United Way Announces $105,000 in Funding for 2026 Impact on the Plains Winners

WICHITA, Kan., Sept. 18, 2026 – Big ideas took center stage last night at United Way of the Plains’ Impact on the Plains, a high-energy, “Shark Tank”-style competition that awarded $105,000 in community investments to four local nonprofits.

More than 400 attendees packed the sold-out event at Textron Aviation Activity Center, marking the sixth year of United Way’s investment in bold and innovative programs. The night featured beats from DJ Carbon and catering by culinary entrepreneurs through Empower Commercial Kitchen.

Finalists were selected from a competitive pool of nonprofit applicants. They pitched their ideas on stage to community leaders serving as judges of each presentation. Awarded funds will help the winning nonprofits make an even greater impact by increasing the capacity of their programs.

First Place – $40,000 Investment

Masters and Mentors
Youth Enrichment Strategies (YES): Teaching youth to think before they move – on the chessboard and in life.

Second Place – $30,000 Investment

LegacyWorks
Youth Employment & Development: Brewing brighter futures through job training and personal development.

Third Place – $20,000 Investment

Breakthrough Episcopal Social Services
Recovery Bridge: Building belonging beyond housing for people living with serious mental illness.

Fourth Place – $10,000 Investment

Wichita Library Foundation
Book Bus: Taking kindergarten readiness on the road, one stop at a time.

People’s Choice Award – $5,000 Bonus Investment

Audience members voted on their favorite program, granting Masters and Mentors an additional $5,000 investment.

2026 Enduring Legacy Award Presented to Textron Aviation

During the event, United Way presented the 2026 Enduring Legacy Award to Textron Aviation in recognition of their decades of generosity and steadfast commitment to helping Wichita soar. Their legacy includes more than a century of innovation and a culture of generosity that empowers employees to create meaningful impact through volunteerism and workplace giving. Over the years, Textron Aviation has invested millions of dollars in our community, supporting the organizations and initiatives that help all our neighbors thrive.

Major Sponsors

Textron Aviation, Cordell Wealth Management, Empower, Hutton, Justin McClure Creative, Kansas Health Foundation, Koch Industries, Meritrust Credit Union, and Valley Print Logistics.

More Info and Media Assets

Visit unitedwayplains.org/impact for more information about the event and click here for media assets.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Cole Schnieders, Communications Manager, (316) 267-1321, ext. 4214, cschnieders@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.