United Way of Greater Kansas City is excited to host the 5th annual Purses for Promise event presented by Black & Veatch, Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. at The Gallery in Kansas City, Mo. The purse-based silent auction, wine pull and social networking event is hosted by Women United, a group of dedicated United Way female philanthropists.
Purses for Promise supports United Way early childhood education and literacy initiatives, including this year’s selected beneficiary, Impact 100 partner Growing Futures Early Education Center in Overland Park, Kan. Its mission is to nurture strong beginnings for children through a comprehensive early educational approach that supports and empowers families.
“Our job is to really help people understand what our families need, how they can support us and then to just be that bridge for our families so they don’t have to face challenges alone,” said Tanesha Thompson, Growing Futures Program Director. “We know that when our families are supported, our kids will be supported. They will come to school, they will be happy, and they will be well fed. They can learn best when they are supported at home, too.”
Purses for Promise is presented again this year by Black & Veatch.
“As a company, we live by our purpose of Building a World of Difference by strengthening the communities where we live and work,” said Mario Azar, Black & Veatch chairman and CEO, as well as United Way board member. “Through our continued partnership with United Way and Women United, we are proud to once again serve as the presenting sponsor of Purses for Promise, an event that brings people together in support of early childhood development and the families who depend on these critical programs. Investing in our youngest learners helps create stronger futures for generations to come.”
New to the event this year, United Way solicited submissions from local jewelers to design one-of-a-kind pieces that will be among the items auctioned off. Local featured artisans include: Cheryl Eve Acosta, Del Brenna, Kennedy Jewelers, Sierra Winter, and Whiskey & Bone.
United Way is committed to improving healthcare, enhancing youth opportunity, fostering financial security and creating community resiliency so that all have the ability to thrive. Investments in early childhood education for women, children and their families extends far beyond their health and safety and can translate into enhanced economic prosperity, strengthened societal bonds and a stronger community. That is the heart behind Purses for Promise.
“It’s pure fun and an incredibly energetic night. We’re thrilled to help support an organization that not only helps children, but also really works with families and parents to build up the entire community,” said Women United member and event chair, Nikki Meek. “Purses for Promise is a great opportunity to network with women in our city who all care about giving back and understand the impact we can make, together.”
A limited number of tickets to Purses for Promise are still available online here.
Anyone unable to attend in-person who would still like to participate can bid on available purses online starting April 9th at 9am.
To learn more about services provided through Growing Futures, a United Way Impact 100 organization, visit growingfutures.org.