Kansas City Metro CARES February 2013

Got Time?

Jim Brown Does Page 8

Healing Day Concert Suicide Awareness Survivor Support Page 19

Volunteer Spotlight Kate Sweeten Page 20

Smile Brite National Children’s Dental Health Month Page 21

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contents february 2013 3

Table of Contents

4

Membership Directory KC Metro Cares members

5

Letters from the Editor and Publisher

6

The Housing Market: Signs of Hope for 2013

7

Yours in Health Monthly health & fitness column

8

Got Time?

Jim Brown does

9

A Lion’s Heart for Children Sunflower House

8

10 Kansas City Metro Schools & G.I.R.L Inc. 11 America’s Story Children’s Miracle Network

12 Finding a Path by Paying It Forward Center for Advanced Professional Studies-Blue Valley S.D.

13 With Innovation, Anything is Possible Kauffman FastTrac

14 Integrity Home Care

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16 A Parent’s Perspective Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City

17 Kids CARE Amazing Children Doing Wonderful Volunteer Work in KC

18 Yoga…a Life Practice www.beingontosomething.org

20 Volunteer Spotlight Kate Sweeten

21 Smile Brite Smiles Dentistry for Kids

22 Calendar of Events Charity Events for February

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23 February is “Baking for Family Fun” Month 24 Forming a Non Profit: Should You Do It? Center for Nonprofit Communication

27 Games Fun Stuff

staff

advisory panel

Amy Michael Publisher

Steve Rittmaster

Phil Dellasega Creative Director Tom Mezzacapa Graphic Design Sharna Rittmaster Editor

122 Central Park Square • Springfield, MO 65806

417.849.CARE • www.goicare.com

Michelle DeWitt Graphic Design/ Web Maintenance

Merissa Rittmaster Amanda Goetz Shawn Muller Vanessa Faller Mike Dalena Jim Brown Jean Ann Rucker

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membership directory CARES Memberships are available to local non profits that are registered as 501 (c)3 organizations. The goal of CARES is to give non profits a center for non profit communication and awareness. Not just an ad, not just a picked up press release here and there; but an annual

3908 Washington St Kansas City, Mo 64111 816.777.2871 bbbskc.org

3901 Rainbow Blvd, Mailstop 4004 Kansas City, KS 66160 913.588.9100 cmnkc.org

marketing program that cover the online and print resources that are needed to truly communicate with the community. CARES is a communication hub that provides an online volunteer database, interactive robust calendar, resources for assistance with the print magazine to share stories of hope, details on upcoming events and photographs of past events and what they have accomplished. You can view the details of Membership by going to: www.goicare.com/pdfs/Membership_Package.pdf or by emailing editor.op@goicare.com for more details and a face to face meeting. Let us show the community

15440 W. 65 Street Shawnee, KS 66217 913.631.5800 sunflowerhouse.org

PO Box 23242 Stanley, KS 66223 913.681.3050 sass-mokan.com

all the great ways that KC Metro CARES by sharing your mission and your needs with them.

Dear Non-Profit,

We want to talk to you! Kansas City Metro CARES Magazine focuses on non profits and bringing awareness of the impact they make in our community. Does this sound like something you want to be involved in?

Call today for an appt, 913-890-3133!

P.S. Visit our website at www.goicare.com and while you are there sign up for our FREE iCARE Package!

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Sincerely,

Letter from the Editor I’d like to thank everyone in the community for all of their advice and wonderful assistance in spreading the word about our new publication. It makes me so proud to live in such a giving area where people are asking to help distribute! I hope that most of you have had the opportunity to find our premier issue around town. It had such a beautiful cover of the Plaza Lights, photographed by my good friend David Bram. And inside were many great articles including introductions to our first four Members! I am looking forward to adding more new Members every month.

Through the month of January, I received amazing feedback from readers, acquaintances and Members. Last week, I was delighted to read an email from a librarian at the Olathe Library. She wrote, â€œâ€Ś I was so excited to discover your magazine today in our library ‌ Your magazine is such an inspiration, and something that the metro area needed.â€? That is what I love to hear! My goal is to help where needed. If you have suggestions or stories, I want to hear them.

web

printing

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design

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913-339-9060 Aquariums from mild to wild!

When February comes around, everyone thinks of Valentines Day. A day set aside for romantic dinners, red roses and chocolate filled hearts. Coincidently, February happens to be American Heart Awareness Month.

The heart is the most important muscle in your body, it can be strong but it’s also quite delicate. Be good to yourself and your heart.

Your Friend,

nt for ! e v e n A fu le family o t he w h k/Run

Sharna Rittmaster Contributing Editor editor.op@goicare.com

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Hello Kansas City Metro!

I am so excited to see our second issue go to print! There's been no shortage of great things going on here in your city! For those of you picking up the magazine for the first time, CARES is focused on non profit communication and awareness in the community. Giving your local non profits a place to share their stories, goals, needs and thanks. If you are a non profit and are looking for a better way to create awareness about who you are and what you do, we would like to talk to you!

Our non profits have been able to see a great increase in event attendance, donor dollars and increased awareness of projects that they offer. Let CARES help you get in front of the philanthropic community in your area.

As you may know, we started CARES in Springfield Missouri in June of 2010. Since then we have worked hard to help the non profits become more successful by increasing their exposure and helping them decrease their overhead on things like design and printing services. Our sister company, dvLaRue, offers our non profit members printing and design that saves them an average of 30%. Let us quote your next project and see if we can help you save those dollars so that you can use them for your cause. Email our sister company for a quote and let's see if we can help you: design@dvlarue.com.

