About the Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Greater Kansas City began with a Race for the Cure® event in 1994 organized by three inexperienced, headstrong women who relocated to Kansas City from Washington, DC who had “can do” attitudes. In those days, a small core of committed women kept files in their homes and cars, had all Race phone calls on an answering machine in a spare bedroom and treated Komen as their second job. It was truly a grassroots effort.

The need for management grew increasingly evident over the years. Thus, the first Board was formed and an office was generously donated in 1999. Today, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Kansas City serves 10 counties in Kansas and 7 counties in Missouri and has a staff of eight while continuing to have nearly 200 active volunteers serving on committees.

With the help of passionate volunteers, a dedicated board and staff members, Komen Kansas City has raised nearly $9 million to support breast cancer education, screening and treatment.

In 2011, nearly 25,000 people marked the 18th anniversary of Komen Kansas City and its signature event, the Susan G. Komen Kansas City Race for the Cure®.