Discover how volunteers at the YMCA of Greater Kansas City are transforming lives, strengthening communities, and inspiring a movement of service across the KC metro.

In this episode, we explore the power of volunteer work at the YMCA, highlighting the stories of passionate community members who give their time to support youth programs, families, and neighbors. Hear firsthand accounts of what inspires volunteers, how service creates lifelong relationships, and why the YMCA's Spirit of Service culture continues to make such a powerful difference in Kansas City

Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.

Joining the conversation are Bill Gibson, Spirit of Service award winner, and Michelle Ford, Executive Director at Platte County YMCA, who help us shine a spotlight on the individuals bringing the Y's mission to life. Learn how YMCA volunteer opportunities support everything from food pantries and youth development to wellness, outreach, and community engagement — and why giving back is at the heart of who we are.

To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/

00:00 Introduction to the Movement Podcast

00:36 The Power of Volunteer Work at the YMCA

01:25 Meet Bill Gibson and Michelle Ford

02:01 Bill Gibson's Journey as a YMCA volunteer

06:06 Michelle Ford on Volunteer Energy

10:07 The Impact of Volunteering on the Community

13:52 Barriers to Volunteering and How to Overcome Them

15:55 The Emotional Rewards of Volunteering

17:21 Building a Family at the YMCA

18:55 Expanding YMCA Volunteer Efforts

28:01 The Importance of Volunteers at the YMCA

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Discover how the YMCA of Greater Kansas City's Pedaling for Parkinson's program is empowering individuals living with Parkinson's Disease through movement, education, and community support.

Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.

In this episode, we highlight Pedaling for Parkinson's, a transformative YMCA wellness program designed to help participants with Parkinson's Disease improve mobility, strength, and quality of life. Learn how the YMCA of Greater Kansas City addresses chronic diseases through evidence-based exercise programs, health education, and the power of community connection.

Joining the conversation are Sarah Srock, Program Director II at Platte County Community Center South, and Dr. Muhammad M. Nashatizadeh, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center, who share medical insights and inspiring stories behind this life-changing exercise program for Parkinson's Disease.

To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/

00:00 Welcome to the Movement: Celebrating 165 Years with the YMCA

00:36 Introduction to Platte County Community Center

01:13 Parkinson's Disease and the YMCA's Pedaling for Parkinson's Program

01:23 Meet the Experts: Sarah Schrock and Dr. Mohammed

05:00 Understanding Parkinson's Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis

10:31 The Impact of Exercise: Pedaling for Parkinson's

12:41 Emotional and Social Support for Parkinson's Patients

21:21 Success Stories and Future Aspirations

25:02 The Power of Community and Group Exercise

26:04 New Treatments and Research in Parkinson's Disease

31:47 Concluding Thoughts and Hopeful Messages

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Discover how Harvesters and the YMCA of Greater Kansas City are tackling food insecurity through community partnerships, volunteerism, and support for families in need.

In this episode, we explore the critical issue of food security and insecurity in the Kansas City metro. Hear inspiring stories of volunteerism, community trust, and partnership that show how the YMCA and Harvesters are working together to provide hope and dignity to those in need.

Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.

In this episode, Mark is joined by Elizabeth Keever, Chief Resource Officer at Harvesters, and Jim Hawkins, Spirit of Service honoree and longtime YMCA volunteer, to share how the Providence YMCA's food pantry is making a difference in the community and how volunteers are leading the fight against hunger.

To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/

00:00 Introduction to the Movement Podcast

00:35 Food Security Discussion with Elizabeth Keffer and Jim Hawkins

01:51 Jim Hawkins' Volunteer Journey

03:06 Elizabeth Keffer on Food Insecurity

03:52 The Role of Volunteers

04:59 Harvesters' Mission and Impact

06:47 Partnerships and Community Impact

11:48 Innovative Approaches to Tackling Hunger

17:57 Challenges and Future of Food Security

30:02 Encouragement to Volunteer and Conclusion

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Discover how the YMCA's New American Welcome Center in Kansas City is transforming immigrant lives through community, belonging, and support.

