“We were thrilled to bring Rock the Parkway back for another year in support of Children’s Mercy Kansas City because we all benefit when children and families are strong and healthy and feel supported by the KC community,” said Julee Koncak, Community Relations Director at Burns & McDonnell.
In 2023, Rock the Parkway raised $47,000 in donations to help bring hope and healing to children like Beau Burkett who was diagnosed with hydrocephalus — a brain condition — and other health-related issues as an infant. Now at age 2, doctors say Beau has made tremendous strides in his development.
“My family has benefited firsthand from the care that Children’s Mercy provides,” said Jonathan Burkett, who participated in the half-marathon and was greeted by his family at the finish line. “We will forever be grateful for the support as we’ve navigated the ups and downs of Beau’s treatment.”
One in three children in the Kansas City region visit Children’s Mercy each year and the nonprofit health care system relies on philanthropic giving and community support to fund its services. This is the seventh year Burns & McDonnell and KC Running Company have designated Children’s Mercy as the race beneficiary.
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“Every step taken and every dollar raised makes a huge difference in the lives of families across the Kansas City region and beyond,” said Jenea Oliver, Chief Development Officer at Children’s Mercy. “Rock the Parkway is more than just a race; it’s a powerful way for our community to come together to support families in need.”
Post-race festivities included live entertainment, as well as food and drinks from some of Kansas City’s restaurant vendors.
