At United Way of Greater Kansas City, we believe that every child deserves the chance to thrive, both in and out of the classroom. That’s why youth opportunity is one of our core pillars of impact. From early learning to high school graduation and beyond, we invest in programs that help young people build brighter futures through academic support, mental health care, stable housing, and more.
The back-to-school season is an exciting time. However, for many Kansas City families, it can also bring added stress, from securing school supplies to finding safe and reliable before- and after-school care. That’s where our local nonprofit partners step in. As the school year kicks off, we’re highlighting five Impact 100 organizations that are going above and beyond to ensure students are ready to learn, grow, and succeed:
1. Phoenix Family
Phoenix Family empowers families living in low-income housing communities by providing on-site education, employment, and enrichment programs, including their HIKE (Help Instill the Key to Education) after-school program. HIKE supports students with academic help, healthy snacks, mentorship, and access to technology so kids can build confidence and stay on track. For many families, Phoenix Family provides more than academic support, it’s a consistent, trusted presence in a child’s life.
2. The Family Conservancy
A new school year also means significant transitions for little learners. The Family Conservancy focuses on early education and mental health services, ensuring children and families are emotionally and developmentally prepared for school. Their counseling programs, early childhood teacher training, and family workshops help create the kind of nurturing environments where kids can thrive, at home and in the classroom.
3. KVC Health Systems
Mental and behavioral health needs are constant, especially during the school year. KVC Health Systems offers youth and family mental health services, foster care support, and crisis intervention —critical services that help students feel safe and supported as they return to school. Whether it’s addressing trauma, offering therapeutic foster homes, or supporting students in residential treatment, KVC is there for kids facing extraordinary challenges.
4. Community Services League
From backpacks to basic needs, Community Services League meets families where they are. Each year, CSL provides school supplies, clothing, hygiene products, and even utility assistance to ensure students don’t start the school year unprepared. Their wraparound support services help remove barriers to education, so families can focus on learning, not just surviving.
5. Jackson County CASA
Every child deserves an advocate. Jackson County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) trains volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children in the foster care and family court systems. CASA volunteers play a key role in ensuring children receive educational support, regular medical care, and stable placements. As school starts, CASA works to ensure each child has what they need to feel safe, seen, and supported.
United Way is proud to partner with these incredible organizations, because when we invest in our students, we invest in our future. As the school year begins, these nonprofits are providing hope to thousands of students across Kansas City.
Discover how you can get involved, whether by volunteering your time or donating essential items to organizations that support students throughout the metro. Visit our Community Partners Directory for volunteer opportunities.