In this episode, we highlight the North Kansas City YMCA and its work as a New American Welcome Center, supporting one of the most diverse populations in the Kansas City metro. Hear powerful stories of immigrant integration, community belonging, and youth development that show how the YMCA builds bridges across cultures.

Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.

In this episode Mark is joined by Executive Director Andrea Toney, Program Coordinator Aracely Van Kirk, and ESL graduate Mene share how the YMCA of Greater Kansas City empowers individuals through English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, immigrant support services, and a commitment to inclusion and belonging.

To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/

00:00 Welcome to The Movement: Celebrating 165 Years

01:05 Introduction to the North Kansas City YMCA

01:37 The New American Welcome Center: A Hub for Immigrant Support

02:47 Belonging Begins With Us: Creating Inclusive Spaces

03:18 Meet the Team: Stories of Impact and Inspiration

07:47 The Importance of Learning English

09:11 Building Community Through Programs and Events

21:10 Welcoming Week: How to Get Involved

23:10 Final Thoughts: Fostering Belonging and Inclusion

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🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kansascityymca

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In this episode of The Movement, we find ourselves at the Best Buy Teen Tech Center in the North Kansas City YMCA.

Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.

At the Best Buy Teen Tech Center, we explore the integration of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) into youth programming. Hear inspiring stories from Tang, the center's director, and DeNiro and Belle-Ange, as they discuss their personal journeys, the power of mentorship, and the transformative impact of the North KC YMCA's Best Buy Teen Tech Center. Discover how this dynamic space fosters creativity, breaks the digital divide, and prepares teens for lifelong success.

'The Movement' is the official podcast of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where we explore stories of transformation, inclusion, and community impact. From its roots 165 years ago to its vibrant role today, the Y continues to build strong foundations for youth, families, and neighborhoods. In each episode, we spotlight real stories from members, staff, and leaders who embody the Y's commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Tune in for inspiring conversations, local history, and the latest on how the YMCA is shaping a better future for all.

To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/

00:00 Welcome to The Movement: Celebrating 165 Years

00:53 Introduction to the Best Buy Teen Tech Center

01:49 Meet the Alumni: Belle-Ange and DeNiro

03:34 Tang's Journey and Vision

04:55 Impactful Projects and Personal Growth

13:04 The Role of Volunteers and Mentors

17:38 Building Trust and Expression

23:44 Fostering Leadership in Returning Participants

24:39 Journey from Participant to Staff Member

27:42 Encouraging Teens to Join the Teen Tech Center

29:59 Impact of Best Buy's Investment

32:06 Promoting the Teen Tech Center and Community Relationships

35:26 Final Thoughts and Reflections

35:36 Rapid Fire Questions

39:54 Concluding Remarks and Future Vision

Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.

In this episode, we explore the transformative impact of the YMCA's S.P.A.R.K! program, designed to combat summer learning loss and ignite student success through academic support and enrichment activities. Featuring insights from Zach Patterson, a teacher at the SPARK Program at Oak Grove Elementary, and heartwarming stories from young campers, Melena and Tyler, this episode highlights how SPARK is making a meaningful difference in the lives of Kansas City's youth. Get inspired by these remarkable journeys and learn how programs like SPARK are building stronger, more confident readers and learners.

'The Movement' is the official podcast of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where we explore stories of transformation, inclusion, and community impact. From its roots 165 years ago to its vibrant role today, the Y continues to build strong foundations for youth, families, and neighborhoods. In each episode, we spotlight real stories from members, staff, and leaders who embody the Y's commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Tune in for inspiring conversations, local history, and the latest on how the YMCA is shaping a better future for all.

