Elaine Metcalf | Executive Director
In this KC Cares interview, Elaine Metcalf, director of Pro Deo Youth Center, highlights the critical role of the nonprofit in supporting Kansas City’s teens. Founded to provide a safe and supervised environment during non-school hours, Pro Deo offers free programs focused on mental health, tutoring, and engaging activities. Metcalf shares the center’s diverse funding strategies, which include grants, community events, and partnerships with local businesses. She discusses the organization’s vision for growth, including plans for a new building to accommodate more students and expand services to middle schoolers. Pro Deo aims to replicate its model in other communities, leveraging partnerships with organizations like Rediscover Behavioral Health to provide essential mental health support. This expansion reflects their commitment to addressing the needs of at-risk teens and creating positive, supportive environments.
What Nonprofit Questions are Answered?
- What services does Pro Deo Youth Center offer for teens?
Ans: Pro Deo offers free after-school programs, mental health support, tutoring, and engaging activities for teens. - How does Pro Deo address teen mental health challenges?
Ans: The center partners with Rediscover Behavioral Health for professional mental health support and intervention when needed. - What is Pro Deo’s approach to securing funding for its programs?
Ans: Pro Deo uses a mix of grants, fundraising events, and individual donations to sustain its operations and grow its programs. - How can parents and teens get involved with Pro Deo?
Ans: Parents can register teens for programs through the center’s website, which includes consent for transportation and participation in activities. - What are Pro Deo’s future plans for expanding its services?
Ans: The organization plans to build a new facility to serve middle school students and establish similar models in other communities.
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!
KC Healthy Kids: Pioneering Child Health and Advocacy in Kansas City
Discover how KC Healthy Kids is driving change in Kansas City’s child health landscape through innovative policies and community programs. Learn about their strategic approaches in our latest KC Cares interview with CEO Danielle Robbins-Gregory.
Preserving Walt Disney’s Legacy in Kansas City | KC Cares
Explore the remarkable efforts of “Thank You, Walt Disney,” a Kansas City organization dedicated to preserving Walt Disney’s early career and contributions. Led by Butch Rigby, the group aims to restore Laugh-O-Gram Studio, where Disney’s journey began, transforming it into an educational hub that inspires future generations with digital storytelling and animation skills. Discover how Disney’s Kansas City experience influenced his legendary creations and how his legacy continues to inspire.
Demystifying Grants: A Deep Dive with Mike Chamberlain from the Grant Professionals Association
Discover the complexities of the grant world with Mike Chamberlain, CEO of the Grant Professionals Association. This interview delves into the significance of grant professionals, ethical grantmaking, and the trends shaping today’s grant landscape. Chamberlain offers invaluable insights for nonprofits seeking to navigate the competitive field of grants, emphasizing the importance of community, standards, and education in achieving success.



