Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jessica Bentley-Johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jessica , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

In 2010, my life took an unexpected turn as illness struck, robbing me of my college aspirations and career dreams. After enduring two years of uncertainty, hospital stays, and surgeries, I was handed a daunting diagnosis: Lupus, Pericarditis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Suddenly, the future I had envisioned seemed shattered, leaving me adrift in despair. At 26, supposedly at the pinnacle of my life, I found myself struggling to even care for myself on most days. Yet, amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged. Through prayer and counseling, I resolved not to let my diagnosis define me or limit my impact on the world. With unwavering support from loved ones, I embarked on a mission to turn adversity into opportunity.
Thus, Urban Community Connections was born, initially as a Summer Feeding Program at the local YMCA. My goal was clear: combatting food insecurity by providing nourishing meals to families in need. But our vision extended beyond mere sustenance. We recognized that food insecurity wasn’t just about hunger—it encompassed a lack of access to nutritious options, knowledge of meal preparation, and essential food handling skills.
Driven by this understanding, we expanded our efforts, introducing the Life Skills Connections Program in 2015. And in 2018, we underwent a transformation, rebranding as Urban Community Connections to better reflect our evolving mission and aspirations.
Urban Community Connections is a mobile volunteer based 501(c)3 social service organization, dedicated to forging vital connections and provide steadfast support to rebuild lives within our community.
Urban Community Connections is dedicated to empowering our community during challenging times through unwavering integrity, keen intuitiveness, and steadfast intestinal fortitude. Our mission is to cultivate a resilient society by “Connecting Citizens to a Wealth of Resources, Paving the Way for a Brighter Tomorrow.”
At Urban Community Connections, we are steadfast in our commitment to provide essential resources that span combating food insecurity through targeted initiatives, financial assistance to local organizations, community engagement and volunteerism, educational programs, life skills training seminars, and philanthropic funds. Our aim is not just to offer provisional support but to forge vital connections and provide steadfast support to rebuild lives within our community.

UC² stands firm in the belief that Exponential Results Through Exceptional Connections are the key to fostering positive and lasting change. We envision a community that thrives on collaboration, inclusivity, and collective empowerment.
We understand the daily struggles faced by our participants—financial constraints, limited time and transportation, educational barriers, and the challenge of accessing affordable, nutritious food and essential resources. Our commitment is unwavering: to continually enhance and expand our programs, alleviating the burdens of everyday life for those we serve.

Since our inception, Urban Community Connections has implement 11 ongoing community initiatives, fostering invaluable partnerships and garnering widespread support. But our journey is far from over. We remain steadfast in our dedication to empowering communities, one connection at a time.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

UCC serves a diverse and expansive geographic area centered around Kansas City, encompassing both Missouri (MO) and Kansas (KS) sides of the metropolitan area. The organization has strategically developed a network to cater to individuals within Kansas City, MO, Kansas City, KS, and the surrounding cities. UCC’s influence extends significantly in specific counties, including Clay, Johnson, Platte, Jackson, Cass, and Wyandotte, with a pronounced presence in Wyandotte and Jackson Counties.

Additionally, UCC has a robust presence in inner-city areas and south Kansas City, indicating a commitment to reaching diverse communities and demographics. This strategic positioning allows UCC to engage with a wide range of individuals, fostering connections and implementing initiatives that address the specific concerns and needs of these urban and suburban communities.

By cultivating a network that spans across the metropolitan area and strategically targeting key regions, Urban Community Connections demonstrates a comprehensive approach to community engagement and service provision within the greater Kansas City area. This approach enables UCC to tailor its initiatives to meet the unique needs of residents in different neighborhoods and contribute positively to the overall well-being of the community.

UCC is dedicated to eliminating barriers for families and individuals in need within our service network. Our mission is to diligently assess the needs of the community and provide essential resources, educational programs, and life skills training seminars at locations frequently visited by individuals and families. By addressing both transportation and financial burdens, our goal is to create a more equitable and connected community.

Urban Community Connections continues to play a vital role in the community, working tirelessly to bridge gaps and create lasting positive change in the lives of those it serves. The organization remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering connections, promoting self-sufficiency, and addressing the root causes of challenges faced by disadvantaged residents in Missouri and Kansas.

Understanding the financial struggles of its participants, many of whom grapple with limited funds, time, transportation, education, and access to nutritious yet cost-effective food, UCC has continued to expand its programs and resources. The organization remains dedicated to growing and developing initiatives that alleviate the everyday stresses associated with basic needs.

Our ConnectED Resource Room Initiative, proudly serving 3 local school districts encompassing 11 schools, is a beacon of hope, a lifeline for students and families in Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO) and Kansas City, Kansas (KCKS). Born from a profound commitment to uplift those often overlooked, this initiative operates within select schools, strategically positioning itself to address the unique needs of each community it serves.

