Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

Kansas City’s stories are filled with movement — people building, creating, leading, and opening pathways for those who follow.

Monarchs and Movement, created by Chico Sierra, is located at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. This heart connects beautifully to our belief that communities grow stronger when more people have access to opportunity and the chance to contribute their gifts.

Find it at 1616 E 18th St., Kansas City, MO 64108, then explore all the hearts throughout the KC region. https://bit.ly/4vI9L9g

At the Kauffman Foundation, we believe stronger communities begin with access to opportunity, and with people seeing how their stories connect.

CommUnity Through CommonUnity, created by KC Metro Fellowship, reflects the power of many pieces coming together as one community. We’re proud to have this heart at the entrance of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, welcoming neighbors, partners, and visitors into a space built for connection.

Read the feature article the goes deeper into the creation of this heart at 4801 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, then keep exploring all the hearts across the Kansas City region. https://bit.ly/4dxv1Yf

Stories help us learn who we are, where we’ve been, and what we can build together.

The Heart of the Story, created by Ivey Zoellers, is located at the Kansas City Public Library Southeast Branch, a place where knowledge and community meet. As a Foundation, we believe access to opportunity begins with access to ideas, learning, and spaces where people can imagine new futures.

Visit this heart at 6242 Swope Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64130, and explore all the hearts across the KC region: https://bit.ly/4vI9L9g

Opportunity often starts with someone helping us see what is possible.

Inspiration is Everywhere, created by Angelica Ahumada, celebrates that spirit. Located at KCKS Public Schools Central Office and Training Center, this heart reminds us that education, encouragement, and access can help people prepare for success in school, work, and life.

Find it at 2010 N 59 St., Kansas City, KS 66104, then continue exploring all the hearts throughout the Kansas City region: https://bit.ly/4vI9L9g

Learning opens doors — to careers, to community, and to the future people imagine for themselves.

That’s why The Heart of Bellefontaine, created by Jacob Luke KansasCityHues.com, feels especially connected to our mission. Located at Rockhurst University, this heart invites us to think about the role education plays in helping people prepare for success and contribute to the places they call home.

Find it at 1100 Rockhurst Road, Kansas City, MO 64110, and explore all the hearts throughout the KC region: https://bit.ly/4vI9L9g

Every community is shaped by people whose contributions make the region more vibrant, resilient, and full of possibility.

Rich Contributions, created by Dani Fischer, reflects that truth. Located at El Centro Inc., this heart connects to our vision of economically empowered individuals contributing to the improvement of their communities.

Find it at 650 Minnesota Ave. #2, Kansas City, KS 66101, and keep exploring all the hearts across the Kansas City region: https://bit.ly/4vI9L9g

What does it take to build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem?

Maria Meyers spent decades helping answer that question — transforming Kansas City into SourceLink’s flagship city and a model for entrepreneur support nationwide.

Ahead of her retirement this summer, Maria reflects on the partnerships, vision, and community mindset that helped shape her lasting legacy.

Read the Q&A: https://bit.ly/4wLogcO

A thriving community is built through care, connection, and the belief that people should have the opportunity to move forward.

Lending A Heart, created by Libby Rule Paints, speaks to that shared responsibility. We’re proud to sponsor this heart at Mattie Rhodes Cultural Center, where its message can invite reflection on how generosity and opportunity strengthen Kansas City.

Visit 915 W 17 St., Kansas City, MO 64108, and explore all the hearts across the region: https://bit.ly/4vI9L9g

As a “Heart of the Nation Patron Partner” of the 2026 Parade of Hearts, the Kauffman Foundation is sponsoring nine hearts, one of which is installed on our campus. Make sure your notifications are on over the next few weeks when we'll be highlighting each heart, its artist, and location as part of our Heart of the Community social series.

Pride Month is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, honor its history, and recognize the ongoing work toward equality and inclusion. It is an opportunity to reflect on progress, uplift voices, and create space for connection and belonging in our communities. Kansas City has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community that continues to shape the culture of our region. 🏳️‍🌈