The Community Voice

2026 Black Educators Hall of Fame Celebration
2026-02-28 16:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Carl Brewer Community Center, 1329 E 13th, WICHITA, Kansas, 67214
We’re getting closer to the 2026 Black Educators Hall of Fame Celebration presented by Art That Touches Your Heart! Join us as we honor legendary educators who have shaped lives and built futures in our community.

THIS YEAR’S HONOREES ARE:

LORENZO O. BRECKENRIDGE, SR

DR JESSE WILLIAMS

DR KEVIN HARRISON

JAMES E ANDERSON, SR

JOHN R CARTER

PEARLIE MCCOY

LATONNYA KENNEDY

GAYLE JACKSON

Trash Panda Color n Cleanup
2026-03-07 10:00 | KS
Young community activist Zania Mason is on a mission to enhance her neighborhood, and she needs your support!

Friends of the Kansas Wildlife Exhibit and Get Ya Color On are partnering up for this very special Trash Panda Pop-Up!

We will provide trash grabbers and supplies. Participants will earn treats and entrance to our vibrant color party inside of Atwater Neighborhood Resource Center. Be on the lookout for a special appearance by a Kansas Wildlife Exhibit animal ambassador.

Everyone is always welcome. Please join us in helping Zania help out her neighborhood!

WPL Used Book Sale
2026-03-07 10:00 - 14:00 | Advanced Learning Library, 711 West 2nd St N, Wichita, KS, 67203, United States
The Friends of the Wichita Public Library (FWPL) organization has announced that the next sale of donated books. The event is open to the public and customers may either buy a FWPL cloth tote bag and fill it for $10 or bring a previously purchased FWPL bag (red, green, blue or purple with FWPL logo) and fill it for $5.

Paid members of FWPL may attend a special member-only preview book sale on Friday, March 6 at the Advanced Learning Library from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Annual memberships range from $15 to $150 and can be purchased at the preview event or online at wichitalibraryfriends.org/members.

Proceeds from the book sale benefit the Wichita Public Library by helping to fund literacy initiatives, branch programs and author events.

Celebrating the 5th Anniversary of the Shine Awards
2026-03-07 11:00 - 13:00 | KS
Celebrating Kansas Women who ShineThe Shine Awards is a celebration of inspirational Kansas women and will help raise funds to support Storytime Village’s mission of inspiring a lifelong love of literacy for underserved children.

​2026 HONOREES

LAI-L DAUGHERTY, Executive Director, Wichita Medical Research & Education Foundation

CARA DECKER, Center Director, Kumon Math & Reading

JILL DOCKING, Senior Vice President, Docking Group

MONIQUEKA HOLLOWAY, Chief Program Officer, Heartspring

JUDGE JENNIFER JONES. City of Wichita Municipal Court Judge

DANIELLE JOHNSON, Executive Director, Wichita Habitat for Humanity

JUDGE JACQUELINE KELLY, Judicial District Court Judge, Sedgwick County

DR. RHONDA K. LEWIS, Professor, Wichita State University

THE MCCARTNEY SISTERS

ANNIE MONTGOMERY, Director, Family Life Counseling Center, Tabernacle Bible Church

SHELLY PRICHARD, President & CEO, Wichita Foundation

VALERIE BLACK-TURNER, Director of Community Partnerships, Kansas Health Foundation

VALERIE WHITE, Director of Development, Barton School of Business Wichita State University

MARQUETTA ATKINS-WOODS, Founder & Executive Director, Destination Innovation Inc.

To register or for sponsor opportunities, visit: https://www.storytimevillage.org/shine2026

Ballet Wichita Workshop
2026-03-22 11:00 - 12:30 | KS
Join us for a free community workshop with guest choreographer Yusha-Marie Sorzano. Open to anyone with an interest in dance and movement, this workshop offers a chance to learn, explore, and connect with one of the artists behind Breaking Barriers in a more personal, intimate setting. Spots are limited — register now:https://forms.gle/bm9YHepBn4dDuZW77

SAFE HOME SAFE STREETS (GUN BUY BACK PROGRAM)
2026-03-30 08:00 - 17:00 | KS
Jubal Tribal Council of Chiefs.

Reducing Gun Viollence – Protecting Children – Building Peace

Communitt safety initiative dedicated to reducing gun violence by removing firearms from circulation and promoting peace across our neighborhoods. Violence is not acceptable in our community.

