I Invest My Time, Talent, and Treasure Because I've Been Without a Home

It’s not hard to invest time, money and energy to an organization like Sheffield Place when you've experienced the devastation of being homeless.  

When my family’s home burned down, we experienced being without a home for a good while.  Relatives came to our aid but most of our basic supplies and cherished items went up in smoke.  

What I learned from that experience is that it’s important to have people and organizations in the community that know the importance of resourcing mothers and children. It’s one thing to provide shelter but it is another thing to teach mothers how to create and sustain healthy homes.  

Sheffield Place not only provides safe shelter but tools our families so they can manage their own lives.  In my opinion, this is the best part about Sheffield Place – teaching mothers and their children how to be self-sufficient in all areas of their lives. It’s a generational shift and I remain committed to making sure the mission continues. 

- Dionne M. King, Board Member, Sheffield Place

Tammy Edwards (left) and Dionne King (right)
at Off the Wall 2015

 

Why I Support Sheffield Place

Lundy Joyce, MS, MSW

Chair, Sheffield Place Advisory Council

I became aware of Sheffield Place through my volunteer activities at Kansas City Young Matrons. KCYM participates in writing and addressing thank-you notes several times a year and organizes a collection one month every year of “in kind” donations.  A member at KCYM invited me to “Off the Wall” which is one of the fundraisers Sheffield Place holds every year.  These experiences led me to support the nomination of Sheffield Place to become the beneficiary of the KCYM Magic Ball in 2021.

I was impressed after these interactions with the staff and learning the mission of Sheffield Place and looked forward for ways to continue my support.  Being on the Advisory Board allows me the opportunity to participate in contributions to the two primary fundraisers: “Off the Wall” in October and the annual Golf Tournament in June.  The “Back to School” cookout in August provides a fun opportunity to interact with moms and their children while providing backpacks with school supplies.  In October, a safe atmosphere is provided for the families to “Trunk or Treat,” and everyone dresses up in their favorite costume. These are just a few examples of activities created by Sheffield Place that connect families, staff, and volunteers.

There are many aspects of Sheffield Place that have earned my respect.  Their mission is “To empower homeless mothers and their children to heal from their trauma and become self-sufficient.”   They accept women who are continuing to struggle with addiction and their children. The program provides structure and services in a safe environment. The staff is accepting, kind and communicates their expectations.

Much of the success of Sheffield Place can be attributed to the staff.  They are dedicated and experienced.  They spend a great deal of time and effort acknowledging the community and volunteers that provide support.  They are genuine with their gratitude.  It is not surprising that they receive recognition for their efforts.  For example, they have received a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator 8 years in a row establishing their focus on transparency.

It is my goal to continue to support Sheffield Place and the women and children who are benefitting from this necessary and successful organization. 

Lundy (left) at KCYM ceremonial check presentation

Lundy at Trunk or Treat

Lundy with other KCYM members addressing 
a holiday mailing