Annual Gala
In a world where self-interest often dominates, it's truly inspiring when organizations go above and beyond to serve. These acts of generosity and compassion deserve to be recognized and celebrated.
Heartland Service Award
The Heartland Service Award is a special honor reserved for organizations that have dedicated their time and energy to making their community a better place. It's a small way to express gratitude for their service and a reminder to all of us that the greatest reward in life is the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
2024 | CAPA (Child Abuse Prevention Association)
CAPA has been serving children in Eastern Jackson County and neighboring communities for nearly 50 years. Their three pillars of service, counseling, home visiting services, and prevention education, positively impact thousands every year. The organization offers counseling services to both children and adults who have experienced child abuse, neglect, and other family traumas.
Their home-visiting services focus on supporting new and expecting mothers, ensuring they possess the necessary tools and resources to nurture their children in a safe and healthy environment. CAPA also actively engages in prevention education, offering body safety classes for students and social-emotional learning initiatives for students, teachers, administrators, and parents.
Furthermore, CAPA has been instrumental in providing mentorship to over 200 counseling and social work interns from a dozen local colleges and universities, establishing itself as the largest program of its kind in the region. With its commitment to education and mentorship, CAPA has been honored with two Non-Profit of the Year awards, and its trajectory continues upward, expanding in funding, staff, and positive impact on the community.
2023 | Hope House
Hope House is celebrating a milestone event in 2023 - 40 years of service to the people of Eastern Jackson County. known for its unwavering commitment to breaking the cycle of domestic violence, Hope House provides safe refuge and supportive services that educate and empower those affected. The organization advocates for social change that protects and upholds a person's right to live free of abuse.
The dedicated staff at Hope House work tirelessly to advocate, educate and empower survivors to create a brighter future for themselves and their children. They believe in creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable environment that promotes a culture of belonging and empowerment, enabling individuals from all backgrounds to thrive and reach their full potential.
Past Recipients
2021 - In special recognition of their service to the community during the Covid-19 pandemic:
- Lorraine Duncan, MD, FACEP - Centerpoint Medical Center
- Amy Latimer RN, BSN, MSN, CPN - Children's Mercy Hospital
- Laura Anstaett Peckham, RN, MHA, MBA, NEA-BC - Truman Medical Center Lakewood
- J. C. Ireland, DO -Lee's Summit Medical Center
- Susie Krug, RN, BSN, MHA, CENP - Saint Luke's East Hospital
- Angela Haley, BSN, RN - St. Mary's Hospital
2020 – Junior Service League
2019 – Drumm Center for Children
2018 – Blue Ridge Bank and Trust, Community Partner Award
2016 – Community Services League
2015 – Independence Young Matrons
2012 – Carol Sue Bass, Kyle Conway, Lloyd Uptegrove, Carole Roper Park Vaughan, and Luva Vaughan, Founder’s Recognition
2012 – Community of Christ, Community Partner Award
2011 – Rotary District 6040
2007 – Harry S. Truman Library & Museum, Silver Legacy Award
Nominate an Organization for the Heartland Service Award
Do you know of an organization that should be recognized for the exemplary work they do in serving our community? Please take the time to nominate an organization exceeds expectations in serving our Eastern Jackson County Community.
- Sunday Jan 12, 2025 | Deadline for 2025 Nomination
- Saturday Sep 20, 2025 | Toast to our Towns Gala | Westin Crown Center
Nomination Criteria
Selection for this award is based upon a non-profit or service organization's philanthropic excellence throughout the community. They will be recognized for consistent and impactful service to our community in Eastern Jackson County.