Parade of Hearts lives on through MARC early learning programs

Aug 04, 2022
| Posted in
Early Learning
Parade of Hearts art in the Power and Light District

Local organizations, including MARC early learning programs, will benefit from the funds raised during the popular Parade of Hearts campaign. 

“Child care programs of all sizes in our region were greatly affected by the pandemic. Over the last two years, thousands of child care slots were eliminated due to temporary and permanent program closure. The MARC Early Learning Department will use the funds to help reopen and expand child care facilities.”

Jovanna Rohs, director of early learning and Head Start at MARC

The regional Parade of Hearts display may be over. Still, organizations, including MARC early learning programs, will benefit from the more than $2.5 million raised from the heart auction, merchandise and its 75 sponsors.

“We are proud to be a recipient of funds from the Parade of Hearts,” said Jovanna Rohs, director of early learning and Head Start at MARC. “Child care programs of all sizes in our region were greatly affected by the pandemic. Over the last two years, thousands of child care slots were eliminated due to temporary and permanent program closure. The MARC Early Learning Department will use the funds to help reopen and expand child care facilities.”

All of the sculptures have been purchased and moved to their home locations, but you can still find pictures of them online.

The other beneficiaries of the Parade of Hearts include:

  • AltCap, providing direct grants and business advisory services for minority and women-owned small businesses.
  • Visit KC Foundation, providing locally owned business grants in the hospitality and tourism industries.
  • The University of Kansas Health System, supporting patients with COVID-19.
  • The local and regional artist community, supporting arts and culture.

Thank you to all who donated.

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