Empower Missouri’s work to eradicate poverty in Missouri is only possible through coalition building and advocacy by an incredible group of supporters, and the Advocacy Awards Brunch is an opportunity to highlight a few of that group and celebrate our collective work. Each summer, we gather our community (rotating between the eastern and western sides of the state) to enjoy a delicious brunch and celebrate our Advocates of the Year. Our 2023 event was held in Kansas City, and you can view a few photos here. Our 2024 Advocacy Awards Brunch will be held in St. Louis, and more details will be coming soon!
Events like our Advocacy Awards would not be possible without the support of our sponsors! If you are interested in supporting next year’s event, please reach out to our Development Manager, Sara Patterson, at [email protected].
Coalition of the Year
Right to Counsel KC
Affordable Housing Advocate of the Year
Amanda Wilson
Local Initiatives Support Corporation
Community Justice Advocate of the Year
Kyra Storms
Mothers of Incarcerated Sons and Daughters
Food Security Advocate of the Year
Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation
Emerging Advocates of the Year
Steve Young & Winifred Jamieson
KC LEAP
Career Achievement in Advocacy
Michelle Garand
Community Partnership of the Ozarks
Affordable Housing Advocate of the Year
Glenn Burleigh
Community Engagement Specialist, EHOC
Criminal Justice Advocate of the Year
Missouri Appleseed
Food Security Advocate of the Year
Katherine Holley
Senior Staff Attorney, Public Benefits Program, Legal Services of Eastern MO
Local Advocate of the Year
Shana Jones
Founder, Keep Pushing, Inc.
Legislators of the Year
Representative Phil Christofanelli
Senator Angela Mosley
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