Celebrating Your City, Your Mission - 2010 Annual Report

86 Years of Reaching Out, Rescue, and Recovery

Since 1924, City Union Mission has been relieving burdens and restoring hope for the hungry, homeless, near-homeless and working poor.  Today, Your Mission . . .

• never closes; we’re open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• is the largest rescue mission in a six-state area
• operates the city’s Hotline for the Homeless (816-474-4599)
• holds after-school programs and summer camp for youngsters from impoverished families
• is the only shelter in Kansas City with infirmary beds for the sick
• ensures 77 cents of every dollar provides direct assistance for the poor
• receives more than 58,000 hours of volunteer assistance annually
• does not and never has accepted government funding
• is deeply grateful for your ongoing support

A Message of Celebration From Our Executive Director

Dear Friend,

As we close the door on a decade that in so many ways tested the fabric of our nation, we look ahead in celebration of the many groups and individuals who continue to strengthen the fabric of our city.

Since 1924, thousands of men and women like you have been faithful in your prayers and support of the Mission’s work to rescue God’s human sparrows.  Together, we’ve built a solid community of people helping people.  Regardless of events that impact the world around us, you remain committed to caring for homeless, near-homeless and disadvantaged families and individuals right here at home. 

We’re committed, too.  Over the years, we’ve extended our outreach services to help working-poor and struggling families remain in their homes and self-sufficient.  And we’ve enhanced our rescue and recovery programs to better empower men and women to overcome the day’s obstacles to their independence.  City Union Mission is God’s work in progress. 

Yet as we create more opportunities to share His hope and mercy, the tragedies of poverty, broken families and shattered lives bring an ever-increasing number of men and women to our doors.  With your ongoing partnership—or the dedicated support of your church, workplace or civic group—we’ll continue to welcome them with life-saving essentials and life-transforming guidance, and we’ll celebrate the futures God has in store for them.

Today, we celebrate you, too.  And all you’ve done for Your City.  Your Mission.  May God bless you as you have blessed us and especially those we serve.

For His glory,

Rev. Daniel J. Doty
Executive Director

P.S. In the pages ahead, you’ll read stories of lives impacted by our outreach, rescue and recovery programs.  I invite you to visit us online—at www.cityunionmission.org—to learn more about these vital services. 

Celebrate Reaching Out

Our commitment to meeting the spiritual, physical and emotional needs of men, women and children who are poor or homeless extends far beyond our Mission walls.  Every day of the year, the Mission provides extensive, compassionate services to low-income and working-poor community residents including the distribution of food, clothing, school supplies and household items; utility assistance, case management and referrals for affordable housing; Bible study, life-skills classes, adult education and job training; after-school programs and summer camps for youth; services to homebound, elderly and disabled people . . . and so much more.  We also reach out with special assistance during the holidays to make sure no one is alone or forgotten.

With Basic Needs Met, Independence Is in Reach

Ana lost her job.  Then the home she and her three daughters shared with a friend was destroyed in a storm.  They moved into an apartment that was later condemned.  By that point, the weary family had lost nearly every shred of hope and everything they owned.  Then Ana called the Hotline for the Homeless and received some encouraging news:  God has blessed you.  A family has just moved out and there’s a room for you at City Union Mission.

 “I was so thankful,” Ana says.  “They fed us well, gave the girls clothes for school and the helped me find a place to live.”  When she and the children moved into their own home, she turned to our Community Assistance Program to help with groceries until her food stamps came in.  “They also gave me a voucher to get furniture and household goods at the Thrift Store,” she shares.  With her families’ needs met, Ana wants to go to school and find a job.  “I want to get myself prepared so I can maintain my independence.”

Second Chance Thrift Stores

In addition to being sold to the public at affordable prices, clothing, household items and other goods donated to our three Thrift Store locations are used to meet the needs of homeless people in our shelters, program graduates transitioning to their own homes and our city’s near-homeless and poverty-stricken citizens.  In fact, 86 percent of the items received at our Lexington Avenue store are redistributed free of charge.

Celebrating Your Hands and Hearts

These compassionate volunteers are among the many individuals and groups who embrace the Mission’s work as their own and form the foundation behind the words “Your City.  Your Mission.”