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If you are a volunteer, please take a moment and go to our website and set up a volunteer profile. You can enter your skills, time availability and choose who you would like to volunteer for. Let us help you connect with the non profit of your choice for volunteer opportunities!

Wishing you all a wonderful February!!!

Amy Michael Publisher

Contact us for a FREE quote By phone: 417.379.6393 or by email: design@dvlarue.com www.dvlarue.com 5

Over the past several years, I’ve been asked the same two questions repeatedly, “How’s the housing market doing?” and “Are you keeping busy at work?” At first, I figured it was just the way people made small talk with a working residential realtor. Soon, I began to realize that it was something more than that.

Friends, family and strangers were using me as a bell weather gauge for insight into the housing market and thus the economy in general.

Homeowners want to be assured that their largest investment isn’t losing money. Buyers want to know that they can invest in a home purchase with confidence.

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Two or three years ago, my answer to those questions might have drawn furrowed brows or a sad shaking of the head. For the first time in my career, I was seeing homeowners lose money. Home values in Kansas City had reset themselves to pre-2001 pricing. Worse yet, I was seeing them in situations where they had to bring money to the closing table. It was heartbreaking.

How’s the housing market doing?

From this busy Realtor’s perspective, 2013 is going to be a great year for Kansas City homeowners and buyers alike!

HOME Tip of The Month: February is a perfect time

2012 brought with it a sea of change in the local housing market. Was I busy? Oh yes! The entire year felt like a marathon in terms of real estate work. No sooner would I finish a transaction when two more would appear in its place! Even better, local home prices were finally stabilizing. I was even involved in several bidding wars; something that I thought was extinct. According to my Broker, Cindy Zitterkopf, the Reece & Nichols Town Center office did approximately 150% more sales volume in 2012 than in 2011.

The trend appears to be continuing into 2013. With the “fiscal cliff” averted and continued low interest rates, buyers are feeling more confident than they have in years.

to add mulch to your garden beds. It will help you combat Spring and Summer weeds.

Shawn M. Muller: ePro™ Realtor: The Muller Team. Shawn is a 12-year veteran of the Kansas City residential real estate market. He is highly active within the Reece & Nichols organization, having served on The President’s Council, IT Council, TC Advisory Council and United Way Council. He and his teammates, Charlene S. Muller and Linda McGuinn, are proud to assist buyers and sellers and help them achieve “The American Dream” in all price ranges.

Are You Heart Healthy This Valentine’s Day? February is the shortest month of the year and it goes by fast as we are in a rush for spring to arrive.

During this short month we observe two very important topics when it comes from the HEART. One is very scary and the other being a wonderful celebration.

These two I refer to are Heart Disease and Valentine’s Day. The American Heart Awareness Month begins in February. According to the American Heart Association, Heart Disease and Stroke are the leading cause of death in the United States. I sat down and interviewed Dr. Kowin Casey with Anderson Physical Medicine to get a better understanding of what we as Kansas City residents need to be aware of to help prevent Heart Disease. “Citizens in the Midwest area must be aware and learn to control their blood pressure.” Dr. Casey states that many of us forget to take care of our heart and it ends up being a serious occurrence that makes us aware like a heart attack or stroke before we take it seriously. “Your blood pressure is an important factor to base the status of your current heart health. Visiting your Doctor to get your reading on healthy blood pressure levels for you can vary with medication, age and daily lifestyle habit.

Starting an exercise regimen and eating heart healthy meals are the way for prevention.”

A monthly column by

Jonathan Rios Laser Sharp Fitness M.S., B.S., Wellness Expert NASM, ISSA, Master CPT

So what is your blood pressure? Is it too high like most Americans? The simple factors and steps to controlling your heart health is DAILY LIFESTYLE CHOICES!! For example what did you eat this morning for breakfast? Was it eggs and oatmeal? Did you go to a drive through restaurant? Or did you simply skip it by just having a cup of coffee? If missing your morning meal you will tend to over-eat the rest of the day. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) indicate that between 1971 and 2004, average total calorie consumption among US adults increased by 22% in women and by 10% in men. This increase of calorie consumption is the major factor why Heart Disease is the number one killer of females in the United States. Portions sizes are bigger and more processed than ever before and that is not good for your heart. Remember, the bigger the meal you eat the bigger your body becomes!

Strengthening your heart sounds hard but it can be just as easy as walking a few more steps daily using a pedometer. As a runner myself I use a Polar Heart Rate Monitor*. Regulating your heart rate when exercising is very important to make sure you are not straining your heart by getting over your target zone.

If going over the zone you are doing more damage to your muscles and can cause injury. Get a personal trainer to get you set up with a heart healthy exercise plan. They will instruct you on what you need to do for your current exercise goals.

Do yourself a favor and sign up for a 5k run/walk to stay motivated to keep getting your cardiovascular training on par. Many non for profit organizations have events that go on throughout the year. Set your time and date, then make it happen. Believe me there is a wonderful feeling when you cross that finish line. Not only do you feel great and getting healthier, but you are doing something great for those in the community. See you at the finish line!!

Have a question or topic you’d like to see covered?

Email Jonathan at rios.a.jonathan@gmail.com 7

Got Time

Jim Brown does

contributing writer Merissa Rittmaster

Or at least he can help you keep it. He is a traveling timekeeper

how necessary Jim would be, who, in fact, is now almost in-

or rather a time maker. His magic begins when he stops by one

dispensable. Initially scheduled once or twice a year per facil-

of several retirement communities on his schedule to simply

ity, his visits increased to at least once or twice a month at over

change watch batteries.

