Founded 20 years ago in 1999, McCownGordon Construction is responsible for the development, planning and building of many construction projects across the country. The 100% employee-owned company focuses on its three core values of integrity, relationships, and performance. McCownGordon partnered with the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation more than a decade ago to establish the McCownGordon Charitable Foundation. Since …
A panel of experts recently joined Greater Kansas City Community Foundation donors and community leaders to discuss the role of philanthropy in Opportunity Zones. Still largely unregulated, Opportunity Zones provide the chance for investment in community development projects in typically disinvested areas. What are Opportunity Zones? Opportunity Zones are designated as economically distressed communities. There are more than 8,700 Opportunity …
With just over 50 employees, Pro Athlete, Inc., an online retailer selling baseball and softball bats and gloves, was recently named a Best Place to Work and one of Kansas City’s healthiest employers by the Kansas City Business Journal. Boasting top-notch facilities and amenities, Pro Athlete offers an employee experience unlike any other. While the benefits and perks make for …
In 1991, Paul Dorrell founded Leopold Gallery to showcase the work of regional artists. After a successful 15 years in the business, Paul felt it was time to start helping others. In 2006, Paul paid a visit to Paseo Academy, a local charter school, and was devastated by what he saw in the art classrooms. “These were intelligent kids making …
Earlier this year, 23 representatives from Kansas City early childhood education organizations gathered together over lunch at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation to celebrate their work, share their knowledge, and express their gratitude to the Stanley H. Durwood Foundation. The Stanley H. Durwood Foundation, better known simply as the Durwood Foundation, has provided funding to early childhood education programs …
Later this month, Sharna Goldseker, a nationally recognized expert in multigenerational engagement, will lead several interactive sessions about how different generations approach their wealth and their philanthropy. Sharna Goldseker is the executive director of 21/64, an organization serving philanthropic and family enterprises across the country. The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation staff has worked closely with Sharna and her team …
We are thrilled to share that our donors have granted more than $4 billion to charitable causes since our humble beginning in 1978. “This is a huge milestone for our donors,” says President & CEO Debbie Wilkerson. “We are honored that so many generous individuals, families and businesses choose us to help them carry out their charitable legacies.” As we …
Honeywell, which manages the Kansas City National Security Campus for the U.S. Department of Energy, is ramping up its efforts to support key community initiatives, including workforce development. Honeywell and its predecessor companies have been part of the Kansas City community for nearly 70 years. Honeywell has a long history of supporting science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education to …
With younger generations entering the workforce, an increasing number of employees expect companies to play a part in giving back to the community. Volunteer programs can help businesses make a difference and increase employee engagement with the company. At a recent Corporate Giving Network, representatives from companies around the Kansas City metro gathered to discuss workplace volunteer programs and hear …
Union Station, sitting in the heart of Kansas City, was the gathering place for a recent behind-the-scenes event for Greater Kansas City Community Foundation donors. Families with children and grandchildren of all ages gathered to explore the architectural masterpiece and hear the complex history of Union Station. The event began with brief remarks from George Guastello, President and CEO of …
