KVC’s 2026 Gala Takes Flight, Raising Record-Breaking $625,000 for Children’s Mental Health
Every passport had a purpose at KVC’s 2026 Around the World Gala at The Abbott!
Our 2026 Gala took Kansas City on a journey, and like stamps across a well-traveled passport, each bid, each gift and each shared experience contributed to something extraordinary. Together, you helped raise a record-breaking $625,000+ to support children and families KVC Health Systems serves through Camber Mental Health, KVC’s inpatient and residential mental health treatment network.
Because of your generosity, we’re moving forward with plans to transform Camber’s flagship campus in Kansas City, Kan., creating safer, more therapeutic environments where children can find hope and healing.
We are deeply grateful to our Gala Chairs Rob and Jennifer Welker of Hoefer Welker, Honorary Chairs Brian Dunn and Mike Comer of JE Dunn, and our Presenting Sponsors Howden, The Goppert Foundation, and Shelley and Evan Howe for their leadership and generosity in making this night and its record-breaking impact possible.
Their commitment, along with the support of our sponsors, Gala Board members, volunteers and guests, brought KVC’s Gala to life.
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The Story That Set Our Course
Later in the evening, the room grew quiet as Daniel and Darci shared their son’s story and the role Camber and their therapist Kara played in their healing. They spoke about what it meant to search for help, to keep going through uncertainty and ultimately to find care that changed everything for their family. Watch their story in this video.
In that moment, the purpose of the night came into clear focus, inspiring an incredible outpouring of generosity to expand access to mental health care for children and families in need.
Darci’s words captured the impact of Kara and Camber’s care in a simple and powerful way: “Camber saved our family.”
A Night That Took Us Around the World
Held at The Abbott, the evening unfolded like a thoughtfully planned itinerary, inviting guests to experience destinations from around the world through immersive design, meaningful connections and shared experiences.
Cheers to our emcee Neville Miller, of KMBC 9, who guided the evening with charm and warmth at every stop. The energy built throughout the night as auctioneer Ron Stricker’s Auction Company and the incomparable Nigro Brothers led a heartwarming live auction, inspiring great generosity.
Throughout the evening, live music carried guests from one destination to the next, with Chloe McFadden setting the tone early and Talya Groves bringing energy to the celebration after the program.
A curated culinary experience completed the night, with local partners including Swagat Fine Indian Restaurant, Bamboo Penny’s and Plaza Catering, alongside incredible offerings from Karen Watts and her team. Together, they created a globally inspired spread that transported guests across the world.
Sweet treats came courtesy of Lori Holmes of Moto Mama’s Munchies, with global desserts that were just as beautiful as they were delicious. As the night continued, guests enjoyed late-night tacos from Tiki Taco, offering a flavorful finish.
Generosity Takes Flight
As the evening progressed, guests participated in silent and live auctions featuring a range of exclusive experiences and items that captured both a sense of adventure and the spirit of the night.
International travel packages invited guests to picture themselves on the sunlit coastlines of Portugal, to the rolling green landscapes along Ireland’s Emerald Isle and the winding seaside roads of Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
Closer to home, exclusive local opportunities added to the excitement, including a country music concert series during Morton Amphitheater’s inaugural season and Kansas City Chiefs Broadcast Suite tickets that place fans right in the center of the action.
Camber Mental Health Kansas City
Every sponsorship, bid and paddle raised directly supported the children and families KVC serves and advanced Camber’s Roots of Resilience capital campaign.
This campaign focuses on transforming Camber’s flagship campus in Kansas City by improving aging spaces, enhancing patient safety and creating environments where children and families and find hope and healing. The need for mental health care continues to grow, and your support helps ensure children and families can access care at the right time and in the right place.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This evening wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our generous sponsors. Their commitment to strengthening families and expanding access to children’s mental health care makes a lasting impact for children and families in our community.
Special Thanks to our Gala Board
Rob Welker, Gala Chair • Jennifer Welker, Gala Chair • Brian Dunn, Gala Honorary Chair • Mike Comer, Gala Honorary Chair • Clifton Alexander • Joe Chick • Shane Deal • Jack Epps • Haley Epps • Lori Holmes • Jeff Huff • Chrysy Huff • Sean Hurley • Kristina Klug • Blane Markley • Greg Porter • Anne Russ • Cynthia Simpson • Kim Stevens • Kathy Woodward
KVC Staff
Renny Arensberg • Kristina Foster • Julie Jurden • Michelle Lawrence • Amanda Smasal
If you’re passionate about serving children and families in crisis, join KVC’s Gala Board! Click here to request more information.
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Your Next Destination
Whether you joined us at the Gala or are just now learning about KVC and Camber, there’s still a meaningful way to be part of what comes next.
KVC’s family of nonprofits helps youth and their families chart a new course. Through KVC’s mental health treatment, foster care, education and family support services, healing can begin and hope can grow.
