A plan to reallocate $400,000 from the Park Drive Neighborhood Revitalization project to the Friends of Yates Domestic Violence shelter repair moved ahead at Monday night’s Unified Government Administration and Human Services Committee meeting.
Wilba Miller, director of Community Development, said $570,000 had been set aside last year for the Park Drive revitalization effort.
However, she said she received word from the domestic violence shelter that they needed a roof badly. It is the only domestic violence shelter located in Kansas City, Kansas, according to the UG authorities.
Miller recommended reallocating the Park Drive funding to the life-saving services of the domestic violence shelter emergency repair project. Currently, the UG is the only funding source for the roof repair, according to Miller.
The remaining $170,000 left in the fund would go to the Neighborhood Revitalization project to install a new disc golf course at City Park, she said.
A public hearing may be held March 31, with a 30-day comment period, she said.
If approved, this change in the plans for the funding would have to be submitted to the Housing and Urban Development Department for approval, she said. The category for funding would be the same, a public facility improvement, she said.
If the roof repair did not require the entire $400,000, the leftover funds would be redirected back to the City Park project, according to Miller.
The motion passed the UG Committee unanimously and will go to the full UG Commission for approval.
At the Friends of Yates 20th annual Domestic Violence Community Luncheon on Oct. 29. (Photo from Friends of Yates) At the Friends of Yates 20th annual Domestic Violence Community Luncheon on Oct. 29. (Photo from Friends of Yates) Mayor-elect Tyrone Garner spoke at the 20th annual Domestic Violence Community Luncheon on Oct. 29 sponsored by Friends of Yates. (Photo from Friends of Yates)
Approximately one out of three women and one out of four men will experience domestic or sexual violence in their lifetime.
According to the 2019 KBI report, in the state of Kansas one domestic violence murder occurred every 11 days, one domestic violence incident occurred every 23 minutes and Kansas law enforcement made one domestic violence arrest every 47 minutes, 35 seconds.
A tradition for over 30 years, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (NDVAM) is observed for the purpose of mourning those who have died as a result of the abuse, celebrating those who have survived, raising public consciousness about violence in the home and encouraging individuals to help eliminate it.
On Oct. 29, 2021, Friends of Yates held its 20th Annual Domestic Violence Community Luncheon in honor of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This event was held at the Friends of Yates Center where community agencies, organizations, faith leaders, community members, partners, state, local and government officials gathered to bring awareness of this serious social ill as well as celebrate and recognize the honorees for their collaborative efforts to assist survivors of domestic violence to live violence-free lives.
The program was led by Christel Bell, from Fox 4 News. The Rev. Dr. Desmond Lamb, pastor, Forest Grove Baptist Church, delivered a very touching invocation followed by a warm welcome extended by Dr. Marvin McIntosh, Friends of Yates Board secretary. The occasion was given by LaDora Lattimore, special events coordinator.
Rebbecca Johnson, Friends of Yates program director, addressed the audience by giving the 2021 program overview of Friends of Yates program – The Della Gill-Joyce H. Williams Domestic Violence Center (DG-JHWC) for Survivors of Domestic Violence and their dependent children.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic continued to impact victims and survivors, The Della Gill-Joyce H. Williams Domestic Violence Center continued to provide services which included shelter and supportive housing services to over 180 adult and 81 child survivors of domestic violence, answered over 9,749 calls which included not only crisis calls and safety planning, but information and referrals and provided over 10,000 hours of supportive services to residential and non-residential survivors and their children in the areas of personal advocacy, court-legal advocacy, safety planning, translation services, economic advocacy, housing advocacy, transportation, domestic violence education and support groups, substance abuse counseling, individual therapy and mental health counseling, emergency financial assistance and child advocacy just to name a few. Della Gill – Joyce H. Williams center provided virtual and in person community outreach and awareness to over 3,600 individuals and groups. They also assisted 71 individuals with either obtaining or maintaining permanent housing by providing rent, deposit, and utility assistance.
Greetings were shared by several government officials and their offices which included: WYCO UG Commissioners Gayle E. Townsend, and Thomas Burroughs; Mayor-Elect Tyrone Garner, retired deputy chief, KCKPD; Carla Whiteside-Hicks, director of TANF and Early Childhood Programs, Kansas DCF; and a message via prerecorded video from U.S. Congresswoman Sharice Davids.
