contents

WHO WE ARE 6

WEDDING & EVENTS COALITION 8

WECO MEMBERS 10

LGBTBE® CERTIFICATION PROGRAM 14

WHY JOIN 18

THE PATH AHEAD 20

OUR MEMBERS 22

QUICK FACTS 24

THE B2B NETWORK 28

AWARD WINNER: JEFF WAGNER 32

AWARD WINNER: GODFREY RIDDLE 36

BREWING RESILIENCE & COMMUNITY 40

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION 42

CHAMBER SPEAKS 44

AMBASSADORS 50

METZLER MENTOR PROGRAM 52

EMERGE 54

PUBLIC POLICY & ADVOCACY 58

COFFEE CONNECTIONS 60

TRANSFORMATION IN THE WORKPLACE 62

CORPORATE PARTNERS 64

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 66

Mid-America LGBT
Chamber of Commerce

1475 Walnut Street

Kansas City, MO 64106

(816) 474-3558

www.midamericalgbt.org

This is a Town Square Publications, formerly
MetroMedia (since 1997), publication created and produced
for the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce.

Copyright © 2023 Town Square Publications

P.O. Box 280, Arlington Heights, IL 60006

(847) 427-4905 | tbusby@tspubsdigital.com

www.TownSquarePublications.com

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. The Chamber and Town Square assume no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact the Chamber with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the Chamber and Town Square is prohibited.

Chairman, CEO and Publisher | Douglas K. Ray

President and Chief Operating Officer | Scott Stone

Vice President / Director | Scott Ray

Managing Director | David Small

Director of Production | Ryan Moore

Sales | Tammie Easson

Editor | Kristopher Baker

Project Manager | Sandy King

Our Affiliation To The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce

The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce is a proud affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce is a long established business advocate and a direct link between lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender business owners, corporations and governments. There are 52 National LGBT Chamber of Commerce affiliate chambers across the United States and Internationally.

WHO

WE ARE

The Mid- America LGBT Chamber of Commerce advocates, promotes and facilitates the success of the LGBTQ+ and allied business community through the guiding principles of equity, inclusion, education, and economic empowerment. Our purpose is to create, identify, and enhance business opportunities for LGBTQ+ and allied organizations to foster a more inclusive and vibrant economy in the Midwest.

Executive

Committee

Kate Nielsen

Board President

Joel Barrett

Board Vice President

Jay Bohanon

Board Secretary

Stephanie Martin

Board Treasurer

Board of

Directors

Brandy Williams

At Large

Doug Spear

Policy & Advocacy Director

Jessica Blubaugh

At Large

Ricky Walker

Programming
Co-Director

Jeff Dutzel

WECo Director

Christopher Draven

Technology Director

Paige Fowler

Membership Director

Aaron House

Governance Director

Garrett Pouncil

At Large

Brett Young

At Large

Zeb Jackson

At Large

Tony Marin

At Large

Zach Rose-Heim

At Large

Staff

Tracey DeMarea

Executive Director

Erica Ramirez

Director of Operations

WEDDING AND EVENTS COALITION

(WECo)

Overview

The Wedding & Events Coalition, or WECo, was launched at the August 2021 B2B event. WECo is driven by the purpose to provide industry-leading education and inspirational networking events to wedding and special events professionals, vendors and supplies with the goal to advance diversity, equity and inclusion standards of the wedding and events planning industry for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and allied businesses, organizations, individuals and consumers. WECo has grown to 38 members and the coalition has held networking events, inclusion training, photoshoots, and held its first wedding and events expo in January 2023.

WECo Together

Held quarterly, WECo hosts their WECo Together events. WECo Together is designed to bring WECo members together for networking opportunities, education and training, and best practices discussions. WECo Together events are held at local member locations and provide an opportunity for members to get more involved with the only coalition of its kind in the Midwest. Once per year, WECO Together is opened to all businesses to learn more.

Wedding Expo

Our second wedding-only expo, “Celebrate: A Wedding and Lifestyle Show” is planned for April 2024.

DEI Training

WECo offers a half day DEI Training course for all of its members once a year, as well as covers a different DEI topic at each of our WECo Together networking events. This year’s DEI Training was held at the Kansas City Club, and included sessions that discussed unlearning unconscious bias, knowing your pronouns, how to be an ally, and best practices for social media from a DEI perspective. In the future, WECo plans to continue to offer a yearly basic DEI Training course, as well as deep dive short courses into specific topics.