20 facilities around the city. His services are even included in

But this simple service produces positive consequences. First-

introductory tours to prospective residents.

ly, how did he get here? Through his 20 years on the road as a

But, most importantly, what he brings to the table is so much

jewelry and watch manufacturer’s representative, Jim discov-

more than the watch batteries and tools in his tote bag. He

ered he had an attraction to tools and watch tinkering. Because

brings the magic of time; time for chatting, time for visiting

of spare time waiting around jewelry stores, he was given the unique op-

portunity to glean tips and skills from experienced jewelry and watch repairmen all over the United States. A

native mid-westerner, Jim opted to retire here in the Kansas City metro

area. Little did he know that his in-

terest in watch batteries and simple watch repair would lead him into a

new occupation. He was drawn to

share this skill with people unknown to him after reading Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life. The basic

premise of this book is that we are all on Earth to serve a pur-

with family, time for meeting new friends. Recently, while we

pose and to strive to do what makes us happy. Extending this

were waiting to see him in action, there was a buzzing of

premise to his own life, he found that tinkering and helping oth-

excitement spreading around because, “The battery guy is

ers gave him happiness. He practiced this skill at family events

coming today.” His prospective clients, or rather new friends,

and found that, “everyone was happy to have free watch serv-

wait patiently for their turn while cheerfully joking and chat-

ice, everyone was on time for family meals, and [he] was

ting with each other. One woman is ecstatic when he comes

ready to launch a new mission!”

because it affords her precious time to visit with her children

So a new mission he launched. What began as an en-

and grandchildren when they all bring their watch batteries

joyable pastime transformed into a beneficial service to

to be changed. He tells of another customer, a widow, who

those who were in need of watch batter-

came to him with 10 watches each of which represented a

ies. To reach the goal of helping

cruise on which she and her now deceased husband had been

others, he contacted local in-

passengers. With each battery changed, she shared with him

dependent retirement

a lovely memory of the particular cruise that specific watch

centers where the res-

represented. By giving his time so lovingly and patiently, he

idents might be in

believes he is serving these retirees at the best time of their

need of this service

lives. He thoroughly enjoys visiting with the residents and sin-

at a nominal

cerely looks forward to sharing the stories of their lives, their

charge (enough

memories, their loved ones, and their dreams.

to cover his expenses). The facility coordinators were skeptical about

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He makes time to give you time.

! "#$%’&! '()*+ ,$*! -.#/0*(% Jumping out of airplanes. Wearing a bear costume. Fund raising. Landscaping. What do they have in common? Sunflower House volunteer, Mitch Stevenson.

Mitch has given time, money and talents, has taken risks and taken action all in the name of helping physically and sexually abused children who come to Sunflower House as a safe haven of hope and care. In 2008, he saw a need and said, “How can I help?” Little did he know that staff and board members at Sunflower House were about to take him up on his offer to help in a BIG way!

For the past five years, Mitch has taken on such volunteer roles at Sunflower House as facility manager, fundraiser and auction chair for the organization’s largest annual fundraising event. He’s jumped out of an airplane to raise money and jumped into a 40-pound fuzzy bear costume (P.S. Happy Bear, Sunflower House’s child-friendly mascot) to teach elementary school children about personal safety and how to recognize, resist and report child abuse.

Throughout the years, he’s changed every light bulb…at least twice, coordinated fundraising campaigns and appeared on television multiple times as a spokesperson for Sunflower House.

sunflowerhouse.org

And, most importantly, he has brought smiles to hundreds of children.

With all his volunteer hours, you’d think he wouldn’t have time for anything else.

But, Mitch is also a blasting consultant for Morgan Engineering Inc., a Overland Park-based engineering company that does pre-construction blast consulting for numerous construction projects throughout the area.

The difference that Mitch Stevenson makes at Sunflower House and the children it serves is worth celebrating! Drum roll, please…. Mitch Stevenson has been

named the “Sunflower House 2013 Lionheart Award” winner, with the announcement of this award being made at the 2013 Valentine Gala in February. Webster’s dictionary defines someone with a “lion’s heart” as a person of exceptional courage and bravery. In the case of Mitch Stevenson, we think the definition should include compassionate, committed and capable.

&

When one thinks of the word school, in general, the following comes to mind: education, learning, books, friends and test taking. Now change the focus on your lens. Have you ever associated school with the following: safe haven, homelessness, hunger, life skills and extreme poverty? More often than not, our students and families that reside within the school system experience the circumstances related to the latter.

Modeling the old adage, “It Takes a Village,” GiRL Inc. focuses on cultivating the skills of our students through school enrichment programs that incorporate curriculum that is research based. Topics include but are not limited to: Health and Wellness, Financial Education, College Readiness, Leadership, Decision Making and the list continues.

While GiRL Inc. understands the importance of programming, we also know the importance of giving. Most families find themselves in difficult circumstances simply due to life. We give as much as we can with the resources that are available; but help is always needed.

Giving is more than monetary, it’s also through time and resources; that’s what we do on a yearly basis. The passion for our community, our schools and our students is the heartbeat of GiRL Inc. For more information on GiRL Inc. please go to www.girlkc.com or Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/girlinc.

photos by: Denene Brox Photography

In 2013 and beyond, the definition of school as we have known it in the past has changed. School is not only an educational disciplinary that incorporates all of the wonderful attributes of a well-tailored school, but it also reflects an institute of everyday life, the up’s and the down’s.