Christmas Volunteers Feel Blessed by GivinG

Volunteers are a special blessing to the Mission, especially during the holidays.  They purchase gifts for the families we serve through Mission: Christmas, donate their time wrapping gifts and assisting shoppers, decorate our facilities and deliver gifts. While we greatly appreciate the blessing we receive from these selfless givers, they often tell us of the blessings they receive in return . . .

“It was really gratifying.  I included my sons who are 12 and 10, and they understood the reason for helping.  They enjoyed it too.  We’ll help volunteer throughout the year.”  —Jason Garrett

“This was the first year my group participated in the gift-delivery event.  It was a blessing to be a part of something so powerful, and each of us agreed that we will make this part of our Christmas tradition.”   —Jim & Robin Kearney

Volunteer Hours Total 2,625!

“Thank you” to the corporations, church and school groups, and individual volunteers who donated thousands of dollars of volunteer time toward Mission: Christmas!

Company Demonstrates Compassion Through Creativity

Employees of Gragg Advertising, a Kansas City firm specializing in direct-response strategies and integrated marketing services, shared a wealth of experience and marketing expertise assisting the Mission on a pro-bono basis with a number of projects and event promotions.  They also shared their time wrapping gifts for Mission: Christmas.  Thank you, Gragg Advertising, for expressing your compassion through your creativity!

Biker’s With a Mission Gear Up for 2011 Event

Mark your calendars now for the 22nd Annual Biker’s with a Mission Run for the Homeless Benefit Ride—which raises funds to help City Union assist the homeless and poor —Sunday, May 1, 2011. To date, the annual outing has collected $561,373 to fund the Mission’s programs and services.  

Pre-register online at www.bikerswithamission.org or www.cityunionmission.org or from 9 to 11 a.m. the day of the event at the Mission's Men's Shelter.  Bikers are invited to return to that location at the conclusion of the ride for the program at 1 p.m.  More details, including starting time and route, will be available online at www.bikerswithamission.org or www.cityuniuonmission.org.

Kids With a Heart for Kids Are Honored!

Every month, students from Shawnee Mission Northwest Key Club provide a take-home cake and $15 gift for every child celebrating a birthday in our Vanderberg Youth Center—and cupcakes for the entire group to share.  Last year the group received unexpected recognition for their compassion—a first-place trophy at the Kansas Key Club Convention in the “single service project” category!  Congratulations, Key Club members—and thank you for brightening the birthdays of so many deserving youngsters.

Lenexa Baptist Church Meets a Multitude of Needs

Just name the need, and the hardworking members of Lenexa Baptist Church will carry it out.  In November, they completed several repair and renovation projects at our Opportunity Farm—then cooked and served Thanksgiving dinner for the Farm’s Christian Life Program residents.  During the holiday rush, they contributed 200 rolls of wrapping paper needed for Mission: Christmas, and served a delicious New Year’s dinner at our Christian Life Center.  God bless you for your open hearts and eager hands!

Celebrating Rescue

City Union Mission’s emergency shelters offer more than simply temporary refuge from the streets.  Here, men, women and children receive physical and spiritual “rescue” in the form nourishing food, suitable clothing and medical care—and people who offer Christian acceptance, compassionate guidance and practical solutions to the challenges that brought them to our doors.

Help for Man Who Once Helped Others

Mike had dedicated his life to helping others—as a firefighter . . . an EMT . . . a rescue diver.  But after he injured his back in an accident, he became addicted to prescription pain medication.  And when both of his parents died, his will to maintain what was left of his life did too.  He realized he was lost and turned to City Union Mission for help.

We welcomed him with food, shelter and hope that he could become the man he once was.  He joined our Christian Life program and accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior.  Today, Mike says firefighting and diving are like nursery school when compared to the challenges of a Christian walk.  “It’s the most difficult thing I’ve ever loved,” he says.  He’s grateful for his brothers and staff in the program and feels blessed to have this second chance.  “Don’t give up on us,” he humbly asks.

Hear moving audio testimonies recorded by Mike and other residents and graduates of our Christian Life Program and New Life Program Putting the Pieces Back Together at www.cityunionmission.org.

