City Year Kansas City’s annual Idealist Gala was held on April 17th at Studio Dan Meiners in celebration of its students, AmeriCorps members, and community members who challenge cynicism, and inspire others into action. The 15 honorees were recognized for valuing racial and social justice and making a difference in the life of one person, […]

War Horses for Veterans, founded by Andy and Patricia Brown, held its third annual fundraiser, The Derby Party, on May 4th. More than 400 guests watched the Kentucky Derby race live on the big screens and celebrated with fun food, drinks, music, dancing, and an auction led by the Nigro Brothers. Frank Boal served as […]

Lidia’s was the lovely location for the Symphony League of Kansas City’s annual Spring Luncheon on May 8th. Mandy Burditt and Trish Mayer were the co-chairmen. Nearly 60 members and guests enjoyed delicious Northern Italian cuisine at beautiful tables decorated with spring florals.  Featured in the June 15, 2024 issue of The IndependentPhoto credit: Rita […]

Symphony League members gathered at Amy Volini’s beautiful home recently to kick off preparations for the 2024 Symphony Ball, “NOVA.”Amy and Julie Sykes hosted the fun event, where Ball Chairman Barbara Haviland shared exciting plans for the evening. The September 7th event will be held at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, and Matthias […]

In the spirit of gratitude, Saint Luke’s Foundation hosted its Spirit of Philanthropy Awards celebration on April 18th at the 1900 Building. Being honored this year are: Philanthropists of the Year, Irv and Ellen Hockaday; Foundation Fellow, Dr. Tracy L. Stevens; Champions of Philanthropy – Corporate, JE Dunn Construction; Champions of Philanthropy – Foundation, Marion […]

Being the largest Rose Society in the United States is something to celebrate, and that’s exactly what members of The Kansas City Rose Society did at their annual Spring Tea on May 5th at Mission Hills Country Club. Co-chairmen Margie Paxton and Vicki Riffle provided cocktails and appetizers, and more than 20 guests won raffle […]

May 1st was the date for Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA’s) Community Luncheon, which was held at the Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. Sarah Klein, former competitive gymnast and now a trial attorney who represents victims of sexual abuse and assault, was the keynote speaker. Heather Bortnick and Kathy Koehler […]

May 1st was the date when supporters of KC Pet Project gathered at the Kansas City Campus for Animal Care for the Kick-off Party for the organization’s LOVE FINDS A WAY gala. The biennial event will be held on August 16th at the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center. Jami and Fred Pryor are […]

An elegant Benefactor Party was held at the beautiful home of Erin and Stephen Mos on April 30th in anticipation of the Kansas City Museum’s Derby Party event. Patrons enjoyed cocktails and delicious bites from Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions. The ninth annual Derby Party was held on May 4th at the Museum. Featured in the […]

April 19th was the date for Job One’s third annual Cause-ino Night,  which was held at Arrowhead Stadium. More than 400 guests enjoyed Vegas-style games and supported the organization’s mission to create employment opportunities and meaningful days for adults with disabilities. Brya Berry served as the emcee. Featured in the June 15, 2024 issue of […]

Jewish Family Services’ newly appointed executive director and CEO, Kelly Davydov, had a chance to chat with community members at Menorah Medical Center recently. Kelly was excited to promote the annual summer Wipe Out toilet paper drive, which seeks to collect 3,000 rolls, equivalent to a month’s distribution from the organization’s Food Pantry. In addition, […]

Canyon Farms Golf Club was the site for The 43rd Annual Ben and Betty Zarda Family Golf Classic, whichwas held on April 29th. More than 140 golfers enjoyed a beautiful day on the course. Proceeds support Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas to provide critical food assistance for families served by the agency throughout the summer […]

Jerry Katlin and Dan DeLeon opened their stunning home for The Benefactor Party for the Lyric Opera Circle’s Lyric Opera Ball, “A Toast To Opera.” The beautiful Kansas City skyline served as a backdrop as guests enjoyed cocktails and delicious fare in anticipation of the Lyric Opera Ball. Deanna Diebolt and Sharon Barry were co-chairmen […]

The Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown was the site for Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph’s inaugural Hope Ball, which was heldon April 27th. Twenty-four young ladies were presented to Bishop James V. Johnston, Jr. Proceeds support Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph’s mission of serving people of all faiths, as they […]

Celebrate a Kansas City treasure! Night at the Tower, to benefit The National WWI Museum and Memorial, will be held on location on September 28th, with lots of food, fun, and entertainment – including live music on the Memorial Courtyard. Leading the charge are Event Co-chairs Elaine Drodge Koch, Courtney Kounkel, and Ora Reynolds, while […]

Oakwood Country Club provided the gorgeous backdrop for the Kansas City Ballet Guild’s annual Spring Luncheon on May 2nd. Cindy Wurm, Julia Kim Malter, and Jessica James were the hosts. Guild President Cyndi James presented the ceremonial check to the Kansas City Ballet, installed new board members, and handed over the gavel to Incoming President […]

“The modernity of yesterday is the tradition of today, and the modernity of today will be tradition tomorrow.” Jose Andres Tradition is a beautiful thread that weaves itself throughout the tapestry of human history. It binds our past, guides our present, and helps to shape our future. At one end of the spectrum, it is […]

My favorite book growing up had a yellow cover and a dog walking down the road, carrying all he owned in a simple knapsack tied to a stick. Cozy under the covers when my parents thought I was asleep, this book taught me to be courageous, to fight the bad guys, and to not be […]

Known for her extensive charitable work in Kansas City, Amy Barnthouse has earned her recognition as one of The Independent’s  Rising Stars of 2024. For many years, she has dedicated her leadership and logistical talents to supporting families in need throughout the region. Amy’s commitment to community care and support stems from the values of […]

The Overland “Bark” Convention Center was the site for Wayside Waifs’ annual Fur Ball, “Bark and Roll,” on May 11th. Martha and Rusty Smith were the honorary chairs for the fabulously fun event that featured cocktails, dinner, and a silent auction. The evening celebrated the organization’s 80th anniversary of saving the lives of homeless animals. […]