Annual Dinner

We are pleased to announce that our third annual dinner – Urban Rendezvous III – raised more than $100,000 for the Urban Ranger Program. We want to thank everyone who supported the event. You will assist us in providing services to 100 rangers beginning in June 2013.

More than 350 people enjoyed the evening of fun, food and fellowship. Honorary Chairs, John and Joanne Bluford opened the evening with a welcome. Chris Hernandez, Marketing Director at Unicorn Theater (formerly of KSHB-TV 41) was our emcee, and the Nigro Brothers donated their time as our auctioneers.

Fr. John Wandless talked about his history with the Urban Ranger Corps and introduced our next Executive Director, J. Erik Dickinson, who talked about his vision for the future of the Urban Ranger Corps.

For the first time, the Urban Ranger Corps, presented several awards:

The Community Service Award was presented to three long-time volunteers for their dedicated volunteerism with and enthusiastic support of the Urban Ranger Corps:  Dr. Thomas Coppinger, Paul Lillig, and Mike Shepard

The Pillar of Hope Award was presented to the Rotary Club of Leawood, KS, for their continued support of the Urban Ranger Corps.

The Father John Wandless “Thank You” Award was presented to Fr. John Wandless, Founder, for his dedication and commitment to the youth of our community living in high risk neighborhoods. This award will be presented annually to a recipient (individual or corporation) who exemplifies the same dedication and commitment to our community.

A very special thank you to our Event Committee Chair, Karla Kerschen Shepard, for making this a very special event.

During the dinner the attendees had an opportunity to meet some of our rangers, and to watch a video of three of our rangers talking about their experiences. click here to watch the video

Mark your calendars and Save the Date for Urban Rendezvous IV – October 25, 2013 – Kansas City Marriott Downtown!