Ritchie Cherry, Sr. wants to help people with stress, and he is uniquely qualified to do so! Ritchie has a bachelor of science degree in psychology from Langston University, and a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Alabama A&M University. Besides that, he was a professional boxer from 2010 to 2015. But possibly the most […]

Investing in youth like Caylin is at the heart of what HALO does. Providing a family foundation, shelter, a safe place to sleep, and skills is just the beginning of how this organization helps homeless young people. The HALO Art Auction, “Defying the Odds” will be held on February 24th at The Midland Theatre to […]

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 […]

The Carl J. DiCapo family will serve as honorary chairs for the annual Salvation Army Christmas Committee this year, to honor the memory of the emeritus board member. Thirty years ago, Carl DiCapo served as the co-chair for the committee, which helps to raise funds for critical programs and services during the holiday season. He […]

Celebrating the theme of this year’s Lyric Opera Ball, “A Toast to Opera,” are the Co-chairmen, Sharon Barry and Deanna Diebolt. Hosted by the Lyric Opera Circle, the evening of April 20th promises to be an elegant soiree, including a curated silent auction of delightful items (including exquisite trips and unique experiences), dinner, and dancing […]

Among Kansas City’s advocates for women and children, Moira Holland stands out as a prominent supporter. Her relentless dedication and skill in fundraising led to her designation as a Rising Star by The Independent. Moira is the director of business development at A.L. Huber. She has been in the construction field for more than two decades, combining her […]

Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy will proudly bestow its Civic Service Award to Mindy Corporon on March 10, 2024 at the Academy’s 50th Civic Service Celebration, to be held at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. As the co-founder of the non-profit organization, SevenDays, in response to tragedy, Mindy Corporon is being honored for her work to […]

Kansas City Young Audiences and the Folly Theater are joining forces to bring a dynamic evening of entertainment to Our Town on November 4th at the Folly with Spirits of Folly: A Spooktacular Benefit for Kansas City Young Audiences. Featured are Kansas City’s own dazzling performer, Bryonha Marie, and the local bands Gullywasher and Hudspeth […]

At Westside CAN’s Back to School Pep Rally on July 28th, Lead To Read KC volunteers distributed free books to children and families and recruited reading mentors for the upcoming fall semester. Lead to Read KC’s mission is to support the social, emotional, and reading skills that are foundational for student success by advancing their […]

The Kansas City Museum’s annual Derby Party will be held on May 4th on the historic grounds of the Museum. Amy and David Embry are the honorary hosts of the much-anticipated event. Guests will enjoy an afternoon of cocktails, mocktails, southern bites, live music, dancing, and the best Derby fashion in Our Town. Proceeds support […]

How does Julie Arnold help HALO? Many ways! Beginning in 2017, she has led workshops for young people who are homeless or at-risk. She launched and still supports the HALO Makers program. Young people create serving trays from reclaimed wood, and the trays are then sold at HALO events. This benefits the participants in the […]

January 20th is the date for The 50th Annual Snow Ball, which will be held at the Overland Park Convention Center. Veronica and Peter Mallouk are serving as the presidents, and Kathy and Jack Newman are the honorary presidents for the black-tie evening. The Emerald City Band will provide the entertainment following a cocktail reception […]

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 […]

November 19th is the date for the Henry W. Bloch Human Relations Event, hosted by the Jewish Community Relations Bureau|AJC. Bill Berkley, Lisa Ginter, Gordon Lansford, Madeleine McDonough, Jeff Simon, and Bridgette Williams are the co-chairs for the festivities, which will be held at The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center. Joe Reardon will be […]

In Kansas City’s philanthropic circles, one vibrant and beloved personality stands out as a Rising Star – Anna Bazan-Munguia. As the youngest of 27 grandchildren, Anna’s journey to local prominence is intertwined with her family’s rich history and a deep sense of community spirit.  Anna’s grandfather, a skilled tailor who once worked for President Harry […]

October 28th is the date for American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Kansas City, which will be held at Crown Center. The Walk is a celebration of courage and hope, and a movement to unite communities to end breast cancer. Proceeds from the event fund lifesaving breast cancer research, with a commitment […]

Charlie Lynn volunteers at the SKC Serve & Lift Center of Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph. What does he do there? He helps in any way he can. Charlie has been described as humble and strong. In addition, he is always smiling.  Featured in the September 2, 2023 issue of The Independent.

The 19th annual Night Out with MOCSA Cocktail Party and Auction will be held at The Midland Theatre on November 4th. Tiffany Melton Meeks and Lisa New are serving as the event co-chairs. Partygoers will enjoy cocktails, delicious bites, and wonderful art and music celebrating the Paris of the Plains and highlighting Kansas City’s jazz […]

As a model of Kansas City’s civic spirit, Amy Guerich’s steadfast altruism has earned her the title of Rising Star by The Independent. With a diverse range of philanthropies and a particular focus on education and the arts, Amy’s story is one of passion, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to making Our Town a better place. […]

The Symphony Ball auction items are here, hooray! Nervous spouses and significant others are concerned that their loved ones may be bringing everything home. So do your part by planning to bid. The Symphony League’s Symphony Ball will be held on September 9th. Julie McCann and Gina Penner are the co-chairmen, and Shirley Bush Helzberg […]

Susan Lordi Marker and Dennis Marker will be the honorary chairmen of the Kansas City Ballet Guild’s 56th annual Nutcracker Ball. The December 1st event will be held at The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center. Jo Anne Dondlinger is the chairman. Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, and dancing. Proceeds support Kansas City Ballet performances, […]