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Three graduates in caps and gowns stand smiling and posing together. At left, a logo reads "Great Jobs KC Scholars: Ten Years of Scholars, Ten Years of Impact." The words "RIPPLE EFFECT" appear at the bottom.

Ten Years of Scholars. Ten Years of impact

the ripple effect is real

Leave us a message and CELEBRATE with us! 

Tell us your SCHOLAR STORY and let’s celebrate this milestone together!

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Table of Contents

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO

A 2026 adult learner in a black dress shirt and vest stands outdoors with arms crossed, smiling confidently in front of a stone building.

Ten years ago, we embarked on a bold and vital mission: to expand opportunity, bridge systemic equity gaps, and open clear pathways to lifelong, family-sustaining success across our region. As I look back on this remarkable decade, I am filled with overwhelming pride, deep gratitude, and immense hope for the future.

A decade of impact is not measured merely by years on a calendar or numbers on a report. It is defined by thousands of individual lives transformed, families lifted into financial security, and communities enriched by talent, leadership, and purpose. Over the past 10 years, every milestone we have reached has proven what is possible when a community unites behind a shared vision of educational equity and economic mobility.

To our extraordinary Scholars: You are the core value of our mission. Congratulations on everything you have accomplished. Your courage to dream big, your commitment to overcoming obstacles, and your dedication to personal growth inspire us every single day. Whether you are walking across a graduation stage, launching a new career, or stepping into leadership in your field, you embody the true promise of this organization. We could not be prouder to stand beside you on your journey.

To our generous donors and philanthropic partners: Thank you for believing in our mission. Your vision, investment, and enduring commitment have provided more than funding; you have provided possibility. Every scholarship awarded, every workforce program launched, and every support system built exists because you chose to invest in the potential of our community. Your generosity will continue to pay dividends for generations to come.

To our dedicated community and corporate partners: Thank you for stepping up to build the ecosystem of opportunity our Scholars rely on. From universities and training centers to regional employers and local leaders, your collaboration ensures that our Scholars do not just earn credentials; they secure meaningful, rewarding careers. You have helped us build bridges where barriers once stood.

To our committed staff: Thank you for your dedication, passion, and heart. Behind every success story, every award, and every life changed is a team of devoted professionals who work tirelessly to guide, coach, and support our Scholars every step of the way. Your unwavering commitment is the foundation upon which this decade of impact was built.

As we celebrate this milestone, we do not simply look back at our successes; we look forward with purposeful optimism. The work we have accomplished over these 10 years is just the foundation. The next decade holds even greater promise as we expand our reach, deepen our community impact, and empower the next generation of leaders and innovators.

With gratitude and excitement for the future,

Earl

Text reads "Scholars First" in large letters on a blue-to-green gradient background, accented by green arrows pointing right—an inspiring visual for the 2026 adult learner pursuing new goals.

a mother's resolve: how tamera reimagined her future through healthcare training

Woman with curly hair and glasses smiles for a selfie in an office setting, wearing a blue jacket. Papers and office furniture are visible in the background, capturing a moment that celebrates Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.

TaMera, a single mother working a seasonal job, wanted to create a better future for herself and her son. Encouraged by a friend, she applied for the Great Jobs KC and SkillUp programs.

Though nervous at first, the program’s workshops helped rebuild her confidence. Initially interested in massage therapy, TaMera pivoted after consulting her SkillUp Advocate, Judith, who encouraged her to pursue healthcare. In April 2026, she enrolled in the Medical Assistant program at the Kansas City School of Phlebotomy.

Despite having no healthcare background—and facing challenges like learning to draw blood—TaMera found the training deeply rewarding. Driven by the goal of building a stable life and inspiring her son, she overcame self-doubt and embraced her potential to succeed.

TaMera is now employed as a Medical Assistant at Allergy and Asthma Specialist of Kansas City. 

“If anyone close to me has noticed, they noticed that I have been determined and proud of myself”.  I am overjoyed that this opportunity was presented to me, and I am grateful for everyone’s help along the way to becoming successful.” – TaMera, healthcare Scholar

To learn more about our Scholars and their success, please visit our SCHOLAR SUCCESS page.

A summer of

opportunitY

NSF logo with a blue globe featuring "NSF" letters, surrounded by a gold gear-like ring, next to the text "National Science Foundation." The world is watching KC as innovation takes center stage.
Five people stand in a laboratory discussing an object; one person wears a mask and gloves while others observe, with equipment and supplies visible in the background—a scene that reflects Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact within the scientific community.
Five people wearing white stoles stand around a table displaying various objects, while one person explains items to the group in a conference or presentation setting, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
Two people wearing white stoles present a small object to an audience near a poster about 3D-printed cement, standing indoors by a display that celebrates Ten Years of Scholars and highlights Ten Years of Impact.
Five people with white stoles stand behind a table displaying 3D-printed concrete objects, while one person gestures during a presentation or demonstration—an inspiring scene that captures Ten Years of Scholars and celebrates Ten Years of Impact.
A graduate in academic regalia shakes hands with a student on stage at a UMKC ceremony as an official speaks at a podium, marking Ten Years of Scholars and celebrating Ten Years of Impact.
Four people stand on a stage at a UMKC event celebrating Ten Years of Scholars; one holds a certificate and waves, while an audience watches, marking Ten Years of Impact.
A group of people poses together outdoors on a rooftop, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars, with several wearing white stoles and others in casual attire, smiling at the camera. Buildings are visible in the background, reflecting Ten Years of Impact.
A man demonstrates how to operate a robotic arm to a small group of people in a classroom or workshop setting, highlighting the innovative spirit fostered by Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
UMKC logo in blue letters with a yellow flame-like accent over the "K," on a white background, representing the spirit of the Ambassador Program.
This summer, a group of Scholars took part in a program held on-campus at UMKC and funded by the National Science Foundation.
 
This STEM program consisted of 4 weeks on campus, during which participants received training and certifications in foundational manufacturing skills.  Scholars completed their first 4 weeks of hands-on training at UMKC School of Science and Engineering and earned their program certificates.
 
After weeks of in-depth learning and executing final projects, participants headed to four weeks of experiential learning on-site at Great Jobs KC employer partners. This program not only prepared these Scholars for high-demand jobs but also paid them a stipend during their training. 
 
Congratulations to all participants and thank you to the NSF and UMKC for your support. 
 
Our Scholars’ unwavering dedication to their education was so special to celebrate, and we can’t wait to see their successes. 
Logo with large text "Pro X" above the phrase "PROfessional EXperiences for Kansas City youth." "PRO" and "EX" are in red, the rest in black. White background. Celebrate Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact with a design that highlights a decade of transformative experiences.
A group of people sit around a conference table with food and drinks, listening to someone off-camera in a modern office setting. The gathering marks Ten Years of Scholars and celebrates Ten Years of Impact.
Older woman and younger woman have a conversation at a conference table with drinks and snacks, while another woman in a blue shirt sits nearby. Black-and-white photos are on the wall behind them, creating a fitting backdrop for this moment that reflects Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
A group of about twenty people stand and smile in a conference room with blue walls, wearing badges and casual to business casual attire, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
A diverse group of people pose and smile in a conference room, some wearing matching “Opportunity Locked” T-shirts, with posters visible on the wall behind them—celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
Seven people sit around a conference table with laptops and snacks, engaged in discussion in a modern office meeting room—a testament to Ten Years of Scholars. Their collaboration reflects Ten Years of Impact within this dynamic workspace.
Three people sit at a round table repairing laptops, surrounded by tools and computer parts in an office setting—a testament to Ten Years of Scholars, whose expertise continues to shape Ten Years of Impact in the world of technology.
Two women stand near a screen displaying a virtual meeting and a flip chart in a conference room, giving a presentation that highlights Ten Years of Scholars. Ten Years of Impact.
This summer, Great Jobs KC proudly partnered with ProX (Professional Experiences for Kansas City Youth) to host eight high school interns across four departments: Technology Operations, Innovation & Strategy, Career Pathways, and Nonprofit Program & Advancement. 
 
ProX provides high school students with equitable access to real-world opportunities, empowering them to develop essential skills and connections for success in education and the workforce, while fostering meaningful partnerships with employers and the community to drive lasting impact.
 
