University District Medical Care, 5151 Troost Ave., Suite 200, is a wonderful addition to Southtown. The medical care facility recently opened on the ground floor of the newly built Rockhurst University parking garage. The professional staff is prepared and pleased to offer residents of the Southtown community fast, quality walk-in medical care for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries.

I chose Southtown to do my college internship because of an inspiring lecture given by Executive Director Marti Lee, in my Urban Politics course at UMKC. As she spoke about her involvement in parts of the city where I live, work and play, all I could think about was “how do I get involved?” At the end of the class I asked if Southtown offered internships and now here I am. I am a senior Urban Planning and Design student at the University of Missouri Kansas City and have previously interned with the City of Independence’s Community Development Department.

The Kansas City Economic Development (KCMO CDE) has a Facade Improvement Loan Program (FILP) which was developed to stimulate investment in Kansas City’s highly distressed low-income communities.

Join with Gillis Center and donate hygiene items for the youth who receive their services. The basics make all the difference in helping them feel good about themselves and in promoting healthy habits.

On Saturday, April 27, 2013 Sherwood Center will be hosting the annual charity sand volleyball tournament at Volleyball Beach in Martin City. Sherwood Center provides year-round Special Education, Adult Day and In-Home Family Support services to children and adults with autism and related developmental disabilities. Monies raised at the event will allow the Center to provide vocational tasks for the classrooms, weekly community outings and a variety of activities for their client community.

Rockhill Shell, 900 E 63rd St. is sparkling in Southtown. The gas station/convenience store made major improvements to the exterior and interior of the store. The exterior image was upgraded by the replacement of the signage and new metal awning. The building was painted and additional lights were installed to ensure safety. The interior received a new paint job as well. New counters were added which helped to open up the fountain soda station. Owner, Asif Sarfani said, “These changes have made the store more open and brighter.”

Rockhill Shell focuses on customer service. They want to make sure they carry the products their customers are looking for and strive to become their favorite convenient store. “We strive to be a family friendly store. Our restrooms are always clean and in service. We keep the store well-lit and free of excessive signs. Our friendly staff welcomes you with a smile,” said Sarfani. The Rockhill Shell has been in operation for 15 years and employs five members of the community. Check out their many improvements. Congratulations to Rockhill Shell for being awarded the Southtown Sparkle Award for January.