I would describe my introduction to Sheffield Place as a cold call that opened a world of opportunity. CEO/President Kelly Welch called my office at the East Patrol Division of the Kansas City Missouri Police Department and asked if I could attend an advisory council meeting at Sheffield Place. I agreed, without really understanding all the organization did. But over the course of several meetings, I began to understand how seriously Kelly and the incredible staff there pursued the organization’s mission and how that translated into tangible positive outcomes for those most vulnerable.
In addition to witnessing the Sheffield Place’s impact in the community, I have met some truly wonderful people and participated in events where I was able to meet clients whose lives have been totally changed, and in changing their lives, have changed the trajectory of their kids’ lives—it is truly amazing to see the potential people have when given the tools and opportunity to succeed. It has also been rewarding to meet the other board members who have donated time, money and talent to ensure Sheffield Place continues its success. I would challenge anyone to find a finer group.
After 34 years in law
enforcement, I understand how important and wonderful it can be to make a
difference. Sheffield Place makes a difference by bringing a calm to its
clients' lives and has given many women and their families a safe place to
live, and supported them to become wonderful mothers and productive
citizens—these are lives and families that would otherwise have been disrupted
by incarceration. I am truly honored to help in my small way in contributing to
Sheffield’s great success!
Rick Smith
KCPD Chief (retired)