Over five weeks, interns gained meaningful, hands-on experience while contributing to projects that supported our mission. They researched artificial intelligence solutions and cybersecurity tools, analyzed workforce and education data, helped facilitate career readiness workshops, supported event planning and grant research, managed Scholar data and resources, and collaborated with community partners to develop recommendations to strengthen our programs. 
 
One highlight of the internship was a Lunch and Learn with Board Member Jan Kreamer. During the session, interns shared their educational and career aspirations, built meaningful connections, and received valuable insights and career advice that made an immediate impact on them.
 
We are grateful to ProX and our dedicated staff who provided mentorship and meaningful learning opportunities throughout the summer. Together, we’re helping prepare the next generation of Kansas City’s workforce!

great jobs kc

staff spotlight

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go TOGETHER.”

Get to know our team, and what motivates us to support our Scholars.

great jobs

latest news

Logo featuring "City of Dodge City Kansas" in stylized black and gold text with a star beneath “Dodge City,” commemorating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.

 

Supporting the community and building relationships 

Our team helped the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce celebrate new beginnings in Ford County this month. They attended ribbon-cutting ceremonies for both the Snodgrass Memorial Clinic and the Little Civic Library at the Dodge City Public Library. 

A group of people stand outside a building for a ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of a sign that reads “Sorakusa Memorial Clinic LLC,” celebrating Ten Years of Impact and honoring Ten Years of Scholars.
A group of people stands outside on a sunny day near parked cars, some holding items and chatting, with trees and grass in the background—gathered to celebrate Ten Years of Scholars and reflect on Ten Years of Impact.
A group of people smile and clap as two women in front celebrate with large scissors, appearing to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony in a brightly colored room—marking Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
A group of adults stand and interact near a colorful counter in a library or office space, with books and papers in hand—gathered to celebrate Ten Years of Scholars, marking Ten Years of Impact.
A woman browses books on an orange cart in a colorful library or office space, where the vibrant atmosphere reflects Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact, with several people working in the background.

great jobs kc

development news

A SPECIAL Thank you to our

Summer Scholarship Event Sponsors!

PRESENTING:

 

EWING MARION KAUFFMAN FOUNDATION

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation logo with a blue circle featuring a black "K," highlighting the foundation's name in black and gray text—symbolizing its commitment to empowering every changemaker.

Thank you to the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation for investing in the success of our Scholars throughout their educational journey. Their partnership helps prepare Scholars for what’s ahead while celebrating how far they’ve come.

GOLD:

 

KC ROYALS FOUNDATION

Kansas City Foundation logo featuring a blue heart with "Royals" script inside, surrounded by circular text celebrating changemakers on a white background with a gold border.

Thank you to the Kansas City Royals Foundation for partnering with us to make our summer Scholar events possible. Their generosity helps create memorable experiences that equip Scholars for success, celebrate their accomplishments, and remind them they have an entire community cheering them on.

Silver:

 

Metropolitan Community College

 

Bronze:

 

The DeBruce Foundation

Ignite Medical Resorts

Johnson County Community College

University of Central Missouri

 

 

Contributing:

 

AF Group

Avila University

Kansas City Kansas Community College

 

Three people in black sweatshirts pose under the State Street logo and the text “Thank you for supporting our Scholars,” celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.

Our workforce development program creates opportunities for low- to modest-income adults across the Kansas City region to secure careers that lead to financial stability.

State Street’s support advances our mission to prepare participants for careers in high-demand industries, including construction, healthcare, skilled trades, logistics/warehousing, and manufacturing. Participants have access to comprehensive wraparound support and individualized career coaching.

Thank you, State Street, for supporting our mission and helping us to BUILD A STRONGER KC!

great jobs kc

employer network

New employer partners

YMCA logo with the word "the" in teal next to a large teal "Y" and a blue triangle, with "YMCA" written on the "Y" in blue text.

The YMCA of Greater Kansas City, founded on Christian principles, is a charitable organization with an inclusive environment committed to enriching the quality of family, spiritual, social, mental, and physical well-being. They will offer internships and opportunities for our KC Scholars Scholars.

Logo for Central Power Systems & Services with bold blue text on a light background, "CENTRAL" above a line and "POWER SYSTEMS & SERVICES" below.

Central Power Systems in Platte County, MO, is a generator manufacturer specializing in custom manufacturing of natural gas and diesel generators. They will have positions such as material handlers, production technicians, robotic welders, welder fabricators, and electrical technicians.

Kelly Education logo with the word "Kelly" in green and "Education" in black, displayed on a light gray background.

Kelly Education in Kansas City is a K‑12 education staffing and workforce solutions provider that connects schools with qualified substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, and other education support staff. It operates as part of Kelly Services, the nation’s largest provider of education talent, and serves over 10,000 schools nationwide. In Kansas City, they have positions with several districts: Kansas City Public Schools, Shawnee Mission, Hickman Mills, Grandview, Independence, Liberty, and Lee's Summit. These short-term roles allow flexibility for those who are between jobs, still in school, or just want part-time, flexible work.

click To learn more about our employer partner network or find out how you can join our network

GREat jobs kc

Alumni

celebrating our grads with a tent party & royals game
On June 30, we celebrated our KC Scholars graduates at the KC Scholars Graduation Celebration at the K! Before the Kansas City Royals took on the Tampa Bay Rays, Scholars gathered for a pre-game celebration featuring food, music, and time to connect with one another.
 
As part of the evening, two Scholars were recognized during an on-field presentation alongside our Chief Operating Officer, Natalie Lewis, and Associate Vice President of Development, Karolyn Dreiling, highlighting the impact of Great Jobs KC.

 

Additionally, our former Board Member, David Warm, was recognized in the Buck O’Neil Seat for his many years of service to the Kansas City community. Thank you, David!
 
We are incredibly proud of our graduates and grateful to the Kansas City Royals for helping us celebrate this important milestone and recognize the success of our Scholars!

 

GO SCHOLARS & GO ROYALS!

 
Four women stand on a baseball field in front of a scoreboard displaying "Special Presentation KC" at a stadium, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
Smiling man in a Royals cap holds a framed plaque honoring Buck O’Neil as the 2026 Legacy Seat honoree at a stadium event, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
Three women in blue shirts sit at a table eating food and smiling at an outdoor event under a tent, with other people in the background, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
Four people sit at a blue table outdoors, eating food and drinking soda, sharing laughter and stories as they celebrate Ten Years of Scholars. In the background, others dine under a covered area, all enjoying the moment and reflecting on Ten Years of Impact.
Four people sit at a table under a tent, eating food and wearing Kansas City Royals apparel at an outdoor event celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
A group of people wearing KC Scholars shirts and hats sit and stand around a table at an outdoor event under a tent, with food, drinks, and giveaway items visible—celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
Two people wearing Kansas City Royals shirts and hats sit at a table, smiling at the camera, with other attendees seated in the background at an outdoor event celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
Four people sit at a table with snacks and drinks, smiling at the camera as they celebrate Ten Years of Scholars. Others are seated in the background at a busy indoor event, marking Ten Years of Impact.
A group of people in Kansas City Royals shirts sit at a table with food and drinks at an indoor event, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars; others are seated at tables in the background, highlighting Ten Years of Impact.
Four people stand around a tall table with plates of food and drinks at an outdoor event under a white tent, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and Ten Years of Impact.
A group of people smile while sitting at a table with food and drinks during an outdoor event under a large white tent, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars and reflecting on Ten Years of Impact.
Four students sit at a table with snacks and drinks at an outdoor event; two are wearing green sports jerseys, while the others are dressed casually, celebrating Ten Years of Scholars.

Scholars on the path to SUCCESS

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TOTAL SCHOLARS ON A PATH TO THEIR FUTURE

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SCHOLARS CURRENTLY ENROLLED

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SCHOLARS WORKING IN A GREAT JOB

Young person in a hoodie stands beside a blue background with text encouraging survey participation for the 2000 Scholars of Great Jobs KC.

