United Way of Greater Kansas City

Meet Our Employee Campaign Manager (ECM) Spotlight: Anissa Parra-Grooms of Synergy Services! Anissa is a Volunteer Coordinator at Synergy Services, a 2024 Impact 100 partner with a mission to eliminate family violence, abuse, and neglect by providing quality services for persons of all ages. She connects individuals and companies with opportunities to support our local community through the organization’s volunteer program, events, or financial contributions. As an ECM for two years, Anissa wholeheartedly believes in the power of collective action and taking opportunities to make a positive impact. One of her favorite moments was hosting an all staff meeting to kick off their workplace campaign and seeing so many of her colleagues excited to learn about and support United Way. For her, giving back isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a privilege that strengthens the entire community. “United Way of Greater Kansas City is at the core of creating goodness in our city. Being a part of that, in any capacity, is a really good feeling. I genuinely want to leave this world better off than I found it, so however I can do it, you will find me in that work,” she shared. Read more about Anissa and her experiences here: https://buff.ly/5HkTmUt

Sign up to volunteer with us during National Volunteer Week in April! We've partnered with four Impact 100 partners for opportunities to give your time April 22 through April 26. From helping outdoors at Drumm Farm Center for Children to preparing a transitional housing unit for a new family at Community LINC, we have events for the whole family! Sign up now at: https://buff.ly/owfNHCy

Meet Ginger W. a Women United member dedicated to strengthening Kansas City! Inspired by her experience as a United Way of Greater Kansas City Board Member, Ginger joined Women United to connect with a diverse group of women dedicated to creating change. "Being a part of Women United, encourages me to authentically “Live in Purpose on Purpose” with community service," shares Ginger. Her involvement has broadened her understanding of community needs beyond basic necessities, highlighting the importance of support services like childcare, mental health resources, transportation, and more. Ginger is especially passionate about ensuring access to quality, affordable childcare, recognizing its foundational role in early childhood development. She values partnerships that empower the workforce and drive economic stability in Kansas City. Inspired to join Women United? Learn more at https://buff.ly/6dPZApG.

A huge thank you to Black & Veatch for supporting Purses for Promise as our presenting sponsor! Your generosity supports early childhood development by ensuring children gain literacy skills, creating a lifetime of opportunity. We're grateful for your partnership! We can't wait to see you at Purses for Promise on April 17th! Tickets available now at buff.ly/p9UgTdq

Our team recently visited Nonprofit Catalyst Grantee, The Black Archives of Mid-America, to deepen our understanding of the history and contributions of Black communities in Kansas City. It was a powerful experience that sparked conversations about our city's past and the importance of honoring and preserving these stories. We're grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow together. Thank you to The Black Archives for having us and educating our staff about this vital history! We encourage everyone to visit—it's free & an incredible way to learn about KC's past. Plan your visit: https://buff.ly/ER5RGz9 #BlackHistory #KansasCity

Every year, we celebrate the incredible individuals who give their time and talents to make Kansas City a better place. These volunteers are the heart of our community—showing up, making an impact, and inspiring change. Do you know someone whose dedication deserves the spotlight? Nominate them today and help us honor their impact! Nominations close tomorrow, March 20—don’t wait! Visit: https://buff.ly/UEgU7DM

Meet Tiffany Coleman—a Women United cabinet member driven by passion and purpose! Inspired by her son’s journey with reading, Tiffany is dedicated to ensuring every child in Kansas City has access to early education and resources to thrive. From volunteering at "Refresh A Classroom" to collaborating with like-minded women, she’s making a real impact. She believes that equipping teachers and supporting young learners is key to building a stronger community. Tiffany's journey began with serving our country in the U.S. Navy, and today, she continues to serve by giving back to Kansas City. Her advice to new members? "Engage in the community, attend events, and seek out opportunities to collaborate with other members. All of this will make a positive impact on our community." We’re grateful for leaders like Tiffany who inspire change every day. Feeling inspired to join Women United? Find more info at https://buff.ly/i3pDbNv

“As United Way, education is one of our big pillars. We believe it’s one of the most important factors in the trajectory of the wellbeing of our population and for people to thrive. Anything we can do to support the overall education ecosystem is a high priority for us.” -United Way President and CEO Chris Rosson Learn more about the April 8 Kansas City Public Schools Bond at kcpsbond.org.

Good luck to our partners KC Current as they kick off their 2025 season today at CPKC Stadium—the world's first stadium purpose-built for a women's professional sports team! United Way of Greater Kansas City is proud to support our hometown team and looks forward to an exciting season ahead! Stop by our tent on the Plaza to say hi and enter to win a customized Teal Kit today. #KansasCity #KCBaby

Meet Lauren—a Women United cabinet member whose passion for early childhood development runs deep. Inspired by her mom's 30-year career as an elementary school teacher, Lauren understands the lifelong impact of early experiences have on children. Now, as a mother of two young boys, she’s dedicated to ensuring every child in Kansas City has access to stability, security, and the resources they need to thrive. Through Women United, Lauren has connected with incredible organizations she may not have discovered otherwise. She believes that supporting mothers with education and resources is critical, and that Women United can play a powerful role in uplifting local agencies working toward that mission. Her favorite part of Women United? "The volunteer/service opportunities mean the most to me. Spending time with brilliant, talented, successful women is always valuable!" Lauren encourages those who are interested to reach out. "We are all here to lift each other and our communities up. I love the chance to support other women in their endeavors." Learn how you can join and make an impact: https://buff.ly/VPuvEge