How do school administration, teachers, parents and students manage this modern definition of school? There are many facets, avenues and options to strive towards a resolution however; one prominent answer is community; more specifically a caring community an organization such as GiRL Inc. Gifted Intelligent Respectable Ladies (GiRL Inc.) was founded in 2009 by two women, Shatomi Luster and Krystal McFeders. It has now evolved into a team of wonderful women and other individuals with a passion for life, love, giving and education. Our simple vision of community is to create a diverse synergy of life skills and expectations for our young ladies of tomorrow. This vision is implemented and reflected by our team that works with the various students

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within our schools that reside in the Greater Kansas City Metro area. The goals are to be the hands, feet, eyes and heart for others that we encounter within our schools. The personal investment that our team has in the student base is what makes the GiRL Inc. organization.

America’s Story When America was born with spina bifida, hydrocephalus, scoliosis and club feet, it was clear she'd face tough times in life. But no one knew then just how tough this little girl could be.

She was told she’d never be able to sit up, crawl, talk or feed herself. They

Helping Local Hospitals Save Lives in Our Community

were wrong. She sat up on her own at age 1 and crawled on her arms soon after. Before she was 2 years old she was happily chatting away. But there is one thing she won't do: America will never say "I can't." Instead, she takes her time and continues to try.

America was referred to KU Medical Center for neurological surgery and continues to show her resilient spirit. She has her own customized wheelchair, and people in her community are amazed at how smoothly and quickly she zips around. She teaches everyone she comes in contact with that being in a wheelchair doesn't mean you can't be independent and as happy as anyone else.

America loves to dance in her chair and does gymnastic moves on her therapy bars at St. Francis Health Center. Her family has been told that America is going to change the wheelchair world. After every barrier she's already broken, it's safe to say that America will make those changes and more.

Thank You! February 5th, 2013

For your support during National Pancake Day!

Together we save kids’ lives™

And To YOU!

Your generous donation stays in the community to benefit the University of Kansas Medical Center Pediatrics Department 11

Finding a Path by

PAYING IT FORWARD At the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) program in the Blue Valley School District, students in the Interactive Design program are beginning another semester by “paying it forward.”

cate in a professional manner with real companies and clients. For many students, this is the first time they are in a professional environment. This gives students a huge advantage when they are competing for internships and jobs.

Each project I have done through CAPS has always led to another project and or contact. My work has built up my portfolio and resume, and it has established my connections with businesses and professionals in the industry.

I have reached new levels in my designs through work with real world clients. Not only am I working hard for the letter grade, but I am working hard for the best design for my client. Your clients might not always like each of your designs but through the reiterations, I find myself getting better with each new de-

Every semester, nearly 30 local, national, and international businesses including many non-profit and start-up organizations have the opportunity to collaborate with junior and senior high school design students who produce products including mobile apps for Android and iPhone/iPad, 2D and 3D video games, websites, brochures, t-shirts, brand identities, motion graphics, and short commercials to promote a businesses’ brand and mission.

Over the last two and a half years, nearly two hundred businesses have been on the receiving end of these students’ creative talents. Students earn college credit in the areas of graphic design, web design, animation, and game design as a result of producing this professional work. Students also leave the class with a professional brand identity, design portfolio, website, business card, and resume. These real-world experiences have landed several students college level internships at many local and national companies including Cerner, C3 Brand Marketing, Propaganda3, iModules, Indicia Designs, EmbroidMe, and more.

“Both the student and the business benefit greatly through this interaction.

This interaction helps the student learn how to communi12

sign. We do make some mistakes but through those mistakes that's how we learn. In a school setting if we make a mistake we get a failing grade but in CAPS, we are proactive and learn valuable skills and lessons.” ~Lindsey Swirbul, CAPS Alumnus, Iowa State Freshman, Graphic Design Major Over the next semester each student will be selecting one cause to raise $100 for through an original advertising campaign or design product. To watch these campaigns evolve, visit the Interactive Design program on their Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/capsdesign and online at www.capsdesign.org.

To find out more about becoming a client for the CAPS Interactive Design program or participating as a mentor, you can reach their lead instructor, Leah Karchin at lrkarchin@bluevalleyk12.org.

With Innovation, Anything is Possible

by Alana Muller

Around the time my son, Ian, was 5 years old, I came home from work one day to tell him, “Mommy has decided to start her own company.” You see, I had made the decision to leave my comfortable corporate position in pursuit of a more entrepreneurial path. Exciting to be sure, but, truth be told, I was very unsure of what the future would hold. It was a time of great excitement, intrigue, possibilities and, yes, fear.

Ian, in his youthful wisdom, replied, “OK, so what kind of company will you start?” When I said I didn’t yet know, he thought for the briefest of moments and confidently said, “Alright, here’s what you are going to do. You can start an arcade in our home so my friends and I can play video games in our neighborhood. You will charge 25-cents per game. But, Mama, you cannot forget to recharge the game players each night! That is a big responsibility, and I will help you remember.”

About Kauffman FastTrac® Kauffman FastTrac is a global provider of learning curricula that equip aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with the business skills and insights, tools, resources, and network to start and grow successful businesses. Kauffman FastTrac was created by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the largest foundation in the world devoted to entrepreneurship. For more information about Kauffman FastTrac, visit www.fasttrac.org and follow the organization on Twitter at @fasttrac, like it on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kauffmanfasttrac and connect on LinkedIn at www.fasttrac.org/linkedin.

When was the last time such youthful exuberance came into play for you? When did you last brainstorm about the unlimited opportunities around you? When have you readily allowed innovation to be your guide?

Today, at age 9, Ian is so obviously growing older and maturing, but he still possesses a child’s wonder. He is unafraid to sing aloud when listening to his iPod with headphones; he still offers up loads of ideas; and he creatively role plays as he works toward solutions to life’s daily conundrums. I count myself blessed to have his influence at home.

