Empowering Students with Real-World Learning: Corey Mohn and the CAPS Network

May 24, 2024

Corey Mohn | President and Executive Director

Corey Mohn, President and Executive Director of the CAPS Network, joins KC Cares to share the story of how this innovative program connects high school students with real-world learning experiences. Founded in 2009 in the Blue Valley School District, CAPS (Center for Advanced Professional Studies) has expanded to over 100 affiliate programs in 21 states and four countries. The program focuses on professional-based learning, allowing students to work on authentic projects with businesses and nonprofits, developing durable skills such as leadership and teamwork. Corey discusses the benefits of the nonprofit structure of the CAPS Network, which fosters collaboration and resource sharing among affiliates. This interview provides valuable insights into how CAPS is revolutionizing education by preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

 

What Nonprofit Questions are Answered?

  1. What is the CAPS Network and who is it for?
    Ans: CAPS (Center for Advanced Professional Studies) is a program that provides high school students with real-world learning opportunities by partnering with businesses and nonprofits.
  2. How did the CAPS program start?
    Ans: The program started in 2009 in the Blue Valley School District, initiated by Dr. Tom Trigg and the Board of Education to enhance students’ real-world skills.
  3. What kind of experiences do students get through CAPS?

    Ans: Students work on authentic projects in various industries, gaining hands-on experience and developing skills such as leadership, teamwork, and self-advocacy.

  4. How does the CAPS Network operate as a nonprofit?
    Ans: The CAPS Network operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, allowing it to leverage philanthropic support and maintain the integrity of its purpose-driven educational model.
  5. What are the benefits of being a CAPS Network affiliate?
    Ans: Affiliates benefit from shared resources, best practices, and a collaborative ecosystem that supports innovative education models and connects students with professional opportunities.

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KC Cares, Kansas City’s nonprofit voice, tells the stories of Kansas City nonprofits and connects them with the community.  

Produced by Charitable Communications 

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In partnership with: 

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

Take risks. Own success. Be Uncommon.

TW: @kauffmanfdn FB: @kauffmanfdn IG: @kauffmanfdn

Transcript:

Previous Episodes!

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Nov 28, 2025 | , ,

Stan Hays shares how a single act of service after a tornado sparked a national nonprofit movement. Learn how Operation BBQ Relief feeds not just stomachs, but souls—during disaster and beyond.

Derrick Johnson Empowering Youth Through Education and Literacy

Derrick Johnson Empowering Youth Through Education and Literacy

Oct 31, 2025 | , , , ,

Derrick Johnson, the Kansas City Chiefs’ all-time leading tackler, has carried his drive from the field into philanthropy. In this KC Cares interview, he shares how his Defend the Dream Foundation transforms school libraries in low-income communities, giving kids access to age-appropriate books and bright, inviting spaces to read. He also discusses his new children’s book, Super DJ Saves Field Day, co-written with his wife, which encourages kids to discover their inner strength and values.

Empowering Nonprofits: Jenne Vanderbout on Support KC’s Comprehensive Services

May 17, 2024

Jenne Vanderbout | Executive Director

Jenne Vanderbout, Executive Director of Support KC, joins KC Cares to discuss the extensive range of services her organization offers to Kansas City nonprofits. Since 2001, Support KC has been a backbone for nearly 200 nonprofits, providing essential financial and administrative services such as accounting, donor management, grant writing, and HR support. Vanderbout shares insights into their successful transition to a hybrid working model during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continued support for their clients. She also introduces their board diversity initiative aimed at fostering more inclusive nonprofit leadership. This interview provides valuable information for nonprofits looking to enhance their operational efficiency and board diversity.

 

What Nonprofit Questions are Answered?