Strategic Direction

Vision: Events without Discrimination

Mission Statement: To create an open and affirming vendor community through education, connection, and influence.

Strategic Goals:

EDUCATION Strategic Goal: Become a known resource for intersectional inclusive practices for wedding and event vendors

CONNECTION Strategic Goal: Connect vendors to each other and to customers.

INFLUENCE Strategic Goal: Create opportunities for more businesses to see the benefits of being open and inclusive and develop as a source of power for change in the political/social sphere.

DIVERSITY Strategic Goal: Cultivate diversity, equity and inclusion in our organization and the industry.

WECo Members

WECo Celebration

Adri Guyer Photographer

Photographers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

hello@adriguyer.com

http://www.adriguyer.com

(816) 527-3913

Levity Events

Event Planning & Production 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

info@levityevents.com

http://www.levityevents.com

(816) 974-3005

Outreach Event Space

Event Spaces
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

eventspace@outreachmail.org

http://www.outreacheventspace.com

(816) 768-8621

Suitcase of Dreams/Off to Anyland Travel

Travel Agencies
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

jill@suitcaseofdreamstravel.com

http://www.suitcaseofdreamstravel.com

(816) 520-4843

Wedley Weddings, LLC

Wedding Officiant/Clergy
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

joshua@wedleyweddings.com

http://www.wedleyweddings.com

(913) 709-8682

WECo Inspiration

Dutzel’s Catering

LGBT Business Enterprise (BE) Certified
Caterers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

info@dutzelscatering.com

http://www.dutzelscatering.com

(816) 323-0716

Marquee Event Rental

Event Planning & Production 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

cschwartz@marqueerents.com

http://marqueerents.com

(816) 765-1444

True Society by Belle Vogue Bridal

Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)
Retail 

Retailoperations@truesociety.com

https://truesociety.com

(816) 293-4844

Unity Village

Event Spaces
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

griffinda@unityonline.org

http://www.unityvillage.org

(816) 251-3511

WECo Rainbow

A Day to Adore Photography

Photographers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

info@adaytoadore.com

http://www.adaytoadore.com

(208) 406-2066

Ambassador Hotel Kansas City, Autograph Collection

Accommodations - Hotels & Resorts 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

jmora@ambassadorhc.com

http://www.ambassadorkcmo.com

(816) 298-7700

Argyle Events

Event Spaces

alesia.lawson@sportingkc.com

https://argyleevents.sportingkc.com/

(913) 951-3579

Blue Pot Catering

Caterers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

chef@thebluepot.com

http://www.thebluepot.com

(816) 916-0169

Bootleg Bourbon Balls

Retail 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

Info@BootlegBourbonBalls.com

http://www.bootlegbourbonballs.com

(816) 912-6272

Brick + Ivory Events

Event Planning & Production 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

hello@brickandivoryevents.com

http://brickandivoryevents.com

(913) 530-4595

Caitlyn Cloud Photography

Photographers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

caitlyncloud8@gmail.com

https://caitlyncloud.com

(316) 617-3644

Claire Ryser

Photographers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

claire@claireryser.com

http://www.claireryser.com

(816) 726-6705

Erin Cook Personal Bartending Services

Other (the Chamber will contact you to discuss options)

Erin@ErinCookBartending.com

http://www.erincookbartending.com

(816) 217-5384

Erishyll Mae Photography LLC

Photographers 

erishyllmphotography@gmail.com

http://www.erishyllmaephotography.com

(816) 728-8883

Events by Emily

Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)
Event Planning & Production 

