Real change begins at the grassroots level – in our neighborhoods and community organizations. In Kansas City, where every block has its own story, KC Common Good is listening and acting. As we expand our efforts across the region, we have developed a clearly defined strategic plan for our organization. But it’s more than just a plan; it’s a promise to build peace and opportunity with the people who live closest to the challenges.
Violence prevention and community safety have never been more urgent. As Kansas City stands at a crossroads, KC Common Good is stepping forward with a roadmap shaped by voices from our neighborhoods, leaders who care deeply, and partners committed to lasting change.
The Voices Behind the Plan
This didn’t happen alone. It was born from conversations in living rooms, community centers, and neighborhood meetings. It reflects the hopes and concerns of those closest to the pain and the power of collaboration.
“This plan was built with passion, clarity, and a deep belief in what’s possible for Kansas City and our partners across the region. This is a moment to accelerate, not to be complacent. We are resetting expectations for safety and livability, and this moment demands bold leadership and sustained commitment to the future our community deserves.” – Klassie Alcine, CEO, KC Common Good
“KC Common Good is approaching this strategic plan with clear purpose—listening attentively to the voice of the community, grounding every decision in what we hear, and staying true to our mission to build a safer, more hopeful future for all.” – Monsignor Stuart Swetland, President, Donnelly College.
This plan is the foundation of a movement that starts where change begins: in our neighborhoods.
How This Plan Came to Be
Over the past year, KC Common Good worked with residents, nonprofits, business leaders, city leaders, and grassroots organizers to understand what’s working, and where we have room to grow. We paired data-driven insights from our partners at UMKC, KCPD and the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office with lived experiences to create a plan that is both practical, future-thinking, and deeply human.
To do this, we engaged Parker Advisory Group to skillfully guide our staff and board through a five-month strategic planning process. The result? A four-year strategy focused on peace, opportunity, and resilience—crafted by and for Kansas City.
“Throughout the strategic planning process, one thing was very clear: KC Common Good’s strongest path forward is grounded in listening to and collaborating with the community it serves. By elevating community voices and aligning its growth around their lived needs, KCCG is positioning itself to expand with purpose, equity, and lasting impact.” – Tammy Edwards, Managing Partner, Parker Advisory Group
What’s Next
Our plan centers on five priorities that will guide our work:
Center Neighborhoods: Expand the Village Initiative to 10 neighborhoods and advocate for policies that strengthen communities.
Financial Stability: Build internal capacity with new staff and sustainable funding to support long-term impact.
Lead the Ecosystem: Unite public safety efforts with real-time data and collaborative action.
Strengthen Violence Prevention: Support nonprofits serving justice-involved youth and launch a public awareness campaign to increase community resilience.
Secure Meaningful Support: Engage businesses and philanthropies to invest in neighborhoods most impacted by crime.
This isn’t just a checklist. It’s a shared journey toward a safer, stronger Kansas City.
“Hope is one of the most powerful things we can provide to Kansas City. Hope that there is a brighter future ahead for all residents. This plan is how we make it part of Kansas City’s DNA.” – Jeffrey Simon, Chairman of the KC Common Good Board
Play Your Part
At a moment when the Kansas City community has the chance to create safer neighborhoods with more opportunity for the future, we invite you to join us. Explore the full strategic plan and make today your first step toward being part of the common good.
