Urban Neighborhood Initiative

? This Giving Season, Make an Impact with UNI ? In today’s digital age, equitable access to technology is crucial for student success. That’s why UNI proudly partnered with DeLaSalle Education Center’s Block37 program to provide graduates with iPads this year, helping bridge the digital divide—a common challenge in urban communities. Block37 is more than just a program; it’s a lifeline for students, offering a safe space, inspiring role models, and activities that nurture social, emotional, and educational growth. As #GivingTuesday approaches, we invite you to join us in empowering urban youth. Together, we can invest in initiatives that spark leadership, resilience, and opportunity for the next generation. ?? Support UNI’s mission today and make a lasting difference. Visit uni-kc.org for more information! Learn more about how technology is changing education in Kansas City: https://ow.ly/AbN650Uh4CA #GivingSeason #GivingTuesday

This giving season, make a small change that makes a big impact! ? Join our #OneCupChallenge and help build stronger communities with purpose, on purpose. By giving up just one cup of coffee a month, you can support initiatives that truly make a difference. Donate today at uni-kc.org and be part of the change!

Our President & CEO, Jamee Rodgers, PhD, will take part in an inspiring panel discussion at the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership at UMKC Leadership Conference on Monday, November 25, 2024! ??? Session: Navigating Nonprofit Leadership Challenges: Practical Solutions for Today’s Leaders ?? Location: UMKC Bloch Executive Hall & Student Union ?? Theme: Leading with Resilience Dr. Rodgers will join a dynamic lineup of nonprofit leaders to share actionable insights and real-world stories designed to empower nonprofit professionals to navigate today’s challenges effectively. For example, in an October 2023 article for the Forbes Nonprofit Council Expert Panel, Dr. Rodgers highlighted the crucial need for a ‘culture officer’ within nonprofit organizations. At UNI, we believe fostering resilience and strong leadership is at the heart of building thriving communities. Your support helps us continue this mission. ?? ?? Want to support our work? Every contribution helps UNI create a lasting impact in Kansas City neighborhoods. Visit https://ow.ly/AXhG50Ue8H7 to learn more about how to donate to building neighborhoods with purpose this giving season! Read more of Dr. Rodgers’ insights through his work with the Forbes Nonprofit Council: https://ow.ly/90bi50Ue8H6

?? Empowering Future Entrepreneurs! ?? As part of the Culinary and Entrepreneurship clubs at Lincoln Middle School, students put their business skills to the test with a lunchtime bake sale—raising over $200! ?? Through hands-on, experiential learning, these young entrepreneurs explored the ins and outs of procuring, pricing, and selling products. Programs like this showcase the incredible value of real-world learning, sparking creativity, confidence, and a passion for innovation. ?? A huge congratulations to these budding business leaders!

?? The Season of Giving is Here! ?? As the year winds down, we’re reflecting on the incredible strides we’ve made in creating opportunities and fostering growth in the heart of Kansas City. Throughout 2024, our team has worked tirelessly to enhance, innovate, and give back to the vibrant community we call home. Over the coming weeks, we’ll celebrate and share the remarkable milestones achieved this year, from impactful youth programs to community-building initiatives. From robotics workshops to wellness days, our youth programs have empowered students to learn, grow, and thrive—fostering skills and connections that last a lifetime. Want to be a part of the change? Help us continue building communities with purpose, on purpose. Your support fuels our programs and services, enabling us to reach even greater heights in 2025. ?? Not sure how to give? Visit https://ow.ly/VMfz50UblcV to learn more and join us in making a difference. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected Kansas City. ??

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As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and recover from a year filled with triumphs and challenges. Teamwork often shines brightest during tough moments, and taking intentional time to connect with your team can make all the difference. A big thank you to Rendezvous Climbing Gym for helping us elevate our teamwork (literally!) and strengthen our bonds. Together, we’re reaching new heights—both on the walls and in our community! ??? #Teamwork #CommunityConnection

I am excited to share the details of a panel discussion that I'll be facilitating at the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership at UMKC Nonprofit Leadership Conference on November 25! ?? Navigating Nonprofit Leadership Challenges: Practical Solutions for Today’s Leaders This session will provide actionable insights for nonprofit leaders facing the unique challenges of today’s landscape. You won't want to miss this chance to hear real world stories and insights from these experts: ?Aaron Martin, CEO of Job One ?Erica Kratofil, LMSW, Co-Executive Director at The Giving Grove ?Jamee Rodgers, PhD, CEO at Urban Neighborhood Initiative ?Kathleen Boyle Dalen, Founder & Principal, KBD Consulting ?Kia Walsh, CEO of Sherwood Autism Center ?? Date: November 25, 2024 ?? Location: UMKC Bloch Executive Hall & Student Union ?? Conference Theme: Leading with Resilience Whether you’re a seasoned nonprofit executive or an emerging leader, this discussion promises valuable takeaways to support your journey. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow with fellow leaders - register today! ?? https://lnkd.in/gTvFDNRQ #NonprofitLeadership #Resilience #LeadershipDevelopment #NonprofitConference

?? UNI was excited to participate in DeLaSalle Education Center's Wellness Day, a day dedicated to uplifting mental well-being and promoting self-care! This meaningful event provides students with resources, support, and tools to help them navigate challenges and foster resilience. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier community by prioritizing mental health for all. #WellnessDay #MentalHealthMatters

I had the honor of attending the Urban Neighborhood Initiative groundbreaking event for new affordable housing in partnership with VanTrust Real Estate. This powerful nonprofit/for-profit collaboration is creating a pathway to home ownership in the city and advancing health equity through stable, affordable housing. The link between housing and health is undeniable. Safe, affordable housing provides a foundation for families to thrive, reducing stress and improving physical and mental well-being. Urban Neighborhood Initiative and VanTrust Real Estate’s single-family homes are sustainably designed, ensuring families won’t be utility cost-burdened, allowing them to focus on building healthier, more stable lives. Additionally, Urban Neighborhood Initiative’s "Path to Homeownership" pilot program is an incredible step towards closing the wealth gap. By developing 250 homes for low-to-moderate income families, Urban Neighborhood Initiative is empowering families with financial stability and a future of homeownership. VanTrust Real Estate’s support of this initiative is grounded in their commitment “to do right by dirt”. They are helping families in our community thrive.?Congratulations to Dave Harrison for bringing this vision to life. I’m honored to serve as Vice-Chair of Urban Neighborhood Initiative and grateful for Jamee Rodgers, PhD leadership. None of this would have happened without the unwavering focus of Representative Emanuel Cleaver on the issue of affordable housing.?As a minister, former council member, and former mayor, Rep. Cleaver understands the transformative power of housing.?That he was able to secure federal support for this project in the current political climate is a testament to his commitment to the cause and his considerable political skills. This partnership is helping our community address affordable, safe housing and laying the groundwork for a healthier, more equitable Kansas City. Ready to make an impact??Join us. Let's get to work.