Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Bogart.
Hi Kim, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 2014, there were THIRTY-ONE shootings in THIRTY days in my city of Jacksonville, FL, all gang related, and eleven-year-old kids were involved. These headlines inspired me to resign from a job I loved for fifteen years to become a full time executive director of my non-profit. My goal is to inspire, empower, and mobilize quality volunteers and staff to serve at-risk kids in all kinds of wonderful ways. I like to think my energy is contagious, and I have devoted my life to serving the next generation!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Kim’s Open Door is currently reaching 300 kids every month and 160 on our campus every week through holistic programs. Our greatest struggle is getting the word out and building new volunteer teams each semester as we rely heavily on college internships.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the founder and director of Kim’s Open Door, a local nonprofit that currently reaches 300 students each month from 23 countries right here in the heart of Jacksonville, FL. We serve 160 students each week on our campus through holistic programs in Education, Arts & Athletics, Nutrition, and Strategic Events.
Collaboration is my superpower. I believe kids deserve the best, and it takes a village to transform lives! What sets Kim’s Open Door apart is that we go where the kids are and mobilize an army around them to ensure they have everything they need to begin to dream and set achievable goals.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Kim’s Open Door is privately funded through small grants and individual donations, in addition to partnerships with local organizations. Because of the diversity of our funding sources, Kim’s Open Door is positioned to pivot as the needs of our community change. Currently we are serving many refugees because they are the least served in our city. As that demographic changes due to national and/or state legislation and policies, we are positioned to respond accordingly.
Pricing:
- $2,500 room sponsorships
- $250 monthly giving program
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimsopendoor.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimsopendoor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimsopendoor
- Twitter: https://x.com/kimsopendoor
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KimsOpenDoor
