United Way of Greater Kansas City held the 3rd annual WaymakerTM Awards, presented by Hallmark, on Thursday, July 16. The event is designed to recognize the dedication and excellence of the individuals and businesses who help bring our mission and vision to life.
Black & Veatch and Lockton joined as gold sponsors for this event, as together, we raised a toast to all of our donors, corporate and community partners whose collaborative efforts have furthered our mission and enriched the lives of those we serve.
“The Waymaker Awards are an opportunity to recognize the people and organizations who choose, again and again, to show up for our community,” said Patrick Sallee, United Way of Greater Kansas City President & CEO. “The support behind United Way is remarkable, not because of any one person or organization, but because of what becomes possible when individuals, companies and nonprofits work together. That is what we are celebrating – the collective commitment to helping more of our neighbors access the resources, stability and opportunities they need to thrive.”
We’re delighted to share this year’s winners are:
- All-In Award: Recognizes one company that exemplifies high fundraising participation rate and overall community engagement. WINNER | LOCKTON
- Breakthrough Award: Recognizes a company or individual who broke barriers by increasing engagement, ran a United Way campaign for the first time, or stepped up in a big way through campaigns/sponsorships/grants, etc. WINNER | PROCTER & GAMBLE
- Corporate Champion Award: Recognizes one company for its outstanding contributions to philanthropy in our community. WINNER | BLACK & VEATCH
- Employee Campaign Manager (ECM) of the Year: Recognizes an individual or group for their efforts and contributions in leading their individual corporate fundraising campaigns. WINNER | ALLISON KOILE & JOSH LINTON, COMMERCE BANK
- Executive of the Year: Recognizes a corporate executive for their leadership and involvement with United Way of Greater Kansas City. WINNER | NANCY PHELPS, JE DUNN
- Adele Hall Spirit of Caring Award: Named in honor of the late Adele Hall, this award recognizes an individual or individuals who demonstrate their passion for United Way’s mission; give generously of their time and talents to the Kansas City community; serve as a philanthropic role model for others; and are dedicated to making Kansas City a great place for all to thrive. WINNER | STEVE & (THE LATE) JENIFER EDWARDS
- 211 Frontline Worker of the Year: Recognizes an outstanding 211 Community Resource Specialist who goes above and beyond to support individuals seeking assistance, supporting teammates, and answering our community’s call for help with a deep sense of compassion and care. WINNER | DAN ECK
Organizations included in United Way’s 2025-26 Impact 100 were also recognized for their contributions to helping us improve health, enhance youth opportunities, foster financial security, and create community resiliency so that all have the ability to thrive.
You can view the full list of this year’s nominees and honorable mentions here.