43 percent of the individuals who turn to City Union Mission for shelter are experiencing homelessness for the very first time, according to the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions “Annual Snapshot Survey” conducted in October 2010.  The report also revealed that the age of those seeking shelter is trending upward—46 percent are between 46 and 65.  These individuals are typically battling addiction or mental illness and have no family support.

Celebrating Your Hearts and Hands

Although the groups below are very different from one another, they share the characteristics of compassion and creativity, and they reach out to our community by doing what they do best.

Professionals Make Connections at the Mission

Bob Young, president of biz2biz connections—an organization providing networking opportunities for business professionals—has a passion for the Mission and has selected it as the group’s charity of choice.  More than a dozen members “connected” with Mission staff, residents and guests at an Awareness Luncheon last fall, and the group collected jars of peanut butter for the Mission during November and December.  The group continues to support the Mission in any way that’s needed, and we’re grateful for their enthusiastic efforts!

Restaurants Bring In  “Take-Out” for Mission Residents

Residents of our Family Center were treated to the flavors of Italy when employees of Olive Garden served lasagna, spaghetti, bread sticks, salad and desert.  They were just as delighted when sister company Longhorn Steakhouse provided food with a more western flair.  In appreciation for these hearty meals, the Mission sends a hearty thanks to Director of Operations Ron Rivera and the 10 general managers who organized these events!

YMCA Strengthens Heart of our Community

The Greater Kansas City YMCA has chosen City Union Mission as their partnering charity for 2011 and will place collection bins at their 20 metro locations to encourage their members—and all members of our Kansas City community—to collect items the Mission needs to care for the homeless and hungry.  The Y also collected gifts for Mission: Christmas and continues to sponsor service projects, bringing members to the Mission to volunteer their talents and time.  The Mission is deeply grateful for the partnership of this fine organization that strengthens the heart of our community one person at a time.

Canaan Worship Center Fulfills Calling to Serve

Canaan Worship Center answers God’s call by being a church that ministers to the poor, homeless and those who struggle with addictions by volunteering in many capacities at the Mission.  Under the leadership of member Lonnie Johnson, the congregation leads a monthly chapel service at our Men’s Center and provides lunch to residents of our Christian Life Program (CLP).  In December, clients from other agencies the church serves joined our CLP residents for a meal of turkey and ham, stuffing, potatoes, vegetables and desserts.  A special program followed, including shared testimonies, music from the church’s worship team and dance troupe, a message of encouragement from Pastor Lee Cobbins, and a small gift for each participant.  Thank you, Canaan Worship Center, for standing alongside us in bringing God’s message of love to those who need it most.

We Also Honor These Financial Partners for Their Generous Contributions

Louis L. and Adelaide C. Ward Foundation

Davis Trust (Bank of America, trustee)

Heart of America Blue Goose

Celebrating Recovery

Our Christian Life Program for men—at our Kansas City facility and Opportunity Farm near Warsaw—and our New Life Program for women and families empower dedicated adults to overcome addictions and other barriers to building stable and fulfilling lives.  The long-term curriculum includes Bible classes and church attendance; drug and alcohol recovery; individual and group counseling; life-skills, parenting and budgeting courses; and work-therapy assignments and career development.  Program graduates and their families are encouraged to participate in our transitional living program as they adjust to their new independence. 

Broken, but not beyond Repair

Larry and his siblings suffered as pawns in their parents’ dysfunctional relationship.  But the emotional scars left by being abandoned at age 11 did even greater damage to his spirit.  As an adult, he battled addictive behaviors and struggled to be the father he knew he should be.  When lost his job, he lost his daughter to relatives because he couldn’t care for her.  When he no longer could care for himself, his brother brought him to the Mission.

Larry joined our Christian Life Program in 2009.  He completed his courses, earned his GED and graduated last fall.  He’s now attending Victory Trade School in Springfield, Missouri.  “I was broken to a point where I had to accept help from others and from God,” Larry says.  “Your donations gave me hope, and I’m working to be a better person to the people around me and to my daughter.”

At City Union Mission we truly believe change begins with a transformation of the heart.  And it’s God love, grace and guidance that make that miracle possible.  That’s why we introduce individuals and families in our care to the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ.  An average of 40 to 50 people dedicate their lives to Christ at the Mission every month.

