Children's Services Fund of Jackson County

06/15/2026

We are so excited to introduce you to two new members of the CSF Finance Team: Laurie Simpkins and Carolyn Knapp! Laurie (left) has joined us as our Accounting Supervisor, a new position that provides support to our CFO while also providing oversight to our Accounts Payable Specialist. Carolyn (right) is our new Accounts Payable Specialist, working to ensure partner reimbursements flow smoothly and efficiently. The work of our finance team is essential as we steward public dollars with a dual-focus on accountability and transparency.

06/12/2026

On National Children’s Day, we celebrate the joy and innocense of childhood. The primary aim of National Children’s Day is to recognize the importance of children in our lives and to promote their well-being. It serves as a reminder to value the contributions of children to society now and in the future, and ensure their needs are met. Every child deserves the opportunity to feel seen and supported, and to grow safely and with confidence. When we invest in children, we strengthen families, we strengthen communities, and we build a brighter future for us all. Together, we can create a community of resilient and thriving children and youth.

06/09/2026

On National Children's Day, we celebrate more than the joy, creativity, and potential of children — we also recognize our shared responsibility to invest in their well-being and future.

At the Children’s Services Fund of Jackson County, we know that supporting children also means supporting the families and caregivers who help them thrive. Through our Family Support Interventions service area, CSF invests in home- and community-based services that strengthen protective factors, promote stability, and support the well-being of the whole family. These approaches recognize that children do best when families are connected to the resources, relationships, and supports they need.

When communities invest in children and families today, we help build resilient and thriving youth for tomorrow.

06/04/2026

Our team members spent much of the week attending the Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO) national conference in Boston. Continuous learning equips us in our work of investing in partners who support resilient and thriving .

06/01/2026

During Pride Month, we celebrate identity, resilience, and community. We can also use this moment to listen, learn, and support efforts that help LGBTQ+ transition-age youth access safe housing and affirming care. By raising awareness, investing in trusted community partners, and advocating for systems that protect every young person’s dignity, we move closer to a future where all youth have the chance to thrive. Read more in our latest blog!

Pride Month is a time to celebrate the strength, visibility, and contributions of LGBTQ+ people and communities. It is also a time to deepen our awareness of the barriers many still face. For transition-age youth—young people moving from adolescence into adulthood—those barriers can include hous...

05/20/2026

As the school year winds down, support shouldn’t.

At Citizens of the World Charter Schools - Kansas City, school-based mental health services help students navigate end-of-year transitions with consistency and care.

🏫 Support is built into the school day
💬 Students have trusted adults to turn to
🔄 Care continues even as routines change

When support stays consistent, students are better prepared for what comes next.


https://bit.ly/3CWiVrY

05/18/2026

Mental health starts early, and it shapes everything that follows.

🧠 Early emotional support helps kids build confidence and resilience
🏫 It supports better outcomes in school and daily life
🤝 It strengthens families and communities over time

In Jackson County, many children face challenges that can impact their emotional well-being, which is why early, consistent support is so important. When we invest in children’s mental health today, we help create stronger, healthier communities for the future.


https://bit.ly/4df2fcY

05/12/2026

Transitions can be tough, especially when school routines shift into summer schedules.

A few simple ways to support kids emotionally:
🕒 Keep a loose routine for consistency
💬 Talk about what to expect
❤️ Make space for feelings and questions

Programs like Camp Fire Heartland also help provide structure, connection, and support for kids throughout the summer months.

A little preparation can go a long way in helping kids feel confident and ready for what’s next.


https://bit.ly/4bIJNcj

05/10/2026

Today, we celebrate the caregivers who show up every day for our kids. Happy Mother's Day!

Whether you’re a mom, guardian, grandparent, or someone who steps in with love and support, you play a vital role in nurturing children’s emotional well-being and helping them feel safe, seen, and supported. Strong families help build strong futures.

05/08/2026

Supporting children’s mental health takes all of us. Empowering Parents KC is helping lead the way by equipping families with the tools, guidance, and support they need to care for their children’s emotional well-being. When parents feel supported, kids are better positioned to succeed at home, in school, and in life.


https://bit.ly/40PQJzz