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<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nMcCarthy oversees programs that serve more than 65,000 people annually through food assistance, clothing and basic needs support, school supplies and backpacks to over 250 kids each year, volunteer engagement, and adult education. While the numbers are impressive, they only tell part of the story. McCarthy\u2019s true impact is found in the thousands of lives she touches through her compassion, fairness and unwavering belief in the potential of every person she meets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because of her work, McCarthy is the September recipient of the Blue KC Gamechanger award. Founded in 2024 by Blue KC and the Kansas City Current, the Blue KC Gamechanger program recognizes an individual whose leadership inspires physical, mental, emotional and community wellness by creating healthier, more inclusive environments. This can be done through healthcare, education, sport or advocacy efforts. To nominate the next Blue KC Gamechanger, CLICK HERE<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A Turning Point started in 2016 with only a food pantry and wardrobe. It has grown to expand into the Academy, as well as various support groups. In 2019, it was voted \u201cBest Charitable Organization\u201d in the Northland and received the Circle of Hope award from Harvesters in 2018.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unaffiliated with the national Turning Point USA, A Turning Point in Kansas City\u2019s mission is to \u201csupport families by providing basic needs and education equipping them for self-sufficiency. We believe that is best accomplished by helping those in need to help themselves. Our goal is to provide a hand in myriad ways, and our approach is two-fold.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFirst, to partner with organizations and agencies to provide the best services to the Northland communities as possible through combining our resources or referring clients to appropriate agencies and services,\u201d said McCarthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cSecondly, A Turning Point continuously researches and assesses needs in the community, looking to provide services and make connections to fill gaps and creating unique programs to our repertoire of services.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a former educator, McCarthy never stopped teaching. She helps people recognize their strengths, encourages them to pursue their goals and creates opportunities for growth. Whether she is supporting a student working toward his or her high school diploma, welcoming a family to A Turning Point pantry, coordinating volunteers or mentoring staff, McCarthy leads with respect and kindness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Behind the scenes, McCarthy is the steady force that keeps complex programs running. She manages volunteers, solves problems, builds relationships and ensures services are delivered with excellence. Yet she never loses sight of the human beings at the center of the work. She understands that providing food, school supplies or clothing is important, but restoring dignity and hope can change the trajectory of a person\u2019s life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a passionate KC Current fan, McCarthy knows the power of teamwork, perseverance and showing up for your community. She embodies those values every day, helping thousands of people move from surviving to thriving.<\/p>\n\n\n Blue KC Gamechanger program<\/p> <\/div>\n Blue KC supports the Kansas City community through impactful sports partnership programs<\/h3>