Health Partnership’s Opening Doors Raises Crucial Dollars for Uninsured

By Catherine Rice, Vice President of Marketing/Outreach at Health Partnership Clinic

Opening Doors for Health: Annual Luncheon Raises $98,000 and Spotlights Lifesaving Prenatal Care

Health Partnership Clinic’s seventh annual Opening Doors Luncheon Benefit was more than a fundraiser — it was a celebration of resilience, compassion and community. Held on April 24, nearly 200 supporters gathered to champion the clinic’s mission of improving health, impacting lives and inspiring hope. Together, attendees helped raise nearly $98,000 to fund vital medical, dental, behavioral health and prenatal services for uninsured and underserved families across Johnson, Franklin and Miami counties.

Each year, Health Partnership provides nearly $3 million in uncompensated care, standing as a lifeline for individuals and families who might otherwise go without the care they need. This year’s luncheon placed a special spotlight on the clinic’s prenatal care program — a crucial service ensuring healthier futures for mothers and babies alike.

A Program with Heart: Prenatal Care that Changes Lives

Eva Clark, MSN, APRN, WHNP-BC, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, took the stage as the event’s featured speaker. Through powerful personal stories and moving patient experiences, Clark underscored the life-changing impact of accessible prenatal care. She reminded guests that when a mother receives the support she needs, the entire family — and community — benefits.

“Every mother deserves a healthy start for her baby,” Clark says. “That’s what we’re here for.”

Stories of Courage and Care

Adding to the afternoon’s inspiration was Thao Le, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who delivered an uplifting “Inspirational Moment” about mental health care, and CEO Amy Falk, who provided an overview of the clinic’s expanding continuum of care. Falk emphasized how the clinic is bridging gaps, breaking down barriers and opening doors for those who need it most.

Guiding the afternoon’s program was FOX 4 News anchor Matt Stewart, who graciously served as emcee. Stewart shared a heartfelt account of his and his wife’s cancer journey, connecting personally with the audience and inspiring deeper engagement with the clinic’s mission. His warmth and sincerity set a meaningful tone for the day, reminding guests of the profound importance of accessible, compassionate health care.

Recognizing Community Champions

The luncheon concluded by honoring community partners whose leadership and generosity fuel the clinic’s mission. Board member Jim Terrones and CEO Amy Falk presented two prestigious awards:

The Founders Award to Tierney Grasser, Board Past Chair and Board Member, for her unwavering leadership and advocacy.
The Leadership Impact Award to Overland Park Regional Medical Center and Kansas City Women’s Clinic, an HCA Midwest Health Practice. Accepting the award on behalf of their organizations were Matt Sogard, CEO, of Overland Park Regional Medical Center, and Jeffrey Teply, MD, of Kansas City Women’s Clinic. Dr. Kimberly Swan, MD, MBA, Designated Institutional Officer, Graduate Medical Education Department, of HCA Healthcare Kansas City, was unable to attend the event.

A Community United for Health

With the ongoing support of generous donors, dedicated staff and compassionate community partners, Health Partnership continues to ensure that quality health care — from prenatal visits to behavioral health services to dental care — remains within reach for all.

A new video was also featured at the event

Thank you to our Sponsors!

We appreciate the generous support of our event sponsors and those who purchased tickets and donated to our ‘day of’ challenge.

Event Favor

Jeff and Carol Lynne Ellis

Event Flowers

Quality Reviews, Inc.

Donations

To donate to HPC, click here.

Event Photos

To view event photos, click here.