A letter from the CEO
Every May, I make it a point to volunteer at Project Homeless Connect KC. This annual event brings together individuals and families experiencing homelessness with essential services, all in one place, on the same day.
This year, I was reminded of the power of simply showing up. I saw the familiar faces of people I’ve met over the years through civic work, journalism and life in Kansas City. These are the individuals quietly working in the trenches, day in and day out, to make our community better.
Among them was Emma Brooke, a marketing strategist and community advocate who co-founded Project Homeless Connect KC a decade ago. Her dedication has been instrumental in providing vital services to those in need.
I also saw Stephanie Boyer, CEO of reStart Inc., a nonprofit organization that offers housing and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. With over 25 years of experience in social work, Boyer has been a driving force in developing innovative programs that provide essential support to individuals and families in crisis.
It was heartening to see Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas in attendance, reaffirming the city’s commitment to addressing homelessness. His presence underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between city leadership and community organizations.
Councilwoman Melissa Patterson Hazley, representing Kansas City’s 3rd district at large, also joined the event. A Kansas City native and graduate of Kansas City Public Schools, Patterson Hazley brings a deep understanding of the community’s needs. Her professional background includes conducting research and evaluation projects focused on closing disparities among marginalized populations. She has been actively engaged in initiatives aimed at improving housing, economic development and youth empowerment in the city.
At The Beacon, our team understands that to report on the community, we must be part of it. This principle is embedded in our DNA and is a fundamental assumption in the people we hire. Whether it’s building relationships across neighborhoods, attending civic meetings or volunteering like I did, our reporters don’t just cover stories.
They stay. They listen. They ask questions.
Who isn’t being heard? Who doesn’t have access? And how can journalism help?
That’s what human-centered design looks like in local news. It’s not just about publishing. It’s about proximity. About designing with people, not for them. About making the CEO’s time in the community not “extra,” but essential.
I’m grateful to the organizers — Emma Brooke, Stephanie Boyer and others — for their commitment to this cause. Their leadership ensures that we continue to make strides in supporting our unhoused neighbors.
As we move forward, The Beacon will keep showing up in our journalism, in our city and in partnership with those working tirelessly to build a better Kansas City.
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Stephanie Campbell
CEO, The Beacon
