Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center Presents
Heart of the Community AwardS Gala
An Evening Honoring Leaders Who Strengthen Care in Kansas City
When a city values health care, it shows up in more than exam rooms. It shows up in the people who invest in access, champion stronger systems, and help make compassionate care possible for more families. The Heart of the Community Awards Gala is an opportunity to be part of that kind of leadership while supporting the mission of Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center and the future of care in Kansas City.
Date & Time
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location
The College Basketball Experience
1401 Grand Blvd
Kansas City, MO 64106
Attire
Formal and cocktail attire requested.
Emcee: Toni Talley
Kansas City’s own Toni Talley brings the energy to this year’s gala! A Lifestyle Reporter and Host for Great Day KC on FOX4, Toni is a proud KC native, Raytown South grad, and HBCU alumna of Claflin University. With deep roots in local journalism—from The Kansas City Star to Starlight Theatre—she’s spent her career lifting up the stories and people that make our community strong. She also volunteers as Director of Marketing for Fashion Honors Autism, helping break barriers through mentorship. We can’t wait for her to guide us through an unforgettable evening celebrating the heart of our community.
About the Heart of the Community Awards Gala
Established to honor the legacy of Dr. Samuel U. Rodgers, a pioneering physician who championed accessible, compassionate care, the Heart of the Community Awards Gala brings together community champions who reflect the transformative power of service. Since 1968, Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center has been a trusted pillar of health care in Kansas City, providing comprehensive medical, dental, and behavioral health services to individuals and families regardless of background or financial situation.
2026 Honorees
This year’s gala will recognize outstanding community leaders whose work advances health equity and strengthens the Kansas City community:
Joseph Thomas
Candidate for 3rd District
Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III
Senior Pastor of St. James Methodist Church
Dr. Vincent Key
Orthopedic Surgeon
Annette Campbell
Senior Advisor for Community Health Programs, Kansas City University
Leo Prieto
Chief Community Impact Officer, Guadalupe Centers
Bobbi Baker
CEO, Northeast KC Chamber
Sandra Olivas
Community Development Director, First Federal Bank
Melesa Johnson
Jackson County Prosecutor
Mayor Christal Watson
Mayor of Kansas City, Kansas
2026 Award Categories
This year’s gala will recognize outstanding individuals and organizations in four categories:
Community Leadership Award
Honoring exceptional advocacy for community health and social justice.
Partner of the Year
Recognizing outstanding organizational support for accessible health care.
Volunteer Service Award
Celebrating dedication that makes a meaningful difference.
Health Equity Champion
Applauding innovative efforts to eliminate health care disparities.
Sponsorship Levels
Sponsorship offers a meaningful way to support the event while increasing your organization’s visibility among supporters and leaders who care deeply about this work.
Ready to reserve your seat? Click below to select your sponsorship level and complete your purchase.
Presenting Sponsor
Premium seating for 10 · Company video featured at event & shared on social media · Logo on all presentation slides · Highlighted in all marketing materials · Recognition in event program.
Health Equity Champion
Premium seating for 10 · Logo on sponsor screen · Highlighted in marketing materials · Social media recognition Recognition in event program.
Legacy Sponsor
Priority seating for 10 · Logo on sponsor screen · Social media recognition · Recognition in event program.
Community Champion
Reserved table for 10 · Standard seating · Recognition in event program.
Community Partner
Reservation for one guest.
Questions or Sponsorship Inquiries
If you have questions about the Heart of the Community Awards Gala, please contact:
Rory Kirk
Director of Outreach
Phone: (816) 889-1949
Email: rkirk@samrodgers.org