Kansas City is known for its people who step up and support one another. It’s a city shaped by neighbors who’ve arrived here from across the globe to build new lives, contribute to our communities, and share their cultures.
Across the metro, organizations work daily to ensure that Kansas City lives up to its reputation as a place of opportunity and belonging. From resettlement support to housing, education, and healthcare, these five organizations are just a few that ensure all individuals have access to support services.
Here are five organizations creating a more inclusive, compassionate, and welcoming Kansas City:
1. Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)
JVS plays a central role in Kansas City’s refugee resettlement efforts, offering a comprehensive range of services to help individuals and families rebuild their lives after fleeing war, persecution, or hardship. These services include housing placement, job training, English language instruction, mental health counseling, and cultural orientation. Each year, JVS helps hundreds of newcomers find their footing and thrive while educating the broader community about the experiences and contributions of refugee and immigrant families.
2. Della Lamb Community Services
With roots dating back to 1897, Della Lamb has long been a trusted presence in Kansas City. Today, it’s one of the area’s leading refugee resettlement agencies, providing services that begin the moment families arrive at the airport. From securing housing and school enrollment to providing financial literacy training and household items, Della Lamb supports individuals through every transition phase. Its work is centered on compassion and empowerment, giving families the tools they need to become self-sufficient and successful members of their new community.
3. Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas
Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas plays a vital role in ensuring that every person has the opportunity to thrive by providing case management, legal services, employment assistance, and more. It addresses the full spectrum of needs for those beginning new lives in our region, and its commitment to long-term integration and family success helps ensure that Kansas City remains a place where opportunity and dignity go hand in hand.
4. El Centro, Inc.
El Centro has been a trusted advocate and service provider for the Latino community across Wyandotte and Johnson Counties for over four decades. Through programs focused on health care, economic empowerment, civic engagement, and education, El Centro empowers individuals and families to create lasting change. El Centro provides culturally relevant resources and support for families, helping them navigate systems, find their voice, and build brighter futures.
5. Community Housing of Wyandotte County (CHWC)
A welcoming city must also be affordable. That’s where Community Housing of Wyandotte County (CHWC) steps in. CHWC helps families—many of whom are immigrants—access safe, affordable housing while also investing in neighborhood revitalization. CHWC works with residents to develop financial literacy, navigate the homebuying process, and maintain long-term housing stability. Their community-based approach ensures that newcomers are not just housed, but empowered to build wealth, contribute to the neighborhood, and put down roots.
Get Involved
At United Way of Greater Kansas City, we’re proud to support many of these partners through our Impact 100 initiative—an effort to fund and amplify the region’s most impactful nonprofits.
Nonprofits across Kansas City rely on people like you to create real impact. Explore our Community Partners Directory to discover volunteer opportunities throughout the metro—and find your way to give back. Together, we’re building a stronger KC for all.