1999 Best Practices
Success Stories

Program Name:	MAACLink
Program Focus:	Empowerment
Geographic Area:	Great Plains

State:	Missouri
City:	Kansas City

Executive Summary
MAACLink is a computer network in Kansas City, MO, that allows human service organizations to view and add information to a shared database of clients, available agencies and services in a geographic area that spans two states and five counties. Many area agencies have realized the benefits of Mid-America Assistance Coalition’s (MAAC) computer network. To date, more than 100 food pantries, three homeless shelters, various domestic violence agencies and transitional housing agencies have joined the network.

MAACLink, established in 1994 and derived from a standardized paperwork process, has created a ‘virtual social service agency’ according to State Representative Tim Van Zandt of District 38. This virtual agency has allowed smaller agencies that face budgetary, supply, and staff constraints to pool their resources together to better serve the needs of the people in their communities. Initially, many of the agencies’ staff members were not familiar with computers, however, they quickly realized the advantage of MAACLink. The technology allowed agency workers to spend less time doing paperwork and provides easy access to necessary information used to better serve clients.

With training, the creation of a Help Desk and the input of agencies’ staff, MAACLink has grown from a basic computer program to a more complex one. Fortunately, with funding from the metropolitan area and various grants, agencies such as the Mid-America Assistance Coalition, are able to procure more advanced computers and software as interest and use in the MAACLink increases.

The program has received support from HUD and State Senator Ronnie DePasco of District 11. "This computer network is a valuable community resource to help our citizens receive the emergency assistance they need in the most effective and efficient manner possible," said Sen. DePasco. "Through this coordinated system, limited resources are stretched to meet the greatest needs, duplication of services is eliminated, and agencies are encouraged to work together to provide comprehensive assistance."

As an innovative computer technology, MAACLink represents a beneficial tool for human service agencies. MAACLink provides agency workers with the ability to devote more time and energy assisting clients.

Partners: Food pantries, homeless shelters, domestic violence agencies, and a transitional housing agency.

Financing: Grants from a variety of sources.

Point of Contact: Jan Marcason, Phone: (816) 561-2727, E-mail: maacexec@maaclink.org