Each year, the Department of Housing and Urban Development conducts a “point-in-time” count survey of the homeless population in the Kansas City Area. In 2017, there were 1,671 homeless individuals and 1,248 homeless households. Homelessness is a nationwide problem that many organizations work together to combat. Phoenix Family is a great example of one of those organizations in Kansas City.
Phoenix Family provides an integrated, broad range of services tailored to the individual person. Their programs enable people to stay in their homes and with their families while they make progress towards and attain self-sufficiency. Combined, their activities empower children, families, and seniors to access the essential resources they need to improve their lives and break generational poverty.
They are always looking for volunteers! They especially need help with their HIKE Reading Program, where volunteers spend one our a week teaching elementary aged youth to read. Volunteers work one-one-one with the same child each week, so that they can build relationships with them as well. Their Reading Specialists prepare all of the lessons and materials, so volunteers can spend the hour focused on the youth. During the school year, one-hour volunteer shifts are available beginning at 4:30 and 5:30 pm. Over the summer, lunchtime shifts are added to the schedule as well.
If you are interested or have any questions, contact April DeNatale via email or phone at 816-529-3217.
Happy Volunteering!