The Independent

Kansas City Jazz Orchestra - Shaken, Not Stirred: A 007 Jazz Gala
2026-05-30 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Zhou B. Art Center, 1801 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Join us for an event inspired by the timeless elegance of James Bond, where the martinis are cold, the jazz is hot, and the cause is unforgettable. Slip into your finest evening wear and prepare for an unforgettable night of glamour, intrigue, and swingin’ jazz.
Shaken, Not Stirred: A 007 Jazz Gala

The organization is dedicated to promoting the rich culture of Kansas City through performance and education. We strive to be a leading voice, ensuring that Kansas City’s influential jazz tradition continues to thrive and evolve.

Children’s Mercy - Big Slick Celebrity Weekend
2026-05-29 17:30 | T-Mobile Center
A weekend event hosted by Kansas City natives Rob Riggle, Paul Rudd, Jason Sudeikis, Eric Stonestreet, David Koechner, and Heidi Gardner. They will invite celebrity friends to celebrate with exclusive VIP parties, unforgettable events, and a signature show.
Big Slick Celebrity Weekend

Children’s Mercy is a leading independent children’s health organization dedicated to holistic care, translational research, breakthrough innovation, and educating the next generation of caregivers. Together, we transform the health, well-being, and potential of children with unwavering compassion for those most vulnerable.

KC Shepherd’s Center - Guac Your World 2026
2026-05-28 | Corrigan Station Rooftop
Guac Your World is our intergenerational taco competition and signature fundraising event. Guests will party with some of Kansas City’s top chefs and enjoy endless margaritas, music, and lots of tacos. Join the fun!
Guac Your World 2026

The organization honors our elders by celebrating, empowering, and serving older adults.

Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care - Circle of Lights
2026-05-19 20:00 | Mill Creek Park, W 43rd St & Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, 64111
Join Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care as it lights up Mill Creek Park with hundreds of luminaries, each remembering someone who has left their mark on our hearts; Mill Creek Park.
Circle of Lights

The organization works to bring expert care, peace of mind, comfort, guidance, and hope to people who are affected by serious illness or by grief.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City - Legacy Golf Tournament
2026-05-18 17:30 | The Country Club at Loch Lloyd, 16750 S. Country Club Drive, Belton, MO, 64012, United States
The Legacy Golf Tournament is designed for community and business leaders as one of the premier client entertainment events in our area. Golfers will enjoy unmatched player amenities, including an Under Armour gift salon that features apparel, shoes, accessories, and more!
Legacy Golf Tournament

The organization works to clear the path to a child’s biggest possible future by matching them with a caring, adult mentor in a one-to-one friendship.

Child Protection Center - Cook for Courage
2026-05-17 18:00 | The Abbott, 1901 Cherry St, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Six chefs and six breweries will compete in a barbecue and brew cook-off to prepare the best smoked ribs and beer! Patrons will sample ribs and a side dish prepared by each chef and beer prepared from each brewery.
Cook for Courage

The organization works to respect the child and protect their voice throughout the investigation of child abuse.

The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park - Stems: A Garden Soirée
2026-05-16 19:00 | Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W 179th St, Bucyrus, KS, 66013, United States
Kick off summer at the ultimate garden party! Sip, savor, and stroll through a vibrant evening filled with craft drinks, delicious bites, live music, local art, and dazzling fireworks—all in the beautiful gardens of Johnson County’s premier event space.
Stems: A Garden Soirée

The organization’s mission is to provide and promote art, recreation, nature, education, and culture that build community and enhance quality of life.

The Whole Person - Expressions Art Exhibition
2026-05-15 17:00 | KS
The Expressions Art Exhibition celebrates artists with disabilities, highlighting their abilities and unique talents. The exhibition promotes inclusion by featuring artwork in a professionally curated show and offering educational and networking opportunities that connect artists with the broader Kansas City creative community. At the Opening Reception, guests can meet the artists, enjoy live performances, and purchase artwork. Following the reception, the exhibition will travel to multiple locations throughout the Kansas City area.
Expressions Art Exhibition

The organization connects people with disabilities to the right resources, supports their independence, and works for positive change in our community.

HappyBottoms - Wine, Women & Shoes Benefiting HappyBottoms
2026-05-14 17:00 | Union Station Kansas City, 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Fashion and compassion come together at this engaging and exciting event, where community-minded, philanthropic women (and a few good men) gather to sip, shop, savor, and support a worthy cause in a chic, fun, and innovative way.
Wine, Women & Shoes Benefiting HappyBottoms

The organization collaborates with the community to empower, connect, and impact families by alleviating diaper need.

St. Teresa's Academy - Golf Scramble Classic
2026-05-11 10:30 - 22:30 | Country Club of Leawood, 12700 Overbrook Rd, Leawood, KS, 66209, United States
Dust off your clubs and get ready to scramble at the annual STA Golf Classic! Enjoy 18 holes of golf, prizes, on-course challenges, lunch, and a post-game reception.
Golf Scramble Classic

St. Teresa’s Academy educates young women to think critically, encourages them through Catholic values to love the dear neighbor without distinction, and empowers them to change the world.

