Children’s Mercy has reached a major milestone in its commitment to supporting youth mental health needs across our region, officially achieving the $150 million campaign goal for the Illuminate initiative more than two years ahead of schedule.
The five-year, ambitious plan, to address the unprecedented pediatric mental health crisis was announced in the summer of 2023. Since then, Children’s Mercy has launched nearly 14 new initiatives that reach kids earlier, create clearer paths to care and provide access to services that didn’t exist just a few years ago.
“Today’s milestone shows what’s possible when a community stands together for its kids. No child should ever have to wait for mental health support, and Illuminate is our commitment to changing that journey—making sure every child is seen early, supported fully and cared for at every step,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “The need keeps growing, and so will we. Our promise is simple: put children and families at the center of everything we do.”
More than 5,000 donors have fueled Illuminate, and on Saturday, Feb. 28, the annual Red Hot Night gala pushed the campaign past its $150 million goal with a record-breaking $5.5 million-plus raised at the event.
This is the third year in a row the event rallied around the mental health initiative—sharing powerful stories of families impacted and celebrating the lifesaving impact this work is already making.
“Our community didn’t just give. They showed up with heart, urgency and a belief in what’s possible,” said Jenea Oliver, PhD, Senior Vice President, Communications, Marketing and Philanthropy, Children’s Mercy. “Each gift reflects a personal commitment to building a future where mental health care is accessible, integrated and filled with hope. Thank you for standing with us. I’m humbled by what we’ve accomplished together and inspired by what comes next for the children and families we serve.”
To learn more about the Illuminate projects visit childrensmercy.org/illuminate.
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