This year marks a significant milestone for Truman Heartland Community Foundation: the 30th Annual Toast to Our Towns Gala! For three decades, this cherished event has been a celebration of the people, businesses, and organizations who make our communities stronger. It has become one of our region’s most anticipated traditions, where fundholders, community leaders, and partners gather to honor those who exemplify the spirit of private giving for public good.

With just 80 days to go until the Gala on Saturday, September 20, 2025, we are excited to announce that all of our 2025 honorees have been selected.

🌟 2025 Heartland Award Honorees

Selected by the Truman Heartland Board of Directors, these outstanding leaders represent exceptional commitment to philanthropy, service, and community leadership:

• Heartland Humanitarian of the Year: Michele Shanahan DeMoss
• Heartland Corporate Citizen of the Year: Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal
• Heartland Service Award: Metropolitan Community College

🏆 2025 Citizens of the Year

Each year, local mayors personally select a Citizen of the Year from their community—individuals whose selfless dedication is shaping lives and neighborhoods across our region.

• Blue Springs: Brad Batz (Nominated by Mayor Chris Lievsay)
• Grain Valley: Jerry Vaughan (Nominated by Mayor Mike Todd)
• Independence: Gerry Winship (Nominated by Mayor Rory Rowland)
• Lee’s Summit: Michael VanBuskirk (Nominated by Mayor Bill Baird)
• Oak Grove: Michelle Alexander (Nominated by Mayor Dana Webb)
• Raytown: Dave Thurman (Nominated by Mayor Mike McDonough)
• Sugar Creek: Krystal Thompson (Nominated by Mayor Mike Larson)

The Citizen of the Year recognition process is deeply meaningful because it comes directly from local leadership, celebrating individuals who consistently enrich their hometowns through volunteerism, cultural leadership, business excellence, and community service.

🎟️ Be Part of the Celebration — Or Become a Sponsor!

The 30th Annual Toast to Our Towns Gala is more than an event—it’s a powerful tradition where generosity, leadership, and community spirit come together to shape the future of Eastern Jackson, Cass, and Lafayette County.

This signature event regularly sells out, drawing over 700 community leaders, fundholders, philanthropists, and businesses for a night of celebration and impact.

👉 Secure Your Table or Tickets Now!

Don’t miss your chance to connect, celebrate, and make a lasting difference. Become a Sponsor | Buy a Table or Tickets

Whether you choose to sponsor a table, invest as a major event sponsor, or attend as a guest, your participation helps honor these extraordinary community leaders and fuels Truman Heartland’s ongoing work to promote private giving for public good.

📅 Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025

📍 Location: Westin Crown Center Hotel, Kansas City

🎩 Attire: Black tie optional

🎤 Master of Ceremonies: Local celebrity Nikki Vivas from the Ponch & Nikki Morning Show on 97.3 and a trusted local reporter will keep the evening lively and unforgettable! 🎉

⏱️Event Schedule:

• Cocktail Reception: 5:30 p.m.
• Dinner & Awards Program: 7:00 p.m.
• Mix, Mingle & Music After Party: 9:00 p.m.

👉 RSVP, Become a Sponsor, or Buy Tickets at thcf.org/gala

🎉 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

• Presenting Sponsor: Blue Ridge Bank and Trust
• Cocktail Reception Sponsor: Speaks Chapels
• Mix, Mingle & Music After Party Sponsor: Truckmovers.com
• 30th Anniversary Sponsor: Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal