The Loop KC brings together similar yet unique minds to create genuine friendships and ignite the next generation of business leaders in Kansas City. Members of The Loop KC are required to give back to local non-profit organizations. Learn more about The Loop KC, here.   “I’m fortunate to say that I work for one of […]

To learn more about becoming a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Greater Kansas City Chapter, please visit afpkc.org. The Independent is proud to be the exclusive media partner of AFPKC. Julianne DeLessio is employed with Union Station Kansas City as its donor and corporate relations manager, where she works with corporate partners and sponsors, as […]

The Kansas City Symphony League held its annual Spring Luncheon on May 11th at The River Club. Jenny Erdman and Silvy Brookby were the co-hosts for the event, and Symphony Ball Honorary Chairman Marny Sherman was the special guest.       Featured in the June 25, 2022 issue of The Independent. Photo Credit: Heirloom […]

The Jewel Ball Prelude Party officially kicked off the 2022 Jewel Ball season on June 2nd. The festive event was held at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Lauri Jones and Jenny Turner Tuttle served as the Prelude Party co-chairmen. This year’s Debutantes, Gentlemen of The Jewel Ball, and Escorts were introduced to representatives […]

The Belles of the American Royal are pleased to announce that Amy Ball Polen will serve as the BOTAR president for 2022. Amy is a BOTAR, class of 1991. In addition to leading several committees, Amy was vice president of public relations in 2006, vice president of The BOTAR Ball in 2012, and vice president […]

The Folly Theater’s annual Folly Golf Tournament was held on May 23rd at Oakwood Country Club. Alex Solorio served as the chairman. Golfers enjoyed a bagpipe serenade for the early start and finished with scotch and cigars in the afternoon.         Featured in the June 25, 2022 issue of The Independent. Photo […]

On May 12th, a luncheon was held at The Kansas City Country Club in celebration of the CRA 100th Anniversary. Members of Mercy Auxiliary, the predecessor of the Children’s Relief Association, began donating their time, talents, and funds to Children’s Mercy Hospital in 1922. Doe Loftus served as the CRA 100th Anniversary chairman, and Julie […]

The 41st Annual Ben and Betty Zarda Family Golf Classic benefited the food initiatives of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. More than 160 golfers participated in the event, which was held on May 9th at Lake Quivira Country Club.    Featured in the June 25, 2022 issue of The Independent.

Guests had three evenings to enjoy the American Royal ProRodeo this May, each with a different theme: Cinco de Mayo, Nurses Day, and Kentucky Derby. The fun commenced with pre-parties featuring food trucks, libations, vendors, and games. Among the PRCA-sanctioned events were bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, bull riding, and mutton bustin’. […]

Blue Hills Country Club was the site for AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation’s Charity Pro-Am. Each sponsor of the May 16th event received a foursome in the tournament, including play with a Korn Ferry Tour pro golfer competing in the AdventHealth Championship. Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Foundation’s unrestricted fund which is used to provide […]

Kids Night Out, a benefit for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City, was held on May 21st at the Overland Park Convention Center. Zalman Kohen was the honorary chairman, and Andy Burczyk served as the chairman. The evening’s program featured Abby Eden as the emcee, and Jayden, the Youth of the Year, […]

When a beloved grandmother asks for a poem to be memorized and recited, consider it done. Glenn North, at the age of eight, did exactly what his grandmother challenged him to, and since then, he’s been devoted to poetry – and activism. The poem was “If” by Rudyard Kipling, and it carries with it a […]

The Overland Park Convention Center was the site for the Fur Ball Gala, a benefit for Wayside Waifs. The event, held on May 14th, featured cocktails, a gourmet dinner, an auction, and a program. The honorary co-chairmen were Carol and Joe Suhor and the Honorable Ann Mesle and Terry Christenberry. Gary Lezak served as the emcee, […]

May 17th was the date for Hats Off to Mothers, a benefit for Life Unlimited, which was held at the Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. Bonne Illig, Kristina Klug, Kim Stevens, Lenise Ward, Ashlee Bressel, Rachel Thompson, and Angie Mareski, all of VanBrock, served as co-chairmen. The honorees were Zulema Bassham, Jamie […]