Contents

6 A Safe Space for Teens to Come Together and 'Belong'

10 Mission Businesses Making a Difference in the Community

17 Newsletter

24 Bulletin Board

28 Tips for Charity

32 'Gifting with Intention'

36 Building Community One Draft (and Dad) at a Time

41 Member Search

WELCOME SPRING!

Welcome Spring! I’m sure that you, like me and my family, are happy to have the promise of warmer days ahead. With record-breaking snow, cold temperatures, and blizzard conditions in March, this winter season has sure kept us on our toes. It’s a good thing we had Sir-Plows-A-Lot and friends out in the field helping to keep our roads cleared and safe. Hopefully that need has passed!

As we all start to emerge from hibernation, looking forward to reconnecting with friends, family, and the outdoors, what better time to showcase and highlight all the ways our residents and businesses are working to build community in Mission? Building community creates a sense of purpose, promotes health and well-being, and gives us a sense of belonging. Things you’ll see reflected in this issue’s stories.

Our cover story features Tyler’s House for Teens, a safe and welcoming space where creative arts programming serves to connect, heal, and promote emotional well-being among local teens. A fixture in downtown Mission since 2020, Tyler’s House moved to a larger space last fall which has allowed them to grow and expand their programming. Music, gaming, maker spaces, cooking classes, study support – there is something for everyone, and most importantly a place to belong. You’ll enjoy reading about the good work Executive Director Cori Hastings and her staff and volunteers are doing right in the heart of downtown Mission.

This issue shares how two local businesses – Mission Barbell and Prairie Sailor – are building community in some unexpected ways. At Mission Barbell, former Mission Police Officer Jay Fleer understands the value of building positive relationships. They are a Bloc Life partner, reducing barriers to fitness and health for individuals with disabilities and veterans experiencing PTSD. Anthony Glassman, owner of Prairie Sailor, has developed a passion for adventure, and, in addition to his really unique retail shop, he’s expanding his reach with community cycling events starting back up Saturday’s this spring. He is hoping the “relaxed vibe, no-drop ride” with the promise of coffee or a beer at the end will attract some new riders.

There’s a great story that recognizes the generous spirit of our friends at Rockcreek Brewing who have been the primary contributor to Mission’s Family Adoption Program for the past several years. Committed to investing in their employees and the community, Rockcreek selects various local not-for-profit groups each year to receive their donated tips. They’ve got good beer and good hearts, and we appreciate all they do for our City.

I think you’ll enjoy the information on Mission’s local “Buy Nothing” group. These groups are establishing hyper-local gift economies where people are connecting through social media to give away items they no longer need. The core principle is to, “give freely” without any expectation for payment. The Mission Buy Nothing community is strong, and I’ve been enjoying many free baby items for our daughter Mackenzie from this group!

In our final story of this issue you’ll learn about Rushton Elementary School’s “Dads and Drafts” group. A casual support group started by local dads Mitch Carlson and Jeremy Apt with a simple goal: “To build relationships within the Rushton Community.” Carlson, Apt, and others are creating a space where fathers can bond over shared experiences, as well as give back to the school and local businesses.

Enjoy this issue, and I hope to see you out and about this spring and summer! It’s almost Mission Market time!

-Sollie Flora, Mayor

A Safe Space or teens to come ogether and ‘belong’

After a lonely pandemic, Tyler’s House provides a welcoming community for young people

Tyler Jamison Sweeney had health issues from birth. He was only 10 years old when he passed away in the arms of Cori Hastings. Tyler was the son of some very dear friends of Hastings, and following his death, she felt the need to do something meaningful in his honor. Fifteen years later, Hastings founded Tyler’s House for Teens with the goal of creating a safe environment for teens where creative arts programming could serve to connect, heal and promote their emotional good health. The organization took its name and inspiration from Tyler.

“Tyler’s House for Teens is a way to remember and honor his life, realizing that each of us is going through something that most people know nothing about,” Hastings said. “Our best response is to care for one another and be kind.”

