Mattie Rhodes Center
Jennifer Mendez has over 25 years of work experience in the arts and education sector. Jennifer started their career in 1991 as a Playground Arts & Crafts Coordinator for the KCMO Parks and Recreation Department. Jennifer then moved on to the Kansas City Missouri School District, where they worked as a Paraprofessional/Substitute Teacher from 1991 to 1996. In 1996, Jennifer joined Mattie Rhodes and began their long-term employment with the organization. Jennifer initially served as an Art Center Director, overseeing various programs and exhibitions. In 2009, they were promoted to Cultural Arts Director, responsible for daily operations and community partnerships. Throughout their career, Jennifer has demonstrated a passion for promoting art education and creating meaningful experiences for children and adults in a creative environment.
Jennifer Mendez attended Saint Teresa's Academy from 1982 to 1986, where they obtained their High School Diploma. Although no specific information is available about the duration or degree obtained, they also attended the Kansas City Art Institute.
Mattie Rhodes Center
Mattie Rhodes Center is a nonprofit community development organization dedicated to individual and family wellbeing through social services, behavioral health counseling & the arts. The Core Values of Mattie Rhodes Center: Embrace Inclusion- We respect and support individual values, experiences, and differences and seek to create an environment that is naturally inclusive, where all feel emotionally and physically safe. Cultivate Growth- We recognize the unique potential that exists in individuals and communities and cultivate growth through programs, services, and opportunities. Inspire Hope- By walking alongside each other and amplifying the voices of all, we promote positive change and inspire hope for the future. Mattie Rhodes Center is the only fully bilingual/bicultural state-certified behavioral health care provider in the Greater Kansas City region, and is state-certified in intensive outpatient substance abuse therapy. Our staff provides culturally competent programming in the following four areas: Family Services (behavioral health, family violence, substance abuse) Youth Services (in-school intervention, youth development, supportive living) Community Support (health and wellness, community engagement) Cultural Arts (arts education, exhibits and collections)