Similarly, in my work as president of Kauffman FastTrac, an organization that helps entrepreneurs start and grow companies, I am surrounded by a constant barrage of ideas from eager aspiring and established business owners. There’s truly something about the entrepreneurial spirit – the attitude that boldly believes “anything is possible” – that I love to have influencing my professional life.

My message here is simple: Wherever you find your centers of influence, whatever you do in your daily life, surround yourself – at home, at work and in the community – with innovation.

Whether high- or low-tech, bring creativity into your world.

Need a little inspiration? Hang out with a child or an entrepreneur for a day. They have the unique capacity to see beyond conventional wisdom, to embrace the ridiculous and the seemingly impossible, and to help you build from there.

So, go on, get creative! You will be amazed at the ways your life – and the lives others – advances as a result of the solutions you discover.

About the Author Alana Muller is President of Kauffman FastTrac, a global provider of training to aspiring and existing entrepreneurs, giving them the tools, resources and networks to start and grow successful businesses. Kauffman FastTrac was created by the Kauffman Foundation. Alana is the author of a book, Coffee Lunch Coffee: A Practical Field Guide for Master Networking and a companion blog, CoffeeLunchCoffee.com.

She is a frequent lecturer and workshop facilitator on topics such as networking, entrepreneurship and women in business.

She has been a contributor to Forbes.com, The Huffington Post, CNBC and other publications. Alana has a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Chicago, where she was the recipient of the Mike and Karen Herman Fellowship for Women in Entrepreneurship, and an undergraduate degree in mathematics from Smith College. She was recognized as a 2012 Influential Woman by KC Business magazine. Follow her on Twitter at @AlanaMuller.

fasttrac.org 13

Fed up with hunger

Approximately 150 teens donated and sorted 2,070 pounds of non-perishable food items at CAJE/Jewish Federation's B'Yachad program, Fed Up with Hunger, on Jan. 16.

The teens learned about many aspects of food insecurity in Kansas City, including within the Jewish community, through a variety of speakers and hands-on activities for Jewish Family Services Food Pantry, KC Mitzvah Garden, and Harvesters. Among the teens participating were (from left) Lindsay Gill, Blaire Ellenberg, Eliana Schuster, and Haidee Clauer sorting food for the JFS food pantry, located at the Jewish Community Campus.

The Jewish Federation's mission is to sustain and enhance Jewish life at home and around the world. Through our network of partners, we help feed, clothe, comfort and inspire people here at home and around the world through the more than 75 programs we support.

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Heritage Christian Academy Bible Study

by Abbie Shutte My name is Abbie Schutte and I am a senior at Heritage Christian Academy. From a young age, my parents engraved in me the importance and necessity of service.

This section is dedicated to our community active youth. I know that we have amazing children doing wonderful volunteer work here in Kansas City. I want to read about your rewarding experiences helping others! Send your stories to me at editor.op@goicare.com by the 5th of every month as a word document of 200 words and please include photos.

In January 2011, my principal, Steve Adams, approached me about working with Mission Southside. Heritage moms had been praying that our school would find an organization where the students could form relationships with those in need in the community. Mission Southside suggested Heritage students lead a Bible study for elementary aged kids in Gardner at the Conestoga trailer park. I don’t think any of us anticipated how significantly this partnership would not only change the children’s lives, but the HCA students as well.

Given the opportunity to lead a team, I jumped at the chance to involve students who would not normally consider a service opportunity. I am a firm believer that community is formed through acts of service. People must serve alongside one another, furthering something bigger than themselves, to experience the humility that breaks down walls and brings people together.

Service is so much more than dropping off a care package. Service is about relationships that transform lives and the restoration of what community is supposed to be. Through our partnership with Mission Southside, I believe Heritage students have learned this and will carry this with them for the rest of their lives as they give themselves in service.

justONE holds Soccer Tourneys to Help the Hungry justONE is a group of eight friends with a dream of making a difference in our world.

Knowing hunger among our nation's youth is a major problem; we decided the Johnson County area is where we wanted to help first. To help solve this problem, we decided to hold soccer tournaments around the Metro and give the proceeds to organizations that help fight youth hunger. Our first tournament, Kick for a Cause, was held January 2nd at All American Indoor Sports.

The tournament was for 8-10 year olds and it was suggested that $20 be donated for each player. It was a big success and through the generosity of the players' fam-

ilies, we raised $1000. All of this money was donated to Harvesters Food Bank. The success of this tournament reinforced our motto, “Players Play, Players Give”. We hope to repeat similar tournaments throughout the upcoming years. We want to thank our parents and several organizations that helped make our tournament a success, All American Indoor Sports, Lenny's Sub Shop, Robeks, Absolute Awards, Sporting Blue Valley Soccer Club, and Harvesters. If you would like to contact us for more information, please visit our website justonetournament.org or email us at ben@justonetournament.org. continued on page 19 17

Yoga … a Life Practice

by Sami Aaron

Yoga is more than just stretching and pretzel-postures for the lithe, limber body. Many, many people who find their way to a yoga practice in pursuit of a more fit physique are surprised to find that they also begin to embrace its life-changing philosophy and healing practices.

People are often drawn to yoga for the physical benefits of opening through the joints, gently stretching the muscles, finding alignment and balance, and softening into the stillness of the breath. Others come to yoga after a life-altering experience with the explanation that “A friend told me that yoga would help me through this…”The yoga that is recommended to people in grief or panic or full-on stress is the full practice of yoga and embodies much more than just the physical postures.

