference and support collaborative efforts to spark change for a better Kansas City. Internal Use Only
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THE LEAGUE RETURNS TO IN-PERSON EVENTS In 2020-2021, our members showed hard work and resilience to shift the League’s fundraisers to virtual platforms and continue our community outreach by implementing social distancing practices. This year, we were more than excited to return to in-person events, which we kicked off in fall 2021 with Holiday Mart. Thank you to all League members for your hard work in ensuring we can gather safely and provide valuable resources and assistance to the Kansas City community.
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By Heather Peña Holiday Mart 2022 Co-Chair Planning for Holiday Mart 2022 is well underway, and we are very excited to present some updates. This year we have adjusted our show hours and will offer three full days for shopping (Friday, September 30, through Sunday, October 2) with Preferential Shopping on Thursday, September 29, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. Adjusting the show hours provides us the opportunity to maximize shopper foot traffic and to offer a fun evening event just before kicking off the weekend! Another significant change this year is a reduction to booth pricing. After a difficult retail landscape over the past two years heavily driven by the pandemic, we believe a fee adjustment will be a great incentive for previous
retailers to return and offer an opportunity for smaller businesses to take part in Holiday Mart 2022. In addition, we are returning the floor to its pre-pandemic layout to accommodate more retailers. We will continue our popular Seasonal Events with the third year of Pics with St. Nick, expanding the event to a third weekend and offering more time slots to schedule photos at Junior League Headquarters. We are excited that this event has become a tradition for so many families, with some even using the photos for their holiday cards. Our deliciously scented signature candle poured by Kansas City-based Pickwick & Co. will also be available this year, both at Holiday Mart and online for pickup at League Headquarters. Please mark your calendars to join us for Holiday Mart 2022, September 29–October 2!
C3KC Returns to Union Station By Jordan Sedlacek Inside Scoop Committee C3KC, the only conference in Kansas City that brings together corporate, civic, and community sectors to tackle and discuss current issues the metro is facing, was back for its fifth year on March 8, 2022. It was also back in person at Union Station! In 2021, the event was recognized with an award from the Association of Junior Leagues International for its accomplishments in facilitating impactful conversations among the sectors and directing funds back to the metro area. This year’s committee channeled that momentum to bring together a group of robust speakers on an array of interesting topics to create a successful program, topped off with a live-streamed fireside chat with acclaimed author, podcast host, and work-life expert and psychologist, Adam Grant. Although the committee is still finalizing all ticket revenue and attendee numbers, the event once again
By Shelby Shelton Sip & Support Co-Chair In April, JLKC was excited to host our second annual and first in-person Sip & Support at Cinder Block Brewery in North Kansas City. Our committee worked hard to create a silent auction with over 100 auction items. Packages
solidified the League’s desire to spark change for a better Kansas City through meaningful, inspired, and impactful conversations. Sessions included topics such as Climate Change: Effect and Answers in Our Region; Health Equity; The Future of Neighborhoods; and The Mental Health Crisis is Getting Younger. THE MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS IS GETTING YOUNGER Families and schools across the nation are experiencing firsthand how the pandemic, online learning, and social disruptions have impacted our children. Nationally there have been calls for all sectors to break the silence on the growing mental health struggles of all children. Parents, educators, and government can’t fix this emergency alone, but with a focus on children’s early years, the Kansas City community can collaborate to better support overall children’s mental health.
The day also included the Branton/Hall Community Collaborator Award being presented to Sandra A. J. Lawrence. Lawrence was recognized for her legacy of service to multiple Kansas City civic organizations, such as the Hall Family Foundation, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Children’s Mercy Hospital Governing and Foundation Boards, and the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. She has also served on multiple corporate boards and recently retired from her role as Chief Administrative Officer, CFO, and EVP of Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, where she had served for the last 13 years. This year’s event grossed $191,000 and set a new record in sponsorships and attendance. Save the date for the 2023 C3KC conference on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Union Station Kansas City!
included a two-night stay in Carlton Landing, a weekend stay at Lake of the Ozarks, and various local experience bundles that could be enjoyed by anyone. The night of the event, we held the League’s first Reverse Raffle. The five winners took home amazing prizes, including a private in-home dinner, an Ooni Pizza Oven, and more. Fun was had by all as we listened to live music by Roger Pitts, snacked on cotton candy spun by Sugar + Sky, and indulged in Old Fashioneds prepared by West Bottoms Whiskey Co. As we reflect on this event, we want to thank our eight committee members for all their hard work securing donations and making the night a success.
Thank you to every person who donated to, participated in, and promoted this event. Your support made our first inperson Sip & Support a genuine success, and we look forward to seeing the event continue to grow and evolve! #jlkcmo | 13
2021-2022 Governance Updates By Kelsey McLellan Huber Bylaws Chair This League year we have made a few key changes to our Bylaws and Standing Rules. Changes to the Bylaws are subject to a vote of the Active membership, and changes to the Standing Rules are approved by the Board of Directors. These processes give our League the flexibility to adjust our governance documents to best serve our entire membership. Here is a quick recap of what has changed this year:
City and past president of our League. The induction event, usually a luncheon, is held biennially in partnership with UMKC. The League will support the event by making a financial contribution biennially and will secure a minimum of one (1) table at the luncheon. The President and PresidentElect will work with our Sustainer Nominating Committee to identify League member candidates for nomination to the Hall of Fame. The President and President-Elect will be responsible for ensuring the League's participation and sponsorship for the event.
