Opening Doors 2026: Honoring Impact, Expanding Access
By Catherine Rice, Vice President of Marketing/Outreach at Health Partnership Clinic
On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, nearly 175 community members gathered at the Overland Park Convention Center for Health Partnership Clinic’s (HPC) annual Opening Doors Luncheon—a powerful afternoon dedicated to expanding access to care for uninsured children and adults across Johnson, Miami and Franklin counties.
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, donors and attendees, more than $102,000 was raised to support high-quality, affordable and accessible health care for those who need it most.
A Milestone Moment for Women’s Health
This year marked the launch of our first-ever Fund-a-Need, focused on strengthening women’s health services—and the response was extraordinary.
Together, supporters exceeded the goal, making it possible for the clinic to purchase LEEP equipment, a critical tool used to treat precancerous cervical cells and help prevent cervical cancer.
This investment means:
- Faster, on-site treatment for patients
- Fewer costly referrals outside the clinic
- Greater access to life-saving preventive care for uninsured women
The impact is immediate—and life-changing.
Honoring Leaders Who Open Doors
A highlight of the luncheon is recognizing those whose leadership and compassion expand access to care in our community. This year, we were proud to honor two extraordinary awardees:
Founders Award: Wy Jo Care
The Founders Award was presented to Wy Jo Care, a program of the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation, for its transformative impact on specialty care access for uninsured patients.
Each year, Wy Jo Care coordinates more than $8 million in donated specialty services, connecting thousands of individuals to critical care—from orthopedic surgery to gastroenterology and beyond.
For HPC patients, this partnership is essential. Since 2015, thousands of referrals have ensured patients receive care that would otherwise be out of reach—restoring health, mobility and quality of life.
Wy Jo Care’s work exemplifies what is possible when compassion, collaboration and clinical expertise come together to serve those most in need.
Leadership Impact Award: Burnis Lance
The Leadership Impact Award was presented to Burnis Lance, whose decades of service and unwavering commitment embody the heart of our mission.
A patient of HPC since 1996 and a dedicated Board member since 2014, Burnis brings both lived experience and thoughtful leadership to her role. Her service as Treasurer/Secretary and active involvement on key committees have strengthened the clinic’s governance and long-term sustainability.
Beyond the clinic, Burnis has devoted herself to serving the Kansas City community through organizations such as Guadalupe Center, El Centro and Catholic Charities.
She leads with humility, purpose and deep compassion—making a lasting difference in the lives of countless families.
Opening Doors to Better Health—Every Day
Throughout the program, guests experienced powerful stories from patients and staff that brought the mission to life. A moving patient testimonial was shared by Tiffany Swanson, DO, OB/GYN and Chief Health Officer, highlighting the very real challenges patients face—and the life-changing care made possible through HPC.
These stories underscored a simple truth: access to healthcare is not a given for many families.
While the success of the Fund-a-Need will directly expand women’s health services, the impact of Opening Doors reaches far beyond a single initiative. Funds raised support:
- Medical care for uninsured children and adults
- Dental services and outreach
- Behavioral health and substance use support
- Preventive care that keeps families healthy and thriving
Every dollar helps remove barriers to care—and provides something equally important: peace of mind.
Thank You to Our Community
This meaningful day was made possible by the incredible support of:
- Our generous sponsors and donors
- Dedicated staff, volunteers and Board members
- Inspiring program speakers and patient storytellers
- Emcee Joe Lauria, FOX 4 News, for guiding a thoughtful and engaging program
Because of you, doors to care—and hope—are open wider than ever.
You Can Make an Impact
The need continues, and there is still time to help.
👉 Give Today
👉 Watch the 2026 Opening Doors Video
Every gift helps us continue Opening Doors to Better Health—Every Day.