Emily@ebeweddings.com

http://www.ebeweddings.com

(918) 697-6331

Forks N Chill

Caterers 

forksnchill@gmail.com

http://www.forksnchill.com

(808) 253-9834

Good Earth Floral Design Studio

Florists
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

Goodearthflowers@live.com

http://Www.GoodEarthFlowers.com

(913) 271-1013

Happy Faces Entertainment and KC Mystery Players

Entertainment
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

dennis@happyfacesentertainment.biz

http://www.happyfacesentertainment.biz

(816) 309-2460

Hues Formal

Retail 

Drue@huesformal.com

(816) 226-3701

Humbly Hewn Photography

Photographers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

erin@humblyhewnphotography.com

http://humblyhewnphotography.com/

(816) 695-9996

Jukeboxx Media

Entertainment
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

dana@jukeboxxmedia.com

https://jukeboxxmedia.com/

(913) 800-2008

Kansas City Zoo

Travel & Tourism 

askthezoo@fotzkc.org

https://www.kansascityzoo.org/

(816) 595-1234

Kelsey Diane Photography

Photographers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

kelsey@kelseydianephotography.com

http://www.kelseydianephotography.com

Lanea Grace Boutique

Wedding Apparel
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

laneagracebridal@gmail.com

http://www.laneagracebridal.com

(913) 731-4050

Meredith Graves Photography LLC

Photographers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

meredithgravesphotography@gmail.com

http://meredithgravesphotography.com

(816) 589-7919

Olive Events Catering

Caterers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

info@oliveeventscatering.com

http://www.oliveeventscatering.com

(913) 721-3399

Philosofi Celebrations

Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

sofi@philosoficelebrations.com

http://philosoficelebrations.com

(913) 303-1179

Spencer Studios

Photographers 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

meghan@spencerstudiosphotography.com

http://www.spencerstudiosphotography.com

(402) 580-2983

The Big Rip Brewing Co

Bars & Nightclubs 

info@bigripbrewing.com

https://bigripbrewing.com/

(816) 866-0747

The Guild

Event Spaces
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

info@theguildkc.com

https://www.theguildkc.com/

(816) 471-8550

The Perfect Touch KC, LLC

Event Planning & Production 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

taylorpaige@theperfecttouchkc.com

http://www.theperfecttouchkc.com

(417) 209-3859

The Vineyard at J. Creek

Event Spaces
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

info@jcreekvineyard.com

http://www.jcreekvineyard.com

(816) 708-1662

The Wild Way Coffee

Coffee & Tea 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

christine@thewildwaycoffee.com

http://www.thewildwaycoffee.com

(913) 240-4172

Wild Hill Flowers and Events

Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)
Event Spaces
Florists

info@wildhillflowers.com

http://www.wildhillflowers.com

(913) 337-5526

WECo Salute

Kemper Musem of Contemporary Art

Museums & Libraries 
Weddings and Events Coalition (WECo)

https://www.kemperart.org/

(816) 753-5784

Q39 LLC

Restaurant & Catering 

john.beddall@q39kc.com

http://www.q39kc.com

(816) 489-7739

Where

We Came From

In November of 2010, Dan Nilsen, CEO of Bishop-McCann, gained certification as a gay owned business with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) at the encouragement of a large client of his company. The NGLCC’s mission resonated with Dan so much that he took on the challenge of starting an affiliate chamber to serve the Kansas City LGBTQ+ and allied community. Dan assembled a board of talented business professionals from a variety of backgrounds. This founding board of passionate and visionary leaders worked to lay the foundation for what our Chamber would become.

On May 31, 2012, the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce officially kicked-off with a huge community celebration that included over 200 attendees and a personal address from then Mayor of Kansas City, Hon. Sly James. Since then the chamber has experienced rapid growth with members engaging monthly at networking events, professional development programming, community partner events, and our annual signature events.

LGBTBE® Certification Program

WHAT

WE DO

About the LGBTBE® Certification Program: The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) on the LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) certification program. The NGLCC is the nation’s only third-party certification body that verifies that eligible businesses are majority-owned by LGBT individuals and subsequently grants LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) designation. Become a member of the Mid-America LGBT Chamber, and your application fee is waived.

Locally, our Chamber focuses on providing programming and events exclusively for our LGBTBE® members. Previous events have included a “Get to Know You” Happy Hour, an LGBTBE® Roundtable event, and event about creating capability statements and more. Local events and programs are planned by a committee that meets twice per month.

“Because of my certification, I’m able to build business relationships with target market clients that share my values on LGBTQIA+ inclusion.”

- Kyle Danner,
Professional EOS Implementor

“People want to do business with people who have traditionally been left out. Make it easy for them to find you by becoming certified.”

- Godfrey Riddle, Civic Saint

“These people are wildly supportive. Plus, the educational meetings continually provide me with an opportunity to think about growth and about better systems for my business model.”

- Laura Janusik,
Listening to Change

Why

Join

Joining the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce means joining a community of businesses who consistently work together to grow their businesses and the Kansas City area. With regular events, professional development opportunities, networking and more, the Chamber is perfect for any business.

