Kansas City may be landlocked but that hasn’t stopped a local rising star from making waves with her contagious energy for making a difference. Meet Sarah Owings, a compassionate individual  whose volunteerism has brought joy and positive change to the lives of many. Recently recognized as a Rising Star by The Independent, Sarah has made her mark on Our Town with her unwavering commitment to helping others thrive and her efforts to erase the stigma around mental health.

Sarah’s journey as a community advocate took off in 2019 when she visited the local non profit, KidsTLC, to assess how her company’s software was being used to provide essential services. Little did she know this encounter would ignite a deep sense of purpose within her. After learning about the organization’s mission and witnessing the impact it had on children’s lives, Sarah said she felt a calling to contribute. 

It wasn’t long before Sarah discovered the perfect opportunity to help. The former Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader has long attended the Brian M. Anselmo Foundation’s (BMA) charity event, Dine and Dance with the Stars. The event supports local children’s charities and animal welfare organizations by bringing together local “celebrities” for a dance competition inspired by the popular television show, Dancing with the Stars. Professional dancers from the show join as judges, perform, and auction off dances with themselves. Sarah learned KidsTLC was one of the organizations the 2020 dinner and dancing event would support. Seeing this as the perfect opportunity to help, she leveraged her background as a local performer and signed up to participate in the dance competition.

However, in an unforeseen twist of fate, the global pandemic complicated Sarah’s plans. Julie Sano, BMA Foundation, said, “While many people would have been leery about fundraising at this time, Sarah stayed positive and held many creative fundraisers in order to achieve her goal.” Amidst the challenges brought about by COVID-19, Sarah approached fundraising with a can-do mindset. She even found a way to illuminate a special topic by holding a T-shirt fundraiser to “Shimmie Away the Stigma” of talking about mental health. 

Moreover, Sarah was determined to support KidsTLC, and set two ambitious goals: to win the competition and to raise $50,000 for the organization. “My husband thought I was crazy for setting the bar so high,” she said with a chuckle. “The experience taught me a lot about hustle and hearing the word ‘no.’” Sarah’s tireless efforts resulted in surpassing her fundraising goal with an impressive $60,000 in vital funds. As a perfect ending, she now holds a trophy for the night’s best dance performance, culminating with a paper storm of confetti and a delightful surprise flash mob.

While Sarah is a gifted entertainer, her impact extends beyond the dance floor. Each year, she mentors and coaches prospective cheerleaders for the Kansas City Chiefs. Stephanie Judah, Kansas City Chiefs, has worked with Sarah for more than 25 years and says her heart for serving is unmatched. “Sarah has been instrumental in helping mold top candidates for our program as they chase their dreams of becoming a Chiefs Cheerleader,” Stephanie said. “She genuinely cares about them.” As a trusted guide, off the sidelines, Sarah helps aspiring cheerleaders connect with the community and discover their passion for giving back. With her expert guidance, the cheerleaders become prominent figures at charitable events, emphasizing the importance of community involvement. 

With a belief in equal opportunities for all, Sarah also participates as a reviewer for KC Scholars, a non profit that aims to create a college-educated community among low-income adults. By reviewing applications and assisting in the selection process, Sarah helps identify deserving students, ensuring they have access to scholarships and the chance to pursue their dreams. 

Meanwhile, as a mentor and advocate, Sarah has supported the Go Further Foundation, facilitating introductions and leading an Executive Coaching event titled Failcake, focused on responding to failure with resilience. Thanks to Sarah’s involvement, the Go Further Foundation has become a proud volunteer partner for KidsTLC and has enhanced the support system for young adults on their journey to achieve personal and professional goals.

Further, Sarah regularly serves meals at KidsTLC, connecting with children who seek genuine connection and a sense of belonging. Even her young son, Mason, had the chance to participate and was moved by the bonds he made with the kids that day. “My 10-year-old son left feeling good,” Sarah said. “He said he was ‘filled up.’” 

Within her company, Sarah proactively inspires others to get involved with local non profits, encouraging them to find their own meaningful ambitions for giving back. Sarah has led certification classes at work for Adult Mental Health First Aid, which fosters mental well-being skills.

Sarah Owings has touched lives, raised awareness, and inspired positive change. Her journey as a Rising Star in philanthropy continues to shine, paving the way for future leaders and making Kansas City a better place to call home. As we observe her achievements, let us be inspired by the extraordinary impact one person can make.

Featured in the August 19, 2023 issue of The Independent.
Photo Credit: Tom Styrkowicz
By Monica V. Reynolds