Hickman Mills outreach program helps families take the next step toward stability and self-reliance

By Carol Webster

Known in the community for its Because We Care outreach events, the Hickman Mills Community Empowerment Center is expanding its mission by helping individuals and families move from immediate support to long-term empowerment.

On April 11, HMCEC held a “Super Saturday of Empowerment” event, where community members gathered at the center to hear practical teaching on personal finance, homeownership, and entrepreneurship.

According to its website, the organization exists to provide hope by helping to break cycles of poverty in Hickman Mills and South Kansas City. HMCEC describes its role as a bridge-builder, connecting residents with people, resources, and organizations that can help them move forward.

The session on budget and finance was led by Wendy Mayfield, a licensed financial professional with Twin Financial, a Kansas City-based, women-owned financial planning and investment firm. She is passionate about helping individuals build confidence in their financial decisions.

“My parents didn’t teach me to save for my future, so as an adult, I got into finance to learn,” Mayfield said.

She told participants that two habits often practiced by people who build wealth are to “pay yourself first” and to practice gratitude.

“Gratitude makes what you have enough,” she said.

Mayfield also encouraged attendees to take ownership of their finances with a simple reminder: “I am the boss of my money.”

The homeownership portion included guidance from local real estate professionals Candy Johnson and Camaelia Murray, along with mortgage expert Gina Schnitz, who has more than 20 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate the lending process. Together, they shared practical steps and encouragement for those considering buying a home.

Organizers say the goal is not only to provide information, but also to create ongoing opportunities for coaching, mentoring, and support. Empowerment Coach Betty Wright has also been actively connecting with community members to help extend these opportunities to more families.

HMCEC has become familiar to many families in the south Kansas City area through its Because We Care events, including back-to-school supply drives and holiday gift programs where parents are invited to “shop” for their children. Leaders say these outreach efforts are intended to open doors to deeper conversations and long-term opportunities that help families build stronger futures.

Super Saturday of Empowerment events are now planned for the second Saturday of each month, with the next session scheduled for May 9.

Residents interested in learning more about upcoming classes, mentoring opportunities, and future events can contact the Hickman Mills Community Empowerment Center at 816-542-HOPE (4673) or email admin@bethelfwc.org.