Providing Products For Human Dignity
Providing Products For Human Dignity

Events

Corporate Volunteering: Team Building Fun

4 September 2025
gtbadmin
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Categories: Events, Volunteer

Corporate Volunteering: Team Building Fun

Newmark Zimmer Volunteers

At Giving the Basics, we know that strong communities are built when people come together to serve. That’s why corporate volunteering has become such an important part of our mission. When employees volunteer with us, they’re not just giving back through community service—they’re also building stronger, more connected teams.

Why Corporate Volunteering Matters

Corporate volunteer opportunities give employees the chance to step outside their normal routines and connect with each other in new ways. Packing hygiene products, organizing shelves, or preparing boxes for schools may seem simple, but the teamwork, laughter, and problem-solving that happen in the process are powerful.

Volunteering as a team helps companies:

  • Build trust and collaboration – Serving side by side encourages stronger workplace relationships. Newmark Zimmer (Kansas City)
  • Boost employee morale – Giving back through community service creates pride and fulfillment.
  • Develop leadership skills – Corporate volunteering puts employees in new roles where they can grow.
  • Strengthen company culture – Showing a commitment to the community builds loyalty inside and outside the office.

August Volunteer Impact

This August, we welcomed 21 incredible corporate groups into our warehouse in Kansas City, many of them volunteering more than once! Together, more than 300 volunteers packed 303,889 hygiene items that directly support students, families, and individuals in need.

The passion and heart our volunteers bring is felt in every product packed. Here’s what a few of them shared:

Core Catalysts

Core Catalysts Volunteers

“This was my first time volunteering for this organization, and I am blown away by the impact and work being done here. My heart is full to give back and help those in need and I am grateful to help this incredible group perform its mission. Thanks!” – Core Catalysts LLC

The University of Kansas Health System Volunteers

“This is a great program. I have definitely known people who have needed the basics, and traded food stamps for them. They were in positions that could have cost them everything.” – The University of Kansas Health System

“As a former school nurse, I have seen the impact of providing these basics to students and families. It truly makes a difference and is so needed. In addition to being an opportunity for the student to connect with a trusted adult.” – The University of Kansas Health System

“My mom used to tell me stories of how she was bullied as a kid because her family was too poor to shower. Volunteering here really put into perspective what she went through. I am so glad to support an organization that provides this in KC!” – The University of Kansas Health System

“It is heartbreaking to know that every one of the hundreds of tubes of toothpaste that I touched today will go to someone who otherwise wouldn’t have any. Thank you for being here to do this and allowing us to help.” – The University of Kansas Health System

University of Kansas Health System

Corporate Donations Multiply the Impact

When companies combine corporate donations with volunteer hours, the impact is even greater. Financial support provides thousands of hygiene essentials—like soap, deodorant, shampoo, and toothpaste—while volunteer time helps us prepare and distribute them to schools, shelters, and families in need.

Newmark Zimmer

Newmark Zimmer volunteers celebrating how much they have collected so far

One shining example is Newmark Zimmer. Not only has their team volunteered with us more than four times this year, but they also rallied their friends and colleagues to raise over $30,000 for essential hygiene items. This incredible generosity means tens of thousands of products went directly into the hands of students, families, and individuals who would otherwise go without.

Stories like theirs remind us that corporate giving isn’t just about writing a check or showing up once—it’s about creating a ripple effect of care and dignity that transforms entire communities.

Together, corporate volunteers and donations ensure dignity is restored to those experiencing hygiene poverty in our community.

More Than Team Building—It’s Community Building

One of the best parts of hosting volunteer groups is watching teams leave energized and inspired. Employees don’t just return to the office with stronger bonds; they also carry a renewed sense of purpose, knowing they’ve helped meet a critical need through meaningful community service.

