Variety KC’s Heart of Inclusion Gala

Another record-breaking year!

In 2026, the Heart of Inclusion Gala showcased inclusion and creative-expression at every turn. From our all-abilities performers to the Variety KC Kid artists, guests left enamored by the “Night at the Museum.”

Raising $1,872,452.58, hearts were full of gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead for Variety KC.

We cannot thank our incredible supports enough. Thank you for championing the #InclusionRevolution in Kansas City. This is only the beginning.

View the Heart of Inclusion Gala 2026 Photo Gallery

View the gallery

In the Media

Variety KC gala raises record $1.8M for children with disabilities, new parks project announced

The record amount will go toward adaptive medical equipment, life-changing therapies and creating more inclusive community spaces for children with disabilities across the region.

Our Talented Lineup

Lauren Magarino

Gala Emcee
KCTV5 Anchor

What does inclusion mean to you?

Desire for belonging is intrinsically human. Everyone wants to feel like they are part of something. Inclusion makes way for that to be a reality by not only ‘making space’ but also offering tools or resources within those spaces to engage.

How do you personally connect with Variety KC’s mission?

I believe communities are strongest when every child and every family has the opportunity to connect. In fact, I think it promotes a healthier community overall. Variety KC’s mission to focus on children and their families feeds exactly into that!

Do you have any hidden talents or artistic abilities (besides your painting skills)?

I wish I had painting skills! Fantastic at a paint-by-numbers (lol). I love to dance. I’ve recently gotten back into ballet by taking class weekly with Kansas City Ballet. It brings me great joy to see Variety KC’s partnership with KCB to offer an adaptive dance program. Dance is one of the most powerful forms of self-expression and it makes way for connection.

Steve Serrano

Gala Emcee
Steel City Media

What does inclusion mean to you?

Inclusion, to me, is making sure everyone feels like they belong no matter who they are or what their abilities are. It’s creating environments where people are welcomed, supported, and able to be part of the moment, not sitting on the outside of it.

How do you personally connect with Variety KC’s mission?

This one hits home for me. As a dad and someone who’s really involved in the KC community, I see how important it is for kids to have opportunities to just be kids. Variety KC does that in such a real way giving families support and creating moments that matter. Being a small part of that is something I’m really proud of.

Do you have any hidden talents or artistic abilities (besides your painting skills)?

I can juggle 😄

Scott Jones

Auctioneer
Raising Paddles

What does inclusion mean to you?

When I consider inclusion I think of 3 things: Opportunity, Possibility, Belonging!

Inclusion opens the door.
Opportunity gives people a place to stand.
Possibility gives them room to grow.
Belonging gives them the confidence to stay and contribute fully.

How do you personally connect with Variety KC’s mission?

Variety KC’s mission resonates with every part of who I am. As an auctioneer, I’ve spent 22 years creating opportunities. As a former educator and coach, I’ve always believed in possibility. As a cancer survivor and a gay uncle to an autistic niece, I know how vital belonging is. Variety KC brings all of that together—ensuring every child has the chance to move, communicate, play, and feel fully included. This isn’t just a mission I support; it’s one I live,

Do you have any hidden talents or artistic abilities (besides your painting skills)?

I love playing, coaching and captaining tennis! I have competed in the USTA National Championships 10 times, achieving a best finish of second place in the nation.

My kitchen is my studio, and food is the medium where my creativity comes alive. From churning homemade butter and crafting small‑batch jams and pickles to plating elegant meals for friends, I paint my masterpieces on the dinner table—one flavor, one texture, one shared moment at a time

Lost Wax

Party Band

What does inclusion mean to you?

Inclusion means creating spaces where everyone feels seen, celebrated, and invited to fully participate—exactly as they are.

At Lost Wax, that shows up on the dance floor. The best nights are about connection. It’s when every guest, regardless of ability, background, or experience, feels comfortable enough to let go & have fun.

Music has a way of breaking down barriers, and we believe everyone deserves a place in that moment.

How do you personally connect with Variety KC’s mission?

As a band, we connect deeply with Ability KC’s mission because it’s rooted in empowerment, independence, and joy—three things we see come to life at every event we play.

We’ve had the privilege of watching how music can light people up, bring out confidence, and create meaningful moments of expression. That’s what Ability KC is doing every day, just on a much bigger and more impactful scale.

Do you have any hidden talents or artistic abilities?

We like to think our “hidden talent” is reading a room like it’s an instrument.

Of course, we’re musicians—but what really sets Lost Wax apart is our ability to shift energy in real time, adapt to the crowd, and create a shared experience that feels effortless and electric.