Cries From the Cross
2026-04-03 16:30 - 17:00 | Calvary Baptist Church, 2653 N Hillside, Wichita, Kansas, 67219
PACT is Hosting it’s Annual Good Friday Worship Encounter

Guest Preacher: Dr. F. Bernard Mitchell, AKA “Mississippi Mitch”

FIRE ON FRIDAY: GOOD FRIDAY EDITION
2026-04-03 19:00 - 21:00 | KS
Revivalist Pastor Rhonda Kingwood – Pastor Don Crowley -Pator Jason Moore & Rev Dr. Victor McCullough Guest Psalmist: Pastor Desmond Pringle Worship Leader – Pastor Christyn Gunter

Easter Basket Giveaway
2026-04-04 13:00 - 17:00 | KS
The hippity hoppity bunny trail is coming to Cs Place on April 4th! Community supporters, Peerless Princess Elk Lodge #243, Dorothy’s Lane, Outreach 316 and more join together for a festival of fun!

Mom, Dad, and Expo - A KBEN Event
2026-04-11 10:00 - 15:00 | Kansas City Kansas Community College-Dr. Thomas R. Burke Technical Education Center, 6565 State Avenue, Kansas City, KS, 66102, United States
The Kansas Birth Equity Network presents Mom, Dad, and Baby Expo a free community event centered on community, conversation, and connection to resources!

Date: Saturday, April 11th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: KCKCC Technical Education Center

What to Expect:
Discussions on doulas, midwives, health insurance, childcare, mental health & more
Local vendors & organizations supporting the whole family
Raffle prizes, free lunch, and on-site childcare

You can find registration, childcare sign up, vendor sign up, and more at this link! linktr.ee/momdadbabyexpo26

Remembering Civil War Veterans Who Settled Wichita and Sedgwick County
2026-04-11 14:00 - 16:00 | SEDGWICK COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 204 S MAIN, WICHITA, Kansas, 67202
Several thousand veterans of the bloody Civil War arrived in Wichita- and Sedgwick County during the late 19th century. Many of the veterans had experienced years of mortal combat, been wounded, lost limbs, and been held captive as prisoners of war. They were eager to obtain free land, start families, and begin new lives on the frontier.

While many were successful farmers, others provided business, professional, and political leadership for more than a generation. Many of these rest permanently in Highland and Maple Grove Cemeteries.

This presentation, utilizing images and historical records, focuses on a number of veterans who were active in the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.). Union veterans established ten G.A.R. posts in Sedgwick County. The Garfield post (#25) in Wichita would become the largest in Kansas.

Raise A Glass For Reading
2026-04-12 13:00 - 17:00 | KS
Raise a glass for reading in support of the Wichita Public Library’s 150th anniversary! Commemorative pours of cider featuring a special pint glass to take home are available for $15.

Plus, the Friends of the Wichita Public Library can set you up on a blind date with a book. Books available for purchase are wrapped up so you can put the classic saying — don’t judge a book by its cover — to the test. Blind date books are available for $5 or $20.

They say love is blind, but does that apply to reading? Find out and make a toast to 150 years of your library with White Crow Cider Company and the Friends of the Wichita Public Library

Let’s Talk Shop
2026-04-12 14:00 - 17:00 | SEDGWICK COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 204 S MAIN, WICHITA, Kansas, 67202
Join us for an afternoon with We Harmon Sisters! We’ll kick off the afternoon with a screening of their newest episode in the “Color Me Wichita” series, followed by their newest documentary, “Let’s Talk Shop,” that premiered at last year’s Tallgrass Film Festival.

“Let’s Talk Shop” Documentary & “Color Me Wichita” Episode Screening

BRIDGING THE NEIGHBORHOOD
2026-04-18 10:00 - 15:00 | BRIDGE CHURCH, 2328 E 13TH, WICHITA, KS, 67214, United States
My mission has always been to give back to the community I was raised in. Also the participating vendors will be selling their products at a affordable price. My heart tells me to do my best to feed any homeless person that may come through during this event. IF I SEE SOMETHING I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING!!!! In this neighborhood where I grew up, there are numerous homeless individuals. My goal is to feed the homeless on this day.