Wayside Waifs - Fur Ball Gala
2026-05-09 17:30 | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
Purr-pare for a tail waggin’ time at the 2026 Fur Ball Gala. With a gourmet dinner, open bars, and a lively auction, this is a night guests won’t furr-get.
Fur Ball Gala

The organization prepares pets and people for the bond of their lives.

Life Unlimited - Hats Off to Mothers
2026-05-08 11:00 | The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center, 1 E Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
The annual event recognizes mothers who have demonstrated the remarkable ability to balance family life, personal achievement, and service to our community. This year’s theme is “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” and guests are encouraged to wear black and white and channel their best Audrey Hepburn look.
Hats Off to Mothers

The organization supports people with disabilities as they experience life with unlimited possibilities.

Jewish Family Services - JFS 125th Anniversary Celebration
2026-05-07 18:00 | Fiorella’s Event Center, 9000 W 137th St, Overland Park, KS, 66221, United States
Celebrate Jewish Family Services and its 125 years of providing humane services in the Kansas City metro area. Guests will enjoy cocktails, heavy appetizers (VAAD kosher food available), live music, and a fun evening out.
JFS 125th Anniversary Celebration

The organization supports and strengthens lives throughout Greater Kansas City. We provide essential human services for people of all faiths, ages, cultures, and identities who are facing challenges in everyday life or times of crisis.

The Salvation Army - Annual Civic Leadership Luncheon
2026-05-07 12:00 | Kansas City Marriott Downtown
The Annual Civic Leadership Luncheon celebrates our ongoing commitment to doing the most good. This special gathering features esteemed guest speakers and honors remarkable individuals whose dedication to The Salvation Army’s mission is helping transform lives across Kansas City.
Annual Civic Leadership Luncheon

The organization, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

United WE - Champions for Change
2026-05-06 07:00 | CPKC Stadium at Berkley Riverfront Park
The Champions for Change breakfast will convene leaders to discuss the economics and benefit of elevating women in business.
Champions for Change

The organization is a national, nonprofit, nonpartisan think-and-do tank driving systemic change by focusing on women’s labor force participation to strengthen the overall economy.

Catholic Charities Foundation of Northeast Kansas - The 45th Annual Ben & Betty Zarda Family & Friends Golf Classic
2026-05-04 12:00 | Canyon Farms Golf Club
Golfing to give back! Join us for a round of golf at the beautiful Canyon Farms Golf Club and help us drive out hunger in our community, all while celebrating 45 years of the golf classic and the legacy of Ben and Betty Zarda.
The 45th Annual Ben & Betty Zarda Family & Friends Golf Classic

The organization serves the most vulnerable men, women, and children of all faiths across 21 counties. We provide more than 25 innovative programs and solutions that stabilize and strengthen individuals and families, moving them from a place of needing help to one of having hope.

The Friends of Chamber Music Kansas City - Soirée 2026
2026-05-02 18:00 | Hilton President Kansas City, 1329 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO, 64105, United States
This year’s annual black-tie event, in celebration of our 50th season, will include sumptuous food, inspiring music, and auction items and experiences to entice the senses.
Soirée 2026

The organization presents the world’s leading artists in beautifully curated performances, advocates for creative and engaging programming, provides educational initiatives reaching deep into our community, and works tirelessly to be a good partner in strengthening the cultural life of Greater Kansas City and beyond.

Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) - Kansas City Dream Gala
2026-05-02 17:00 | Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown, 200 W 12th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64105, United States
This signature event is a night of inspiration and impact, where you can help amplify Breakthrough T1D’s strategy to create a world without type 1 diabetes. Let’s breakthrough T1D together!
Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF); Kansas City Dream Gala

The organization works to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to treat, prevent, and ultimately, cure type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its complications.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art - ShuttleCork
2026-05-01 17:30 | The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO, 64111, United States
Guests will enjoy two dazzling nights of art and wine to create Kansas City’s finest party, which benefits the Museum’s art education and community programs.
ShuttleCork

The organization invites all people to explore the art in its care, and through its broad collection, the depths and complexities of human experiences.

Metropolitan Organization Countering Sexual Assault (MOCSA) - MOCSA’s 32nd Annual Community Luncheon
2026-05-01 11:30 | Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown, 200 W 12th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64105, United States
Join more than 1,000 guests from all around the Kansas City metro area to learn about MOCSA’s mission and how we can create a community free from sexual assault and abuse.
MOCSA’s 32nd Annual Community Luncheon

The organization’s mission is to improve the lives of those impacted by sexual abuse and assault and to prevent sexual violence in our community.

