On May 20, the Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center held its first-ever Heart of the Community Awards Gala at the College Basketball Experience in Kansas City. This event celebrated nine remarkable individuals who are dedicated to improving health equity, public service, and advocacy in the community.
The gala supports the health center’s valuable outreach and education programs. Established in 1968 by Dr. Samuel U. Rodgers, the center provides care to over 21,700 patients annually.
Honorees included a diverse mix of leaders:
- Joseph Thomas — Business entrepreneur and community advocate.
- Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III — Senior Pastor at St. James United Methodist Church.
- Dr. Vincent Key — Orthopedic surgeon at The University of Kansas Health System.
- Sandra Olivas — Community Development Director at First Federal Bank.
- Melesa Johnson — Jackson County Prosecutor.
- Mayor Christal Watson — Mayor of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas.
Three honorees stood out from the Historic Northeast neighborhoods:
Annette Campbell, MPA, BSN, RN
As Senior Advisor for Community Health Programs at Kansas City University, Campbell links education with public health, organizing wellness initiatives and preventive care in the community.
Prieto, the Chief Community Impact Officer at Guadalupe Centers, was honored for advancing social services and advocacy initiatives, focusing on family stability and educational access.
Baker, CEO of the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, was recognized for her efforts in economic development and supporting local businesses along Independence Avenue.
The gala plays a crucial role in fundraising and raising awareness for the Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center. The funds help maintain essential mobile medical services and subsidize care for residents without insurance. According to a recent report from the National Association of Community Health Centers, this type of community health approach not only increases access to care but also improves overall health outcomes.
As summer approaches, the partnerships formed during the gala will guide the health center’s outreach strategies. These collaborative efforts are vital for enhancing health equity in the community.