A huge thank you to all of the volunteer groups who joined us in August:

KPMG Volunteers

KPMG Volunteers

Henderson Engineers Volunteers

Henderson Engineers Volunteers

H&R Block Volunteers

H&R Block Volunteers

Cerris Systems Volunteers

Cerris Systems Volunteers

Arthur J Gallaher & Co Volunteers

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Volunteers

NFM Volunteers

NFM Volunteers

Trevipay Volunteers

Trevipay Volunteers

Symplr Volunteers

Symplr Volunteers

Amazon FOE 1

Northpoint Development Volunteers

NorthPoint Development

Kansas City Business Journal Volunteers

Kansas City Business Journal Volunteers

Get Involved

If your company is looking for a unique team building activity that combines fun, purpose, and impact, consider volunteering with Giving the Basics. Whether through corporate volunteering, corporate donations, or both, your team can help students, families, and individuals in Kansas City live with dignity.

👉 Sign Up Your Group to Volunteer Today

Charity Day: How You Can Make an Impact Too

2 September 2025
gtbadmin
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Categories: Events, Hygiene Poverty

International Charity Day

There’s something powerful about knowing your small act of kindness can create a ripple effect. Whether it’s donating a bar of soap, showing up to volunteer, or organizing a drive at work, these moments of giving add up to real change. In a world that often feels divided or overwhelming, charity reminds us that we’re still connected—that we still have the power to help someone else. That’s why days like the International Day of Charity matter. They remind us not only to care, but to act.

Every year on September 5, the world observes the International Day of Charity, a global call to action inspired by the life and legacy of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. This day was established by the United Nations in 2012 to raise awareness and encourage charitable work across the globe. The date honors Mother Teresa’s passing and her lifelong mission to serve the poorest of the poor with compassion and dignity. Her legacy is a reminder that even small acts of charity—whether through time, resources, or care—can leave a lasting impact.

Learn more at the official International Day of Charity website.

The United Nations created this observance to mobilize individuals and organizations around the world to help others through volunteering and philanthropy. The goal is simple: promote solidarity, strengthen communities, and empower people through acts of giving. You can learn more about the meaning behind this global movement at the UN site.

The UN chose this date not only to honor Mother Teresa, but to highlight the crucial role that charity organizations and individuals play in tackling global challenges—like hunger, education, and health. It’s a reminder that generosity doesn’t require wealth or status. It begins with the choice to care—and then to take action. Whether you’re donating goods, volunteering your time, or encouraging others to get involved, you become part of a global movement of people lifting each other up in meaningful, lasting ways.

That kind of impact doesn’t have to start on the other side of the world—it can start right here at home. At Giving the Basics, we make it easy for anyone to get involved in a hands-on, meaningful way. You can volunteer to pack and sort hygiene items at our warehouse, organize a Dignity Drive at your workplace or school, or bring a group to serve together. Whether you’re an individual looking to give back, a family wanting to serve together, or a company building a culture of compassion, there’s a place for you here. Every hour you serve and every item you help collect ensures someone in our community has access to the dignity of basic hygiene. That’s how you can make an impact—right here, right now.

Visit givingthebasics.org to explore how you can volunteer or support our mission. Whether you come once, bring a team, or join us regularly, you’ll be making a real difference. Let’s honor the spirit of this global day with local action. Because when you give the basics, you give dignity—and that’s how you can make an impact.

July Community Groups: Hygiene Heroes

14 August 2025
gtbadmin
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Categories: Events, Volunteer

Top 4 Ways to Get Involved in Community Service Through Giving the Basics

In July, our community showed up in a big way. From church groups to scout troops to neighborhood friends, we saw what happens when people care deeply—and act boldly—to fight Hygiene Poverty. These volunteer teams became true Hygiene Heroes by giving their time, energy, and compassion to help Kansas City families live with dignity.

Here are the Top 4 Ways You Can Join the Movement:

  1. Volunteer Onsite

    Whether it was sorting soap, assembling orders, or stacking shelves, community groups got their hands (and hearts) into the work. Volunteering together made a lasting impact—and brought plenty of smiles along the way.

    Community Volunteers July

    Children’s Hospital Association of 2029 Volunteers

    “Coming here today to assemble kits was so inspiring! The team was also incredibly kind and organized – it’s no wonder they’ve been able to reach so many in need.”
    – Children’s Hospital Association

    “I really liked how many organizations Giving the Basics serves. My experience was very eye opening that I got to be a part of the efforts in helping people get the hygiene resources they deserve.”
    – Sion Class of 2029

  2. Host a Hygiene Drive

    Several groups rallied their schools, churches, and neighborhoods to collect essential hygiene items. Hosting a drive is a creative, simple way to fight Hygiene Poverty from wherever you are.