In Bringing Yoga to Life, teacher Donna Farhi explains, “I call the practice of Yoga a life practice … an ongoing inquiry into how to be completely engaged and intimate with the wild force that runs through everything and is running through us, if we would but pause long enough to notice.”

The full practice of Yoga is a broad set of concepts that were clarified in Patanjali’s “Yoga Sutras” over 2000 years ago. These sutras, or thoughts, are stated in such a way that they are meaningful and relevant even today.

A full practice includes the study and philosophy of the Eight Limbs of Yoga: 1. How we relate to and treat the world and those around us, through concepts of non-harming, non-stealing, non-lying, non-hoarding, and not using our position of power over others 2. How we treat ourselves through the concepts of cleanliness, purity, contentment, wise use of our energy, nutrition, introspection, and a connection to a higher power 3. Taking care of our body through an ongoing physical yoga practice 4. Awareness and control of the breath and flow of energy through the body 5. Quieting the activity of the five senses, allowing stillness to rest in the heart and mind 6. Single-pointed focus and concentration to further calm our “monkey minds” 7. True meditation; sitting in a state of the present moment, in full awareness 8. Finding the bliss state, a place of absolute stillness and sense of unity with all that is Is yoga for you? There is a variety of yoga for all body types of every age and level of ability! Yoga Basics, Flow Yoga, Hot Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Therapeutic Yoga, Meditation & Breathing, Yoga in Chairs, Yoga Nidra (Yoga Sleep), and Kids Yoga are just a few of the choices available through yoga studios, fitness centers, and private lessons. Try a few classes with a variety of teachers and see what fits you … it just may be life-changing!

Sami is a registered yoga teacher with an emphasis on Pranayama (yoga breathing) and Meditation.

You can find her classes and workshops at www.beingontosomething.org.

Contact her at 913-915-1971 samiaaron@beingontosomething.org.

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Animals Make Me Happy!

by Lauren Kish Animals make me happy! That's why I enjoy volunteering for the T.A.R.A. (The Animal Rescue Alliance). T.A.R.A. is an organization that helps save animal's lives by rescuing strays from other shelters or bad situations. The animals are given a second chance for a good home and loving owner. People can adopt the animals after an interview process to make sure the dogs and cats will go to a good home with a suitable environment.

I began volunteering with T.A.R.A about 3 years ago. The animals are usually shown weekly at local pet stores or community attractions such as Deanna Rose Farm and Home Shows. As a volunteer I help with taking care of the animals by providing them with water and treats. Also, I have to take the dogs out for short walks when needed. Volunteering with T.A.R.A. is rewarding to me because I always enjoy spending my time doing something I love.

I know that I'm touching a lot of animal's lives and people's hearts when a perfect match is made.

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Volunteer Spotlight: Kate Sweeten by: Sharna Rittmaster

Where do you volunteer?

How long have you been active volunteering?

I volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City and a co-chair of their young professionals’ organization, the Big Impact Group (B.I.G.).

I’ve been an active volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters for over two years; prior to that, I volunteered at Children’s Mercy Hospitals & Clinics.

Why do you choose to volunteer?

How does volunteering affect you personally?

I feel that as long as I have the time and the resources to give back, that I absolutely should.

Volunteering, especially with BBBS, makes me feel like I’m able to make a big difference in someone’s life by doing something as simple as going out to get a cheeseburger or catching a movie on a lazy Sunday afternoon. To be completely honest, it makes me feel like I’m a good person.

More specifically, what do you enjoy the most from helping BBBS? I love seeing the direct impact that I have as a volunteer through BBBS. Over the past two years, I’ve been able to see the difference that I’ve made in my Little’s life – she’s more confident and outgoing, her schoolwork has improved and I know that, through our match, she’s had the opportunity to experience things and attend events that she otherwise may not have the opportunity to. It’s really remarkable to know that I’ve had something to do with that. Additionally, it’s so rewarding to see the immediate results of our fundraising efforts, whether that is the creation of new matches or match events and activities.

From your experience, what are some major benefits to getting involved in the community?

I’ve had the chance to meet so many amazing people in the Kansas City area through my involvement with BBBS and the BIG Impact Group, as well as the opportunity to take part in some incredible events and match activities. My Little and I have been lucky enough to attend private aquarium tours, Chiefs games, Sporting Kansas City soccer clinics, open swims at The Great Wolf Lodge (one of my Little’s favorites!) – just to name a few – events that we wouldn’t have been lucky enough to take part in otherwise – since participating in the BBBS program.

What are you most passionate about in the community?

I love being a part of the Kansas City community, whether that’s through volunteering or attending games, events and concerts. I love how much Kansas City has grown over the past few years and how that’s provided us with so many new and exciting things to be a part of. My hope is that I can continue to be part of Kansas City’s development through my volunteer work and just being out in the community as much as possible.

What else do you enjoy in your spare time? Hobbies?

Between season tickets to Sporting KC and the Royals, heading out with friends, attending concerts and bracing myself to gain 20 pounds during Kansas City Restaurant Week, I love being out and about in the city. I am a die-hard Kansas State University alumnae and fan, so I’m still riding the wave of euphoria off of the football season! I’m also a huge fan of photography and am constantly dragging my camera around town with me to find new shots to add to my website.

of Greater Kansas City www.bbbskc.org

Smile Brite Did you know that, according the CDC, dental decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood? Untreated dental disease will impact 40% of our children by the time they enter kindergarten and result in more than 52 hours of missed school this year.

The key to preventing this disease is education and what better time than National Children’s Dental Health Month? So sit back, grab a cup of Joe (you may need it) and read on.