More than just a room, it’s a hub of support, brimming with essential resources and supplies. Here, barriers are shattered, and needs are met with compassion and efficiency. The ConnectED Resource Room Initiative stands as a testament to the power of community support, ensuring that no family is left behind in their pursuit of a better tomorrow.

In the heart of these neighborhoods, The ConnectED Resource Room initiative is more than a program; it’s a promise. A promise to bridge the gap between privilege and disadvantage, between opportunity and limitation. Through this tireless effort, we’re not just providing supplies; we’re paving the way for brighter futures and empowered lives.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

In 2013, I embarked on a journey to create Urban Community Connections (UCC), formerly known as Urban Community Linc, with a clear vision and a two-year business plan. The initial blueprint centered around securing office space and building a small team of dedicated individuals to drive our mission forward. However, reality had its own plans, and within the first eighteen months, it became evident that our path needed a significant pivot.

Undeterred, we embraced the challenge, recognizing the opportunity for innovation. We reevaluated our approach, leading to a transformative shift in our operational model. Instead of traditional office spaces and a fixed staff, we became a dynamic, mobile, volunteer-based social service non-profit organization.

Our new strategy was simple yet revolutionary. By leveraging existing community infrastructures such as community centers, churches, schools, and businesses, we optimized resources and expanded our reach exponentially. This network not only provided physical spaces but also fostered invaluable partnerships and collaborations.

At the core of UCC’s ethos lies a commitment to serving our community selflessly. None of our staff or board members receive financial compensation; we are driven purely by passion and purpose. This volunteer-based structure not only enables us to minimize overhead costs but also ensures that the vast majority of our funding directly benefits the individuals and communities we serve.

Today, Urban Community Connections stands as a beacon of innovation and impact, demonstrating that adaptability and dedication can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and success. With each volunteer hour and every resource deployed, we continue to weave stronger bonds within our landscape, empowering individuals and transforming communities for a brighter tomorrow.

Any advice for managing a team?

Maintaining a motivated and engaged team stands as a cornerstone for organizational success, particularly within the non-profit sector where fervor and dedication often fuel our endeavors. At Urban Community Connections, we adhere to seven pivotal areas of management focus: clear communication, setting distinct expectations, recognition and appreciation, fostering collaboration, providing avenues for growth, promoting work-life balance, and above all, leading by example.

Clear Communication: Transparency and open dialogue serve as linchpins in cultivating trust and engagement among my team. Keeping all members abreast of organizational goals, shifts, and hurdles is paramount. Encouraging an environment where team members feel empowered to voice their thoughts and concerns not only forges camaraderie but also instills a sense of ownership.

Setting Clear Expectations: Precision in delineating roles, responsibilities, and objectives is imperative for business proprietors and managers. When each team member comprehends their role in advancing the organizational mission, they are more inclined towards motivation and empowerment.

Recognition and Appreciation: At Urban Community Connections, we are deliberate in acknowledging and celebrating the diligence and contributions of each team member. Whether through a simple expression of gratitude, public commendation, or structured recognition initiatives, affirming appreciation bolsters morale and cultivates a positive workspace. Affirming members that their time, skills, and support are valued and esteemed aids in our team’s retention at UCC.

Collaboration: Cultivating a culture of collaboration and teamwork has been integral to Urban Community Connections. Here, team members, sponsors, and community partners are esteemed for their distinctive skills and perspectives. Encouraging the exchange of ideas, collective brainstorming, and mutual support underpin our collective pursuit of common objectives.

Providing Growth Opportunities: Urban Community Connections is committed to nurturing the professional development of our team members and volunteers. Through avenues such as training programs, workshops, mentorship opportunities, and collaboration with our Community Partners, we facilitate continual learning and advancement. When individuals feel supported in their growth trajectory, they are more inclined towards sustained motivation and engagement.

Promoting Work-Life Balance: Acknowledging the significance of equilibrium between professional and personal spheres, I advocate for prioritizing well-being, family, and personal endeavors among Urban Community Connections team members. Offering flexible work arrangements, opportunities for rejuvenation, and fostering a healthy work environment helps mitigate burnout and sustains morale.

Leading by Example: As the Founder and Executive Director, I recognize that my demeanor and conduct set the tone for the team. Prioritizing positivity, resilience, and unwavering dedication to our mission, I lead by example. Extending empathy, attentiveness to team members, and a willingness to roll up sleeves and contribute across all areas of work further solidifies our collective commitment.

By adhering to these strategies and fostering a culture of positivity and support, I’ve effectively managed our team and volunteer network, sustaining high morale and driving impactful outcomes for Urban Community Connections.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.urbancommunityconnections.org
• Instagram: Urban Community Connections https://www.instagram.com/urbancommunityconnections/
• Facebook: Urban Community Connections https://www.facebook.com/UCCKC
• Other: [email protected] (816) 336-9549

Image Credits
1. Bermisha Newson @ Designed through Me 2. Antonio Stewart @ A.stewphotography