The first board meeting for what would eventually become Tyler’s House happened in late 2019. Unbeknownst to the group’s founders, the need for such a place became increasingly magnified over the next few years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We could never have imagined the impact a global pandemic would have on feelings of isolation, loneliness, and overall mental wellbeing, for young people in particular,” Hastings said.

Since its official opening in 2020, Hastings says Tyler’s House has grown organically. Teens invite their peers for a specific activity or to hang out and grab a bite to eat. Then those kids invite their friends and soon the foundation for a community of teens begins to expand.

Tyler’s House, a 501 (c)3, originally opened in a storefront near Johnson Dr. and Woodson. They quickly outgrew the space and relocated in 2024 to a much larger space along the Johnson Dr. corridor. Aside from loving the community of Mission, Hastings said it was important to stay within walking distance of Shawnee Mission North (SM North) as most of the students walk to Tyler’s House after school.

Hastings used to work at SM North and her three children graduated from there, so she still maintains connections with several staff and administrators. The hope is to become a trusted resource for both SM North and the larger school district.

“It is an amazing opportunity for teens to have a place like Tyler’s House which can provide activities and resources free of charge,” Hastings said. “There really are no other programs in the area quite like ours. We see students from several Shawnee Mission schools and Kansas City, Kansas public schools regularly, as well as some who are homeschooled, in private schools or taking online classes.”

Tyler’s House is active on social media, including Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. In addition to students bringing their friends, they also have attendees who were referred by mental health professionals.

Protecting and promoting mental wellness

Tyler's House for Teen's mission is to provide a place where local high school students can gather to socialize, learn new skills and make new friends. Recent statistics show how important this kind of outlet can be.

• A 2023 survey by Cigna found that over 60% of Americans report being lonely. Teens and young adults are particularly vulnerable due to factors such as social media use and post pandemic disruptions.

• According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),teens who report loneliness are at higher risk for self-harming behaviors and suicidal ideation.

• The CDC emphasizes that feeling connected to others is a powerful strategy to protect students’ mental health.

“At Tyler’s House, area teens find a place of belonging, a space where friends and caring adults support and encourage them on their journeys,” Hastings said. “At Tyler's House we strive to enhance their well-being and help pave the way toward their bright futures and the collective future of our communities.”

Cori has asked that we not highlight the past fundraisers. Can you please update with the following:

Tyler's House relies on fundraisers and donations to support their programming and activities. Hastings invites the community to join them on Saturday, April 26th from 10 am to 2 pm at their Johnson Drive location for their Semi-Annual ART MART Shop & Gallery.

“We can’t do our work without our community,” Hastings said. “They have rallied around our teens by providing workshops, meals, and much-needed funds. When we come together and meet these students where they are, they feel valued, and their confidence and self-esteem improve.”

We're all weird

Ash’s parents drop them off at Tyler’s House nearly every day. Ash is a teenager who believes they have found something totally unique here.

“My friend, Alastor, invited me to one of the events,” Ash said. “After that I decided to join. One of my best decisions.”

Ash recognizes that teens who feel like outcasts can find people here who feel the exact same way.

"I like the welcoming atmosphere and the fun activities they provide,” Ash said. “They encourage creativity and trying new stuff. We’re all weird, yes, but that’s what makes Tyler’s House special.”

It’s the people, both teens and volunteers, who make Tyler’s House special and what Hastings is most proud of. It has been an emotional journey for her, but now her main goal is to ensure the younger generation has the tools needed to deal with their own emotional and mental challenges in an ever-changing world.

“It has been my heart’s desire to gather teens, hear their stories, be a sounding board and engage them in creative outlets that can help them connect and heal,” Hastings said.

Tyler’s House for Teens is located at 6200 Johnson Dr., Lower Level, in Mission, KS. For more information visit their website at tylershousekc.org.

“Our best response is to care for one another and be kind.”

—Cori Hastings, founder and executive

director of Tyler’s House for Teens

Mission Businesses are Making a DIFFERENCE in the community

Mission Barbell Club and Prairie Sailor exemplify

Mission’s passion for community

By Kris Baker • Photos by Kathy Delorenzo

When you hear someone say they want to maintain an “active lifestyle,” you typically think about physical activity and exercise. Two Mission businesses are not only encouraging people to be physically active, but more importantly to be actively engaged in community.

