Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas

Background

Established in 1956, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas (CCNEK) is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to serving vulnerable individuals and families across 21 counties in Northeast Kansas. As a ministry of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, CCNEK provides a comprehensive range of services aimed at stabilizing and strengthening communities, regardless of faith. The organization's mission is to offer help, hope, and hospitality through more than 30 programs, addressing immediate needs and fostering long-term self-sufficiency.

Key Strategic Focus

CCNEK's strategic focus centers on three primary pillars:

1. Family Stabilization: Providing essential services such as food assistance, clothing, shelter, and case management to address immediate needs.

2. Family Strengthening: Offering programs like financial education, employment services, and workforce development to promote economic empowerment and self-sufficiency.

3. Respect Life Services: Supporting life-affirming initiatives, including adoption services and pregnancy counseling.

By integrating these pillars, CCNEK aims to address both the immediate and long-term needs of the communities it serves.

Financials and Funding

In the fiscal year ending June 2023, CCNEK reported:

Total Revenue: $26,370,547

Total Expenses: $24,587,841

Net Assets: $8,429,795

Notably, 91% of every dollar donated directly supports programs and services. The organization is primarily funded through private donations, parish collections, fundraisers, appeals, and grants.

Pipeline Development

CCNEK continually develops and enhances its programs to meet the evolving needs of the community. Recent initiatives include:

Family Financial Transformations™: A 12-month program offering financial education and coaching to help families achieve economic self-sufficiency.

St. Rita’s Education and Workforce Advancement: Programs designed to eliminate barriers to education and provide skills necessary for employment improvement.

Kansas Loan Pool Project (KLPP): A loan refinance program aimed at eliminating high-interest payday or title loans by issuing participants new, low-interest loans coupled with financial education.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While CCNEK's primary focus is on direct service delivery, the organization leverages technology to enhance program effectiveness and outreach. This includes:

Data Management Systems: Utilizing comprehensive databases to track client services, measure program outcomes, and inform strategic decisions.

Digital Communication Platforms: Employing social media and email newsletters to engage with the community, share success stories, and mobilize support.

Online Resource Access: Providing digital portals for clients to access information about services, schedule appointments, and participate in virtual educational programs.

Leadership Team

CCNEK's leadership team comprises experienced professionals dedicated to the organization's mission:

Lauren Solidum: President and CEO

Oversees strategic direction and operations.

Compensation: $154,111.

Kevin Bentley: Chief Operating Officer

Manages daily operations and program implementation.

Compensation: $122,437.

Anthony Funk: Chief Financial Officer

Oversees financial management and reporting.

Compensation: $111,561.

Leadership Changes

In 2018, Lauren Solidum succeeded Kenneth Williams as President and CEO, bringing a renewed focus on program expansion and community engagement.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The nonprofit sector in Northeast Kansas is characterized by a diverse range of organizations addressing various social issues. Key trends include an increased emphasis on holistic services that combine immediate assistance with long-term empowerment strategies.

Competitor Analysis

While CCNEK operates uniquely within its faith-based framework, other organizations in the region offer overlapping services:

United Way of Greater Kansas City: Focuses on community impact through education, health, and financial stability programs.

Harvesters—The Community Food Network: Provides food assistance and related services across the region.

The Salvation Army of Kansas and Western Missouri: Offers a range of social services, including emergency assistance and rehabilitation programs.

CCNEK differentiates itself through its comprehensive, faith-based approach and deep integration within the local community.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

CCNEK collaborates with various entities to enhance service delivery:

Local Parishes and Schools: Engage in food drives and volunteer initiatives.

Corporate Partners: Provide funding, in-kind donations, and volunteer support.

Government Agencies: Partner on programs like refugee resettlement and housing assistance.

These partnerships amplify CCNEK's impact and resource availability.

Operational Insights

CCNEK's strategic considerations include:

Community-Centric Approach: Tailoring programs to meet the specific needs of diverse communities within the 21-county service area.

Volunteer Engagement: Leveraging a robust volunteer network to extend service capacity and community involvement.

Financial Stewardship: Maintaining transparency and efficiency, with 91% of funds directly supporting programs.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, CCNEK aims to:

Expand Workforce Development Programs: Enhance initiatives like St. Rita’s Education and Workforce Advancement to address employment barriers.

Strengthen Financial Education Services: Grow programs such as Family Financial Transformations™ to promote economic self-sufficiency.

Enhance Technological Infrastructure: Invest in digital platforms to improve service accessibility and operational efficiency.

By building on its existing strengths and community relationships, CCNEK is well-positioned to continue its mission of providing help, hope, and hospitality to those in need.