This exclusive opportunity is reserved for donors who have funds at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation and members of our Board of Directors and Regional Advisory Council and their guests. Game On! Explore Kansas City's World Cup Journey with Kathy Nelson When it comes to hosting major sporting events and celebrations, Kansas City knows a thing or two. As the city warms up for the FIFA World CupTM in 2026, we invite you to join us to hear from Kansas City Sports Commission President and CEO Kathy Nelson about what makes Kansas City an ideal host city. Following Kathy's remarks, Karen Daniel, President of the KC2026 Board of Directors, Kimiko Gilmore, Deputy City Manager and Director of Convention and Entertainment Facilities at the City of Kansas City, Missouri and Chris Long, Founder of the KC Current will join the conversation. Together, we will explore how this upcoming milestone will pave the way for more opportunities for our city and change the future of our region. When? Thursday, October 19 4 to 6 p.m. 4 to 5 p.m. - Social Hour with Drinks & Light Bites 5 to 6 p.m. - Presentation & Discussion Where? National World War I Museum and Memorial 2 Memorial Dr. Kansas City, MO 64108 Free parking is available. Questions? Contact Sarah Navran at events@growyourgiving.org or 816.842.9126. First Name Last Name Fund Name/ID Email Additional Guests - Please include their first and last names. Any topics you would like the speakers to address? Comments Get to know our speakers: KATHY NELSON Kansas City Sports Commission President & CEO Kathy is committed to promoting the positive impact of sports on the economy and society. As President & CEO of the Kansas City Sports Commission, she leads efforts to attract, retain and facilitate sports in the bi-state area. Kathy has received recognition in the Kansas City Star, Kansas City Business Journal, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame and more for her industry leadership. KAREN DANIEL Kansas City FIFA World Cup 2026 Board of Directors President Karen is an influential community leader and serves as the President of the Kansas City FIFA World Cup 2026 Board of Directors. She's a retired executive with Black & Veatch, where she served for 26 years. Karen has held prominent roles in numerous metro organizations, including the Royals Ownership Group, the Kansas City, Missouri, Parks and Recreation Board and the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation Board. KIMIKO GILMORE City of Kansas City, Missouri Deputy City Manager and Director of Convention and Entertainment Facilities Kimiko is passionate about shaping Kansas City’s national and international footprint in her role as the Deputy City Manager and Director of Convention and Entertainment Facilities at the City of Kansas City, Missouri. Kimiko played a key role in several city initiatives, including the Royals' 2015 World Series Parade, and she collaborated with the Kansas City Sports Commission on bids for the 2023 NFL Draft and 2026 FIFA World Cup. CHRIS LONG Kansas City Current Founder Chris is a trailblazer in finance and women's sports, serving as the chairman and CEO at Palmer Square Management and a co-owner of the Kansas City Current. He serves on the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation Board of Directors, the National Women's Soccer League's Board of Governors and Expansion Committee and the Kansas City FIFA World Cup 2026 Executive Committee. By registering for this event you agree to the following: • You may be photographed and agree to allow your photo and video to be used by the Community Foundation for internal and promotional purposes. We strive to host inclusive, accessible convenings that enable all individuals to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact Sarah Navran at events@growyourgiving.org or 816.842.9126.