Officer becomes coach at Mission Barbell Club

In 2019, Mission police officer Jay Fleer was on scene during an officer-involved shooting near Highlands Elementary School. A year later, as Fleer was getting a tattoo done by his friend Mike Durasmo, their conversation turned to the shooting and Durasmo recalled all the dangerous incidents Fleer had been involved in throughout his career. Fleer still distinctly remembers the next words his friend said to him.

“Dude this might be the universe talking to you,” Durasmo said. “Maybe the next one won’t end as well for you. You better listen.”

It was something of a wake-up call for Fleer who had already been working as a CrossFit coach in his free time. Shortly after that conversation in the tattoo parlor, Fleer and wife Kelvie Crabb began exploring the idea of becoming gym owners full-time. And in 2021, following Fleer’s retirement from the Mission Police Department, they opened Mission Barbell Club (MBC), the only CrossFit gym in Mission. Their motto is “We lift heavy weights and human spirits.”

“I spent the last half of my law enforcement career at the Mission Police Department, including 5 years as the Community Outreach and Education Officer,” Fleer said. “I had the privilege of getting to know so many people in Mission, including the young people who I served as the D.A.R.E. Officer. I love this city. It took great care of me as a police officer, and I want to continue taking care of its people.”

One of the ways Mission Barbell Club helps build community is through a partnership with Bloc Life. Bloc Life is a non-profit organization started by Joshua Snyder, owner of Fit N KC CrossFit in Kansas City, Missouri. It provides scholarships or subsidized membership fees for people with disabilities as well as military veterans or first responders who are experiencing PTSD related issues. Fleer believes that everyone is entitled access to a gym community and Bloc Life helps to alleviate the financial barrier or burden for athletes. Bloc Life relies on donations and grants to provide resources for its partner gyms.

“In addition to fitness activities, our partnership with Bloc Life provides people with disabilities an opportunity to interact with friends in the gym,” Fleer said. “Opportunities for social interaction are often very difficult for people with disabilities to obtain.”

Mission Barbell Club also hosts workouts for Down Syndrome Innovations (DSI) clients on the fourth Saturday of every month. It’s common for MBC members to stick around and volunteer for these workouts, and Fleer says they are as rewarding for them as they are the DSI athletes. He sees this as an important part of their work to build community.

“Sometimes community building can be as simple as introducing a new or a prospective member to all the other athletes in a group workout,” Fleer said. “ It is very important to me that everyone who comes in the door knows that they are welcome and that they belong here.”

Since opening in January of 2021 MBC has experienced steady growth, now with about 150 athletes. Their goal is to provide a facility and a community that is accessible to everyone, regardless of where they are in their fitness journey. MBC also hosts community forward events including potlucks and dinner outings.

“Other activities that we do also include a takeover at Urban Prairie Coffee every Saturday morning when a big group treks across the street after the workout. You will also see a group of us wandering through the Mission Market when it’s open,” Fleer explained. He enjoys it when groups get together, since his gym is host to a wide range of people. “Everyone can do CrossFit. Every exercise can be scaled or modified to meet you wherever you’re at in your fitness journey.”

“At most gyms people show up wearing headphones and work out alone, or for their cameras,” gym member Vanessa Morrison said. “The workouts here are like team workouts, where nobody is ever doing it alone. It's so much better here."

Fleer believes his CrossFit training made him a better police officer. He says he applied CrossFit techniques to stay calm and to control his breathing and heart rate in stressful or dangerous situations. And though he turned in his badge and gun for barbells and sweats, at its heart, Fleer’s current job is still about helping others.

“When I began my law enforcement career in 1991, Franklin County Sheriff Rex Bowling taught me that as officers and as human beings, our most important job was to take care of people,” Fleer said. “I have never lost sight of that.”

Mission Barbell Club is located at 5916 Maple St., Mission, Kansas.

Prairie Sailor navigates the seas of adventure

For Anthony Glassman, building community begins with riding down the streets and through the parks of Mission on his bicycle. Glassman is the founder of Prairie Sailor, an outdoor clothing and lifestyle brand that sells clothes for biking, hiking, sports and everyday wear.

“The easiest way to explain Prairie Sailor is that we’re a Midwest clothing brand with deep roots in the outdoor world,” Glassman said. “Think of us as a North Face or Patagonia but designed specifically to represent the Midwest lifestyle.”

Prairie Sailor started with Glassman selling t-shirts at the Farmers’ Market in Hays, Kansas and online.

“I knew this was something I was passionate about, so I pursued it academically to learn every aspect of the industry — what I call ‘stitch to graphics’” Glassman said. “Unlike many small brands, I design everything from the pattern-making process all the way through to the final product in our store.”

Glassman is cognizant of the stereotype that Midwest communities are not known for exciting outdoor activities. To counteract this perception, he’s adopted the philosophy of “Always Seek Adventure” knowing there is adventure right outside everyone’s door, they just have to be willing to embrace it.

“I chose this tagline because, as Midwest outdoor enthusiasts, we don’t just find adventure—we have to create it,” Glassman said. “We adapt products to fit our environment, and we go out and seek the experiences we want. It’s about making the most of where you are.”

In an effort to encourage others to create their own experiences, Glassman started Our Club Ride, an opportunity for anyone in the community to come out and ride their bikes together.

Starting Saturday morning’s this spring, Glassman will lead a group on a 10-to-15-mile adventure through nearby towns, tackling some hills and getting in a good workout. With the renovations to Nall Park, he also has plans to add a mountain bike ride as well. Prairie Sailor’s previous excursions have had around 10 to 12 riders, but Glassman says the momentum is building.

“It’s a no-drop ride with a relaxed vibe,” he said. “The idea is simple – go ride, have fun and meet back up for a beer or coffee.”

Everyone is welcome and Glassman usually posts details on the ride the Friday before so people can decide if the trip is for them. The best way to get this information on time, mileage and routes is to follow Prairie Sailor on social media.

Glassman has been amazed by the support they have gotten from Mission. They are currently hoping to work with the city on a possible pump track for bikes behind their store in an open space.

Mission is special to us — not just as a place where we do business, but also as our home,” Glassman said. “It makes everything we’re building here feel even more meaningful.”

Prairie Sailor is located at 5811 Johnson Dr., Mission Kansas. For information on Prairie Sailor’s product offerings or joining Our Club Ride, visit prairiesailor.com.

Both Prairie Sailor and Mission Barbell Club have been building the Mission community, as well as building bonds between their two businesses.

“I love bikes and I have quite a bit of his clothing and a sweet gravel bike that I bought from him,” Fleer said about Glassman and Prairie Sailor. “It’s great stuff from a great dude!”

“I love this city. It took great care of me as a police officer, and I want to continue taking care of its people.”

– Former Mission police officer and Mission Barbell Club owner Jay

“Think of us as a North Face or Patagonia but designed specifically to represent the Midwest lifestyle.”

– Andrew Glassman,

describing Prairie Sailor, his clothing brand

NEWSLETTER

MISSION CITY HALL

6090 Woodson | Mission, KS 66202

Open Monday through Friday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

P 913. 676. 8350

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Community Development,

Finance and Administration

First Wednesday every month 6:30 p.m.

(overflow business considered on the second Wednesday of the month as necessary).

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Third Wednesday every month 7 p.m.

COUNCIL WORK SESSIONS

Fourth Wednesday every month 7 p.m.

All meetings are open to the public.

Visit the calendar at www.missionks.org for a complete listing of meetings.

GOVERNING BODY

MAYOR

Sollie Flora 913.676.8351

WARD I COUNCIL MEMBERS

Vacant

Josepha Haden Chomphosy 913.676.8350

WARD II COUNCIL MEMBERS

Lea Loudon 913.242.4284

Mary Ryherd 913.221.2630

WARD III COUNCIL MEMBERS

Debbie Kring 913.722.6901

Brian Schmid 913.909.9041

WARD IV COUNCIL MEMBERS

Cheryl Carpenter-Davis 816.807.0605

Ben Chociej 816.332.7985

Did you know that all alarm users, both residential and commercial, are required to register their alarms with the Mission Police annually? This simple step helps our officers and dispatchers know who to contact, and how to contact you, in case of an alarm notification. You can call, email or use the QR code above to register your alarm. Help us keep you protected!