  1. What services does Support KC offer to nonprofits?
    Ans: Support KC offers financial management, accounting, donor and program information management, funding management, administrative support, grant writing, HR support, and board governance training.
  2. How did Support KC adapt to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic?
    Ans: They transitioned to a hybrid working model, maintained service continuity, and helped clients navigate funding and operational changes.
  3. What is the Board Diversity Initiative by Support KC?
    Ans: It is a program designed to increase board diversity by changing recruitment practices, creating a pool of board-ready candidates, and ensuring boards are representative of their communities.
  4. How does Support KC determine the cost of their services for nonprofits?
    Ans: Costs are based on a flat rate determined by the estimated hours needed for services, with accounting services estimated at $80 per hour and database implementation at $90 per hour.
  5. What impact has Support KC had on the nonprofits they serve?
    Ans: They have significantly supported nonprofits in managing finances, improving operational efficiency, and successfully navigating challenges, contributing to their growth and sustainability.

Find us on

Facebook:@ Kccaresradio

Twitter: @kccaresradio

Instagram: @Kccaresonline

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Also available on

Itunes || Spotify || Stitcher || Soundcloud || Youtube 

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

KC Cares, Kansas City’s nonprofit voice, tells the stories of Kansas City nonprofits and connects them with the community.  

Produced by Charitable Communications 

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

In partnership with: 

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

Take risks. Own success. Be Uncommon.

TW: @kauffmanfdn FB: @kauffmanfdn IG: @kauffmanfdn

Transcript:

Previous Episodes!

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Nov 28, 2025 | , ,

Stan Hays shares how a single act of service after a tornado sparked a national nonprofit movement. Learn how Operation BBQ Relief feeds not just stomachs, but souls—during disaster and beyond.

Derrick Johnson Empowering Youth Through Education and Literacy

Derrick Johnson Empowering Youth Through Education and Literacy

Oct 31, 2025 | , , , ,

Derrick Johnson, the Kansas City Chiefs’ all-time leading tackler, has carried his drive from the field into philanthropy. In this KC Cares interview, he shares how his Defend the Dream Foundation transforms school libraries in low-income communities, giving kids access to age-appropriate books and bright, inviting spaces to read. He also discusses his new children’s book, Super DJ Saves Field Day, co-written with his wife, which encourages kids to discover their inner strength and values.

United Way of Greater Kansas City Discusses Nonprofit Volunteers

May 8, 2020

United Way of Greater Kansas City Discusses Nonprofit Volunteers

Kansas City’s Nonprofit Voice!

Sharing the stories of local nonprofits and connecting them with the community! We talk with philanthropists, volunteers, community activists, executive directors, and non-profit lovers from the Kansas City nonprofit community. Be seen, be heard with KC Cares! Kansas City’s Nonprofit Voice!

On episode 382 of KC Cares, we talk with Brent Stewart, CEO with United Way of Greater Kansas City! Our Topic: Nonprofit Support! Listen now!

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United Way of Greater Kansas City 

Brent Stewart, CEO

United Way of Greater Kansas City uses its experience and expertise to assemble the best service agencies and programs and the most generous volunteers and donors to provide the farthest-reaching network of support for those in need in the Greater Kansas City area. 

unitedwaygkc.org

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Find us on

Facebook:@ Kccaresradio

Twitter: @kccaresradio

Instagram: @Kccaresonline

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Also available on

Itunes || Spotify || Stitcher || Soundcloud || Youtube 

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

KC Cares, Kansas City’s nonprofit voice, tells the stories of Kansas City nonprofits and connects them with the community.  

Produced by Charitable Communications 

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

In partnership with: 

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

Take risks. Own success. Be Uncommon.

TW: @kauffmanfdn FB: @kauffmanfdn IG: @kauffmanfdn

[bctt tweet="Nonprofit Discussion with @UnitedWayGKC @KCCOVID19ResponseRecoveryFund on @kccaresradio! Listen Now"]

Previous Episodes!

My Cause My Cleats NFL Players

My Cause My Cleats NFL Players

Dec 15, 2025 | , ,

Stan Hays shares how a single act of service after a tornado sparked a national nonprofit movement. Learn how Operation BBQ Relief feeds not just stoPro Football Hall of Famer Will Shields joins KC Cares to discuss the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign — a movement turning athletic style into stories of giving.machs, but souls—during disaster and beyond.

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Stan Hays Operation BBQ Relief

Nov 28, 2025 | , ,

Stan Hays shares how a single act of service after a tornado sparked a national nonprofit movement. Learn how Operation BBQ Relief feeds not just stomachs, but souls—during disaster and beyond.