Chamber Foundation Annual Report 2001
Page Two

Foundation Mission Statement The Overland Park Chamber Foundation enhances and sustains the quality of life in Overland Park through leadership development, business growth assistance and community betterment programs.

2001 Achievements

• Community Forum on School Finance
• El Centro Hispanic Center in Johnson County
• Foundation Name Change
• Overland Park Archive Project
• Leadership Overland Park
• Rotary Foundation Youth Leadership Institute
• Small Business Institute

Community Forum on School Finance

One of the biggest successes of the year; the foundation hosted a forum on education funding issues that included a distinguished panel of individuals representing both sides of the issue. The event drew over 500 attendees and was co-sponsored by 22 organizations.

El Centro Hispanic Center in Johnson County

At the request of El Centro, the foundation served as a partner in the formation of a Johnson County office for the Hispanic service center based in Kansas City, Kansas. The foundation will continue ongoing support for the agency that serves Hispanic families throughout the metro area.

Overland Park Archive Project

A project to record history of the city as well as memories and experiences of many people who played a role in making Overland Park what it is today. Interviews on audio and video tape are being compiled as well as plans for a hardcover book.

Youth Leadership Institute

The summer Youth Leadership Institute sponsored by the Overland Park Rotary Club Foundation and administered by the foundation provides an intensive week of leadership training to area high school students by acquainting them with community leaders, exposure to different models of leadership, experiences of team work and the values of diversity. The students discover their values, create opportunities for problem solving, practice presentation skills, and select challenges for personal growth by leading others.