Voluntary Service in Kansas CityHistory and VisionRainbow Mennonite Church, a part of the Sharing Community in Rosedale, has sponsored an MVS Unit since 1976 in order to provide the metropolitan KC area with community service workers. The mission of this unit is to respond to the legitimate needs of the local community that would otherwise go unmet due to limited funding and resources of the agencies that perform community services. The focus of unit assignments has been the Kansas City, Kansas region; however, placements are made further out in the metro area in certain situations. The unit provides its members with the opportunity to live in community with others who are committed to serve, to live a simple lifestyle and to worship and learn together. The MVS unit is fluid and is expected to change with time as its members have an opportunity to shape its style and direction. AssignmentsThe variety of opportunity is a strong point of the KC MVS program. We maintain regular contact with agencies providing services such as: Women’s and Children’s Advocacy/Counseling, G.E.D. teaching, Teaching & assisting with "at risk" youth, ESL teaching, Working with immigrant and refugee populations, Child care, Weatherization/Home Repair, Nutritionist, and more. Positions are also available for those with organizational and business skills. Unit House & NeighborhoodThe unit house is located in a low to middle class neighborhood in Kansas City, Kansas. The house has hardwood floors in most rooms. Unit members enjoy 5 spacious bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths, a modern kitchen, central A/C and a large basement for storage. The decor is an eclectic and comfortable mix. Public transportation in the KC metro area provides insufficient coverage, so members typically use unit cars to get around. Interstate access is very close to the house. Within very short driving distance are some excellent, affordable places to eat Kansas City barbecue and Mexican food. Rainbow Mennonite ChurchRainbow Mennonite Church is a vibrant, active group of about 250 people spanning a diverse range of ages and professions. Members commute from all over the metro area. For many years we have shared a building and our friendship with at least one or two other congregations. The church is committed to community outreach. We own and maintain a neighborhood park where we sponsor and host community activities. Additionally, we provide office space and other support for local community organizations and non-profits. Diversity and tolerance are celebrated in our church. Our nearly 100-year-old church building is currently undergoing some much-needed renovation. A committee consisting of about 8 people drawn from the church meets regularly with the MVS unit to provide support to unit members in whatever form necessary. A number of committee members have had VS or MCC experiences in their past. Contact the MVS Local Leadership. ClimateIf you like change of seasons youíll like Kansas City.Ý Spring and fall are typically very pleasant with temperatures in the 50ís to 70ís.Ý Summer temperatures are generally in the 80ís and 90ís with August usually being the hottest month. Winters are mild compared to the north but cold temperatures and sporadic snowfall are experienced here. City DescriptionGreater Kansas City comprises 11 counties and is home to over 1.6 million residents. It is the most centrally located principal US city. It is located on the state line between Kansas and Missouri at the point at which the Missouri River heads east toward St. Louis. Many people mistakenly think itís flat and dry here. In fact, KC is hilly and green with an abundance of trees. KC is known for many things, including excellent barbecue, jazz, and an abundance of fountains. Performing ArtsMissouri Repertory Theater State Ballet of Missouri Professional SportsKC Chiefs Football MuseumsNelson-Atkins Museum of Art Special LibrariesHarry S. Truman Library & Museum Other AttractionsWorlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun theme parks
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| For more information please contact the MVS Local Leadership. |