Empower our Young People

I strongly believe in the power of mentorship, which provides empowerment.  Throughout my life, I’ve had awesome mentors that have assisted and guided me through various stages of my life -- education, volunteerism, and employment.  The youth voice is often overlooked as many are often characterized by the source of crime and violence in the city. I will continue to be a stakeholder in the lives of Kansas City youth as I realize that youth empowerment is the direct link to breathing a fresh vitalization into the 3rd District. I will engage community youth in several projects ranging from post-secondary planning initiatives, afterschool programs, and other youth interests to ensure that the youth of today will cultivate a shared culture that will revitalize the community.

Embedded in every adult’s decision should be the betterment of our young people. Not only do we want to create a healthy, safe, and prosperous district for future generations, we also need to nurture healthy, strong and empowered youth to lead our district. I am committed to the intellectual and social growth of our youth through opportunities for volunteering with small businesses, increased after-school tutoring and expanded relationships with youth and city officials.
 
Plan:
Expose youth to a wide variety of career options and develop marketable job skills.
 
How:
Provide internship opportunities through the City for 3rd district youth.
 
Plan:
Increase mentoring opportunities for 3rd district youth.
 
How:
Partner with Boy and Girls Clubs, PREP-KC, Youthnet, the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department and other organizations.
 
Plan:
Expand tutoring programs for 3rd-district youth.
 
How:
• Connect with Kauffman Scholars, W.E.B. Dubois Learning Center, The Urban League of Greater Kansas City Education programand other organizations providing tutoring to improve their chances of academic success.

• Utilize repurposed KCMSD property to act as a tutoring hub and community center so 3rd-district youth have constructive after-school activities and a safe place to spend their leisure time.

Plan:
Ensure all 3rd-district children have access to high-quality, early-childhood education.

How:
Support the funding of KCMSD pre-K programs and nonprofit organizations providing early childhood programs, such as Operation Breakthrough.