This year’s featured artists included a song selection by Paul Burnett of Eighth Street Baptist Church, who serenaded the audience with a performance of ”Lord I’ve Tried” and “Well Done.” Also, Stacy Putman of Heritage Dance Ministry performed a liturgical dance to “It’s Not Over (When God is in It)” by James Fortune featuring Jason Nelson. After these two powerful performances, Chynna McDaniel, case manager, shared the story of a courageous survivor participating in the DG-JHWC program, her personal story of victimization and how she has found strength and gained her freedom back since coming to the shelter for services.
Carolynn Washington, client service-shelter manager, then performed a soul stirring, self-written lyrics to honor the honorees to the tune of “When We All Come Together,” her personalized rendition of “When We All Get to Heaven” before the “Clyde E. Townsend-Rosalyn Brown Distinguished Service Award” recipients were announced.
In recognition of extraordinary community efforts to not only end violence, but to also be a support and or resource to survivors; community activists, officials and advocates received the “Clyde A. Townsend-Rosalyn Brown Distinguished Service Award.” The well-deserved honorees of this award have individually or collectively impacted the lives of survivors of abuse. Judge Timothy Dupree of the 29th Judicial District of Kansas and his wife Tamara Dupree presented this year’s honorees with their awards. The 2021 Clyde A. Townsend-Rosalyn Brown recipients are Chelsea Barto, Mission Continues K.C., Commissioner Melissa Bynum, Rep. and Commissioner Tom Burroughs, Errol Cade, Operations Business manager, Oak Ridge Missionary Baptist Church-Youth Development School, U.S .Rep. Sharice Davids, Beth Davis Kansas City Kiwanis Club, Joseph Gethers, Friends of Yates board member, Joyce Grover executive director, Kansas Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence; Sheila Hollis, TANF Initiatives Program Manager, Kansas DCF-EES, Claudine Horton, Metropolitan Baptist Temple, Commissioner Harold Johnson, Todd Jordan, chief community engagement officer, United Way of Greater Kansas City, Jessica McClellan, founder-president, Giving Hope and Help Inc., Robert “Bob” Milan, Sr., president of BPU Board of Directors and Friends of Yates Board of Directors, Commissioner Jane Philbrook, Rob Santel, director of Housing Solutions, Cross-Lines Community Outreach, Mr. and Mrs. Ken and Cassandra Savage of The Savage Group, Elaine L. Stroud, director of housing operations KCK Housing Authority, Commissioner Gayle E. Townsend, Carla Whiteside-Hicks, director of TANF and Early Childhood Programs, Kansas DCF and Robin Winner, co-executive director, Synergy Services. All received a special honor and thanks for their dedication and service.
LaDora Lattimore, special events coordinator and retired executive director-CEO of Friends of Yates, spoke of the birth of Friends of Yates 43 years ago when it severed ties with the YWCA and became its own entity. The organization has come a long way but it’s going to take the continued support, especially monetarily, of the community and partners to ensure Friends of Yates is able to continually provide the vital, lifesaving services to survivors fleeing domestic violence.
Lattimore appealed to guests to give what they could monetarily as well as thanked those who have continued to support the agency. Bob Milan Sr. gave closing remarks and presented Christel Bell, who received an honor of recognition as mistress of ceremony. The benediction was delivered by Dr. Rev. Desmond Lamb to close out the afternoon celebration.
The usual fellowship over a full course plated meal that has always been provided for participants and guests at past luncheons did not take place as a precautionary measure and COVID-19 safety guidelines. However, attendees were provided a gourmet boxed lunch at the close of the program, prepared by Mennie Brown, culinary services coordinator and Gregory Estis, assistant culinary advocate. Elegant, inspired corsages presented to program participants and honorees were provided by event photographer, Leslie Burleson and honoree plaques were designed by Ed’s Trophies and Awards.
Upcoming events include the Holiday at the Apollo Gala annual meeting and benefit Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, and the 41st Annual Black Men and Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony recognizing contributions and achievements made by African Americans within the community and beyond in February 2022 to honor “Black History Month.”