00:00 Welcome to the Movement: Celebrating 165 Years

00:35 Season Finale Kickoff

01:14 Igniting Summer Learning with Spark Program

02:23 Meet the SPARK Program Team

03:11 Success Stories and Student Experiences

06:08 The Unique Structure of SPARK

07:22 The Impact of Spark on the Turner Community

09:45 Daily Life at SPARK Camp

12:40 Using Technology to Enhance Learning

15:34 Meeting Students Where They Are

18:40 Student Progress and Confidence

20:13 Impact of SPARK Programs

21:52 The Joy of Learning and Playing

23:56 Grant Opportunities and Future Vision

26:27 Teacher's Perspective and Student Interaction

32:11 Final Thoughts and Lightning Round

36:32 Conclusion and Call to Action

#YMCAofKC #FocusForward #KCMetro #KansasCity #YMCAprograms #SPARK #SPARKprogram #YMCASPARK #SummerLearningLoss #SummerLearning #EducationSupport #OutOfSchoolTimeLearning #AfterschoolPrograms #YouthEducation #ReadingPrograms #KidsPrograms #YouthDevelopment #EmpoweringYouth #ConfidentLearners #InspiringYoungMinds #BuildingFutureLeaders

Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.

In this episode, we explore the LiveSTRONG program at the YMCA — an evidence-based health and wellness initiative for those diagnosed with cancer. Hear the inspiring story of cancer survivor Maura, her supportive husband Ricky, and their coach, Kim. Discover how LiveSTRONG provides physical rehabilitation, emotional support, and mental wellness resources — helping individuals rebuild strength and confidence in their lives post-cancer diagnosis. Learn about the community, relationships, and personal growth fostered by LiveSTRONG at the Y, and hear inspiring stories that underscore the program's significance.

'The Movement' is the official podcast of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where we explore stories of transformation, inclusion, and community impact. From its roots 165 years ago to its vibrant role today, the Y continues to build strong foundations for youth, families, and neighborhoods. In each episode, we spotlight real stories from members, staff, and leaders who embody the Y's commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Tune in for inspiring conversations, local history, and the latest on how the YMCA is shaping a better future for all.

To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/

00:00 Welcome to the Movement: Celebrating 165 Years of Impact

00:42 Olathe Family YMCA: A Legacy of Community Service

01:18 Live Strong at the YMCA: Empowering Cancer Survivors

01:38 Meet the Participants: Stories of Strength and Resilience

02:06 The Structure and Benefits of Live Strong Program

11:29 Maura's Journey: Overcoming Cancer with Support

20:19 Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Acceptance

21:26 Emotional Reflections and Group Support

23:16 Personal Discoveries and Strength

24:08 Family Support and Community

28:08 The Importance of Alumni and Continuous Involvement

30:23 Encouragement and Advice for Caregivers

34:26 Signing Up and Final Thoughts

Welcome to The Movement! Join us as we celebrate 165 years of impact with the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of water safety with guests Sabrah Parsons, Aquatics Director for the Kansas City YMCAs, and the Mayor of Kansas City, Quinton Lucas. Amid sharing heartfelt and tragic stories, they highlight the critical need for swim lessons and water safety education across communities, especially underserved ones. Learn about the significant efforts and partnerships that have emerged to prevent drowning incidents and the ongoing mission to ensure 'not one more.' Hear stories of resilience, community collaboration, and the tireless efforts to make a difference.

'The Movement' is the official podcast of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, where we explore stories of transformation, inclusion, and community impact. From its roots 165 years ago to its vibrant role today, the Y continues to build strong foundations for youth, families, and neighborhoods. In each episode, we spotlight real stories from members, staff, and leaders who embody the Y's commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Tune in for inspiring conversations, local history, and the latest on how the YMCA is shaping a better future for all.

To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Kansas City- Let's Go! https://kansascityymca.org/

00:00 Welcome to the Movement: Celebrating 165 Years with the YMCA

00:49 Exploring the Kirk Family YMCA in Downtown Kansas City

01:25 The Importance of Water Safety

02:07 Historical Impact: YMCA's Role in Swim Lessons

02:51 Meet Our Guests: Saber Parsons and Mayor Quinton Lucas

03:41 Personal Stories: Saber Parsons' Journey

05:25 Mayor Quinton Lucas on Water Safety and Community

14:07 Tragic Stories and Community Response

19:40 Collaborative Efforts for Water Safety

28:06 Call to Action: Preventing Drowning in Our Communities

30:01 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

#YMCAofKC #FocusForward #KCMetro #kansascity