The Living Well Podcast

Grace in Action Stories of Hope and Service at City Union Mission

In this heartfelt episode, host Brad Burrow sits down with Tim Hare, Church Relations Specialist at City Union Mission, and long-time volunteer Bill Gray, to explore how God is transforming lives in Kansas City through compassion, service, and second chances. Tim shares his journey from pastoring to helping churches engage with the homeless through faith-driven outreach, while Bill reflects on nearly 40 years of volunteering, from humble beginnings to moments that reveal the true power of grace. Together, they discuss how City Union Mission meets both physical and spiritual needs, the importance of prayer in battling life's darkest moments, and the beautiful impact of churches uniting to serve. Whether you're a pastor, volunteer, or simply someone looking to make a difference, this episode will inspire you to see that no act of kindness is small when it's done in love.

From the Streets to a Second Chance

Today's episode features Kevin Anderson, whose powerful journey from homelessness to healing will move you deeply. After losing everything—his job, his home, and his brother—Kevin spent six years living on the streets. But a prayer circle in jail and a chance encounter with City Union Mission changed his life forever. Now, Kevin is rebuilding and is strong in faith, helping others, and even preparing to buy a home. This is a story of redemption, resilience, and the power of grace. Don't miss this inspiring conversation.

From Brokenness to Breakthrough

In this powerful episode of the Living Well Podcast, guest host Brad Burrow sits down with Charity Gibbs, the first voice many hear when calling the City Union Mission hotline. But before she was helping others find hope, Charity was desperate for it herself. Charity shares her extraordinary story—from a childhood marked by addiction and chaos to surviving sex trafficking, homelessness, and addiction. In a moment of despair, she found herself on the steps of City Union Mission. That moment changed everything. Now, nearly 20 years later, Charity is on the other side of the hotline—offering hope, resources, and prayer to those who are where she once was. Her testimony is a moving reminder of how God redeems broken stories and uses them for His glory.

A 30,000-Foot View

In this episode of Living Well, guest host Brad Burrow sits down with Phillip Garvin, Clinical Director at City Union Mission, and Dinae Chichester, Health Services Coordinator and Supervisor, for a powerful conversation about what it really takes to support men and women experiencing homelessness and deep trauma. Together, they offer a unique behind-the-scenes look at City Union Mission's integrated approach to care—where clinical counseling, health services, and spiritual restoration come together to meet the full needs of the individual. Learn how the mission's "BEST BET" model—Biblically integrated, Evidence-based, and Trauma-informed—guides every decision, and discover why recovery isn't just about shelter, but about reclaiming a meaningful, resilient life. Whether you're new to the podcast or a longtime listener, this episode offers both depth and heart as we explore the daily work of hope, healing, and transformation.

Hope, Called to Care

In this episode of The Living Well, we talk with Dinae Chichester, Health Services Coordinator at City Union Mission, about her journey from forensic nursing in a hospital setting to providing trauma-informed care within a homeless ministry. Dinae shares how her passion for serving vulnerable populations, including survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, led her to the Mission. She discusses the deep connection between trauma and homelessness, the importance of faith in the healing process, and her vision for expanding health services to meet urgent needs with compassion and dignity.