FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
We often talk about work-life balance as an important part of employee well-being. But what does that balance look like for workers across Greater Kansas City? And what responsibility do we have as business leaders to help our employees succeed both at work and at home?
Those questions are at the heart of research conducted through the KC Chamber’s Healthy KC initiative in partnership with UMKC’s Henry W. Bloch School of Management. Together, we examined how work and personal responsibilities intersect and what that means for our regional workforce.
One finding stood out: Work interferes with employees’ home lives more than twice as often as home responsibilities interfere with work. That should give all of us in leadership positions something to think about. Building a strong workforce isn’t simply about attracting talent. It’s about creating environments where people can thrive.
The research reinforces the importance of workplace culture, supportive supervisors and clear expectations. These aren’t just employee benefits. They’re leadership priorities that can strengthen job satisfaction, retention and organizational success. And while the findings are important, what we do with them matters even more.
On Thursday, November 12, Healthy KC will host From Research to Action: A Healthy KC Program on Work-Life Wellness, presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City. From 8:30 to 10 a.m. at 1400 Baltimore Ave., we’ll explore the findings and practical strategies employers can put to work. Registration is free, and I encourage you to join us for this important conversation. Because investing in our people is one of the most important investments we can make in Greater Kansas City’s future.
SMALL BUSINESS SUPERSTARS
Every day, small businesses make a big difference across Greater Kansas City. They’re the neighborhood favorites, innovative entrepreneurs and dedicated service providers who create jobs, strengthen our economy and give our communities their unique character. Now it’s time to recognize them!
The KC Chamber is accepting submissions for our 2027 Small Business Superstars, and we’re inviting everyone to help spotlight businesses that go above and beyond. Whether through exceptional customer service, innovative products or a commitment to giving back, we want to celebrate those making an impact.
Eligible businesses must have operated for at least one year and have a website or social media presence. KC Chamber membership is not required. Superstars receive special recognition, promotional resources and invitations to an exclusive Superstar Soiree to connect and discover opportunities to grow.
Know a business that deserves the spotlight? Submit your Small Business Superstar today and help us celebrate the businesses that make the Kansas City region shine!
HELP SHAPE KANSAS CITY’S PUBLIC SAFETY FUTURE
As Kansas City, Missouri, prepares to select its next Chief of Police following Chief Stacey Graves’ retirement announcement, your voice matters. The KC Chamber has joined more than 20 organizations through the Kansas City Public Safety Coalition to gather community input on public safety priorities, crime prevention, community policing and strengthening trust.
Four listening sessions remain, each from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.:
- Tuesday, October 20: Friendship Baptist Church
- Thursday, October 22: Samuel U. Rodgers’ Propeller Building
- Thursday, October 29: KC Chamber Board Room at Union Station
- Thursday, November 5: United Believers Community Church
In addition to attending a listening session, we encourage you to complete the online community survey to ensure your perspective is heard. Feedback from both the sessions and the survey will be presented to the Board of Police Commissioners on November 17 to help inform the selection process.
Help shape Kansas City’s public safety future. Attend a session or complete the survey to ensure your priorities are heard.
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF POWER OF DIVERSITY
For 25 years, the KC Chamber’s POWER of Diversity has celebrated the people and organizations making Greater Kansas City stronger by creating opportunities for everyone to contribute, lead and belong. On Wednesday, October 28, we’re marking this milestone with a special anniversary luncheon, presented by CommunityAmerica Credit Union, and you’re invited to be part of the celebration!
This year’s keynote speaker, Bob Kendrick, President and CEO of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, will bring his signature storytelling and passion for history to the stage, sharing powerful lessons about perseverance, breaking barriers and the lasting impact of opportunity.
We’ll also celebrate our 2026 POWER of Diversity award recipients, recognizing their leadership and commitment to building a more welcoming region. This year’s ACE Award honorees are Fabián Gayosso, Jill Hathaway and Trey Meyers. Henderson Companies will receive the Champion of Diversity Award, while the Central Area Betterment Association will be recognized as the Nonprofit Champion of Diversity.
More than an anniversary, this is a celebration of our progress together and an opportunity to inspire the next 25 years. Join us at the Muehlebach at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown (200 W. 12th St.). Come celebrate the people, partnerships and possibilities shaping Greater Kansas City’s future. Register today and be part of this milestone celebration!
WORLD CLASS KC: THE HEART WAS ALWAYS HERE
What makes Kansas City world class? It’s the people who call our region home, the businesses driving our economy, the creativity defining our culture and the connections opening doors to new opportunities. On Tuesday, November 24, join us for the KC Chamber’s 139th Annual Dinner: World Class KC – The Heart Was Always Here, presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City.
This year’s celebration will highlight a remarkable year for Greater Kansas City, sharing stories of international relationships, unexpected business opportunities and lasting connections forged across cultures and continents. Acclaimed international commentator and storyteller Dave Farrar will help bring these experiences to life, joined by voices sharing how Kansas City’s hospitality, entrepreneurial spirit and cultural richness made a lasting impression on the world.
We’ll also celebrate outgoing KC Chamber Board Chair Jeff Simon, welcome incoming Chair Dr. Kimberly Beatty and continue one of our most anticipated traditions with the announcement of the 2026 Kansas Citian of the Year.
Join us at the Kay Barnes Grand Ballroom (301 W. 13th St., KCMO) for an evening of connection, celebration and Kansas City pride. The world may have discovered something special about our region this year, but we’ve known it all along. The heart was always here. Register today!