Our Mission
The KC Downtowners is an informal association of Kansas Citians who live, work and/or play in downtown Kansas City. We are dedicated to downtown development and to promoting a positive community spirit. Our monthly luncheon programs feature guest speakers who are involved in downtown’s renaissance that inform and update attendees about the inspirational progress that is transforming our urban core.
Recent speakers include public figures such as Mayor Quinton Lucas, City Manager Brian Platt, former Mayor Sly James, former Mayor Kay Barnes, former City Manager Troy Schulte, Tyler Enders from Made in KC, Luke Wade from KC Crew, Katherine Holland from KC2026 FIFA World Cup, Fahteema Parrish from Parrish & Sons, Darron Story and Kelvin Simmons representing the Historic Jazz District, and many more influential Kansas Citians. For our speakers we seek out entrepreneurs, artists, politicians, and private developers who are active in the rejuvenation of downtown Kansas City.
We periodically hold after-hours social events at various downtown venues to highlight and promote our unique city. The all-volunteer Board of Directors works hard to keep expenses low so we can remain a dues-free organization and engage all interested individuals.
The Kansas City Club
H&R Bloch
Central Library
“Well, I might take a plane I might take a train
But if I have to walk I’m going just the same
I’m going to Kansas City
Kansas City, here I come.
”
Our History
The KC Downtowners started in 2000 as a casual lunch group made up of a handful of friends who worked downtown and shared a common commitment to Kansas City’s urban core. With little organized effort, the group quickly expanded from six to over 1,000 people, including many influential Kansas Citians and emerging leaders. The Downtowners formula of “one-third social, one-third networking, and one-third civic” seemed to be a hit, and continues on to this day.
All are encouraged to speak freely about downtown ideas, events and occurrences to foster positive communication about Downtown KC issues. Although the Downtowners Board is made of diverse individuals with varying ideas, they are unified in their passion to grow a vital enriching downtown. Join in and comment, or submit your ideas at info@kcdowntowners.com.