Growth – Our Chamber provides opportunities to connect with other business owners, corporate partners and those in the LGBTQ+ market that are dedicated to diversifying who they do business with. In addition, our Chamber is the fifth-largest LGBT+ Chamber in the nation with a distinct bi-state footprint, connecting you - and your business - to both sides of the state line.

Advocacy – Our public policy and advocacy committee is devoted to fair and equitable treatment for all, at every level of government and representation. Guided by our policy platform, we work to make sure that your voice is heard - and we give you the opportunity to join in the fight.

Credibility – LGBTQ+ owned businesses generate over $1.7 trillion in economic impact nationwide. Join a reputable organization dedicated to creating jobs and sustaining our economy.

Education – Our organization consistently seeks beneficial and strategic partnerships with local entrepreneurial businesses to provide exclusive education and training events and opportunities for our members.

Visibility – You get out of it what you put into it. By participating in our variety of events and networking experiences, you have the ability to showcase yourself, your business and be noticed by peers in your community.

The Path  Ahead

The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and staff want to thank you for your continued support and engagement.

As we near a membership of 500 small businesses, individuals, corporate partners, and non-profit organizations we continue to be amazed and grateful for how far we have come as an organization.

This year has been one of transitions as we said goodbye to Suzanne Wheeler, our Executive Director of three years, and four of our board members.

We onboarded several new energized board members and are nearing the point of announcing our next Executive Director.

We are excited about what’s in store for our Chamber. Together we are working toward a more equitable economy, bringing professional and business equity issues to light, and working to develop, retain, and attract local talent and business opportunities.

We invite you to join us and share your passion and talent for this work! Each of you has something important and valuable to share.

I encourage you to inquire with staff or one of our board members about additional ways to get involved as a volunteer committee member, ambassador, or future board member.

Thank you for showing up for the advancement of economic equity in our region. We appreciate each one of you!

WHAT

WE DO

B2B

The B2B Network

Held on the second Thursday evening of each month, the B2B Network is our most popular event. Hosted at a member’s place of business, the event offers current and prospective members the opportunity to meet other business professionals and community leaders, build new partnerships, make new friends and exchange best business practices in a fun and welcoming social environment.

Spotlight on an

AWARD WINNER:

JEFF WAGNER

By Kris Baker

Many esteemed members of the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce have been enjoying recognitions and receiving awards over the past year. The Chamber would like to take this opportunity to shine a spotlight on two prominent members.

Phishing, malware, ransomware, cyber attacks are taking on new and nefarious forms every day. One local business leader believes every company should be safe from these attacks, no matter the size.

Jeff Wagner is the founder and CEO of Aspis Consulting. His company has been honored as the 2023 Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year. Aspis Consulting is a cybersecurity company focused on providing service to companies of all sizes. Last July they quadrupled office space size by moving from 3100 Broadway Boulevard (PennTower) to 1301 Oak Street (Expansive).

“I want to thank the Chamber for this honor. It means a lot to our company to be recognized for the hard work of all our employees and our support for the LGBT community,” Wagner said.

Wagner has been a member of the Chamber for the last four years. He first met officials with the Chamber at one of the Coffee Connection events. He was immediately impressed with the organization and commitment of the members. He knew he wanted to join.

“It was important to become certified with the chamber, because as a gay man I want to be out there and represent my community,” Wagner said. “They really spoke to my core values of community, diversity and integrity. That is who I am and I believe that is what the Chamber is all about.”

Wagner says he has always been focused on community, and that goes for his business as well. When he started Aspis Consulting in Kansas City he wanted to target “underutilized business zones.” He saw this as a way to give back, which is what is led him to become a part of the HUBZone program. The HUBZone program fuels small business growth with a goal of awarding at least 3% of federal contract dollars to HUBZone-certified companies each year.

“With 18 full time and part time employees we’re not a 2-person shop that can claim 100% diverse employees yet we exceed industry averages for women, minority, and LGBT employment in STEM,” Wagner said. “In 2022, 60% of our management team was female, 21% of our employees were black or Latino, and 36% were LGBTQ+.”

