Robert Simmons understands what it means to pay it forward, and he’s doing that with Jewish Family Services. Simmons has been named JFS’ January volunteer of the month.
Simmons grew up in south Kansas City. Following high school graduation, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he attended Morehouse College and the Georgia Institute of Technology. After working six years in Atlanta and Detroit, Michigan, Simmons returned to Kansas City, where he trained at Fred Pryor Seminars and eventually worked for the company.
“I worked as a trainer with several local companies and organizations,” Simmons said. “After traveling extensively and having a young daughter, I decided to find travel-free employment.”
Simmons found a new opportunity as a career transition specialist at Job Corps where he helped young people transition into the next chapter of their lives. While he liked working at Job Corps, Simmons received some unexpected news.
“One day, I was informed that due to a reorganization, they were eliminating my position,” said Robert, who turned to JFS for assistance.
“JFS offered me case management, a (food) pantry, and cooking class,” he said. “I wanted to give back since JFS had been so helpful to me.”
He has given back – up to four days a week at times. Simmons’ favorite JFS experiences have been meeting people in his cooking classes, done in partnership with the Junior League of Kansas City, and interacting with people at JFS events.
“Robert Simmons has been a delightful volunteer serving as a health fair volunteer, a neighborhood market greeter, and at an off-site food distribution center,” said Vicki Johansen, JFS’s Volunteer Engagement Coordinator. “He is very personable and well-liked by everyone.”
While Simmons volunteered at two other organizations before the pandemic, he continues to come back and volunteer regularly at JFS.
“JFS is a wonderful experience for volunteering because people are kind, caring, and resourceful,” he said.
Those interested in becoming volunteers should contact the JFS Volunteer Engagement Team at (913) 730-1410 or .