So what can you do to reduce your child’s risk for dental disease? Believe it or not, it starts with pregnancy. If you are an expecting parent, the first thing to do is see your general dentist for a check-up and be certain to have any outstanding dental decay treated ASAP. The bacteria that cause tooth decay can be transmitted from the primary caregiver to the child resulting in an increased risk for cavities during infancy. You can further reduce the risk by avoiding situations where your saliva may be transferred to your child. Don’t share eating utensils, toothbrushes or other objects.

Plaque removal (aka brushing) should begin as soon as the first tooth appears in the mouth. You can do this using a thimble-like finger toothbrush and a fluoride-free infant toothpaste found at your local baby store or pharmacy. Please be sure to clean the teeth before bed and after any middleof-the-night feedings that may occur. As your child ages, your oral hygiene routine should evolve. At age 2-5 you should continue to brush your child’s teeth twice daily for two minutes. You should also start using up to a peasized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Encourage your child to spit the toothpaste out as you brush. Between rounding the kids up for bed and making sure they have brushed, it’s easy to forget about flossing. Flossing should become routine as soon as the teeth are touching their neighbors.

In some children this can be as early as 2 1/2 years. Try using the flossers with handles while your child lays on the bed. We recommend that you continue to assist in brushing and flossing until your child is able to tie their own shoes.

Proper nutrition is critical for our growing children and for the prevention of cavities. Teach your children how to make smart choices with their diets. Encourage tooth friendly snacks like cheese, yogurt, fruits, and vegetables. “Yuck!” might be a common response to this suggestion, so spice it up a little. Spread some peanut butter on a stick of celery and drop a few raisins on it. Voila!! “Ants on a log”! Another idea is to slice up your

Provided by

fruit and dip it into your yogurt. A little creativity will go a long way.

Dental visits should start 6 months after the first tooth or by the first birthday... whichever comes first. Regular six month check-ups will familiarize your children with the dental office and provide frequent reminders and updates to current dental care recommendations. These visits will also allow for early diagnosis of dental disease and potential orthodontic problems. Remember, pediatric dentists are the “pediatricians” of teeth. You can find a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist in your neighborhood by visiting www.ABPD.org.

Remember the old adage “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”?

Take a few minutes this evening to talk to your children about dental care.

You may be surprised at what they already know.

In the mean time, here are just a few more tips to encourage your kiddos to brush.

• Provide choices: Do you want to use your Batman or Spiderman toothbrush tonight?

• Make it fun: Listen to your favorite song from start to finish while brushing. Like music, brushing is a rhythmic activity. Don’t be afraid to shake that groove thang! By the time the song has ended, their teeth will shine!

• Motivate: Create a brushing and flossing calendar. Every time your child brushes for 2 minutes and flosses, allow them to place a sticker on the calendar. At the end of the week/month provide a rewarding activity that your child loves for a job well done.

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c a l e n d a r february Various Times

Bridging The Gap, a local environmental nonprofit organization, operates and manages Community Recycling Centers on behalf of the City of Kansas City, Missouri. They are currently looking for volunteers to help patrons unload recyclables and assist the site manager. To volunteer, contact Amy Smith at 816-561-1087 or e-mail volunteer@bridgingthegap.org. All volunteers must register in advance.

Saturdays | 12:00pm

Kansas City Public Library - Relax after a long week of school.

Watch movies, play games, talk about books, manga video games and help plan library events while having lots of fun.

1 | 3:00pm

The University of Kansas Clinical Research Center - What you know about your heart matters. This health seminar is held at the University of Kansas Clinical Research Center in Mission Kansas.

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Junior Diabetes Reseach Foundation - JDRF Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) Connections Reteat. Join JDRF KC, other individuals and families living with type 1 diabeties for a keynote presen-tation followed by breakout sessions for teens for ages 8 and up, adults, parents and cargivers focusing on the many dynamics of living with type 1 diabetes. Visit thier website www.jdrf.org/kansascity for more information.

2 | 6:30pm

Kansas City Young Matron’s Gala - KCYMG benefiting Hope Faith Ministries at the Muehlebach Tower of Kansas City’s Downtown Marriott, ticket price $150. A day center for the homeless that services between 800-1200 indivifuals daily, seven days a week.

Through collaboration with 32 agencies they provide hot meals, furniture, clothing, hot showers, medical, dental and vision care. For more information visit www.kcym.com

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Buffalo Run - 8th Annual Buffalo Run 8K & 5 K & Kids 1K Trail Run. You will run on stretche of woodchips, dirt, gravel, dear trails and across by a wetland area. Very beautiful scenery. Run is held at the Parkville Nature Sanctuary in Kansas City MO.

4 | 4:00pm

University of Kansas Hospital - Does food affect our moods?

Explore what foods may help resuce stress and improve mood. The

University of Kansas Hospital’s Keri Layton, MS, clinical dietitian, also will discuss how those foods help us achieve the desired result.

This program is free to the public. For more information visit www.kumed.com/bewell

8 | 2:00pm

Indian Creek Branch Library Teen Volunteer Fair! Required to do volunteer hours for school this fall or just want something to do during the summer? Check out the variety of organizations gathered at Indian Creek Branch Library that need volunteers. No registration required; just drop in. Call (913) 971-6888 for more information.

20 | 7:00pm

K-State Horticulture Research Center - Growing Great Tomatoes.