Plainview Community Event
2026-04-18 13:00 - 17:00 | KS
Community activities for all. Family-Culture-Community

Featuring Boxing, Live performance by ESSEX, chess, sports, coloring. DJ Meomane

Open Streets ICT - WSU Shocker Neighborhood
2026-04-19 12:00 - 16:00 | KS
This spring, Open Streets ICT returns to the WSU & Shocker Neighborhood, transforming nearly two miles of 17th Street into a lively, people-powered celebration of community, movement, and wellness. With the street closed to traffic, the space comes alive—perfect for walking, biking, skating, running, dancing, and discovering all the fun along the way.There’s truly something for everyone! Enjoy mouthwatering eats from local food trucks, soak in live music and high-energy performances, and explore neighborhood businesses and community organizations lining the route. Every step, roll, and groove helps activate our streets and supports a healthier, more connected Wichita.So grab your friends, bring the family, and get ready for an afternoon full of laughter, connection, and feel-good fun. Let’s open the streets, energize the neighborhood, and make even more unforgettable memories in 2026!

From high-energy drumlines to incredible music and dance—there’s something around every corner.

Entertainment Schedule Coming Soon!

Learn more: https://www.wichita.gov/…/Open-Streets-ICT—WSU…Vendor Registration: https://www.wichita.gov/713/VendorsVolunteer Registration: https://www.wichita.gov/1314/Volunteers

First Friday Jazz - Friends of Alvin Alley
2026-05-01 18:00 - 21:00 | KS
Fun, welcoming jazz class with Master Teaching Artist Latra Wilson. All levels. No pressure, just great movement, energy, and community at KCFAA.

African History Saturdays,
2026-05-02 11:00 - 14:00 | KS
Get your mood in check starting at 11:00am with ESOKE followed by our Healthy Minute Food Demo with Blaque Coffee (must be present to get the recipe).

Gather your family, especially elementary through high school aged youth to learn from and engage with Kayden Chase and Leela Kesarwani as they share about two books:

African Kings by Captivating History – Experience history

Ellen’s Broom by Kelly Starling Lyons

Check out the flyers and share with others!

$100 raffle for all attendees!

$100 raffle for adults who invite teens!

Raffle for an RYG Letterman Jacket, valued at $400, for those who attend the most sessions through October!

Hope to see you on the call! You have to register to get the link: www.campchoicekc.com.

Open Streets ICT - Nomar
2026-05-03 12:00 - 16:00 | KS
NoMar, a FREE neighborhood community-building bringing Wichitans of all ages and fitness levels together to promote healthy active living and social engagement.

Open Streets ICT – Nomar takes place along 21st Street in Wichita, for a full day of biking, fun physical activities, music, dancing, yoga, and much more!

We will be closing one mile of 21st Street to traffic from NoMar Market at Broadway Ave. to Woodland Park, and open the street for biking, walking, running, live music and dancing, entertainment, food, art, yoga, and more. Cruise along the one mile stretch and stop at our activity hubs, participating businesses, food and street vendors.

Interested in being a vendor? Visit https://www.wichita.gov/713/Vendors

Interested in volunteering? Visit https://forms.monday.com/…/31d278744a666ab681515f958feb…

For more information visit https://www.wichita.gov/1709/Open-Streets-ICT—Nomar

Holy Kingdom of Judah Monthly Meeting
2026-05-06 11:00 - 12:00 | KS
Advancing viable community improvement initiative that benefit both the Tribe of Judah and the broader Wichita community All efforts are constructive, organized and aligned with lawful civic engagement, The committee operates in the spirit of diplomatic cooperation with city leadership, public agencies and community members. Support this work by offering grounded perspective and maintaining clear two-way communication.

Aligning intiative with community needs

Strengthening proposed actions

Supporting implementation

Grant Chapel AME Church Men's Day Rummage Sale
2026-05-09 08:00 - 15:00 | KS
The Men of Grant Chapel AME Church invite you to our pre-Men’s Day Rummage Sale on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Unbeatable deals await! Come and browse or set up your table and sell your wares. Tables are $25. Our CashApp is $GrantWichita. There will be clothing, home items, jewelry, novelty items, furniture, etc. Our co-chairs are Harry Willis and Floyd Hunt.

Grant Chapel Annual Chili Cook-Off
2026-05-09 11:00 - 14:00 | KS
The Grant Chapel AME Church Men of Thunder will hold our Second Annual Chili Cook-Off in our fellowship hall. Bring the Heat! Judging categories are: Best Overall Chili, Spiciest Chili, Most Creative Chili, and People’s Choice Chili. Whether you bring the heat or just love to eat, this event is for you. Enjoy great chili, community fun, and a spark of friendly competition. An entry fee of $20 includes table space, testing cups and scorecards. Pre-register or sign up at the door. Our CashApp is $GrantWichita. Check in starts at 11 a.m. Judging begins at 1 p.m. and winners are announced at 2:30 pm.