Hear moving audio testimonies recorded by Mike and other residents and graduates of our Christian Life Program and New Life Program at Putting the Pieces Back Together on www.cityunionmission.org.

Celebrating Women Who’ve Changed the Heart of the City

Mark Your Calendars!

Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Registration 11:00 a.m.
Luncheon 11:30 a.m.
HyattRegency Crown Center
2345 McGee Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Since inception in 2008, this elegant luncheon has honored more than a dozen outstanding area women whose legacies of leadership, partnership and humanitarianism have contributed to the fabric of our city.  Now a much-anticipated annual event, more than 700 generous supporters attended last year, and nearly $500,000 has been raised for critical upgrades and improvements to the Mission’s Camp CUMCITO.

Plan now to attend City Union Mission’s Women Who've Changed the Heart of the City distinguished banquet event to honor outstanding and influential women of our Kansas City community.

For details including individual tickets, table sponsorship information and to register to attend, visit www.cityunionmission.org.  We look forward to celebrating with you!

This year’s event will honor (left to right) Rose Bryant, Mary Lou Jaramillo, Susan Stanton and Barbara Spilker.

“There is an acute need in our area to assist the growing number of poor and homeless people.  What better way to communicate to the city than by recognizing outstanding women who have demonstrated over the years their hearts of care and concern in so many areas that have made Kansas City great.” —Binny Pearce

We have a heart for families and this women's event is dedicated to providing kids a safe, nurturing summer camp experience that will enrich and change their lives." —Marianne and Dayton Moore

2011 event co-chairs Binny Pearce, City Union Mission board member, and Royals General Manager Dayton Moore and his wife Marianne.

Mrs. Beulah Bulkley, who co-founded the Mission with her husband, Rev. David Bulkley, assumed Rev. Bulkley's role of Mission superintendent when he passed away in 1940.  Spurred by her love and compassion for the city’s impoverished children, she acted on her vision to provide a safe summer haven for boys and girls and laid the foundation for the Camp CUMCITO youngsters enjoy today. 

Every summer, nearly 500 children, ages 4-16, spend a fun-packed week at the Mission’s Camp CUMCITO, located near Warsaw, Missouri.  Swimming, hiking, crafts, and cookouts fill the day, while Bible teaching, drama, songs, and campfires fill youngsters with hope for their futures.  Counselors surround the children with love and consistent discipline, teaching them about Jesus and the wonders of a life lived for Him. 

Support Your City through Your Mission Beyond Your Lifetime

Are you looking for opportunities to continue to have a positive impact on the hungry, hurting and poor beyond your lifetime?  A convenient and gratifying way to share your compassion for years to come is to include City Union Mission in your estate plans.

By choosing now to benefit the Mission with a portion of your estate when you pass away, you ensure future generations will receive the assistance they need and hear the love and truth of God’s Word.  If you feel called to remember City Union Mission in your Will, the following statement may be helpful to your attorney: “I, [name], of [city, state, zip], give, devise and bequeath to City Union Mission, Kansas City, Missouri, _____ percent of my estate for its unrestricted use and purpose.”

To learn more about including City Union Mission in your estate plan, please contact Dennis Chapman, Associate Executive Director, Development, at DennisC@cumission.org or (816) 474-9380, ext. 1476.  Thank you for remembering the Mission and the men, women and children we serve.

Other Ways to Give

Please partner with us . . .

In Prayer: Your prayers are vital to this ministry and those we serve.  Please include us in your daily devotions.

Through Financial Contributions: Your monetary donations help provide food, shelter and recovery services for the homeless.  Learn more about our Bed & Bread Club monthly giving program and planned gift opportunities at www.cityunionmission.org.

With In-kind Gifts: Your donations of food, new and gently used clothing, and other household goods help us meet the basic needs of those we serve.

By Sharing Time and Talent: Your partnership with the Mission as a volunteer allows us to serve and care for an increasing number of hurting men, women and children.

Learn more about how you can connect with City Union Mission—visit www.cityunionmission.org.

