In 2022, we kicked off the first Illuminate the City gala. Guests learned that we will host this incredibly fun and impactful evening of fundraising and festivity each year… but with a twist.
The theme changes each year. The event changes throughout the night. Our mission is to serve vulnerable families in need on their way to self-sufficiency – and that requires adaptation and movement. This gala reflects the need to change to serve those in our community.
We dream of a kinder Kansas City, and Illuminate the City sheds light on the incredible things we are able to do for others when we work and dream together.
Illuminate the City Gala: A Night of Dreams and Impact
On February 28, 2025, we gathered for a truly unforgettable evening at the Illuminate the City Gala—a night where dreams were shared and realized. Together, with our incredible community of supporters, we raised over $330,000 to continue our mission of serving Kansas City’s most vulnerable neighbors.
This year’s gala was our largest to date, with 325 attendees coming together in a spirit of hope, generosity, and commitment to making a difference. Throughout the night, we heard powerful stories from families who have found stability, opportunity, and belonging through Della Lamb. We listened as staff and board members shared their passion for this work and their belief in the futures we are building together.
But beyond the numbers, this evening was about lives transformed. It was about the single mother who found stability for her children, the newcomer who now calls Kansas City home, and the child who dreams of stepping onto the track, inspired by those who came before them. It was about the belief that kindness, when put into action, can change everything.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this night possible—our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and every person who believes in creating a Kinder Kansas City. The work continues, and we invite you to be a part of it.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we illuminate the path forward.Relive the night and see all the photos below or check out the Full Gallery HERE.
Illuminate the City 2024
A Night of Impact:
A warm and sincere thank you to everyone who attended Illuminate the City 2024! Your presence and enthusiasm added immeasurable joy to the evening. We wanted to take a moment to highlight some of the unforgettable moments that made the night so special.
The live snowglobe was a magical touch, capturing fun moments and creating memories that made the evening a little more magical. The heads or tails game brought an element of laughter and spirited participation – it was a joy to see everyone getting involved and fighting for a basket of goodies!
Our live auction, featuring incredible trips, added an extra layer of excitement to the event. The competitive spirit and generosity of guests truly shone through, making the night not only entertaining but also a significant contribution to our mission. We’re especially grateful to those who “funded a need” without expecting anything in return, showcasing their compassion and generous spirit.
And let’s not forget the after-party – a perfect way to continue the celebration and connect with new and old friends alike. Your participation, support, and laughter have made a lasting impact on our organization, and we can’t wait to come together again and inspire a kinder Kansas City.
If you’d like to learn about more ways to get involved or other ways to give, please reach out to Kate Kershaw at kkershaw@dellalamb.org.
At Illuminate the City 2024, we met 5 families who have been deeply impacted by the mission of Della Lamb. Participants and recipients of our Early Education, Refugee Services and Youth Services programs are the reason we do what we do. We’re thankful you’re a part of this impact.
