KC Cares | How Barbecue Became a Beacon After Disaster
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
On this episode of KC Cares we talk with Stan Hays, founder of Operation BBQ Relief. When a devastating tornado hit Joplin, Missouri, pitmaster Stan Hays answered the call the only way he knew how—with barbecue. That moment lit the flame for Operation BBQ Relief, a nonprofit now serving hundreds of thousands in times of crisis. In this KC Cares interview, Stan shares the emotional roots of OBR, the gaps it fills in disaster relief, and how barbecue became therapy through Camp OBR. It’s not just about food—it’s about connection, comfort, and showing up when it matters most. --- Name:...
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Ask The Expert: Nonprofit Funds with Dr. Thomas Vansaghi
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
In this Ask the Expert episode, we sit down with Dr. Thomas Vansaghi from UMKC’s Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership to unpack the critical need for rainy day funds in nonprofit operations. From weathering revenue disruptions to boosting donor trust, Dr. Vansaghi lays out practical steps to start, structure, and sustain a reserve fund. Whether you’re a seasoned ED or a scrappy startup, this conversation offers must-hear insights on long-term nonprofit sustainability. Do you have questions about nonprofit funds? These 5 key questions are answered: What is a rainy day fund in a...
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How an NFL Legend is Changing Kids’ Futures
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
On this episode of KC Cares, Kansas City's Nonprofit Voice: 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. Find out more at kccaresonline.org
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Johnson County Community College Foundation Impact
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
Guadalupe Centers, Kansas City’s historic Latino-focused nonprofit, celebrates 100+ years of community service. CEO Beto Lopez discusses its education initiatives, including a thriving charter school system, and its innovative programs addressing housing and senior needs.
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Guadalupe Centers: A Century of Impact on Kansas City’s Latino Community
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
Guadalupe Centers, Kansas City’s historic Latino-focused nonprofit, celebrates 100+ years of community service. CEO Beto Lopez discusses its education initiatives, including a thriving charter school system, and its innovative programs addressing housing and senior needs.
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Jamie Boyle on Welcome House’s New Facility & Sobriety with Dignity
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
Welcome House, led by CEO Jamie Boyle, provides a unique recovery model emphasizing accountability and dignity. With its newly opened state-of-the-art facility, Welcome House is transforming lives in Kansas City by offering a supportive community and practical steps toward long-term sobriety.
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Innovative Partnership Between Prospect KC and Nourish KC Fights Hunger
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
Prospect KC and Nourish KC have united to tackle hunger in Kansas City through innovative food redistribution and culinary training programs. This dynamic partnership combines forces to reduce food waste, provide nutritious meals, and create job opportunities for those facing employment barriers.
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Earl Phalen on Leadership in Social Entrepreneurship
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
Welcome House, led by CEO Jamie Boyle, provides a unique recovery model emphasizing accountability and dignity. With its newly opened state-of-the-art facility, Welcome House is transforming lives in Kansas City by offering a supportive community and practical steps toward long-term sobriety.
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ArtsKC’s The Drop Program: Expanding Access to the Arts in Kansas City
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
Dana Knapp and Linda Williams of ArtsKC discuss the transformative economic impact of the arts in Kansas City and the introduction of “The Drop” program. This initiative aims to reduce barriers to art participation by offering affordable ticket options and engaging local communities through trusted ambassadors.
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Pro Deo Youth Center: Empowering Kansas City’s Teens
KC Cares Nonprofit Interviews
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.
info_outlineKansas City’s Nonprofit
Digital Resource!
Sharing the stories of local nonprofits and connecting them with the community! We talk with philanthropists, volunteer, community activists, executive directors from various nonprofits in the Kansas City community. Be seen, be heard with KC Cares!
Hosted by Ruth Baum Bigus and Bobby Keys
This Weeks Guests:
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History of Women’s Philanthropy in KC
David Hanzlick, author and political science professor and Ellen Portnoy, National Council of Jewish Women (featured in Hanzlick book)
Web site: www.ncjw.org/ upress.missouri.edu
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Conscious Capitalism
Ron Hill, Founder and Chief Enrichment Officer of Redemption Plus & Chapter organizer
Tabatha Bender, Connection Crusader at Redemption Plus
Web site: kansascity.consciouscapitalism.org
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Head for the Cure
Matt Anthony, founder
Web site: ww.headforthecure.org
Twitter: @headforthecure
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Facebook: Kccaresradio
Instagram: Kccaresonline
Twitter @Kccaresradio