2010 Services at a Glance

364,057 meals served (5% increase over 2009)

145,055 beds provided

696 decisions for Christ

4,845 people requested shelter through the Hotline for the Homeless

470 kids attended Camp CUMCITO (14% increase over 2009)

9,218 patients seen in Medical Services

Ministry Expenses:

Program Services 77%
General Administration 8%
Development 15%

Ministry Income

Contributions 69%
In-Kind Gifts 24%
Receiving Center 3.5%
Miscellaneous 2%
Investment 1.5%

Total Annual Revenue (including bequests)

FY2010 $10,859,184*
^{*An additional $168,274 in revenue was received for the Building the Walls that Rebuild Lives capital campaign.}

FY2009: $8,564,379*
^{*An additional $1,271,515 in revenue was received for the Building the Walls that Rebuild Lives capital campaign.}

FY2008: $9,017,580*
^{*An additional $4,253,498 in revenue was received for the Building the Walls that Rebuild Lives capital campaign.}

_{Revenue and expense analysis collected in an independent audit by Clifton Gunderson LLP.
Visit www.cityunionmission.org for complete 2010 ministry statistics and audited financial statements.}

Give With Confidence

• City Union Mission is a member in good standing of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (www.ecfa.org).  ECFA is an accreditation agency dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public’s trust through adherence to seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship.

• Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org) has recognized City Union Mission as a 3-star charity, signifying it exceeds or meets industry standards and performs as well as or better than most charities in its Cause.  Charity Navigator examines how responsibly a charity functions day to day and how it is positioned to sustain its programs over time.

• City Union Mission is a member of the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions (www.agrm.org). The AGRM exists to proclaim the passion of Jesus toward the hungry, homeless, abused and addicted, and to accelerate quality and effectiveness in member missions.

• City Union Mission is a Kansas City BBB Accredited Charity, providing documentation that they meet basic standards in how they govern their organization, in the ways they spend their money, in the truthfulness of their representations, and in their willingness to disclose basic information to the public.

City Union Mission 2010 Board of Directors

Ulises Acosta—Federal Bureau of Prisons (retired)

Jack Austin—Kansas City, Missouri, School District (retired)

Kerry Classen—KC Consulting Services LLC.

James E. Ewan—McElligott, Ewan, Hall & Kimminau

Bruce L. Ladd—Department of Housing & Urban Development

David Langford—Burns & McDonnell

Claudette Mahurin—CPA

Alinda J. Murphy—Federal Reserve Bank

Binny Pearce—Kansas City, Missouri, School District (retired)

Charles "Chick" Post—self-employed contractor

Kenneth L. Riedemann—The Peterson Companies

Amanda Robinson—Shook, Hardy & Bacon

Cedar Robinson—CPA

Keith Rogers—Land Specialties Manufacturing

Mark Sewalson—Wachovia Securities

Pat Shelley—EL Associates

Mission Facilities

Administration Building
1100 E. 11th Street, Kansas City, MO

Men’s Center
Christian Life Center
1108 E. 10th Street, Kansas City, MO

Family Shelter
New Life Center
Vanderberg Youth Center
1310 Wabash, Kansas City, MO

Opportunity Farm
Hwy. 9, Warsaw, MO

Camp CUMCITO
Warsaw, MO

Second Chance Thrift Store
7740 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO
1229 E. 63rd Street, Kansas City, MO
2301 Lexington Avenue, Kansas City, MO

Thank You . . . from Those Whose Lives You’ve Touched!

On December 9, 2010, Andrew Jarrell (left) went home to be with the Lord.  A graduate of our Christian Life Program, Andrew—a past drifter and substance abuser—had become an inspiration to other men in the program during his battle with the cancer that claimed his life.  Before his passing, he had also begun to mend relationships with his loved ones, including his father, Jim (center) and brother, Josh (right).

“When Andrew left home, we were not on good terms, and it would be at least two years until I saw him again.  But when I heard of what he had found up there [at City Union Mission], I was very happy for him.  If there’s anything I’ve learned from Andrew, it’s that God doesn’t discriminate . . .  He just wants you!”  —Josh Jarell

“I was very unsure what was going to happen to us, but Isaac and I have both been welcomed and accepted and have grown closer to each other and God.  I promise I will make the most of my time here and become a person who can function in society and one day be in a position to give back to help someone else at the Mission!  Thank you from both of us for supporting City Union Mission!  — Annie and son Isaac, Family Shelter residents