FROM THE KC CHAMBER’S PRESIDENT AND CEO
Friday’s POWER of Diversity Luncheon was a powerful reminder of what inclusive leadership looks like and why it matters more than ever. As one of the KC Chamber’s signature events, the luncheon brings together hundreds of business and civic leaders committed to making Greater Kansas City a place where everyone feels welcome, valued, and able to succeed. From inspiring remarks to meaningful community recognition, the event highlighted how we build stronger organizations, and a stronger region, by embracing diverse voices and lived experiences.
We were honored to welcome internationally recognized inclusion expert Jennifer Brown as our keynote speaker. Her message challenged us to move from intention to action and underscored the importance of workplaces grounded in trust, authenticity, and belonging. Her words resonated deeply with many in the room and gave us a renewed sense of purpose.
We also proudly celebrated our 2025 POWER of Diversity honorees. Each is a rising leader who is actively shaping more inclusive environments where others are empowered to grow and lead. Congratulations to our Ace Award recipients:
- Joseph Hines II
- Goldie Owoo-Battlet
- Jorge Soberón-Hernández
And congratulations to reStart Inc., our 2025 Champion of Diversity Award recipient. Their trauma-informed, wraparound approach to housing, care, and family stability is making a profound difference in our community.
A heartfelt thank you to our presenting sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union, and to all the sponsors and partners who help bring this vision to life. Together, let’s keep building a region where every voice is heard, every person feels they belong, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
MEMBER STANDUP
Sixty seconds. That’s all it takes to spark a new connection at the KC Chamber’s Member Standup, happening Tuesday, August 5, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Chamber Board Room at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO).
This fast-paced networking event gives members the mic to share who they are, what they do, and why it matters, all in a supportive, high-energy setting. Whether you’re looking to build visibility, meet potential partners, or simply connect with other professionals, this is your moment. No slides, no pressure—just real people, real stories, and real opportunity. Learn more and register now!
HEALTHY KC NETWORKING FORUM – WELLNESS PROGRAMS: ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL
What does wellness look like in your workplace? For some, it’s access to mental health resources. For others, it’s flexibility, fitness, or simply feeling seen and supported. But one thing is clear—wellness programs that succeed are those that reflect the people they serve. That’s the focus of the next Healthy KC Networking Forum, happening Wednesday, August 6, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (1400 Baltimore Ave., KCMO).
Whether your team is remote, on-site, hybrid, hourly, or salaried, this forum offers practical solutions for tailoring wellness initiatives across distinct roles, schedules, and access levels. Learn how to get leadership buy-in, build a network of internal advocates, and communicate your programs in ways that resonate—no matter the medium. Plus, enjoy free breakfast and the chance to connect with others who care about creating healthier, more supportive workplaces. Register now!
CHILD CARE EXCHANGE
Affordable, reliable child care is one of the most pressing challenges facing working families, and it’s a workforce issue, too. On Wednesday, August 20, from 3 to 4:30 p.m., join us in the KC Chamber Board Room (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO) for an important conversation about the Child Care Exchange, a new community-based, cost-sharing program designed to ease the burden on families while strengthening local businesses and providers. Backed by state funding in Missouri’s latest budget, the Child Care Exchange is built on a coordinated partnership between employers, employees, government, and local organizations. The goal? To expand access to quality, affordable care while helping employers attract and retain talent.
You’ll hear about how the program works, and what it could mean for your organization. Whether you’re a business leader, HR professional, nonprofit partner, or provider, your voice matters in shaping a program with real, lasting community impact. Register today and help build a stronger, more family-friendly region for all.
RE-ENTRY SIMULATION
What does it really take to rebuild your life after incarceration? Join the KC Chamber and KC 360 on Friday, September 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room (30 W. Pershing Rd., KCMO) for a powerful Re-Entry Simulation that puts you in the shoes of someone navigating the challenges of reentry—from securing ID and housing to finding employment and healthcare.
This immersive, hands-on experience reveals the systemic barriers returning citizens face every day and how business and civic leaders can play a role in breaking them down. Whether you’re in HR, management, community advocacy, or just curious to learn more, this simulation is eye-opening, impactful, and deeply relevant to workforce development and inclusive hiring practices. The event is free to attend, so register today!