    2029 Sion Class Volunteers

    Sion Class of 2029 Volunteers

    Interested in hosting your own? We’ll walk you through everything you need to know. Start here.

  3. Donate to Fuel the Mission

    Every dollar helps us provide free hygiene orders to schools, pantries, and shelters in need. Can’t make it to a volunteer shift? You can still make a meaningful difference right from home.

    “The basics are essential to life and knowing we were able to help others is so meaningful and something I can’t wait to come back and help again.”
    – Mission Adelante

    Donate here.

  4. Like & Share to Spread the Word

    Raising awareness is one of the easiest (and most powerful) forms of community service. When you post about hygiene poverty and tag Giving the Basics, you help others see the need—and the solution.

    Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to help us keep the momentum going!

A Special Thank You to These Amazing July Groups:

DeLaSalle

Want to Be a Hygiene Hero Next Month?

Whether you’re a parent looking for family volunteering, a student group ready to act, or a neighbor wanting to make a difference—we’d love to have you join us!

5th Annual Scramble for Dignity Raises Over $50,000

6 August 2025
gtbadmin
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Categories: Events

Scramble For Dignity 2025

On Monday, July 28th, the greens of Falcon Ridge Golf Course in Lenexa were filled with local change-makers, driving to make a difference on, and off, the course. The 5th Annual Scramble for Dignity, hosted by our incredible partners at Moonshot Solutions, brought together generous sponsors, spirited golfers, and passionate advocates to raise more than $50,000 in support of Giving the Basics.

This wasn’t just a tournament—it was an act of community service in motion that will provide basic hygiene essentials like soap, deodorant and shampoo to thousands of students, families, individuals and seniors in Kansas City.

Corporate Giving in Action: Making Dignity Possible

Events like the Scramble for Dignity showcase how corporate donations go far beyond a budget line—they become a driving force behind the hands-on impact nonprofits like Giving the Basics make every day. Support from local businesses and corporate partners directly fund essential hygiene products that restore dignity, boost confidence, and bring hope to families across Kansas City. When companies invest in their communities, the ripple effect is powerful—improving school attendance, supporting mental and physical health, and helping families take meaningful steps toward financial stability.

Corporate giving also comes with business benefits: increased employee engagement, stronger brand reputation, and deeper community ties. Supporting events like this allows companies to align their values with action—and have a great time doing it.

More Fun on the Fairways

Beyond the spirited competition on the course, the 5th annual Scramble for Dignity delivered a full day of excitement and surprises along the way. Golfers tested their skills in the longest drive contest and the crowd-favorite “Putt for Your Favorite Bottle” challenge, while raffle prizes added an extra layer of fun.

The Kansas City Mavericks street team were also in attendance—handing out giveaways, hyping up participants, and taking fan photos throughout the course.


Scramble For Dignity 2025 Golf Team Scramble For Dignity 2025 Golf Team Scramble For Dignity 2025 Golf Team

Our Incredible Sponsors

A huge thank-you goes out to every business that made corporate donations to support this event. Whether you sponsored a team, donated prizes, or participated, your generosity is helping us provide hygiene items to students and families who are going without.

Why Events Like This Matter

Scramble for Dignity is more than a fundraiser—it’s a perfect example of how corporate donations and community service come together to meet real needs. The money raised will help us continue our mission of providing basic hygiene products—like soap, deodorant, toothpaste, and feminine care—to thousands across Kansas City.

When companies and communities unite for a cause, the results go far beyond a day on the green. They spark awareness, fuel dignity, and show what’s possible when we serve together.

Join In The Fun!

Whether you’re a business looking to get involved through corporate giving, a volunteer group ready to give back, or an individual who wants to make an impact—there’s a place for you at Giving the Basics.

Thank you again to all who made this day a success. If your business is interested in hosting an event like a golf tournament, contact Nick@GivingtheBasics.org.