Midwest Innocence Project - Faces of Innocence
2026-04-30 18:00 | The Midland Theatre, 1228 Main Street, Kansas City, MO, United States
The annual, signature fundraising evening will feature hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, raffle prizes, games, and photo opportunities.
Faces of Innocence

The organization works to free innocent people from prison, support and empower them after release, and reform policy and legislation to prevent wrongful convictions.

Operation Breakthrough - Big Dreams/Bright Futures
2026-04-30 17:30 | Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown, 200 W 12th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64105, United States
Enjoy a delicious meal, cocktails, entertainment by our children, and hundreds of auction items. Summer casual attire.
Big Dreams/Bright Futures

The organization provides a safe, loving, and educational environment for children in poverty and empowers their families through advocacy, emergency aid, and education.

National Kidney Foundation - 2026 Great Plates Celebration
2026-04-30 17:30 | The Oliver, 1321 W 13th St., Kansas City, Missouri, 64102
This mouthwatering social event brings together a collection of local chefs and their delectable creations for one amazing evening. The evening will feature chef and cocktail samplings, live and silent auctions, and a showcase of patient stories.
2026 Great Plates Celebration

The organization is revolutionizing the fight to save lives by eliminating preventable kidney disease, accelerating innovation for the dignity of the patient’s experience, and dismantling structural inequities in kidney care, dialysis, and transplantation.

Jackson County CASA - Light of Hope Breakfast
2026-04-28 07:00 | Loews Kansas City Hotel
The Light of Hope Breakfast will highlight and share Jackson County CASA’s work in the community to advocate for children and youth in the foster care system. We will recognize an outstanding volunteer and an individual or business whose support has made a lasting difference for our organization.
Light of Hope Breakfast

The organization’s mission is to be a child’s voice in court. We recruit, train, and support volunteers who act as advocates on behalf of the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

Rose Brooks Center - Cabaret
2026-04-26 17:00 | Loews Kansas City Hotel
Cabaret brings the entire community together for an evening of elegant entertainment in support of services for survivors of domestic violence.
Cabaret

The organization works to break the cycle of domestic violence so that individuals and families can live free of abuse.

Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired - 38th Annual CCVI Trolley Run
2026-04-26 08:00 | Waldo, Brookside, and the Country Club Plaza
The CCVI Trolley Run is a four-mile, flat to downhill race that welcomes all runners and walkers and tours Waldo, Brookside, and the Country Club Plaza. Join us for our 38th anniversary!
38th Annual CCVI Trolley Run

The organization prepares children with visual impairments, including those with multiple disabilities, to reach their highest potential in the sighted world.

Sexually Abused Children’s Relief Endeavor (SACRED) - Be Our Guest Gala: A Night at the Theater
2026-04-25 18:00 | Marriott Kansas City Overland Park, 10800 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS, 66210, United States
Inspired by the glamour of an opening night performance, the event will feature Kansas City’s premier wine and spirits auction, fine dining, and live entertainment.
Be Our Guest Gala: A Night at the Theater

The organization provides immediate financial assistance to families in need due to the sexual abuse of a child or children.

Cristo Rey Kansas City - Dancing with the Kansas City Stars
2026-04-25 18:00 | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
We will be roaring back to the 1920s as eight Kansas City icons battle to win top dancer at the 20th annual Dancing with the Kansas City Stars! Join us in supporting 20 years of Cristo Rey by cheering the dancers on and voting for your favorite performer.
Dancing with the Kansas City Stars

The organization provides a Catholic, college and career prep education enhanced by an innovative corporate work-study program to culturally diverse, ambitious students with economic need.

Kansas City Young Matrons - Raise the Bouquet! A Garden Party Fundraiser
2026-04-25 13:00 | Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W 179th St, Bucyrus, KS, 66013, United States
Under the leadership of Co-chairs Mary Jennifer Amato and Christy Jennings, Raise the Bouquet will bring together members, supporters, and friends of KCYM for a celebration of hope, healing, and community. Guests will enjoy a stylish garden party atmosphere while raising essential funds for Amethyst Place, a non-profit organization which provides long-term supportive housing for women and children recovering from generational poverty, substance use, and trauma.
Raise the Bouquet! A Garden Party Fundraiser

The women’s organization is designed to serve the greater Kansas City community and provide opportunities for members to develop social, educational, and personal relationships.

Spire Chamber Ensemble - Voices InSpire: A Benefit for Spire Chamber Ensemble;
2026-04-24 18:00 | Mission Hills Country Club, 5400 Mission Dr, Prairie Village, KS, 66208, United States
Guests will be welcomed with a warm cocktail reception before the grand unveiling of the ballroom, where beautifully appointed tables await. The highlight of the evening will be a full performance by Spire’s renowned chorus, bringing the unmatched beauty of choral music to life in an intimate setting. Dinner, an elegant dessert, and conversation with the artists themselves will follow, creating a night of connection and celebration.
Voices InSpire: A Benefit for Spire Chamber Ensemble

The organization inspires, educates, and enriches the Kansas City metropolitan community through the transformational power of choral music performed at the highest artistic level.