Other recent recognitions Wager and his company have received include:

•  2021 Forbes Next 1000 honoree

•  2021 Top 3 finalist for the US Chamber of Commerce Emerging Business of the Year Award

•  2023 Largest and Fastest Growing HUBZone certified and LGBT-owned tech company in Kansas City

“We are not a social enterprise, but social issues are very important to us. As a company we have put 84% of our revenue back into economically distressed communities, minority employment and LGBT employment,” Wagner said. “I believe when you are focused on the right things and financially responsible, the success comes naturally.”

For the future Aspis Consulting is working on coming to market with a ransomware defense service tailored to small business budgets and operating environments. This will also be their first year where their annual revenue will top $1 million for first time in company history.

“Even as we are growing we will still have to grow gradually, and in the right way,” Wagner said. “The Chamber has opened a lot of doors for us and we are so happy to be a part of it and to be acknowledged this way.”

Godfrey Riddle understands the power of diversity. Before serving on the board of the Chamber, Riddle came back to the Kansas City area because he saw a diverse, growing community. Unfortunately, many in the community were having trouble finding affordable, quality housing options. As a gay, black man, Riddle takes pride in helping those who may feel stuck in predetermined societal roles and he knew there were some new building practices that could help. This is when Riddle founded Civic Saint. He knew the answer was right under our feet.

He began his company Civic Saint as a new way to provide housing options. Civic Saint sustainably creates artful, affordable homes and adaptive communities using compressed earthen block (CEB), prefabricated manufacturing, and technology. Their business model prioritizes once redlined areas and the environment while eliminating the racial wealth gap through job creation, homeownership, and their ambient economic impacts. They like to inform people they “are a beautiful start to a radical difference. “

“It is combining the spirit of entrepreneurship with a focus on civic responsibility,” Riddle said. “Kansas City has proven to be a perfect home for this kind of efforts. The community has really embraced us.”

For their work Civic Saint has been a company gaining traction all around the country. In August, Riddle was invited to present his business pitch at the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce conference.

“There were a lot of great pitches, but I really believe in what we are building,” Riddle said. “The structural designs are sound and we are using materials that have been used in building across societies since 8700 BCE. I believe the choosing committee also liked the fact our practice is highly sustainable and environmental friendly.”

Riddle’s pitch was a success and Civic Saint won. They were awarded $50,000. Now they move on to the next round in the national pitch competition.

“The money has proven to be very helpful; we have been able to reinvest into the business and the community,” Riddle said.

Civic Saint was also honored with a 2023 Ace Award for their work on providing services for diverse groups.

Riddle has remained active with the Mid-America Chamber after serving his one term on the board. He has worked to expand the Chamber’s ambassador’s program. He has been working with the Chamber to connect local queer professionals and build strong relationships between these businesses.

“It has been really rewarding,” Riddle said. “Having a strong Chamber gives our members a competitive advantage. We have a full spectrum of resources for members to take advantage of. I’m excited to see where we go as a chamber as we move forward into the future.”

Congratulations to Godfrey Riddle and Jeff Wagner for being examples of hard work and winning attitudes as Chamber members.

Anchor Island Coffee:

Brewing
Resilience and Community

Anchor Island Coffee has proven itself to be a symbol of resilience. Armando and Mike embarked on their coffee shop journey in March 2020, only to be met with the abrupt closure of their doors due to the COVID-19 quarantine just days after opening. “It was very tough. It was a struggle every day. We weren’t ready for that,” recalls Armando.

Nestled at the corner of Troost Ave. and 41st Street, their coffee shop enjoys great visibility, but the pandemic hindered their ability to build the community and customer base that a startup business desperately needs. Armando lamented, “We were open from 7 AM to 2 PM, but many days, sales amounted to only $50-$100 for the entire day. That was disheartening, especially with bills to pay and no money coming in.”

With both of them juggling jobs outside the coffee shop, Mike and Armando faced an uphill battle to keep their doors open throughout the pandemic. They made sacrifices and persevered despite the challenges posed by COVID. In mid-2021, they turned to the Missouri Small Business Center for assistance and became members of the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Their involvement in the Chamber introduced them to a new community of LGBTQ business people with whom they hadn’t been previously connected.

Proudly displaying a pride flag in front of their shop, they began actively participating in the Chamber by attending Business to Business Networking Meetings and various programming opportunities. They explored sponsorship opportunities and soon started providing coffee and snacks at Coffee Connections. In 2021, they made significant strides by expanding into the second floor of the building, creating additional dining and working spaces. The shop quickly became a regular space for Chamber members to conduct meetings and work remotely.