Back to School Basics

29 July 2025
gtbadmin
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Categories: Drives, Events, School Hygiene

back to school basics

As kids head back to school, many face a challenge we don’t always see: lack of basic hygiene essentials. Without soap, deodorant, or toothpaste, it’s hard for them to feel confident and focus in class. Thanks to your generosity, we’re helping students meet these needs — but the demand is ongoing. For just $12/month, you’ll provide shampoo, deodorant, and feminine hygiene items to a student who can’t afford them. You’ll help them walk into school with confidence. You’ll give them a chance to learn and thrive.

Click Here to become a monthly donor and be a steady source of support for students in need.

America’s Hygiene Hub, A KSHB Spotlight

29 July 2025
gtbadmin
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Categories: Events

Discover how Giving the Basics, America’s Hygiene Hub, is transforming lives by tackling hygiene poverty. KSHB shows a glimpse into the impact being made, driven by its passionate founder and powered by thousands of dedicated volunteers. Learn how community generosity is providing essential hygiene products to those in need, creating lasting change.

The Kincaid Group’s Golf Tournament Raises $300K for Nonprofits

3 July 2025
gtbadmin
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Categories: Events

Corporate Donations in Action: The Kincaid Group’s Golf Tournament Raises $300,000 for Local Nonprofits

Corporate Donations in Action

On June 23rd, The Kincaid Group hosted its annual golf tournament in Kansas City, a vibrant event that brought together purpose-driven companies and passionate individuals for a day of connection, competition, and generosity. This year’s tournament, in partnership with Cornerstone Companies was held at the beautiful Canyon Farms golf course and was a resounding success.

The result? A staggering $300,000 raised for four Kansas City-area nonprofits—including Giving the Basics.

More Than a Golf Tournament

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Canyon Farms in Lenexa, KS,  the KC Impact Classic wasn’t just about hitting the greens—it was about hitting a new level of community support. With corporate sponsors, player teams, and volunteers all coming together, the day was a shining example of what happens when companies align their values with action.

Throughout the tournament, participants learned about the missions of each benefiting nonprofit and how their involvement would directly support programs across the region. From empowering disabled children, adults and veterans to providing basic hygiene essentials like soap, toothpaste, and deodorant, the impact of this event will be felt by thousands of individuals and families in need.

How Corporate Donations Fuel Change

Corporate donations like those generated through the KC Impact Classic are a vital part of our work at Giving the Basics. Whether it’s financial gifts, in-kind hygiene products, or collaborative events like this tournament, corporate partners help us:

  • Expand into new school districts and shelters
  • Respond to urgent requests from partner agencies
  • Purchase hygiene products in bulk at reduced prices
  • Operate with the consistency and sustainability that monthly needs require

These donations don’t just fill shelves—they restore dignity and give students, seniors, and families the confidence to participate fully in life.

Why Third-Party Fundraisers Matter

The KC Impact Classic is a perfect example of how third-party fundraisers can amplify a nonprofit’s mission.

When businesses or individuals take the lead on planning and executing fundraising events, it expands both our capacity and our reach. These events create new networks of support, generate awareness, and provide donors with engaging, meaningful ways to get involved.

They also free up our team to focus on what we do best: getting hygiene products into the hands of those who need them most.

If your business, church, or community group is looking for a meaningful cause to rally around, hosting a third-party fundraiser is a powerful way to get involved. From golf tournaments and benefit concerts to birthday fundraisers and company-wide donation drives, your creativity fuels our impact.

Celebrating the Kincaid Group

The team at The Kincaid Group has once again shown what true corporate citizenship looks like. Their commitment to lifting up local nonprofits is inspiring—and we’re deeply grateful to have been selected as one of this year’s beneficiaries.

From the engaging day on the course to the incredible generosity of all who participated, the KC Impact Classic proves that when businesses lead with heart, communities thrive.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If your company is interested in making a difference, there are so many ways to get involved:

✅ Make a corporate donation
✅ Sponsor an event
✅ Host a third-party fundraiser
✅ Organize a workplace volunteer day
✅ Launch a product or virtual drive

Let’s work together to make dignity accessible to all.

📩 Contact us at GivingTheBasics.org to learn more about corporate partnerships.