Current events, initiatives and programs of Friends of Yates, Inc. include Black Men and Women of Distinction Program; (CACE) Crime Awareness Coordinating Effort; National Domestic Violence Awareness Month Evening of Praise and Community Luncheon, and the Holiday at the Apollo Gala. The premier program is the Della Gill-Joyce H. Williams Center for Survivors of Domestic Violence and their dependent children. Some of the many programs offered through DG-JHWC include; (PAVE) Pathway to Advocacy and Violence free living and Economic empowerment, which is a collaborative program between Friends of Yates and the Department of Children and Family Services, to provide domestic violence and sexual assault services to TANF recipients and families receiving childcare and food stamp benefits. BridgeSpan Healthcare Advocacy Program; Emergency Shelter; Supportive Housing; Court/Legal Advocacy; Mental Health Services; Child Care; Translation Services; Community Outreach and Education; Strength-based Case Management; 24-hour Crisis Hotline, Job Coaching and Economic Empowerment.
To gain further information about Friends of Yates Inc., or upcoming events, contact the administrative office at 913-321-1566. The community is invited to become a partner, volunteer, or donor for the services provided by Friends of Yates, Inc.
Information from Carlen Davis, community outreach educator, Friends of Yates
In honor of Black History Month, Friends of Yates Inc. is inviting the community to celebrate the accomplishments of 33 African American community leaders.
The 40th Annual Black Men and Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony will be held at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, 2020, at Forest Grove Baptist Church, 1417 N. 9th St., Kansas City, Kansas.
It is because of the groundbreaking accomplishments of African-American leaders and pioneers of the past, determined to see positive change; that African-American leaders and pioneers of today continue to break barriers and reach new heights and achievements that were once considered impossible, according to a spokesman for Friends of Yates. These activists, doctors, lawyers, educators, entrepreneurs, and countless others make the difference in the community, society, and world.
Their commitment, hard work, determination and relentless drive for change and equality has contributed to history and propels individuals into the future, eager to follow in the footsteps of those who have already paved the way, the spokesman stated.
The several men and women to be inducted into the Black Men and Women of Distinction include Edwin Birch, Dana Bostic, Darrell Calhoun, Ashley Campbell, the Rev. Charles E. Cofield Jr., Joy Cofield, Ludelia Cowan, Dr. Khiara Drew, Susie Gordon, Kenya Hicks, Jeffrey Hollinshed, Dianna Howard Kolen, Dionne King, Bridget Locke, Khadejah McIntosh-Taylor, Dr. James McIntosh, Dr. Mallory McIntosh, Rebecca McKeel, Adrianne Perry, Barton Richardson, Linda Robins, Geoffrey Sanders, Patricia Sevier, Gia Smith, Kendra Tyler, Reginald Watkins, Marqueia Watson, the Rev. Dexter White and LaMonica Upton.
Lagracella Roland has been named “Portrait of a Black Woman” this year. The award will be presented by her sister-in-law, Carlen Davis.
The “Portrait of a Black Man” will be awarded to Carl Roland Jr., presented by his sister, Carlen Davis.
Lagracella Omran-Roland is a native of Las Vegas. Her introduction to the world of entertainment began when she was a small tot, singing and dancing for stadium-filled arenas; growing up studying classical piano and clarinet while continuing studies in opera, jazz and ballet, ultimately becoming a professional dancer, international model and actress. Her most notable award is becoming the first African American Miss Nevada USA. With this honor, she was selected to join Bob Hope and the USO Tour traveling the country singing and dancing for military troops around the world.
With her many talents, Omran-Roland landed her dream job as a professional chorus line dancer in Donn Arden’s Jubilee Show created for Bally’s Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Omran-Roland was one of four African American female dancers selected to have an exclusive position, a featured role in a 150-cast musical styled extravaganza. They were known as the Ebony Line. Currently, KLEO has partnered with producer and husband, Carl Roland, in forming Mu’Sonique Records and developing a new-age transforming band known as Dustyy Lane. KLEO is lead singer, writer and arranger for Dustyy Lane. In 2018 KLEO’s hit single entitled “Now It’s Christmas,” featured on her double Christmas album, Dustyy Lane’s Magical Christmas and Acoustic Christmas with Dustyy Lane, topped Europe’s Indi Music Charts at No. 5. KLEO is currently recording an adult contemporary album project scheduled to be released in the summer of 2020.
Carl Roland is a successful entrepreneur with focuses on music and real estate. Roland is a real estate investor, music producer, composer and multi-instrumentalist with music releases ranging in the genres of R&B, pop, dance and instrumental recordings including smooth jazz and downtempo chill styled compositions. His vision exceeds music recordings, as he also is a composer for film and television scores. Roland migrated from Kansas City to Los Angeles by the age of 20. He created his first production company, MoKutz, with his good friend who is also from Kansas City. Shortly thereafter, MoKutz engaged in several joint ventures earning him multiple gold and platinum Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certifications.
