Gala
Each year, Truman Heartland Community Foundation recognizes
individuals whose generosity in charitable giving and volunteerism
tremendously impacts the region we serve. We are privileged to recognize
those whose philanthropy makes our community a better place to live, work, and
serve.
2023 Humanitarian of the Year
LaShawn Walker
LaShawn Walker is the Founder, President, and CEO of Suburban Balance. This nonprofit family organization provides educational and cultural opportunities to suburban children of color to help them experience a well-balanced life. LaShawn founded Suburban Balance in 2012, and to date, more than 400 families from Missouri & Kansas have joined the organization.
LaShawn and her family have resided in the suburban community of Lee’s Summit for the past 18 years. She has been married to her college sweetheart for 26 years and has one son and a granddaughter. In her “free” time, LaShawn enjoys reading, landscaping, spending time with family, volunteering, and mentoring young women and girls.
Past Recipients
2022 - Joan and Steve Israelite
2021 – Jim and Mary Stilley
2020 – Brent Schondelmeyer and Lee Williams
2019 – Tom and Carman Duvall
2018 – Robert (Bob) F. Glaser
2017 – Brad and Sandy Cox
2016 – Terry and Betty Snapp
2015 – Mike and Jan McGraw
2014 – Norman Swails
2013 – Dr. Bridget McCandless
2012 – Dave and Shirley Wurth
2011 – Gene and Joanne Cable
2010 – John and Nancy Kimak
2009 – Dave Jeter and Jim Kidwell
2008 – Larry Moore
2007 – Silver Legacy Award, Harry S. Truman Library and Museum
2006 – Dr. Frederick Hahn
2005 – John Jordan “Buck” O’Neil
2004 – Junior Service League of Independence
2003 – Dr. Robert E. “Bud” Hertzog
2002 – Allen Lefko
2001 – Helen French
2000 – Chuck and Colleen Foudree
1999 – Bob Reeds
1998 – David P. Ross
1997 – Barbara J. Potts
1996 – Byron Constance
29th Annual Toast to Our Towns Gala
Join Us - September 21, 2024
Save the Date!