KANSAS CITY, Mo., (Mar. 31, 2026) – The Research Foundation was recognized as Philanthropist of the Year by First Call at its annual Gratitude Breakfast, honoring the foundation’s dedication to improving the health of Kansas City through its community grants program. The event brought together community leaders, partners, and supporters to celebrate the power of collaboration in addressing substance use and advancing healthier communities.
As this year’s Philanthropist of the Year honoree, The Research Foundation was celebrated for its generosity and ongoing partnership with First Call. Since 2023, The Research Foundation has awarded grants to First Call in each funding cycle, supporting initiatives focused on access to care and improving community health. First Call provides life-changing resources, education, and hope to those impacted by substance use disorders across the Kansas City region.
Cynthia Randazzo, The Research Foundation president and CEO, accepted the award and reflected on the organization’s journey and mission. Randazzo highlighted the foundation’s recent growth and community impact, including the launch of its community grants program in 2023 and support of 44 local nonprofits working to expand access to care and advance health equity across the region.
“Our foundation began decades ago as a hospital-based organization, and over time, that vision has grown into a broader goal of supporting and partnering with organizations working to improve the health of Kansas Citians. To be recognized by an organization like First Call is especially meaningful. This award affirms that the impact we strive to make is being felt and that matters deeply to us,” Randazzo said. “We are grateful for the work First Call does every day to support individuals and families on their path to recovery and we are proud to stand alongside you in serving our community.”
The Research Foundation’s investment in community health initiatives plays a vital role in advancing prevention, education, and recovery efforts. Through its community grants program, the foundation helps First Call ensure critical services remain accessible to those who need them most.
Learn more about The Research Foundation’s grants program at theresearchfoundationkc.org/communitygrants.
