Impact on the Plains is Thursday, Sept. 18

WICHITA, Kan., Sept. 17, 2025 – Tomorrow night, United Way of the Plains will put big ideas in the spotlight with Impact on the Plains, a high-energy, “Shark Tank”-style competition where four local nonprofits will pitch innovative programs for a chance at up to $105,000 in community investments.

Four finalists were selected earlier this month to compete for funding. They will take the stage Sept. 18 to make their case before a panel of community judges and live audience.

The first-place program will receive a $40,000 investment, followed by $30,000 for second place, $20,000 for third place, and $10,000 for fourth place. In addition, the audience will select a People’s Choice Award winner, providing one program with an extra $5,000 boost.

In the spirit of the evening, United Way is partnering with Empower Commercial Kitchen which creates pathways for culinary entrepreneurs and supports local food businesses.

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025
6 – 8 p.m. – Four nonprofits make presentations on stage followed by Q&A with community judges
8 p.m. – Attendees cast votes for the People’s Choice award
8:05 – 8:15 p.m. – Announcement of investment awards and People’s Choice award
8:20 p.m. – Attendees enjoy dessert reception

WHERE:
Textron Aviation Activity Center (9710 E. Central Ave.)

COMMUNITY JUDGES: 

• Sam Chandler, INTRUST Bank
• Susan DeVaughn, IMA Financial Group, Inc.
• Victor Ojeleye, Hutton
• Heather Schroeder, Downtown Wichita
• Amy Williams, Kansas Leadership Center

COMPETING NONPROFITS AND THEIR INNOVATIVE IDEAS: 
Agency: Cairn Health
Program: Charitable Pharmacy
When prescriptions are out of reach, so is health. This program puts affordable medication within reach for Wichita and surrounding rural communities.

Agency: GO Project
Program: CarePortal
Technology meets compassion: connecting caring neighbors to identified needs that keep kids safe, families stable, and hope alive.

Agency: oneCommunity
Program: Child Development Network
Eliminating the impossible choice between the children you love and the job you need.

Agency: The Pando Initiative
Program: Realidad U
Removing language barriers to unlock the potential of every student to acquire financial skills for a productive life.

MAJOR SPONSORS: 
Textron Aviation, Cordell Wealth Management, Fidelity Bank, Hutton, and Valley Print Logistics

Follow United Way of the Plains’ social media platforms on the evening of Sept. 18 to learn which nonprofit program is awarded the largest investment and which one earns the People’s Choice Award. Visit unitedwayplains.org/impact for more information about the competition.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Stacy Ward Lattin, Manager of Public Outreach and Community Engagement, (316) 267-1321, ext. 4224, swardlattin@unitedwayplains.org

United Way of the Plains mobilizes our community to action so all can thrive. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in south-central Kansas can reach their full potential. Follow us on these social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok.