Community C.A.R.E.: A Framework for Healing-Centered Leadership in Neighborhoods

In a time of growing disconnection and systemic harm, neighborhoods are powerful sites of resilience, safety, and collective action. But healing doesn’t happen by accident—it happens through intentional leadership. In this interactive session, Brandee Alexander introduces Community C.A.R.E., a healing-centered leadership framework built for grassroots leaders, resident organizers, and community champions.

Speakers: Brandee Alexander, MOCSA

It’s Time to Step Up: Youth Voices in Violence Prevention

In Wyandotte County, youth voices are leading the way in reimagining what a safe community looks like. MOCSA and the Wyandotte County Violence Prevention Coalition (WyCo VPC) partnered with seven youth-serving organizations to co-create a violence prevention campaign rooted in positive norms and behavior change. Through a series of Youth Voices in Violence Prevention forums, young people shared their visions of safety, accountability, and belonging. Their insights were brought to life in partnership with local marketing firm EAG, resulting in a bold campaign that calls on adults to step up and model what it means to be engaged community members. Join MOCSA, EAG, and a youth representative to learn about the process, the final campaign, and its real-world impact.

Speakers: MOCSA, EAG, and a youth representative

The Art of Gathering: Lessons from the Field

Join Brenna Duffy and Alissa Workman as they discuss Priya Parker’s book, The Art of Gathering. They will share their experience utilizing Parker’s framework to build upon and improve a long-standing event. Attendees will leave this session with an understanding of how to define their purpose, invite the correct stakeholders, and create an authentic experience. Putting this foundation into action will turn any gathering into a sought-after event.

Speakers: Brenna Duffy, Alissa Workman – City of Overland Park, Neighborhoods + Housing Department