United Way of Greater Kansas City is honored to have recently hosted the 2nd annual WaymakerTM Awards, presented by Hallmark, recognizing the dedication and excellence of the individuals and businesses who help bring our mission and vision to life.
We’re also grateful to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, City Lifestyle: Mission Hills magazine, and Lockton who 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.
“Each year, hundreds of companies and nonprofits from across our six-county region share their time, talents and resources to support United Way’s mission, together, impacting 1 in 3 Kansas Citians,” said Jessica Blubaugh, United Way of Greater Kansas City Chief Philanthropy Officer. “The job of narrowing down finalists and naming winners is incredibly difficult, because of the exceptional work so many of our partners do to make the mission of United Way possible. Every single person who contributes to our work is a true community champion.”
We’re thrilled to recognize this year’s winners in the following categories:
All-In Award: Recognizes one company that exemplifies high fundraising participation rate and overall community engagement.
WINNER: Levy Craig Law Firm
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: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City
Corporate Champion Award: Recognizes one company for its outstanding contributions to philanthropy in our community.
WINNER: Garmin
Employee Campaign Manager (ECM) of the Year: Recognizes an individual for their efforts and contributions in leading their individual corporate fundraising campaigns.
WINNER: Alison Manthei, Hallmark
Executive of the Year: Recognizes a corporate executive for their leadership and involvement with United Way of Greater Kansas City.
WINNER: Dana Jermain, Deloitte
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.
WINNERS: John & Kristin Goodwin
211 Frontline Worker of the Year: Recognizes an outstanding 211 Community Resource Navigator 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: Glenda Jones
Organizations included in United Way’s 2024-25 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.