On Saturday, October 17, 2026, MOCSA welcomed community members, donors and supporters to Zhou B Art Center for Night Out with MOCSA, an annual fundraiser celebrating the art of giving back. Bright colors, bold outfits and vibrant artwork filled the space, bringing guests together around one shared purpose: supporting survivors of sexual violence.
VIP guests enjoyed an exclusive look at Symbiosis, an exhibition curated by ImagineThatKC. The exhibit celebrates the possibilities that emerge when artists, organizations and communities create alongside one another, bringing the work and unique perspectives of Imagine That artists to Zhou B Art Center KC and fostering connection, creative exchange and discovery.
VIP guests view Symbiosis exhibit in the Spirit Room
The artistic experience continued throughout the evening with work by Bryce Holt of The Patrons, a narrative artist who blends visual art and storytelling to create immersive experiences. His work helped bring the evening’s creative vision to life.
Guests gathered for the program, hosted by Sharon Chen, an award-winning anchor with KCTV5. Sharon introduced award-winning Japanese calligrapher Miho Kawashita, who created an original work representing the dignity, respect and inherent worth of survivors. The piece will have a permanent home in MOCSA’s new building, serving as a lasting reminder of the care, compassion and support every survivor deserves.
Accompanied by the powerful rhythms of Danial Roy, a taiko drummer with Hidden Ninja Taiko, Miho transformed the creation of the artwork into a moving performance. They offered a powerful reminder of how creative expression can provide opportunities for survivors to process their experiences. Art therapy is one of the many ways MOCSA’s staff support survivors on their paths toward healing.
The evening also created space for one of the most important parts of MOCSA’s work: helping the community understand the experiences of survivors and the importance of standing alongside them.
MOCSA’s volunteer survivor speakers share their stories to build understanding, foster empathy and inspire change. While hearing these stories can be difficult, they remind us why this work matters and demonstrate the strength and resilience of survivors.
Shannon Hayes shared her experience of sexual assault, encouraging systemic change.
Shannon Hayes speaks at Night Out with MOCSA
“Some survivors are crushed by shame, and that is entirely understandable,” Shannon said. “Not everyone feels safe enough to speak up. If you are carrying a story in silence, hear me now: Silence does not mean your story doesn’t matter. It does not mean it didn't happen. It does not make you less brave.”
Her words resonated throughout the room, as guests rose to their feet in a standing ovation. Her message was a powerful reminder that every survivor’s experience matters, whether or not they feel ready to share it.
“Night Out is always incredibly meaningful to me because my connection to the organization goes back to my grandmother, who helped co-found MOCSA in 1975 and was a big part of why I became a nurse," Paige Meyer, Honorary Chair, said.
"I’m proud that Refresh Medical Spa has been able to continue supporting an organization that does so much to make people feel heard, cared for and supported."
Refresh Medical Spa attendees
Through the generosity of attendees and supporters, along with proceeds from the silent auction and a live auction led by Trisha Brauer of Taking Bids Fundraising, Night Out with MOCSA raised nearly $250,000.
These funds will help MOCSA continue providing free advocacy, counseling, education, legal and prevention services throughout the Kansas City area. Every contribution helps sustain this work and build a community where survivors are supported, believed and treated with dignity.
Night Out with MOCSA was more than an evening of art and celebration. It was a gathering of people committed to making a difference, reminding us that when a community comes together, it can help create a future where survivors have the support they need to heal and thrive.
Thank You Committee & Sponsors
Night Out with MOCSA 2026 Committee Left to right: Jennie Capps, Debbie Frederiksen, MOCSA Director of Communications, Kate Schwaller, MOCSA Director of Individual and Corporate Giving, Ashton Wells, MOCSA Major Gifts Officer, Jessica Bloom, Committee Chair, Lindsay Robbins, MOCSA Donor Engagement Coordinator, Kim Harp, Hattie Saltzman, MOCSA Special Events Coordinator, Cynthia Pyrtle, Megan Schmitz, Rachel Kortkamp, Caroline Seitz, MOCSA Development Data Specialist II, Glenda Fiegl, Mary Larkin, Committee Chair, Julie Donelon, MOCSA President & CEO, River Row, MOCSA Communications & Marketing Coordinator, Katie Myers, Kassie Sands, MOCSA Vice President of Development
Presenting Sponsor $25,000
Platinum Sponsors $10,000
Gold Sponsors $5,000
Terry Besser
Julie and Brendan Donelon
Michael and Parquita Donelon
Marlys and Michael Haverty
William and Jenna Munoz
Gayle Packer
Bar Sponsor $3,5000
Silver Sponsors $3,000
Mary Larkin
Jenn Kabler and Scott MacDonald
Gay Purcell
Photobooth Sponsor $2,500
VIP Party Sponsor $2,500
Kim Wu