Memorial Flag Fund

As a tribute to those who have served or are currently serving our country, the City displays American flags along
Johnson Drive from Memorial Day through Veterans Day. The flags have been made possible by contributions to Mission’s Memorial Flag Fund.

You can help continue this proud tradition by making a charitable donation in support of the purchase of future replacement flags. Donations can be made in honor or memory of a veteran or service member, or any person you would like to recognize.

You can find more information on the City’s website at
https://www.missionks.org/i-want-to/city-programs/memorial-flag-fund

NEWSLETTER
Help Keep Mission Looking and Feeling Its Best!

Here are some of the most common codes violations that our Community Development team encounter in the spring and summer months, along with tips on how to avoid them!

Tall Weeds & Grass

All residents must keep weeds and grass shorter than eight inches in height. Volunteer trees and vegetation as well as uncontrolled brush and woody vines are classified as nuisance weeds and should be removed. Sweeping or blowing lawn and yard debris into the street is prohibited.

Outdoor Storage (Nuisance)

City Code prohibits rubbish or garbage accumulating on or in any property. This includes but is not limited to: filth, excrement, lumber, tree limbs, wood, glass, rocks, dirt, cans, containers, paper, trash, plastic, petroleum products, Styrofoam, metal, discarded appliances or other household items, or any other offensive or disagreeable thing or substance.

Trash & Recycling Containers

Trash and recycling should not be placed out earlier than 6:00 PM the night before your scheduled pickup day. Containers when stored should be kept in the garage or behind the front of the home.

Exterior Maintenance

Property owners should keep all buildings and grounds in a clean, sanitary, and safe condition. This includes keeping exteriors in good repair to prevent declining property values. Neighborhood Services enforces property codes dealing with exterior walls, guttering, roofs, windows, driveways, accessory structures and fences.

Inoperable Vehicles, Abandoned Vehicles and Parking in the Yard

Property owners should not park any vehicle outdoors when such vehicle is inoperable for any reason. Vehicles must have current registration on the vehicle, be legally street operable, and move every 14 days. Also, vehicles may not be parked in the yard at any time.

If you have questions about Mission’s property maintenance codes or would like to report an issues, please feel free to use the “Report a Concern” feature on the City’s website at www.missionks.org or contact the Community Development Department at 913.676.8360.

Mission's Adopt-A-Street Program Helps Beautify Our Roadways

Mission’s Adopt-A-Street program plays a vital role in promoting cleaner, safer, and healthier neighborhoods through environmental preservation and a strong sense of civic responsibility. The program invites any group with the enthusiasm and dedication to improve the community by adopting a street. It welcomes a wide variety of participants, including individual businesses, business organizations, neighborhood associations, community and civic organizations, and faith-based groups.

Once a group commits to the program, they agree to remove litter from predesignated sections of City streets at least four times a year for a two-year period. Volunteers are encouraged to monitor the conditions along their adopted section throughout the adoption period and report any issues to City staff. This ongoing commitment helps maintain the cleanliness and safety of the streets while fostering a sense of pride in the community.

Participating in the Adopt-A-Street program is easy! Interested groups should begin by contacting Mission Neighborhood Services at 913.676.8358 where they will be asked to download and complete an online application and renewal form. Mission Neighborhood Services staff will then review the application and schedule a time to meet with the group’s coordinator to discuss the program’s requirements and safety protocols.

Before each clean-up event, the group’s coordinator must inform Neighborhood Services of the event date and provide an estimate of the number of volunteers. They will also need to pick up City-provided supplies, such as waivers, gloves, bags, safety vests, and other necessary materials at City Hall. The coordinator is responsible for ensuring all volunteers sign the required waiver and complete a volunteer participation form. These documents must be submitted to City Hall within 48 hours of the event’s completion.

Participants in the Adopt-A-Street program receive recognition for their efforts. Signs will be post-ed along the adopted street section, displaying the Adopt-A-Street program logo, the City of Mission logo, and the name of the volunteer group. These signs will be installed after the group’s first clean-up event and will remain in place for the full duration of the two-year adoption period. This acknowledgment serves as a public thank you for the volunteers' hard work and dedication to enhancing the community.

For additional information on Mission’s Adopt a Street program please contact the Neighborhood Services Department at 913.676.8358 or visit the website at www.missionks.org.

NEWSLETTER

Mark Your Calendars for the 2025 Mission Family Summer Picnic!

Join us on Saturday, July 12 from 6 p.m.—10 p.m. at Broadmoor Park for our annual summertime celebration!

Enjoy the festivities and treat yourself to a delicious hot dog dinner while enjoying fun family activities, live music from The Good Sam Club Band, and a vibrant beer garden. Remember to bring your favorite lawn chair or blankets to fully enjoy this fantastic evening of summer fun – and it’s all FREE (except the beer)! The night concludes with a spectacular laser light show you won’t want to miss.

Tips For Charity
Rockcreek Brewing donates all their tip money to local causes

By Kris Baker • Photos by Kathy Delorenzo

After a day of work at Cerner Corporation, co-workers Craig Reed, Chris Murrish, Sara Charlson and her husband Mark Schonhoff, enjoyed getting together at happy hour with some craft beers. This led to them home brewing their own beers together. During these brew sessions and many happy hours, they kicked around ideas of what they wanted to do in the next stage of life. They were all contemplating retirement, so the question arose: What should each of them do in their next chapter? The answer was right there in their hands at each of those happy hours and they started discussing the potential of opening their own craft brewery.

The idea of how they would run their own craft brewery began fermenting. Prior to committing themselves to their idea, the group visited breweries, both locally and across the country. On these excursions, they gathered design ideas, chatted with brewers about popular styles and gained an understanding of different business models – including not accepting tips as part of payment. In several taprooms they visited, the brewery was accepting tips but donating them to local charities.

“We loved that idea and adopted it! In our first year, we connected with the City of Mission and learned about their holiday adoption program,” Charlson said. “Part of what we have focused on is making sure our donations are as local as possible, so donating back to the City’s adoption program made a lot of sense.”

Rockcreek Brewing Co. opened in May 2020 as a family-friendly, neighborhood taproom with a focus on high quality craft beers. Their goal is to have something on draft for every type of beer lover. Head brewer Trent Wieger works with a broad range of styles, which is reflected in their tap list.

For the last several years, Rockcreek has donated all of the collected tips in the months of October, November and December to Mission’s Holiday Family Adoption Program. More than $7,500.00 was donated during the 2024 holiday season.

“Our customers love this program,” Charlson said. “It is not uncommon for someone to read about a charitable organization we are donating to (signs are posted in the taproom to keep customers up to date on the charitable partner of the month), and then ‘tip’ extra when they check out while mentioning they are supportive of that organization and/or know someone who works there or know someone who has benefitted from it.”
Charlson says their philosophy of donation is a nod to the owners’ former employer – Cerner Corporation (all owners of Rockcreek formerly worked at Cerner). She says Cerner had a philanthropic mindset and foundation and they wanted to carry that forward as part of their own business model.

“As we began our efforts towards supporting local charities, we received a lot of requests, more than we can obviously contribute to and they are still rolling in,” Charlson said. “Very quickly, we had to set some standards on what we were trying to achieve and support.”

First, Rockcreek Brewing focused on donating to local charitable organizations. They wanted the donations to be as local as possible, starting with those located in or near the city of Mission. They then would look at each request to understand how the funds will be used and who is benefiting from the donation.

“We are proud of the organizations we’ve been able to support including Kansas Special Olympics, Rushton Elementary, Prairie Village Alzheimer’s, Tyler’s House KC, Sunflower House and many more,” Charlson said.

“Ultimately, besides our focus of making really delicious craft beers and having a warm, welcoming and fun taproom for families – our gift back to the community via our customers’ tips is something that has been very rewarding. We are grateful that we have been able to continue the tradition, even in challenging economic times. Since opening, we’ve donated a total of $171,702.20.”

