United Way of Greater Kansas City

Black leadership shapes our communities, drives innovation, and creates lasting change. That’s why we’re proud to highlight Brothers Liberating Our Communities (BLOC) this Black History Month—a Nonprofit Catalyst Grantee dedicated to empowering and uplifting the next generation of Black teachers in Kansas City. Since its start in 2016, BLOC has created a network of over 150 Black male educators. It offers social gatherings, networking events, and professional development. In the past five years, BLOC has retained 100% of its members, proving that a strong support system and a sense of belonging are crucial to keeping Black men in education. Read how BLOC is a driving force for educator retention, leadership development, and systemic change: https://buff.ly/4bj97Fi #BlackHistoryMonth

We're excited to announce Jillian Carroll Letrinko as this year's Purses for Promise emcee! Join the KC Sports Network Host, KC Current commentator, former KCTV/KSMO/tv lifestyle host, and former Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader for an unforgettable evening presented by Black & Veatch on April 17. This purse-base silent auction will include wine and mocktails, hors d'oeuvres, local vendors, and a chance to bid on one-of-a-kind purse designs from local artists! Grab your tickets now at buff.ly/3EiNPv0

A healthy smile is more than just teeth--it's confidence, opportunity, and overall well-being. Good oral health affects everything from medical costs to quality of life. This Children's Dental Health Month, we're proud to partner with Delta Dental of Kansas through its Community Benefit Program, which provides funding for low-income households to get dental care. Patients are connected to providers in the Delta Dental network and receive two years of coverage, with $3,000 in services annually for each household member. Since 2021, we’ve enrolled 665 participants, who have received $1.5M in free oral healthcare. Because everyone deserves a reason to smile. Learn more at https://buff.ly/3QJgtrM

Impact 100 partner, Giving the Basics, hit a significant milestone on January 22, distributing its 30 millionth hygiene product at Van Horn High School! Since 2009, they’ve provided essential hygiene items to families through 2,300+ schools, shelters, and community partners. “30 million products is a big deal... We’re proud of our staff, board, and supporters for making this possible,” said Teresa Hamilton, President & Founder. This milestone is a testament to the power of community and the impact of access to basic hygiene essentials!

Kansas City is home to an incredible network of organizations that are not just making a difference—they’re transforming Kansas City's Black communities. From workforce development and education to advocacy and youth empowerment, these organizations are just a few of many that are paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future. As Black History Month reminds us of the resilience and contributions of Black leaders past and present, it’s also an opportunity to uplift some of our Nonprofit Catalyst Grantees making lasting change today. Here are five organizations in Kansas City that are empowering the Black community year-round: 🎓 Chandler/Turner Scholarship Fund, Inc. – Supporting Black students in KC with scholarships to pursue higher education. 💼 Professional Women of Color – Elevating Black women in leadership through networking, mentorship, and career development. 💻 WeCode KC – Teaching coding and tech skills to empower the next generation of Black youth. ⚖ National Congress of Black Women – Advocating for Black women in leadership and public policy. 🏫 The Nia Project Kansas City – Empowering Black women and girls by raising awareness, funding initiatives, and creating programs that foster opportunity, well-being, and community-driven change. Learn more about their work and how you can support them in our latest blog post: https://buff.ly/3Xcm0LC #BlackHistoryMonth #KansasCity

We're gearing up for our largest fundraising event of the year-- Purses for Promise, presented by Black & Veatch! To kick things off, we hosted Reading Between the Wines, a happy hour giveback event at Bliss Books & Wine. Turn the Page KC shared its mission to ensure everyone has the literacy skills they need to succeed in life, and we were honored to hear from local author Dayonne Richardson of Mirror Mirror Books KC, who is committed to making sure every reader sees themselves in the stories she creates. Now, we’re counting down to Purses for Promise on April 17th! Tickets are available now—grab yours at buff.ly/3EiNPv0.

For Black entrepreneurs in Kansas City, turning a vision into a thriving business isn’t just about hard work—it’s about access. That’s where KC G.I.F.T. (Generating Income For Tomorrow) steps in. By providing financial grants, mentorship, and business resources, KC G.I.F.T. is fueling Black-owned businesses. With $1.8M invested in 75 businesses and 135 new jobs created, they’re creating jobs and strengthening communities. Learn more about their impact: https://buff.ly/4i4Vuvx #BlackHistoryMonth #SupportBlackBusiness

Kansas City, get ready to step into a world of wonder! The 2025 Waymaker™ Awards: Waymakers in Wonderland is set for July 10, 2025, and it’s going to be an unforgettable night of magic, whimsy, and celebration! Join us as we honor the Waymakers™ shaping a brighter future for Kansas City. Save the date—more details coming soon! #WaymakersInWonderland #WaymakerAwards

Join us in celebrating Glenda Jones, our 211 Frontline Staff Member of the Year! Since 2016, Glenda has been a dedicated part of the United Way 211 team, making a lasting impact in our community. We were honored to recognize her work on #211Day—thank you, Glenda, for all you do! #UnitedWay211

Purses for Promise is officially two months away! Shop, sip, enjoy live music, and network -- all while supporting early childhood education and literacy. You don't want to miss this annual event! Secure your tickets now: buff.ly/3EiNPv0