KANSAS CITY, Mo., July 23, 2025 – The Kauffman Foundation continues to accept nominations for the organization’s inaugural Uncommon Leader Impact Award, which recognizes non-C-suite employees at qualifying 501(c)(3) public charities whose work aligns with Mr. Kauffman’s core values of community impact, equity, collaboration, innovation, and a strong commitment to economic mobility.
The Uncommon Leader Awards recognize individuals who are making a lasting impact within their nonprofit organizations and the communities they serve.
More information and a nomination form can be found here. Nominations are due August 1.
With plans to provide public recognition at a ceremony in December, one awardee will receive $50,000 individually and $100,000 for their organization. A number of runner-up honorees will receive $5,000 individually and $10,000 for their organization.
“We know people are doing extraordinary work every day in our community – in parks, food pantries, classrooms, soccer fields, and church basements,” Kauffman Foundation President and CEO DeAngela Burns-Wallace, Ed.D., said. “This work often takes place without large budgets, formal titles, or even a simple thank-you. The Kauffman Uncommon Leader Award is our way of honoring and elevating those individuals who lead with impact, purpose, and humility.”
Any community member can nominate an individual for the Impact Award during the open nomination period. The recommended person must be a full-time non-C-suite employee from a 501(c)(3) public charity in the Kansas City region, which is defined as Cass, Clay, Jackson, and Platte counties in Missouri, and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas.
An external committee will review nominees based on the award criteria and make a recommendation to the Kauffman Foundation on finalists.
The Kauffman Uncommon Leader Awards consist of two separate awards, the Impact Award and the Visionary Award. Both awards are designed to acknowledge and support the work of regional nonprofit leaders at 501(c)(3) public charities who are making extraordinary impact.
The awards will be offered annually in alternating years. The Visionary Award will be offered in 2026.
Media inquiries can be directed to Lauren Aleshire at laleshire@kauffman.org, via our media contact form or by calling (816) 932-1105.
About the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is a private, nonpartisan foundation that provides access to opportunities that help people achieve financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity – regardless of race, gender, or geography. The Kansas City, Missouri-based foundation uses its grantmaking, research, programs, and initiatives to support the start and growth of new businesses, a more prepared workforce, and stronger communities. For more information, visit kauffman.org and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
