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.

Find us on

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Twitter: @kccaresradio

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Also available on

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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!

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Oct 18, 2024 | , , ,

Elaine Metcalf of Pro Deo Youth Center discusses their work providing safe, supervised after-school programs for Kansas City teens. With a focus on mental health support, engaging activities, and community partnerships, Pro Deo offers a welcoming space for youth to thrive. The center is expanding to better serve teens, aiming to replicate its successful model across other communities.

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

Oct 4, 2024 | , , ,

Gregg Lombardi, Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Support of Kansas City, shares how his organization is transforming blighted neighborhoods into vibrant communities. By leveraging Missouri’s Abandoned Housing Act, they rehabilitate abandoned homes and reduce crime, creating affordable housing for residents. Learn how their efforts are revitalizing the Lykins neighborhood and beyond.

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

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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!

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Oct 18, 2024 | , , ,

Elaine Metcalf of Pro Deo Youth Center discusses their work providing safe, supervised after-school programs for Kansas City teens. With a focus on mental health support, engaging activities, and community partnerships, Pro Deo offers a welcoming space for youth to thrive. The center is expanding to better serve teens, aiming to replicate its successful model across other communities.

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

Oct 4, 2024 | , , ,

Gregg Lombardi, Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Support of Kansas City, shares how his organization is transforming blighted neighborhoods into vibrant communities. By leveraging Missouri’s Abandoned Housing Act, they rehabilitate abandoned homes and reduce crime, creating affordable housing for residents. Learn how their efforts are revitalizing the Lykins neighborhood and beyond.

KC Healthy Kids: Pioneering Child Health and Advocacy in Kansas City

Apr 19, 2024

Danielle Robbins-Gregory | CEO

In this enlightening interview, Danielle Robbins-Gregory, CEO of KC Healthy Kids, shares insights into their comprehensive efforts to enhance child and family health in Kansas City. From advocating for policy reforms to providing direct services in schools and creating safe community spaces like Spiller Farm, KC Healthy Kids is at the forefront of addressing health disparities. Gain valuable perspectives on how they leverage community support, education, and policy advocacy to foster healthier environments.

 

What Nonprofit Questions are Answered?

  1. How does KC Healthy Kids improve children’s access to nutritious food?
    Ans: Danielle discusses their initiatives like community gardening and partnerships with schools to provide fresh produce and nutritional education.
  2. What role does policy advocacy play in KC Healthy Kids’ strategy?
    Ans:The organization actively engages in policy discussions and legislative changes to create healthier environments for children.
  3. How is KC Healthy Kids addressing mental health in children?
    Ans: They identify mental and developmental health issues in schools and link families to the necessary services, emphasizing early detection and support.
  4. What are some of the direct services KC Healthy Kids provides to the community?
    Ans: They offer case management, educational programs, and hands-on experiences like farming and cooking classes to teach children about food and health.
  5. How does the community benefit from Spiller Farm operated by KC Healthy Kids?
    Ans: Spiller Farm serves as a practical educational tool for children and a source of fresh produce distributed free to local families, schools, and care centers.

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!

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Oct 18, 2024 | , , ,

Elaine Metcalf of Pro Deo Youth Center discusses their work providing safe, supervised after-school programs for Kansas City teens. With a focus on mental health support, engaging activities, and community partnerships, Pro Deo offers a welcoming space for youth to thrive. The center is expanding to better serve teens, aiming to replicate its successful model across other communities.

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

Oct 4, 2024 | , , ,

Gregg Lombardi, Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Support of Kansas City, shares how his organization is transforming blighted neighborhoods into vibrant communities. By leveraging Missouri’s Abandoned Housing Act, they rehabilitate abandoned homes and reduce crime, creating affordable housing for residents. Learn how their efforts are revitalizing the Lykins neighborhood and beyond.

Preserving Walt Disney’s Legacy in Kansas City | KC Cares

Apr 12, 2024

Butch Rigby | Board of directors for “Thank You, Walt Disney”

“Thank You, Walt Disney,” under the leadership of Butch Rigby, is on a mission to preserve and celebrate Walt Disney’s formative years in Kansas City. This KC Cares interview delves into Disney’s connection to Missouri, his early entrepreneurial ventures, and how his experiences influenced iconic creations like Mickey Mouse and Disneyland’s Main Street USA. The organization is working to restore Laugh-O-Gram Studio, aiming to transform it into a vibrant educational center for digital storytelling and animation. This initiative not only honors Walt Disney’s legacy but also serves as a catalyst for empowering underserved youth with valuable digital skills and a vision for their futures. Join us in exploring how Kansas City plays a pivotal role in the history of one of the most influential figures in entertainment and how his legacy is being preserved for generations to come.

 

What Nonprofit Questions are Answered?

  1. What was Walt Disney’s connection to Kansas City?
    Ans: Walt Disney spent his formative years in Kansas City, where he started his first professional film studio, Laugh-O-Gram Studio.
  2. What is “Thank You, Walt Disney” and its mission?
    Ans:“Thank You, Walt Disney” is an organization dedicated to preserving Walt Disney’s legacy in Kansas City by restoring Laugh-O-Gram Studio and transforming it into an educational hub.
  3. How did Kansas City influence Walt Disney’s creations?

    Ans: Disney’s experiences in Missouri, including his early entrepreneurial ventures, inspired many of his future creations, such as the concept for Disneyland’s Main Street USA.

  4. What are the future plans for Laugh-O-Gram Studio?
    Ans: The studio is being restored to serve as a center for digital storytelling and animation education, particularly for underserved youth.
  5. How can the community support “Thank You, Walt Disney”?
    Ans: The community can support the organization through donations, volunteering, and raising awareness of its mission to preserve and celebrate Walt Disney’s legacy in Kansas City.

