101 Years of Impact - Individuals & Families

101 Years. Countless Lives Changed.

For more than a century, City Union Mission has been a trusted Kansas City nonprofit and a place of hope and transformation for men, women, and children experiencing homelessness and financial challenges.

This September, as we celebrate 101 Years of Impact, we’re inviting you and your family to join us. We’ve gathered 20 practical ways individuals and families can give back in Kansas City, from volunteering to donating to simply spreading the news. If you’re searching for family volunteer opportunities in Kansas City or simple ways to support your community, you’ll find inspiration here.

Serving Meal

Why Your Involvement Matters

Every meal served. Every bed provided. Every life restored, it all begins with neighbors like you.

When individuals and families take action:

A struggling parent finds hope in the kindness of strangers.

Children learn the value of compassion and service.

The ripple effect strengthens the entire Kansas City community.

Your impact doesn’t have to be huge to be meaningful. Together, small acts of generosity create lasting change.

20 Ways Individuals and Families Can Make a Difference

Here are 20 family-friendly service ideas in Kansas City to support City Union Mission and celebrate 101 years of impact:

    1. Make a one-time donation – Support one of the most trusted Kansas City charity organizations. 
    2. Set Up Monthly Giving – Help the Mission sustain long-term programs.
    3. Shop at City Thrift Stores – Every purchase supports Mission guests.
    4. Donate Gently Used Clothing – If you’re asking, “Where can I donate clothes in Kansas City?”, this is the place.
    5. Sponsor a Holiday Meal – Provide a warm, joyful holiday for Mission guests.
    6. Donate Baby Supplies – Diapers, wipes, and formula for families in crisis.
    7. Create Hygiene Care Kits- A small gift with a big impact.
    8. Write Encouragement Cards – Words of hope can change someone’s day.
    9. Give a Grocery Gift Card – Offer flexibility for families to buy essentials.
    10. Host a Family Service Day – A great community service project idea.
    11. Organize a Neighborhood Drive – Collect school supplies, clothing, or hygiene items.
    12. Share Mission Posts on Social Media – Raise awareness of this Kansas City homeless shelter.
    13. Volunteer Together as a Family – From serving meals to sorting donations.
    14. Invite Friends on a Mission Tour  -Show them the impact firsthand.
    15. Celebrate Birthdays by Giving – Invite loved ones to donate instead of gifts.
    16. Provide Transportation Assistance – Bus passes or gas cards open new opportunities.
    17. Donate School Supplies – Help children in Kansas City start the year strong. 
    18. Host a Home Fundraiser – Raise funds while spending time with loved ones.
    19. Pray Daily for Guests and Staff – Spiritual support makes a difference.
    20. Join the Mission Newsletter – Stay updated on volunteer opportunities in Kansas C

Make It Easy: Download the Checklist

We’ve created a free downloadable Individuals & Families Checklist featuring all 20 ideas. Whether you try one a week or plan a family service day, this tool makes it easy to stay intentional.

Download Checklist

Start Today, Change Tomorrow

Getting involved is simple, but the results are life-changing. Your family’s service could be the turning point in someone’s story.

Donate a meal.

Share a post.

Volunteer for an afternoon.

 Every choice to love and serve adds up to something bigger: a stronger, more compassionate Kansas City.

Stay tuned for our weekly September series, where we’ll share ways churches, businesses, and donors can join the celebration. The 101 Ways to Impact button below to see the full list.

Volunteer
101 wAYS TO iMPACT