25/11/2025
Whether it’s just been on your mind, or it’s the news or the upcoming holidays… if you’re thinking of how you can help others, I hope you’ll read more about one of my favorite KC local nonprofits.
I have had the pleasure of working with Happy Hearts Working since January of 2020. Since then we have worked on many website projects and updates together - from minor text edits, to running fundraising events with online ticket sales, to a full platform upgrade.
But what is Happy Hearts Working? creates a clear and meaningful pathway for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, connecting them to job and volunteer opportunities, and supporting access to semi-independent living.
To fund these important programs, HHW collects monetary donations, gifts in kind, and hosts fundraising events.
The events, plans and ideas they come up with to grow their organization are fun and innovative. I personally enjoy running their annual golf tournament through the website. We sell tickets for players and teams as well as sponsorship packages for those who want to donate and help run the tournament. This year will be the 8th year of the golf tournament fundraiser. They also host an annual penguin plunge every March, where supporters get together to plunge into the lake and raise funds for HHW! It is exciting to get an inside look at how they fundraise and run their programs.
Most recently, to help expand their organization’s vision, Happy Hearts Working launched their 2025 Capital Campaign and “Hard Hat Tour & Work Party” for the renovation of their new space at 144 N Nettleton Ave in Bonner Springs. The “work party” is a group where donation of goods, services, or financial support helps create lasting improvements that empower their associates to succeed. This new space is incredibly important to HHW, as it allows their Associates to skill-build for jobs, volunteering and to live semi-independently, creating a flourishing, brighter community.
Circling back - if you’d like to donate to a great organization, I’d suggest Happy Hearts Working. Carol and their team are amazing people with an amazing mission.