2026 | The Story of Our Lives
31st Annual Toast to our Towns Gala
Join us for the premiere awards ceremony in Eastern Jackson County. We will be recognizing Heartland Award Honorees, as well as local Citizens of the Year from across our communities.
- Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Cocktail Party, Plated Dinner, Afterglow Reception, Black Tie Optional
- The Sheraton Crown Center Hotel Kansas City
- Kansas City, MO
Bringing Eastern Jackson County Communities together
Join us for a Night of Celebration and Community Impact
For 31 years, the Truman Heartland Community Foundation’s Toast to Our Towns Gala has been the premier event celebrating the people and organizations shaping a brighter future for Eastern Jackson, Cass, and Lafayette County.
This unforgettable evening brings together 650+ community leaders, philanthropists, businesses, and friends to honor extraordinary service, exceptional generosity, and transformational leadership in our communities.
PRESENting sponsor BLUE RIDGE BANK AND TRUST
a celebration of philanthropy
2026 Heartland Honorees
Join us for an Awards Banquet in Honor of Exceptional Philanthropy throughout Eastern Jackson County
Heartland Award Honorees are nominated by Truman Heartland stakeholders and selected by the Truman Heartland Community Foundation Board. Congratulations to the 2026 Heartland Honorees!
| 2026 Heartland Award Honorees | |
|---|---|
| Humanitarian of the Year | Marty & Cindy Cavanah |
| Corporate Citizen of the Year | Cargo Largo |
| Heartland Service Award | Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity |
| Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year | JC Ganote |
celebrating local impact in our communities
2026 Citizens of the Year
Join our Eastern Jackson County Mayors as we Recognize Exceptional Citizens in our Towns
Citizens of the Year are nominated by their Mayors for exceptional contributions and impact on their local communities. These nominees are celebrated with a private Citizens' Reception prior to the Gala, as well as on stage during the Gala.
Our 2026 Citizens will be announced in June 2026 from the following, but not limited to, participating communities:
- Blue Springs
- Grain Valley
- Independence
- Lee's Summit
- Oak Grove
- Raytown
Sugar Creek
Join the 31st Annual!
Secure Your Table or Tickets Now
This signature event sells out quickly! Don’t miss your chance to connect, celebrate, and make an impact.
2026 EVENT TIMELINE
5:30 PM | Cocktail Reception
Start the evening with an elegant cocktail hour featuring passed wine, complimentary drinks, and time to relax. This is your opportunity to network with business leaders, community champions, and like-minded philanthropists.
Cocktail Reception Sponsored by Speaks Chapels
a celebration of philanthropy
7:00 PM | Dinner & Awards Program
Gather for a champaign toast and seated dinner, and be inspired as we recognize this year’s Heartland Honorees and the Citizens of the Year. Hear their incredible stories of service, leadership, and local impact.
Celebrate with Honorees and Your Local Mayors
9:00 PM | The Afterglow Reception
Don’t rush home—our connection is just beginning. Enjoy beautiful music as you stay to congratulate and connect the honorees, and have a chance to meet your Mayors. Wine, coffee and desserts will help to curb your sweet tooth after an emotional evening of inspiration.
AFTERGLOW RECEPTION Sponsored by Truckmovers
Master of Ceremonies
Nikki Vivas, the Ponch & Nikki Show
Nikki Vivas is a multifaceted media personality known for her vivacious and engaging presence on both television and radio. She is one half of “The Ponch and Nikki Show” and also a syndicated radio talent in other markets.
A Blue Springs native, Nikki began her media career in 2006 pushing boundaries and empowering women along the way. Nikki has supported various local organizations and emceed events all over! She is a passionate advocate for the American Heart Association, Wayside Waifs and believes in the power of speaking life into women! Follow her @missvivas on Instagram or @PonchandNikki on Facebook.
Photo Gallery
Stroll Down Memory Lane
Enjoy the views into the private Citizen's Receptions, Cocktail Receptions and Gala from past years!