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!

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Oct 18, 2024 | , , ,

Elaine Metcalf of Pro Deo Youth Center discusses their work providing safe, supervised after-school programs for Kansas City teens. With a focus on mental health support, engaging activities, and community partnerships, Pro Deo offers a welcoming space for youth to thrive. The center is expanding to better serve teens, aiming to replicate its successful model across other communities.

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

Oct 4, 2024 | , , ,

Gregg Lombardi, Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Support of Kansas City, shares how his organization is transforming blighted neighborhoods into vibrant communities. By leveraging Missouri’s Abandoned Housing Act, they rehabilitate abandoned homes and reduce crime, creating affordable housing for residents. Learn how their efforts are revitalizing the Lykins neighborhood and beyond.

Demystifying Grants: A Deep Dive with Mike Chamberlain from the Grant Professionals Association

Apr 5, 2024

Mike Chamberlain | Nonprofit Expert

In an insightful KC Cares interview, Mike Chamberlain of the Grant Professionals Association sheds light on the crucial aspects of grantmaking and the pivotal role of grant professionals. He discusses the competitive nature of grants, the necessity for ethical practices, and the evolving trends in grantmaking that impact nonprofit organizations. Chamberlain emphasizes the value of community among grant professionals and the essential resources and educational opportunities provided by the Grant Professionals Association. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone involved in the nonprofit sector, offering key strategies for securing grants, building relationships with grant makers, and understanding the responsibilities that come with grant funding. Chamberlain’s expertise demystifies the grant process, providing a roadmap for nonprofits to effectively leverage grants to further their missions.

 

5 Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What community service activities do the Chiefs cheerleaders participate in?
    Ans: The cheerleaders engage in various activities, including partnerships with Ronald McDonald House and the My Cause My Cleats event.
  2. How did Taylor and Jordan become Chiefs cheerleaders?
    Ans: Both shared their unique journeys to the team, emphasizing passion, commitment, and personal backgrounds.
  3. What are the responsibilities of the Chiefs cheerleaders beyond cheering at games?
    Ans: Apart from performing at games, they are involved in rigorous training, community service, and internal team committees.
  4. How do the Chiefs cheerleaders contribute to community engagement?
    Ans: They actively participate in outreach programs and partner with various organizations to impact the Kansas City community positively.
  5. What inspired the creation of committees within the cheerleading team?
    Ans: The a need for a structured approach to handle various aspects of their role, including community service and enhancing football knowledge.

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!

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Oct 18, 2024 | , , ,

Elaine Metcalf of Pro Deo Youth Center discusses their work providing safe, supervised after-school programs for Kansas City teens. With a focus on mental health support, engaging activities, and community partnerships, Pro Deo offers a welcoming space for youth to thrive. The center is expanding to better serve teens, aiming to replicate its successful model across other communities.

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

Oct 4, 2024 | , , ,

Gregg Lombardi, Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Support of Kansas City, shares how his organization is transforming blighted neighborhoods into vibrant communities. By leveraging Missouri’s Abandoned Housing Act, they rehabilitate abandoned homes and reduce crime, creating affordable housing for residents. Learn how their efforts are revitalizing the Lykins neighborhood and beyond.

Netta Meltzer on Combating Antisemitism: A KC Cares Exclusive Interview

Mar 29, 2024

Netta Meltzer

In this revealing KC Cares interview, Netta Meltzer, Director of Community and Government Relations at the Jewish Community Relations Bureau/American Jewish Committee (JCRB/AJC), discusses the concerning rise in antisemitism, especially following the Israel-Hamas war. Highlighting a 500% increase in Kansas City alone, Meltzer explains JCRB/AJC’s multifaceted approach to combating antisemitism through proactive education, advocacy, and strengthening intercommunity and interfaith relations. The organization’s efforts to educate on antisemitism, work with elected officials, and engage in community partnerships offer a blueprint for driving out hate. With the “Driving Out Darkness in the Heartland 2024 Summit,” JCRB/AJC aims to unite the community against antisemitism, showcasing the urgency and importance of collective action in facing this escalating challenge.

 

What Nonprofit Questions are Answered?

  1. What community service activities do the Chiefs cheerleaders participate in?
    Ans: The cheerleaders engage in various activities, including partnerships with Ronald McDonald House and the My Cause My Cleats event.
  2. How did Taylor and Jordan become Chiefs cheerleaders?
    Ans: Both shared their unique journeys to the team, emphasizing passion, commitment, and personal backgrounds.
  3. What are the responsibilities of the Chiefs cheerleaders beyond cheering at games?
    Ans: Apart from performing at games, they are involved in rigorous training, community service, and internal team committees.
  4. How do the Chiefs cheerleaders contribute to community engagement?
    Ans: They actively participate in outreach programs and partner with various organizations to impact the Kansas City community positively.
  5. What inspired the creation of committees within the cheerleading team?
    Ans: The a need for a structured approach to handle various aspects of their role, including community service and enhancing football knowledge.

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!

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens

Oct 18, 2024 | , , ,

Elaine Metcalf of Pro Deo Youth Center discusses their work providing safe, supervised after-school programs for Kansas City teens. With a focus on mental health support, engaging activities, and community partnerships, Pro Deo offers a welcoming space for youth to thrive. The center is expanding to better serve teens, aiming to replicate its successful model across other communities.

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

How Neighborhood Legal Support Transforms Kansas City’s Urban Core

Oct 4, 2024 | , , ,

Gregg Lombardi, Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Support of Kansas City, shares how his organization is transforming blighted neighborhoods into vibrant communities. By leveraging Missouri’s Abandoned Housing Act, they rehabilitate abandoned homes and reduce crime, creating affordable housing for residents. Learn how their efforts are revitalizing the Lykins neighborhood and beyond.