Storytime in the Park
2026-05-12 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-05-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Naftzger Park, 601 East Douglas Avenue, Wichita, KS, 67202, United States
Read along with stories on the big screen at Naftzger Park and enjoy music, snacks, free books and an activity for the kids. Storytime in the Park is a partnership between Storytime Village and Wichita Park & Recreation.

BLACK WALL STREET RALLY FRIDAY LINEUP
2026-05-15 17:00 - 23:00 | KS
Get ready for a FULL evening of music, energy, and culture in the heart of Greenwood!

BRANOOFUNK LIVE

Feel the rhythm with this electrifying DJ & drummer experience that will have the crowd moving from start to finish!

May 15

5:00 PM – 6:45 PM

MS. VAL & THE WISEMAN

Bringing powerful vocals, live instrumentation, and unforgettable vibes to close out the night!

May 15

7:00 PM

Greenwood & Archer Community Stage

Historic Black Wall Street – Tulsa, OK

Pull up early, stay late, and experience the sound, the culture, and the celebration of community.

www.blackwallstreetrally.com

The Greater KC Black History Study Group "Making & Preserving History"
2026-05-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Black Archives Of Mid-America, 1722 East 17th Terrace, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Monthly in person meeting with featured speakers, Ms. Cheryl Armstrong. She will share how an injustice perpetrated on a great uncle more than 150 years ago affected her family and a historic Indiana black settlement. She will also share about the diverse community coalition needed to erect and dedicate a historical marker and finally put this painful chapter to rest.

Ms. Sandra Lamb is a veteran early-childhood educator and co-founder of the Institute of Black Invention & Technology, Inc. She brings 40 plus years of teaching, leadership, and training experience.She also created workshops and a handbook on: “Incorporating Black Inventors into the Pre School curriculum. This presentation highlights Black men and women whose labor, skill, talent, and courage helped define western life.

Please RSVP to kcblackhistory2@gmail.com

Open to all community activists and GKCBHSG members.

McConnell Fun Day
2026-05-21 11:30 - 14:30 | KS
Get ready to refuel, recharge, and relax as we celebrate the start of summer with an afternoon full of fun at the Outdoor Pool!

Join us for: Live DJ – DJ Carbon Outdoor Pool Open Yard Games Food & Drinks (FREE lunch while supplies last!)

Bring your friends, your family, or come solo and enjoy a laid-back summer kickoff with great music, cool vibes, and good company.

THEO CRIBBS FOOTBALL & CHEERLEADING CAMP
2026-05-23 08:00 - 17:00 | MCADAMS PARK, 1329 N OHIO, Wichita, KS, 67214, United States

I Am a Diamond Gala
2026-05-23 17:00 - 21:00 | Wichita Marriott, 9100 E Corporate Hills Dr, 9100 E Corporate Hills Dr, Wichita, KS, 67207, United States
This fundraising event is designed for IAAD expenses including our Fearfully & Wonderfully Made Diamond Dinner held every October. This year we are taking our evening of elegance to the next level and we woold love to have you to attend this unforgettable experience!! This year will be an exquisite ALL-WHITE Formal/Semi Formal Affair offering two ticket experiences designed for a night of sophistication, celebration and exceptional dining!Thank you for thise who have already purchased your ticket or have made a commitment. This is going to be an epic evening…DON’T MISS IT!!! Please see the ticket information below and GET YOUR TICKET TODAY!! Thank you in advance for your love and suport of IAAD!!!

�VIP EXPERIENCE: $200-Access to Private VIP Social Hour Lounge w/ hors d’ oeuvres-VIP White Carpet Stroll-Dias Seating-Two-Meat Plated Entree (Served)-VIP Special Recognition

�GENERAL ADMISSION: $100-Social Hour Lounge-General Seating-Gourmet Self-Serve Dining

If you would like to attend please call, text, or send a private message.

PAYMENT OPTIONS:Zelle: 316-207-9812CashApp: $IAADIncGivelify: I Am A Diamond, Inc.Creidit Card: https://www.iamadiamondinc.org/eve…/2026-iaad-diamond-gala

#2026IAADGala

McAdams Golf Memorial Day Kickoff
2026-05-23 18:00 - 22:00 | McAdams Park 13th Street Side, 13th and Ohio, Wichita, KS, 67214, United States
Tribute to DJ Ricky Rick
