Lifelong Kansas Citian Megan Bubb has become a prominent figure in the community’s philanthropic scene. Recognized as a Rising Star by The Independent, Megan’s achievements in philanthropy are numerous. 

Despite the demands of her successful career as a top realtor in Kansas City, she prioritizes volunteer work alongside her responsibilities as a parent to two young daughters — Ellie, age 13, and Rosie, age nine. By all accounts, balancing these roles requires exceptional time management and dedication, yet Megan seamlessly integrates her professional achievements with her passion for community service.

Megan’s commitment to philanthropy was deeply influenced by her mother, Susan Bubb, who instilled a love for community service from an early age. “My mom has always been really involved in the Kansas City Ballet and the P.E.O.,” Megan said. “Volunteerism is something that was instilled in us, and I kept doing it. It’s something that I truly enjoy.”

Affectionately dubbed, “Luncheon Barbie,” by her friend Sarah Ruane, Megan is actively involved with the Kansas City Art Institute as a Fireside Committee member and gala co-chair, contributing to scholarship fundraising efforts through her participation in luncheon committees. She has also supported the Kansas City Symphony and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, where she has served on Jewel Ball committees. 

While Megan and her mother, Susan, have volunteered together such as when they chaired the Ballet Ball and luncheon, Megan has also devoted much of her time to her own chosen organizations. She has found a passion for Belles of the American Royal (BOTAR), which offers education programs and scholarships to Kansas City youth. “I really love the educational side of The American Royal and sharing that with the community,” she said. “I think it’s so important for people to learn about where our food comes from and the agricultural side of life. City kids don’t necessarily get to experience it.”

Megan now serves as a board member and governor for the American Royal, where her dedication earned her recognition as Volunteer of the Year in both 2013 and 2022. She was also recently elected to a three-year term on the board. Adding to her résumé, Megan is also part of this year’s public relations committee. Nathan Lauden, director of education at the American Royal, said, “Megan has been a dedicated volunteer and passionate supporter of the American Royal. She takes time out of her day to volunteer at multiple events and helps make our organization better in every way.” One notable example of Megan’s support for the American Royal, which Nathan cited, was her “instrumental” role in reestablishing the organization’s field trips for elementary school classrooms. Following a hiatus due to the pandemic, Megan spearheaded efforts to revive these educational outings, ensuring that local students could once again benefit from American Royal educational experiences.

Of those events, Megan’s favorite are the field trips, which bring kids from across the metro and diverse backgrounds together to learn about agriculture and animals. The kids also take part in a mock grocery store, where they see what $20 worth of groceries looks like and choose their produce. “We’re so accustomed to food just being there and showing up,” she said. “This event teaches children about how other people live and how food gets to them.”

Through her charitable work, Megan has formed meaningful friendships. She first connected with fellow BOTAR supporter Addie Perry in 2011, when they served together on the Executive Committee. Their shared dedication to BOTAR led to a quick friendship that has remained strong through the years. “Megan has served BOTAR in every aspect possible, from executing the best parties to serving on the Board, and helping with behind-the-scenes functions that make BOTAR run,” Addie said. “She is the epitome of a BOTAR – dedicating her time and that of her two young girls to volunteering at the Royal whenever they are needed.” 

While Megan loves philanthropy, she treasures every moment with her children. Both of her daughters were honored as Pages at the BOTAR Ball, in 2021 and 2023, respectively. Megan is also deeply involved in her daughters’ educations. She actively participates as a room mother, and as a dedicated PTA member, she helps organize fundraisers and other events that support the school community. “My kids are my whole world and being part of the PTA and raising money for my kids and their friends is another thing that I like to do,” she said. 

Within the Belinder Elementary School PTA, Megan has served as past and current auction chair — a role Sarah said is “the hardest job at any school.” Last year, along with her co-chair, Megan achieved record-breaking fundraising results that directly benefited the school community.  

At The Carriage Club, where Megan’s daughters swim, she serves as Swim Chair. Cortland Gerhart, The Carriage Club, said of Megan, “Her countless hours spent volunteering for BOTAR, her kids’ schools, and other activities her kids are involved in does not go unnoticed. She always goes above and beyond to help and always makes the environment fun and inviting.”

Just as Megan’s mother raised her with the values of giving back, she now instills those values in her daughters. Recently, Megan and her daughter Ellie joined the National Charity League. Megan said they are having fun serving organizations across Kansas City, and they are looking forward to volunteering together soon at a Special Olympics swim meet.

In addition to shepherding her family, Megan fosters community engagement at Village Presbyterian Church by inviting families to participate in various activities and community service initiatives.

Megan’s philanthropic contributions have benefited many of Kansas City’s non profits, and her commitment to community service runs deep. Her love for supporting educational opportunities and community engagement in Kansas City makes Megan a shining example of what it means to be a Rising Star. 

Featured in the July 13, 2024 issue of The Independent
By Monica V. Reynolds