Every child deserves the best possible start in life. At United Way, we’re honored to support several incredible organizations that work every day to ensure Kansas City’s youngest learners have the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive.
From early learning centers to family services, these five Impact 100 organizations are building brighter futures for children and stronger communities for us all.
1. Easterseals Midwest
Easterseals Midwest supports children with developmental delays and disabilities by offering inclusive early childhood programs, therapies, and family services. Their work helps young learners build the skills they need for school readiness while empowering families to be their child’s strongest advocates.
2. Growing Futures Early Education Center
Growing Futures provides Head Start and Early Head Start programs, ensuring children from birth to age five have access to quality early learning. They also support families through health screenings, parent education, and resources that strengthen the home-to-classroom connection.
3. Project Eagle
A program of the University of Kansas Medical Center, Project Eagle focuses on the critical early years of child development through home visiting, early learning classrooms, and community partnerships. Their work helps families build strong foundations for their children’s future success.
4. Operation Breakthrough
Operation Breakthrough serves hundreds of children each day with early education, after-school programming, and family services. Their mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children living in poverty, giving them opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
5. SparkWheel
SparkWheel partners with schools and communities to remove barriers that stand in the way of student success. Their early childhood programs connect families to resources, encourage school readiness, and help ensure children enter kindergarten prepared to learn.
A child’s earliest years set the stage for their lifelong success. When children have access to high-quality early learning, and families have the support they need, communities can thrive.
At United Way of Greater Kansas City, we’re proud to support these organizations, as well as many more, through our Impact 100 and community investments, because together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.