The Kansas City Funder Network is a group of Philanthropy Missouri (PhilMO) Members who are based in and/or invest in Kansas City and surrounding counties. Building on the bistate region’s strong tradition of collaboration, the Network seeks to deepen philanthropic connectivity, support shared learning, strengthen collaborative impact, and ensure that the Kansas City metro area is a strong voice within Missouri’s philanthropic ecosystem. We support Members in advancing effective grantmaking practices and identifying innovative solutions to key regional needs. 

As a newly forming Network, we welcome all Full Members – as well as curious non-Member funders – to join us at programs in 2026 as we shape the Network’s role in the region together.

Please Note:  Missouri’s philanthropic communities often span state lines, and Greater Kansas City is no exception. The Network welcomes grantmakers who fund in Missouri as well as those whose portfolios include both Missouri and Kansas. 

Network Member-Advisors are not yet established.

PhilMO thanks Rita Cortés (Menorah Heritage Foundation), Marissa Larimore (Patterson Family Foundation), Robin Smith (The DeBruce Foundation), and Gwen Wurst (J.R. Albert Foundation) for their regional leadership in helping launch this Network.  

KC FUNDER NETWORK OFFERINGS

• KC Funder Network Kick-Off: Both a networking and educational program designed to introduce funders to PhilMO. Come for the information, stay for the networking. (April 30, 2026) (Link to event page.) 
• KC Funder Convenings: Networking and educational programs that serve to deepen connectivity between Members who fund in Kansas City and explore topics reflective of the needs of the region. To share a topic for consideration or offer to host the conversation, please contact Marchel Alverson.
• KC Networking Events: Events that create time and space for Network participants and guests to connect in a social setting (People in Philanthropy Luncheon; Philanthropy After Hours). To share a venue recommendation or sponsor a gathering, please contact Marchel Alverson. 

For questions or more information about the KC Funder Network, contact Marchel Alverson.