Kansas City Activist Launches Nonprofit for Community Support

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A gathering of diverse community members participating in support initiatives

News Summary

Marshelle West, a dedicated Kansas City activist, has launched ‘Show Me You Care KC,’ a nonprofit aimed at uplifting underrepresented communities. Since 2019, West has been providing essential services such as Thanksgiving dinners, mentorship programs, and support for the LGBTQ community. Her grassroots efforts have earned her numerous accolades, and she plans to expand the nonprofit’s reach to further enhance community support.

Kansas City Activist Launches Nonprofit to Uplift Underrepresented Communities

In the heart of Kansas City, a remarkable young woman named Marshelle West is making waves with her inspiring efforts to support underrepresented communities. At just 35 years old, West embodies the spirit of community service she learned throughout her upbringing in the city’s urban core. Growing up in a single-parent household, she often felt overlooked, but that only fueled her determination to create positive change.

The Birth of a Vision

Back in 2019, West had a heartwarming idea sparkle in her mind: what if she could provide homemade Thanksgiving dinners for those less fortunate? This idea blossomed into an initiative where she collaborated with local organizations to pool resources for a big, community gathering. This annual event was not just a meal; it became the cornerstone upon which Show Me You Care KC was built, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of Kansas City’s most vulnerable populations.

A Broad Spectrum of Support

Show Me You Care KC isn’t just about feeding families; it encompasses a wide range of support services for different groups, including individuals without housing, the youth, the elderly, and the LGBTQ communities. West’s organization tackles urgent needs, establishing a foundation that encourages lasting impacts within the community.

Making a Difference Year-Round

The nonprofit organizes multiple initiatives throughout the year that create memorable experiences and provide essential support. Some exciting programs include:

A yearly Thanksgiving dinner bringing together families in need for a warm meal.
Once Upon a Prom, where high school girls can get sponsorship for their prom, ensuring all have a chance to attend.
A mentoring program focused on teens who lack support at home, guiding them through life’s challenges.
Voices of Care, a program designed to offer holistic and wellness support to individuals facing various struggles.
Annual *back-to-school* basketball games that engage and inspire local youth to participate in sports and camaraderie.
The newly-launched Show Me You Matter program, tailored for the LGBTQ community, offering educational workshops and promoting suicide awareness.

Success Through Community Connections

What makes Show Me You Care KC shine is the *power of collaboration*. Marshelle West emphasizes that building organic relationships in the community has helped her navigate challenges with relative ease. This nonprofit has gained a solid reputation and is respected for its grassroots efforts, paving the way for several successful projects.

Recognitions and Awards

West’s tireless work hasn’t gone unnoticed! In 2023, Show Me You Care KC proudly won the Kansas City’s People’s Choice Award for Best Community Organization. West herself received prestigious accolades, including the Women Making Waves Award and the Women of Courage Award from Delta Sigma Theta in 2024. Not bad for someone who started out just wanting to serve meals!

Future Plans

But Marshelle isn’t stopping there. She dreams of expanding Show Me You Care KC’s footprint beyond Kansas City. In her sights are ventures into St. Louis and the establishment of a physical location that can provide ongoing benefits to youths and the unhoused community. This ambitious leader encourages others to find partners that share their vision and emphasizes the significance of engaging with the community in visible ways.

A Legacy of Service

At the core of West’s philosophy is the belief that “service to others is the rent you pay for your home here on earth.” With that mindset, she is dedicated to fostering a better, more inclusive community for everyone. So keep an eye on this steadfast activist; she shows no signs of slowing down!