“We try to create a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of your sexual orientation or identity,” Armando explains. “We wanted the LGBTQ community to know that they had a spot where they could come in and feel comfortable.”

Armando and Mike have been deliberate in building a sense of community, not just a customer base, and their efforts have paid off. In 2022, when a car crashed violently into the front of the shop, causing severe damage, Mike and Armando contemplated permanently closing Anchor Island Coffee. However, their community rallied behind them and started a GoFundMe page. The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce and the shop’s loyal customers widely shared the page. The result was over $20,000 in funds to make repairs and continue paying employees while the shop was closed.

The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce was there for the grand reopening and ribbon-cutting following their remodel.

“We have met so many people and made so many connections. It gave us a space that we didn’t know existed. A lot of Chamber members have spread the word about us. It feels really nice to hear members recommending us to others.”

Today, Mike and Armando are working towards obtaining their LGBT Business Enterprise Certification, which will open up even more opportunities for them. “The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce has been a great place to connect and meet people,” Armando states, and we wholeheartedly agree. Anchor Island has become a beloved spot for Chamber members to meet for coffee, lunch, or to work remotely.

“We focus on a lot of things, but I think our strong focus on the LGBTQ community has taken on a life of its own, in a good way,” Armando says with a laugh. “A lot of people say, ‘I heard this is the LGBTQ-friendly coffee spot. I saw the flag and wanted to check it out. I felt identified when I saw the flag.”

The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce encourages you to check it out too. Don’t forget to thank Mike and Armando for their intentional community-building efforts and their membership in the Chamber.

DIVERSITY &

INCLUSION

Positioning Statement

At Mid-America LGBTCC, we acknowledge and empower the uniqueness of the Mid-America LGBTCC member, creating an environment that values and respects individuals for their talents, skills and knowledge to the benefit of the chamber and our community. We further encourage members to bring their authentic self and to foster a strong sense of belonging so that all feel welcome and invited in.

3 MAIN GOALS:

Cultivate and Support an Inclusive Culture

Cultivate and promote an inclusive culture that leverages, highlights and engages the talent, skills and diversity within our membership.

Attract A More Diverse Membership Base

Identify, attract, and retain a diverse membership and a qualified roster of leadership candidates with varied experiences and talents through strategic outreach and recruitment.

Partner with Community Outreach Committee to Engage and Collaborate Locally

Seek opportunities to partner with individuals, entities and organizations that align with our mission and core values to amplify our actions for the greater good of the local business community.

WHAT WE DO

Chamber Speaks is a four-month series that enhances individuals’ abilities to speak, conduct meetings, and lead groups more effectively.

Participants will engage in various hands-on learning activities and instructional methods during the monthly sessions. Most importantly, the program provides an affirming and constructive space for people to grow at their own pace.

Why Chamber Speaks? Individual success may depend on how effective they are. Participating in this program teaches people from all backgrounds to speak effectively, conduct meetings, manage departments or businesses, lead, delegate, and motivate. The mission of this program is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member can develop communication and leadership skills, fostering self-confidence and personal growth.

The program accomplishes this by assisting members’ abilities to communicate effectively. The program provides individuals with instructions, educational materials, and opportunities to develop their skills and experience in preparing and delivering speeches. Program participants will practice giving speeches, debates, interviewing techniques, and other skills to enhance their ability to communicate more effectively.

“Chamber Speaks was an intensive program that taught me how to feel confident about public speaking. Ricky, our instructor, gave practical tips, tools, and resources on how to enhance your craft. We did all of our classes on zoom. Surprisingly, they were very effective and engaging! I found myself enjoying each class and my fellow participants. I highly recommend this course to others looking to improve their public speaking skills.”

Jasmine Baudler

- Owner
- Stellar Information Studios

“Chamber Speaks was the kind of educational content I’ve been craving from a Chamber. I am a lifetime learner and there is so much talent in this community, I was happy to be in a cohort of wonderful women and lead by Ricky, our moderator extraordinaire. I feel much more confident in my public speaking abilities, as I never had classes or training before to help me understand how to properly structure and formulate my speeches before. I’ve always been confident in what I am talking about, but have struggled to feel like I’ve delivered speeches that were impactful and concise. That worry is gone now. I want to host large workshops for big audiences and to even give a TEDtalk one day, and Chamber Speaks was a great place to begin building my confidence and skill. Thank you to everyone who put this together! I highly recommend this program!!

