April is Volunteer Appreciation Month across the nation.  At the Kauffman Center that means saying “thank you” more than 650 times.  Those smiling faces greeting you in Brandmeyer Great Hall, showing you to your seat or answering your questions are volunteers.  Yes, they work for free—and they love it.

“I feel good about myself, about Kansas City and about the arts when I step into the Kauffman Center,” says Alexis Martin who has earned her 1,000+ hour badge by working in the administrative offices once a week and ushering at performances with her husband, Don.  “I feel like I’m really making something important happen here.” 

President and CEO Paul Schofer can’t say enough positive things about the Center’s 650+ volunteers.  “Yes, their contribution of time is significant and saves money for this nonprofit organization. But that’s not the most important thing.  Volunteers are often the first contact point for patrons and guests.  Their positive can-do attitudes, their anticipation of patron needs and their commitment to our mission are priceless.” 

If you’d like to volunteer, or know of a friend who would find this of interest, please contact Jennifer Stapleton, Volunteer Supervisor at jstapleton@kauffmancenter.org or 816-994-7912.