The City of Mission is appreciative of the support its Family Adoption program has received thanks to the generosity and spirit of giving of Rockcreek Brewing. They set an amazing example of what building community is all about. To visit the taproom, have a beer and donate via tipping, head over to Rockcreek Brewing Co., 5880 Beverly Ave., Mission, Kansas.

“Our gift back to the community via our customers’ tips is something that has been very rewarding and we are grateful that we have been able to continue the tradition.”

– Sara Charlson,

co-owner of Rockcreek Brewing Co.

'Gifting with Intention'

BuyNothing Project brings community members together

By Kris Baker • Photos by Kathy Delorenzo

The world’s largest network of gifting communities is alive and well in Mission.

The BuyNothing Project (BNP) is a global conglomeration of community-based groups that encourages giving or recycling consumer goods and services in preference to conventional commerce. Founded in 2013, their stated goal is “to build resilient communities where our true wealth is the connections forged between neighbors.”

Today, digital platforms can be a crucial tool in building local community. And Amanda Jacoby found it to be true when she moved from Denver to Mission in 2022. She noticed a lot of community events and groups were being facilitated through Facebook, so she created a new account and jumped in with both feet. Shortly after creating her new profile, Jacoby learned about the BNP, and she immediately searched for the local chapter.

“From what I understand, our local chapter used to be larger and include Mission Hills, Roeland Park, and Fairway,” Jacoby said. “I learned that when groups get too large, they usually split up into smaller communities. Our specific group now covers Mission, Merriam, and a small section of north Overland Park. I love that we can focus on micro-communities.”

As the name suggests, the group’s mission is to “buy nothing.” People post items they have available to gift to others, and members of the group can comment on pictures of items they are interested in. It is encouraged to let posts “simmer” for at least 24 hours so that more people have a chance to enter their name for consideration. The spirit of the BNP is to give items in good condition and with intention, including coordinating pick-up of the items. This is a major element that differentiates a Buy Nothing group from being just another free group. Curbside and first-come, first-served items are not allowed as it takes away from the spirit of gifting with intention.

When she lived in Denver, Jacoby had a solid pipeline for passing on clothing as the community kids (or parents) outgrew them. After moving here, Jacoby felt uncertain about where to share the clothing like she had experienced in Colorado. Lots of clothing is gifted on the BNP group, so in early 2023, she connected with the group’s administrators explore the possibility of hosting a big clothing event for members of their group. The BNP administrators loved the idea, and so for 6 weeks or so, Jacoby spent every weekend picking up donations from folks in the group. The event was hosted on a Saturday at Triforce Chiropractic in Mission.

“The owners, Cole & Sydnie Sheldon, loved this idea and said they participated in something similar when they lived in Hawaii. The event was a huge success, and we held a second, smaller event over the summer as well,” Jacoby shared. This year’s event was hosted at Rockcreek Brewing Company in Mission in early March. “The owners (of Rockcreek Brewing) are always so willing to participate in community events, and they were excited and eager to offer their taproom as a hosting space for us.”

Unique finds

Many cool stories and unique gifts or requests have come through the BNP. Recently, one group member found a piece of a gumball machine she gifted through the group years ago and was able to get the missing piece to the person who received it those years prior. Another member needed a bird bath pedestal for a unique garden project. She had the item within hours.

“I’ve seen gifts large and small, from mattresses and couches to embroidery thread - in fact our very own Mayor Flora gifted my family with her couch when replacing it recently through the project,” Jacoby said. “This group has meant so much to me and is one of the most impactful ways I’ve been able to immerse myself in community here.”

The group currently has about 1,400 members, and with committed leadership, that number is always on the rise.

“The groups’ administrators , Carrie and Atina are so kind and do an incredible job looking after the members the group,” Jacoby said. “They are also currently helping me go through the training to become an administrator as well.”

Through the group, Jacoby has also made several new friends.

“One Mission resident and group member, Laurie Jaafar, has become one of my favorite neighbors, and she and I exchange items regularly (especially plants and books),” Jacoby said. “From parents to teachers to social workers, our group has some truly wonderful people.”

For more information on the BuyNothing Project visit their website at buynothingproject.org.