Kristen Thomas

- Certified Sex Coach, Owner

- Open the Doors Coaching

Ambassadors

Aaron Bunnell:

“I joined the Ambassadors to further connect with our current and new members. I love seeing and meeting new people, and having such a large community around me is empowering. I really enjoy learning from others and being supportive of others.”

Keller Williams Realty
(Ambassador since 2021)

RaeAnn Lovall:

“I became an Ambassador two years ago in order to participate in, and contribute to, the chamber on a larger scale. What I love most about being an Ambassador is making sure that new guests feel welcomed and included at their first few events. I genuinely enjoy getting to know each new guest and ensuring that they have a great first experience with our chamber. Being an Ambassador is a fantastic way to plug into the chamber community quickly and make meaningful connections right away.”

Ambassadors Chair
Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion Professional (Ambassador since 2022)

Laura Treas

Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce has a fantastic business network of contacts that lead to leveling up my business.

Affirmawear,
Founder/Owner

John Crum

I became an Ambassador to improve my networking skills and to give back to the Chamber. The joy I receive in helping people connect and feel a part of the Chamber brings me a sense of purpose and belonging in our LGBT business community.

Crum Cleaning,
Owner (Ambassador since 2014)

Ken Strickland

It is an honor and a privilege to be the recipient of the 2023 Chamber Champion of the Year award. You may not have be aware that the award ceremony took place on the last day of my 12 years of working for my last employer. I had made the choice to retire and begin seeking out my next journey and passion. It was time for me to reclaim my peace and joy. When I heard Godfrey (Business Pride Awards MC) say my name, I was totally surprised, and a wave of appreciation came over me. I want to thank you all for making me feel appreciated and valued. I am proud to be a part of the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce and hope to continue to serve this powerful movement.

Being an ambassador is the best way to serve and represent the MALGBTCC. I also believe it is the best way to network with the LGBTQ+ community and allied organizations while keeping your thumb on the pulse of the organization. I have made connections with the most wonderful people in the last 6 years. I played a major role in the creation and development of the HFHKC Pride Build and appreciate the support of the leadership and membership of the chamber. Without your support this program would not have been successful.

Ken Strickland -
Ambassador since 2018

C. Stephen

METZLER

Mentor Program for Leadership and
Civic Engagement

The Metzler Program for Leadership and Civic Engagement exists to promote and expedite the development of aspiring LGBTQ leaders and professionals in the LGBTQ and greater Kansas City community through one-on-one and group mentoring with local business and community leaders.

This program is an incredible opportunity for both mentors and mentees to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity and complexity of our LGBTQ identity and community. Mentors will gain a new perspective on the issues facing younger LGBTQ leaders, and mentees will learn invaluable lessons from the experiences and advice shared by our mentors.

Our goal is to help mentees learn to become stronger leaders in the workplace and in the community by building strong personal and professional networks, thanks in part to the connections available through our highly engaged mentors.

Emerge

Cultivating Tomorrow’s Business Leaders

The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce’s Emerge program exemplifies the essential role of leadership training in today’s dynamic business environment. Emerge stands as a crucial stepping stone for professionals aiming to excel in their careers, focusing on comprehensive development and practical skills.

Key to Emerge’s approach is tackling prevalent challenges through sessions covering Imposter Syndrome, and Knowing When to Walk Away, ensuring participants gain confidence alongside technical skills. The program also emphasizes the importance of networking, offering a platform for professionals to connect and collaborate beyond traditional networking settings.

Seasoned professionals lead sessions, providing real-world insights that link theoretical knowledge with practical workplace application. Courses like “AI in the Workplace” demonstrate Emerge’s commitment to a modern, forward-looking curriculum, equipping participants for the evolving technological landscape.

The program thrives on the diversity of its participants and speakers. Everyone’s unique experiences contribute to a rich learning environment. This is an invitation for more professionals to join Emerge, whether as speakers, mentors, or participants, and share their stories to inspire and guide emerging talents.

Engage with Emerge, share your journey, and be part of shaping an inclusive, robust professional community.