Throughout the Great Jobs KC experience, we will request that you complete a few short surveys to collect data that allows us to:

  • Show our impact to our donors and partners to secure more funds to continue our programs
  • Improve our program process so it works for everyone
  • Tailor our support services to Scholars’ needs
  • Share stories of Scholar success to inspire others to change their lives

We want to build a stronger Kansas City, one life at a time, and we need your help and input to do it.

Select survey participants will be entered into ongoing drawings for high-end tech prizes including laptops, headphones, and tablets.

Keep an eye on your email and texts, take a few moments to PAY IT FORWARD by helping to provide access to opportunities for others.

We want to hear about your success - UPDATE US TODAY

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The text "Great Jobs KC Scholars" features "KC" inside a shield-like icon between "Jobs" and "Scholars," highlighting Kansas City education impact in this newsletter design.

Check out our BLOG and support our mission

Find out more about our programs and support!

A group of graduates in caps and gowns celebrating outdoors. Text on the image reads "Over $12 million in scholarships being awarded." These scholarships are paving the way for promising careers.
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Stephanie underwood - Chief financial Officer

Stephanie Underwood serves as Chief Financial Officer at Great Jobs KC, where she leads the organization’s financial strategy in support of its mission to create economic mobility through education and workforce opportunities. With more than 17 years of experience in nonprofit finance, Stephanie brings deep expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance. She is passionate about using her career as a platform to serve and support mission-driven organizations, helping them maximize impact through strong financial stewardship.

Prior to joining Great Jobs KC, Stephanie served as Chief Financial Officer for Griffith Centers, a behavioral and mental health organization, where she oversaw financial operations for a multi-million-dollar organization spanning residential, educational, and community-based programs. She also spent nearly a decade as Vice President of Accounting Services at NFP Partners, providing CFO-level leadership to nonprofit organizations across the country, with a focus on strategic growth, audit readiness, and governance.

Outside of her professional role, Stephanie volunteers her time at her church and serves on the board of a local nonprofit. She is known for her collaborative leadership style and her commitment to aligning financial strategy with mission impact. She holds a Master of Science in Accounting and is proud to be a first-generation college graduate.

 

 

 

Adult Learner College Scholarship

The Adult Learner Scholarship application is closed. Please click GET STARTED to be added to communication reminders on when to apply during the next open cycle.

Program offers:

  • Up to $25,000 paid directly to the college over the course of up to six years.
  • Once awarded, the Scholar can enroll full or part-time the fall semester following awarding.
  • Scholarship can be used at any of our college partners. See our current list of partners HERE.
  • Scholarship can be used towards an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or a credit-bearing credential. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Be a high school graduate or GED holder (24 years or older).
  • Live in one of the six eligible counties. (Kansas: Wyandotte, Johnson; Missouri: Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte)
  • Be income eligible. (FASFA Student Aid Index of 12,000 or less)
  • Have not previously earned a bachelor’s degree.
  • Have not previously been awarded a KC Scholars Scholarship (Traditional or Adult Learner).
  • Is not currently enrolled in a Great Jobs KC Skills Training Program.
  • US Citizenship/Residency is not required to apply.

If you need more information on program details, please find our FAQs HERE

GET STARTED

Jimmy Swift - Chief Operating Officer

As the Chief Operating Officer, Jimmy Swift is responsible for overseeing our core programs, our adult workforce development program, Great Jobs KC tuition-free job training, and our KC Scholars Scholarship Program, which includes 11th Grade Traditional Scholarships and Adult Learner Scholarships. 

Jimmy has a career in education that spans more than 25 years and is built around supporting and improving the performance of career training programs and leading the operations of degree-granting institutions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management and has served as Campus President, Vice President of Career Services, and Executive Director of various career schools.  

Most recently, Jimmy served as the Vice President of PLA University at Phalen Leadership Academies, bringing access to job skill training to the parents and families of the Scholars served by Phalen Leadership schools across the country.  Beyond his higher education experience, Jimmy serves as the Executive Board Chairman for Project Safety Net NY, a nonprofit community-based agency delivering a broad range of health, education, and prevention services to the New York Community. As the Chief Operating Officer for Great Jobs KC, he and his team are poised to make a substantial impact on the economic stability and future of Kansas City.

Great Jobs KC
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