• Legacy Training Fund: The fund name changed from Legacy Fund to Legacy Training Fund to better describe its purpose and mission. The dedicated LTF Special Committee spent time developing parameters and requirements to disburse funds for training League members.
• Membership Deadlines: The deadline for New Member applications is now April 30. The deadline for Active/ Sustainer’s dues is now March 31. This was also a Bylaws change that the Active members approved at the December General Membership Meeting.
• The Starr Women’s Hall of Fame Event: The Hall of Fame is named in honor of Martha Jane Phillips Starr, a foremost advocate for family life research and education in Kansas
• Appendices were added to the Standing Rules for Social Media and the Sip & Support Raffle guidelines.
The Community Fair 2022 By Jennifer Bass Community Fair Chair and C3KC Chief of Staff The relaunched Community Fair Committee, formerly Healthy Living KC, partnered with Synergy Services to hold a Community Resource Fair on Saturday, April 30, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Synergy Youth Resiliency Center at 2001 NE Parvin Road. We had over 15 community resources available for the attendees and provided resources to approximately 100 people. During the fair, volunteers provided the participants with free access to: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Valuable community resources Fresh produce Books for kids Dental kits Kids’ bike helmets COVID vaccines (5 administered) Health screenings (15 administered) HIV screenings (5 administered) Healthy meals (87 given out) $15 gift cards to local grocery stores (51 given out) 108 meals donated to Synergy’s homeless outreach In the Kitchen with Kids cookbooks (50 given out) Snow cones (75 given out)
This was the first time the fair was held in person since fall 2019. Overall, the fair was successful, and we are looking forward to hosting another resource fair in spring 2023.
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Sweet Potato Risotto From the kitchen of Chef Shanita McAfee-Bryant Prep Time: 20 Minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes Serves 4 5 cups simmering chicken broth, homemade or store-bought 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup diced sweet potato ½ cup diced white onion 1½ cups Arborio rice ½ cup sweet white wine ½ cup heavy whipping cream 1 cup Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste Freshly grated nutmeg to taste In a saucepan, warm the broth over low heat. Warm the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the sweet potatoes and onion, and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add rice, stirring to coat with oil, about 2 minutes. When the
rice has taken on a pale, golden color, pour in the wine, stirring constantly until the wine is fully absorbed. Add 1/2 cup broth to the rice, and stir until the broth is absorbed. Continue adding broth 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is al dente, about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in heavy whipping cream and Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. From the Chef: Feel free to serve this dish with your favorite protein. I usually serve it with seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, lobster tail, or salmon. It also pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables.
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League Finances: How We Do What We Do The overwhelming message from the November In-Home Meetings discussions was that members want a better understanding of the League’s finances. On April 12, the Finance Council hosted a town hall to discuss our policies and governance guidelines, our investments, our funding sources, our budgeting process, and how leadership makes decisions and allocations. The purpose of the Finance Council is to monitor the financial operations and fiscal standards for the League income, expenditures, and investments, to accurately report on current financial conditions, and to project future conditions. The League has five funds that are invested with FCI Advisors—Legacy Training Fund, Community Endowment Fund, Membership Dues Assistance Fund, Building Fund, and the Operating Reserve Account. The Investment Committee, made up of Sustainers and Actives from the Finance Council, meets quarterly with FCI to review the performance of these funds. Once the Legacy Training Fund reached a $1 million corpus, the League was able to start making draws to fund training and development needs within the League. This year, the fund has been used largely for trainings specifically related to DE&I initiatives. The Community Endowment Fund is designated to the community. Organizations apply for assistance (up to $7500 per grant) to meet emergent needs, which the Community Endowment Fund Committee reviews and decides where to give. In addition, the Finance Council is responsible for compiling the League’s overall budget each year. Our League has a three-year budget process. The total revenue from year 1 sets the stage for creating the budget during year 2 that will apply to year 3 (the amount that can be spent in the current League year). Revenue includes fundraising, dues, membership fees, and donations. We
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Each fundraiser has an operating budget in line with healthier years, and to avoid supplementing these budgets with other funds, we have a net fundraising goal of $475,000 across all League fundraisers. The annual budgets are currently split 80-20, but this is a practice rather than a rule—we have room to change this if needed. An important thing to note is how the budget allocations reflect the League’s mission of making our community a better place by promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. use the funds raised in the 2021-2022 League year to compile and forecast expenses and plan the budget for 20232024. This helps protect the League’s financial commitments, as we can only spend what we have raised. The League’s annual budgets are split into two categories—Operating Budget and Community Pool Budget. The Operating Budget receives 80 percent of revenue, and the Community Pool Budget receives 20 percent. The Community Budget includes Signature Programming, CV&G, the Community Service Award, and the Branton/ Hall Award. The Operating Budget includes fundraising budgets, administrative costs, trainings, Council budgets, and more.