During his 30-year music career, he’s worked with some of the great musical artists including Patti Label, The Jacksons, Adina Howard, Seal, Melvin Riley and Jamie Foxx. His credits include songs released on Epic-Sony Records, MCA-Universal Records, Warner Brothers Records, Mecca Don-Eastwest Records, RCA Records and Perspective-A&M Records. One of his most notable works is the hit single entitled, “You” which he co-wrote and produced for Grammy nominated artist Jesse Powell earning Roland his third RIAA certified gold record. “You” topped out on the Billboard R&B chart at No. 2 and reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Also to be honored will be Angela Hobson-Hamilton and Dr. Marvin McIntosh with the 2020 Donald D. Sewing Service Award for their outstanding service and contribution to the community.
Angela Hobson-Hamilton is the president-founder of Compassionate Partners KC (CPKC), a nonprofit organization that partners with community agencies to offer self-esteem building services to children and youth experiencing family trauma and homelessness. She believes in order to help decrease the adverse effects of witnessing domestic violence, children must experience alternative forms of human interactions based on kindness, trust, dignity and respect. So together with her husband Howard, her sons Mark Jr., Nigel and family and friends, CPKC was formed in 2016. Hobson-Hamilton graduated from St. Luke’s College of Nursing in 1987 and has worked in various roles in hospitals in the metro. In her current position as clinical case manager for Truman Medical Center, Hobson-Hamilton became keenly aware of the limited community resources devoted to serving children and youth effected by violence and homelessness. This awareness encouraged her to transition her gifts to serve individuals in need from the bedside to community. Hobson-Hamilton is an active member of Christ Temple Church. Her organization serves approximately 750 children and provides approximately 1,100 cupcakes to help put smiles on children’s faces.
Dr. Marvin McIntosh is the medical director of the Community House of Wellness, Inc., instructor at The University of Linguistics and Future Learning and Instructor at The University of Phoenix. Dr. McIntosh returned to Kansas City in 2002 to fulfill the commitment he made to himself “to give back to my community.”
The Community House of Wellness Inc. combines western medicine with herbal medicine creating an integrative form of medical options for community members to consider. The Community House of Wellness Inc. sponsors a food program and an open forum for the public to provide up to date medical information. Although Dr. McIntosh is retired, his passion and love for giving drives him to continue with some form of medical consulting.
This celebration of accomplishments of African-Americans will spotlight some of Kansas City’s leaders and talent. Dia Wall, news anchor and reporter for KSHB-TV 41 Action News, will act as celebrity mistress of ceremony to help set the atmosphere.
Yates was organized and became a branch of the YWCA, Kansas City, Kansas, in 1913, and later reorganized as Friends of Yates; with a combined total of 106 years of serving the community. Friends of Yates Inc. has prevailed in providing comprehensive programming and services, meeting the ever-increasing demand for those who are underserved or underprivileged and in need, a spokesman stated.
Special events of Friends of Yates include Black Men and Women of Distinction event in recognition of Black History Month; Crime Awareness Coordinating Effort (CACE) event, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month – kicking off with the Evening of Praise, and culminating with the Community Luncheon and the Holiday at the Apollo Benefit Gala.
Some of the many programs offered through Della Gill – Joyce H. Williams Center include Pathway to Advocacy and Violence free living and Economic empowerment (PAVE) program, which is a collaborative program between Friends of Yates and the Department of Child and Families (DCF), to provide domestic violence and sexual assault services to families receiving TANF Food and Childcare assistance. Healthcare Advocacy Program (BridgeSpan); Emergency Shelter; Transitional Housing; Court Advocacy; Crime Victim Advocacy; Mental Health Services; Substance Abuse Counseling; Child Care; Translation Services; Community Outreach and Education; Strength-based Case Management; 24-hour Crisis Hotline, Job Coaching and Economic Empowerment. Friends of Yates Inc. has maintained excellence, proven by the countless testimonies of those who have been impacted by the rich legacy and heritage of this agency.
The Black Men and Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony is a free event open to the public. For more information about the event, or ways to volunteer or become a partner with Friends of Yates, contact Carlen Davis, community outreach educator at 913-321-1566.
Information from Carlen Davis, community outreach educator, Friends of Yates