WHAT

WE DO

Public
 Policy and
  Advocacy

Mid-America LGBT
2023 Public Policy Platform

The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce (The Chamber) advocates, promotes and facilitates the success of the LGBT business community and their allies through the guiding principles of equality, inclusion, economics and education. The Chamber’s purpose is to create, identify and enhance business opportunities for LGBT and LGBT-friendly organizations, thereby fostering a more inclusive and vibrant economy in mid-America.

To ensure all individuals can participate in the broad market economy, we take the following positions regarding public policy.

Issue: Education

Our school systems are some of the biggest assets businesses have to attract and retain talent. We support education policies that protect LGBT students and their privacy, and ensure all students are prepared to enter a workforce where diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives are increasingly prevalent.

LGBT students tend to take on more educational debt than their non-LGBT peers due to acrimonious familial relationships. This can lead to larger financial burdens in preparation for the workforce of tomorrow. Affordable education is paramount to the longevity of a vibrant LGBT and business community. Therefore, we support equitable student loan repayment practices.

Issue: Family Benefits

We support strong families as the foundation of healthy communities and economies. Adoption and foster care rights should be extended to all individuals, and adoption and foster care benefits should be offered to all employees regardless of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We support legislation that promotes safe, healthy homes for LGBT families.

Issue: Gender Identity and Expression

We believe in the fundamental right of an individual, regardless of age, to express their gender identity in a way that corresponds to who they are. In any public or private space, individuals should be free to express their gender identity without fear of repercussion or persecution.

Furthermore, we encourage businesses and government organizations, including public safety departments, to proactively pursue educational opportunities around gender identity and expression to foster trust within the LGBT community.

Issue: Health

We recognize the importance of a healthy workforce and encourage businesses of all sizes to adopt health care policies that are fully inclusive to all members of the workforce. Policies and laws should require that all employees and their families be treated equitably regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

We support legislation that prohibits licensed mental health practitioners from subjecting LGBT minors to harmful conversion “therapy” practices that attempt to change their sexual orientation or gender identity.

In the interest of a healthy LGBT workforce, we support expanding and fully funding the Medicaid program to close the coverage gap and ensure adequate funding for health care providers serving the economically disadvantaged in the Kansas City region.

Issue: LGBTBE Support

The Chamber supports efforts to have LGBT-Owned Business Enterprises (LGBTE) recognized as certified minority-owned businesses so that government entities and corporations engage them in the same way they engage Minority-Owned Business Enterprises (MBE) and Woman-Owned Business Enterprises (WBE).

Issue: Market Access

We support an open marketplace that respects and serves all customers regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. For our community and all levels of government to thrive economically, we should not implement artificial barriers that alienate individuals and prevent them from receiving products and services, including barriers premised on religious freedom.

Issue: Non-Discrimination

We support non-discrimination protections for LGBT individuals promoting equal access to employment, housing, credit, public spaces and services, education, and government-funded programs at all levels of government. This includes our support of federal and state nondiscrimination laws, such as the Equality Act.

Issue: Transportation

We stand against violence and discrimination in any form, and we continue to work to make all modes of public transportation safe and enjoyable for all patrons.

At this time, the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce does not endorse candidates. MALGBTCC is a 501(c)6 organization.

COFFEE

CONNECTIONS

Held on the third Thursday morning of each month, Coffee Connections is a small networking event hosted by a chamber member. The morning includes brief introductions, short remarks by our member host and plenty of networking opportunities. Coffee Connections is not just a cup of coffee; it’s about fostering relationships and building your strong, professional network.

TRANSFORMATION IN THE WORKPLACE

Transformation in the Workplace, the Chamber’s celebration of Transgender Day of Visibility, brought together Chamber members, businesses and community members for a day of learning and opportunity for awareness.

Held at the Kansas City Club for the second year in a row, over 75 participants attended panels, classes, trainings, and a community resource fair with over 20 booths from Chamber members and local nonprofit organizations that provide resources for the transgender and nonbinary communities.

Programming for the day included the following trainings: Transgender 101: Navigating Terms and Affirming TGNB, Allyship & Advocacy, Understanding & Leveraging the HRC Corporate Equality Index, and Transgender 201: Creating Belonging in the Workplace. This year we had two panels which included Supporting Our Trans Loved Ones as well as A Panel of Transparency which was comprised of transgender professionals discussing the many ways businesses and allies can support the transgender and non-binary community.

We are looking forward to the event in 2024 which we hope to make our biggest and most impactful yet!