What can members do to change the amount we give back? • Support our fundraisers. • Round up your dues. • Engage your committee in conversations about finances. • Be good stewards of your budgets. If you are looking to give more to the League, the Finance Council encourages members to donate to the Annual Fund. This fund is unrestricted, which means we can use these monies where they are most needed. If any member is interested in learning more about the League’s finances, reach out to the Finance Council!
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Member Website Upgrades Are Coming We are planning to join other Leagues in software enhancements to our Members Only site in summer 2022. The new platform, known as Member Essentials, is built in partnership with our current system, Digital Cheetah, and managed and supported by the Association of Junior Leagues International. How will this impact members? After the migration to Member Essentials, some enhanced features will include: • An updated look to the Member Portal. • Improved Dues Management for the 2023 membership renewal period, with easier options for automatic renewal and payment plans. • Enhancements to the Placement Process for the 2023 membership renewal period. • A new Mobile App with added functionality and a fresh look. • Enhancements to the GroupShare pages. • Added search options in the Directory. In addition to the changes that you might notice, added functionality will include integration with some other platforms, improved management and business intelligence tools, and improved reports and reporting tools. Stay tuned to various League communications for more information as this change occurs. #jlkcmo | 17
2022 Member Awards Please congratulate the 2021-2022 League year award winners! Thank you for all you do to impact our community and the League.
AMANDA BRAUN
CATHY CISETTI Leader of the Year
Active of the Year
PAGE BRANTON REED Community Service Award
ABBEY THOMAS Active Achievement
JEANNE SOSLAND Advancing the Mission
COMMUNITY KITS Committee of the Year
ELIZABETH HOLSCHUH New Member of the Year
Susie Ahearn, Shelby Fuchs, Megan Gunnels, Elena Ibarra, Abigail Kennedy, Mallory Laur, Lindsay Martin, Katie McCandless, Tianna Miller, Erin Peters, Denise Phelan, Stephanie Sukup, Audrey Wood, and Cissy Zollmann
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BETHANY HANSON & KAIEMI TEEL Above & Beyond
Comings & Goings A FOND FAREWELL
A WARM WELCOME
Brittani Bass (A), to Wichita, KS Madeline Brownlee (A), to Denver, CO Elizabeth Ellington (NM), to Knoxville, TN Whitney Enright (A), to Washington, DC Betsy Fredrickson (S), to Austin, TX Kimberly Fuson (A), to Wichita, KS Danadra Jean-Noël (A), to Denver, CO Kathleen Johansen (S), to Birmingham, AL Crystal Marsh (A), to Bryan-College Station, TX Ashley Moretti (A), to Washington, DC Nicki Nix (A), to Saint Louis, MO Catherine Pagel (A), to Austin, TX Sharron Pettiford (A), to Denver, CO Katie Rowe (A), to New York, NY Rachel Seo (A), to Seattle, WA Amanda Siegner (A), to Quad Cities, IA/IL Naudy Solano-Daye (A), to Richmond, VA Deborah Starke (S), to San Diego, CA Britta Todd (A), to San Angelo, TX Erica Tucker (A), to Houston, TX
Haley Atwell (NM), from Raleigh, NC Mary Burford (A), from New York, NY Amanda Braun (A), from Corpus Christi, TX Alexandra Carlson (A), from Hartford, CT Lanie Clark (NM), from Fort Collins, CO Debbie Cooper (S), from Indianapolis, IN Heather Converse (A), from Chicago, IL Amber Crosby (A), from Austin, TX Rachel Gore (A), from Springfield, MO Abby Holliman (A), from Dallas, TX Courtney Mueller (A), from Oklahoma City, OK Shemeca Patterson (NM), from Montgomery, AL Cassandra Pawlowski (A), from Tulsa, OK Jordan Sievers (A), from Fort Worth, TX Nancy Stewart (S), from Omaha, NE Ellen Whitt (NM), from Indianapolis, IN
Thank you, Roth Jewelers MANY THANKS TO ROTH JEWELERS FOR THEIR GENEROUS DONATION OF THE JLKCMO PRESIDENT’S MEDALLION SINCE 1978. Family owned and operated since 1975, we are proud to serve our community. We take pride in everything we do, from creating an elaborate, custom designed engagement ring to fixing a broken clasp. There is no task too big or too small for our talented team of jewelers.
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As third generation jewelers, we have a wealth of familial knowledge, and we enjoy passing on our expertise to our customers. Through our combination of impeccable service and high quality merchandise, we have earned the trust of our clientele.
Designers and Craftsmen of Fine Jewelry 6760 W. 75th Street, Overland Park, Kansas 913-362-7072 #jlkcmo | 19
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
PAID Permit No. 1440 Kansas City, MO 9215 Ward Parkway Kansas City, MO 64114-3307 Change Service Requested Dated Material
Shop & Experience the Magic September 29 - October 2, 2022 | Bar tle Hall, K ansas City, M issouri Visit w w w.JLKC.org for more information.