“This group has meant so much to me and is one of the most impactful ways I’ve been able to immerse myself in community here.”

– Amanda Jacoby, of BuyNothing Project

Building Community One Draft (and Dad) at a Time

By Robyn Fulks and Kris Baker • Photos by Robyn Fulks

Something special is brewing in Mission. It’s not a new craft beer or hot social media trend; rather, it’s a grass roots movement designed to create lasting connections between male caregivers, local businesses and the community: Dads and Drafts at Rushton Elementary School.

Started in 2024 by Rushton dads Mitch Carlson and Jeremy Apt, the idea was inspired by a similar group at Prairie Elementary that Carlson had participated in. He found more than just a casual hangout, it was a space where parents, especially fathers, were building genuine, supportive relationships.

"I saw how much the dads at Prairie Elementary were connecting, and it got me thinking—why not bring something like that to Rushton?" Carlson shared. "I messaged Jeremy, and we started brainstorming. That’s how it all started."

A vision for Connection

From the outset, the goal for Dads and Drafts was simple; build relationships within the Rushton community. Carlson and Apt wanted to create a space where fathers could bond over shared experiences and give back to the school and local businesses.

"Our vision was to strengthen the Rushton Elementary family and increase ties with Mission businesses," Apt said. "It’s been a great way to meet people, learn about the area, and get involved without feeling pressured to commit to a formal board or school meeting."

The group’s first official gathering took place in April 2024, and though still in its initial stages, they’ve already seen tangible results. From informal social hours to community service events, Dads and Drafts is reshaping the way Rushton’s fathers engage with their children's school life.

Creating an Inclusive Space

One of the group’s cornerstones is its emphasis on inclusion. Despite the playful name, which some might assume implies a focus on drinking, the program’s main objective is to include as many people as they can . Carlson and Apt emphasize that all dads are welcome, whether they’ve been involved with the school community for years or are just looking to make new connections.

"It’s been amazing to see dads bringing in other dads they meet in the neighborhood or at school events," Apt adds. "Our goal is to keep the door open for anyone, regardless of background or previous involvement with school groups. There’s no commitment required—just show up, chat, and enjoy some good company."

Bonding and Building a Sense of Belonging

Dads and Drafts meets at local establishments around Mission on the third Thursday of each month, giving members the opportunity to support local businesses while strengthening ties with the community. Whether it’s meeting other dads at the Mission Market or seeing familiar faces at school events, Dads and Drafts has fostered meaningful relationships that extend far beyond the once-a-month meeting.

"People have told us how much they look forward to our gatherings. It’s a way to unwind and get advice or just connect with others," Carlson said. "We’ve even had dads use our communication channels to borrow things or offer recommendations, which really shows how interconnected the group is."

The group has seen a steady increase in attendance, with more dads deepening the sense of belonging that is vital to a thriving school culture.

Looking Ahead: Aspirations for the Future

Carlson and Apt have big plans for Dads and Drafts. They hope to expand the group as their kids transition to Hocker Grove Middle School and, later, Shawnee Mission North. By fostering connections early on, they hope to produce an even stronger network of dads who continue to support one another as their children grow older and parenting and school-related challenges change.

"We want to keep growing this group as the kids move through the school system," Carolson said. "There’s real potential for us to build something that will benefit our entire community—not just now, but in the long term."

Moving forward, they hope to expand Dads and Drafts’ reach, both in terms of participation and support for local causes.

Carlson and Apt envision hosting unique events to raise funds for the school, helping contribute to its needs while continually building impactful relationships.

"We’re just getting started," Apt said. "We want to develop more ways to give back to the community and to the schools that our kids attend. The goal is for Dads and Drafts to be a long-lasting, positive force for Rushton Elementary and beyond."

If you’re a dad in the Rushton community looking to connect with others and make a difference, there’s always room at the table. To find out more about Dad's and Drafts go to https://groupme.com/join_group/101488853/ZzkfqOKl

"We want to keep growing this group as the kids move through the school system. There’s real potential for us to build something that will benefit our entire community—not just now, but in the long term."

- Mitch Carlson

co-founder