Dr. Cary Rivard from K-State will help you navigate the in’s and out’s to growing great tomatoes. Register at www.johnson.ksu.edu or call 913-715-7000. Admission is $10

21 | 6:00pm

Get your fix at Sugar Rush, presented by The Pitch! This candy coated competition will feature sampling of sweet treats from over 15 of your favorite KC restaurants, caterers & more. Help us name Kansas City's Sweetheart! $12 tickets now available. $15 day-of if they are still available! Event held at 1621 Locust, Kansas City, MO For $12 tickets visit http://secure.pitch.com/tickets/pitch-sugarrush-2013

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Daddy Daughter Ball - This ball for Father and daughter will be held at the Gardner Edgerton High School in Gardner KS.

23 | 9:00am

Enginerring Expo - A three day event that lets K-12 students and their teachers and families experience the fun of engineering and computing. Numerous design competitions are scheduled throughout the event. Sponsored by Engineering Student Council. The cost is free, Deadline to register is February 6th. The event will be held at Eaton Hall and other areas of the Engineering Complex. For more information and to register visit http://groups.ku.edu/~kuesc/expo

23 | 10:00am

Kansas State University/Olathe - Eating Well For Less. This class will share useful information about how to plan healthful means, prepare tasty, low-cost foods that are quick and easy, and help make food dollars last through the month. Meets one saturday a month starting February 23rd, March 30th, April 27th, May 25th. $20 covers all four classes.

If you have a charitable event you would like to add, please email us at events@goicare.com

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by Dan Prater The Center for Nonprofit Communication at Drury University dprater@drury.edu

During a recent visit, a family member told me she wanted to start a new nonprofit organization. It was a noble idea.

I have that same conversation with a lot of people who come into my office, telling me about their ideas. In fact, hardly a week goes by without someone asking, "How do I start a nonprofit organization?"

Many of the well-intended people who ask this question lack a thorough understanding of the complexities and regulations involved in starting a nonprofit organization.

In this article, I offer five important questions to consider before forming a new nonprofit organization: 24

1. Are you sure a need exists?

From your perspective, the need may be real and urgent. But do others in the community share your view? Can it be proven beyond just your opinion? Is there truly an unmet need?

In order to garner support from individuals, business, and other organizations, it will be necessary to gather credible data. Talk to experts in the community and research available information/studies on the topic. Find out what local leaders and nonprofit groups have to say.

You don't have to be an expert, but you should take time to become well versed on the issue before you start an organization. After all, as the founder of an organization you should have a clear understanding of the issue and its many facets so you can explain it with clarity to potential supporters and donors.

In addition to understanding the need, it is important to determine if your organization has the expertise to address it. Does the work you are proposing provide a solution to those in need? Do you have the ability and resources to fix the problem or improve the situation?

2. Is another local group already addressing the need?

known as form 990. Failing to complete these can cause you to lose your tax-exempt status.

4. Can you sustain the organization?

Going from nothing to a strong, sustainable organization is no small task.

Too often, people want to start an organization to do something that is already being done.

Start-up money from friends and family often helps nonprofits get started. But beyond the initial costs, it takes a lot of money to sustain an organization. Typical expenses, such as salaries, facilities, supplies, insurance and program services, add up quickly. Funding can be unpredictable, sporadic or—in worst cases—a dry well.

If such a group does exist—even if they don't do the job quite like you would—resist the urge to launch a competing organization. Instead, consider how you might collaborate, putting your passion and energy to work into their cause, rather than on creating a new nonprofit organization.

About five years ago, a lady in southwest Missouri started an organization to work in the area of child abuse. She spoke with passion to members of the public and was able to acquire funding and in-kind donations for the work. But within 18 months, she had lost her focus and abandoned the idea.

Having multiple nonprofit organizations in a community with similar missions and doing nearly the same thing creates many dilemmas:

Those who had made donations to her organization felt betrayed by the failure. Her board members, volunteers, and community leaders who had pledged their support were disheartened that the work ended so abruptly.

This may be one of the most important considerations in starting a new nonprofit organization.

• Donors who care about the cause are forced to choose which organization to support and can become disillusioned at the duplication of services.

• Those who need the services of the organization have to figure out which group does what and which one best meets their needs.

• Other local nonprofit organizations may lose support. With limited grant money and corporate sponsorships, adding one more organization to the list cuts into the precious few resources.

3. Do you understand the legal requirements?

The federal government, as well as each state, has its own requirements for starting a nonprofit. Here are the common steps: a. File articles of incorporation with the Missouri Secretary of State. b. Apply for exempt status with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). c. Apply for a federal employer identification number. Regardless of whether or not you have employees, nonprofits are required to obtain a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is also referred to as the federal ID number.

As a registered 501(c)(3), the organization must not be operated for someone’s private benefit, must not support or oppose a political party or candidates for office or have as the mission of the organization the achievement of something only possible by the passage of legislation.

Once registered, you most likely will be required to file annual reports

It is better never to start a nonprofit organization than to start one and fail within a couple years. Failure has broad implications for those who need the services as well as for donors who invested in the work.

The end result is bad for all, including other nonprofit organizations that may be viewed negatively due to the mismanagement of one.

5. Do you have a plan?

Quite simply, passion is not enough.

While you may feel passionate about helping people in need and making the world a better place to live, you cannot succeed without proper planning.

Starting a nonprofit organization requires just as much planning as launching a for-profit business enterprise.

You'll need to determine who will do the work, how they will be paid, where the work will be done and who will serve on the board. You'll need to set up a budget and identify funding sources.

Last, but not least, you'll need to determine what success looks like and how you will measure it to know if you are reaching your goals.

Truth is, most of the people who ask me if they should start a new nonprofit are told, "No, please don't do it." But if you can answer these questions positively, and if you do give each one careful consideration, you may be able to develop a strong and effective nonprofit organization.

www.NPcomm.org

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