This year marks the 28th year of Truman Heartland Community Foundation's Toast to Out Towns Gala, a celebration of local philanthropy. The THCF Board of Directors is pleased to recognize the following individuals, businesses, and organizations whose philanthropic efforts have elevated communities throughout the region.

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. When you add her volunteer and mentoring work to her professional impact, LaShawn exemplifies the traits of a true community leader.

2023 Corporate Citizen of the Year

Stewardship Capital

Stewardship Capital has earned numerous awards in the financial services industry and the communities it serves. Known as a ‘for-profit organization’ with a ‘non-profit heart, Stewardship Capital generously supports a list of local nonprofit organizations with funding and employee volunteers.

2023 Heartland Service Award

Hope House

For 40 years, Hope House has provided refuge to women and children seeking to break the cycle of domestic violence. The organization is deeply committed to providing an equitable environment where survivors can experience a sense of belonging and empowerment that helps them achieve their full potential.

2023 Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year

Lori Watson

Lori Watson is an Edward Jones Financial Advisor with an office in Harrisonville, Missouri. Over the past four years, she has proven to be an exceptional advocate for her clients and Truman Heartland Community Foundation, helping both make a more significant impact in Cass County.

We hope you will join us on September 23, 2023, at the Sheraton Kansas City at Crown Center to celebrate the generosity of each of these honorees. Plus, nine local Mayors will present their Citizen of the Year honorees. It is an excellent opportunity to raise a glass and toast to the individuals, businesses, and organizations that make our communities exceptional places to live, work, and serve.

The Toast to Our Towns Gala is generously sponsored by Blue Ridge Bank and Trust Co., enabling people to acquire the financial resources to realize their dreams since 1958. Proceeds from the event support Truman Heartland Community Foundation.