In a world where self-interest often dominates, it's truly inspiring when organizations go above and beyond to serve, especially when they serve the needs of children. These acts of generosity and compassion deserve to be recognized and celebrated. 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 Heartland Service Award

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.

Past Recipients

• 2023 - Hope House, Heartland Service Award
• 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, Heartland Service Award
• 2020 – Junior Service League, Heartland Service Award
• 2019 – Drumm Center for Children, Heartland Service Award
• 2018 – Blue Ridge Bank and Trust, Community Partner Award
• 2016 – Community Services League, Heartland Service Award
• 2015 – Independence Young Matrons, Heartland Service Award
• 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, Heartland Service Award
• 2007 – Harry S. Truman Library & Museum, Silver Legacy Award