By Marc C. Shaffer
Dust off your Derby hats and mark your calendars. The Third Annual Run for the Roses benefiting Growing Futures Early Education Center will take place Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. at Hallbrook Country Club.
This Kentucky Derby themed celebration promises an unforgettable afternoon of music, food, drinks, games, auctions, and live race day excitement. More importantly, it is an opportunity for our community to come together in support of an impactful nonprofit serving young children and families in Johnson County, Kansas.
A Personal Commitment to the Mission
This year, Bridgette and I are honored to serve as the event’s Grand Marshals.
We have developed a deep connection to the mission of Growing Futures. I have served on the organization’s Board of Directors since 2019 and will begin serving as Board President this July.
For me, the mission is closely aligned with what I see in my professional life. Check out my blog post: Why I Volunteer – Growing Futures
The greatest opportunity to change a child’s trajectory happens in the earliest years of life. Much like with financial planning, the earlier the investment, the greater for potential opportunity long-term. Growing Futures applies that same principle to human potential by investing in children and families during the most critical stage of development.
As Grand Marshals, Bridgette and I have committed to personally raise $50,000 to help advance this mission, and we are inviting friends, neighbors, and community members to join us in making a meaningful difference.
Support the campaign, purchase tickets, or donate here:
Bridgette and Marc Shaffer Fundraising Page for Run for the Roses
Why Growing Futures Matters
Nearly 4,000 children ages 0 to 5 in Johnson County live below the federal poverty level. These early years represent the most critical period of brain development, and children facing economic hardship are at the greatest risk of entering school already behind.
For more than 60 years, Growing Futures has helped bridge that gap by providing high quality early education and comprehensive family support through Head Start and Early Head Start programs.
These services include:
- School readiness and early learning
- Developmental screenings and health services
- Mental health support
- Individualized family advocacy
- Basic needs assistance
The organization serves some of the community’s most vulnerable families. Many caregivers face housing instability, limited education, language barriers, or the challenges of single parent households. Twenty percent of the children served are experiencing homelessness, and many have developmental risks or disabilities that can be identified and addressed before they begin kindergarten.
Growing Futures uses a two-generation model, meaning the organization supports both children and caregivers so families can build long term stability and opportunity.
Real Impact in Our Community
The results of this work are measurable and powerful.
In the past year alone:
- 64 children graduated kindergarten ready, achieving a 96 percent school readiness rate
- 16 families secured stable housing
- More than 25 new volunteers joined the mission
Statistics provided by Growing Futures and more information is available upon request.
Beyond the numbers, Growing Futures is helping children enter school confident, prepared, and ready to learn, while giving parents the tools and support needed to build stronger futures for their families.
An Afternoon of Derby Fun for a Powerful Cause
Run for the Roses has quickly become one of the most enjoyable spring events in the community.
Guests can expect:
- A festive Derby atmosphere with big hats and bow ties
- Live race viewing
- Delicious food and drinks
- Silent and live auctions
- A chance to connect with neighbors and community leaders
This year’s goal is to welcome more than 350 attendees and raise over $250,000 to help close funding gaps and expand critical services for vulnerable families across Johnson County.
Purchase tickets or become a sponsor:
Bridgette and Marc Shaffer Fundraising Page for Run for the Roses
How You Can Help
There are several ways to get involved and support the mission:
- Attend the event on May 2
- Become a sponsor
- Make a donation
- Contribute an item to the silent auction
- Share the event with others
Every act of generosity helps ensure that more children begin kindergarten ready to learn and ready to succeed.
Investing in the Future Together
Events like Run for the Roses represent a community coming together to invest in the future of its children.
Bridgette and I believe there is no more meaningful investment than in a child’s earliest years. With the support of neighbors, friends, and community members, the impact can last a lifetime.
On May 2, let’s gather not only to celebrate the Derby, but also to celebrate the power of community and the opportunity to make a lasting difference together.
Disclosure: This article reflects the personal charitable involvement of Marc Shaffer. Growing Futures is an independent nonprofit organization and is not affiliated with Searcy Financial® Services