Children’s Mercy announced on Mar. 11 that it has reached its $150 million fundraising goal for the Illuminate initiative, a campaign focused on supporting youth mental health needs in the region. The milestone was achieved more than two years ahead of schedule.
The achievement highlights growing community support for addressing pediatric mental health challenges. The Illuminate campaign, launched in summer 2023 as a five-year plan, aims to address what Children’s Mercy describes as an unprecedented crisis in children’s mental health by launching new programs and expanding access to care.
Since the start of the initiative, Children’s Mercy has introduced nearly 14 new projects designed to reach children earlier, improve pathways to care, and provide services that were not previously available. Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Children’s Mercy, said: “Today’s milestone shows what’s possible when a community stands together for its kids. No child should ever have to wait for mental health support, and Illuminate is our commitment to changing that journey—making sure every child is seen early, supported fully and cared for at every step.” Quiroga added: “The need keeps growing, and so will we. Our promise is simple: put children and families at the center of everything we do.”
More than 5,000 donors contributed to the campaign. The annual Red Hot Night gala held on Saturday, Feb. 28 helped push the total past $150 million with over $5.5 million raised at the event. This marks the third consecutive year that the gala has focused on supporting mental health initiatives at Children’s Mercy.
Jenea Oliver, PhD, Senior Vice President of Communications, Marketing and Philanthropy at Children’s Mercy said: “Our community didn’t just give. They showed up with heart, urgency and a belief in what’s possible. Each gift reflects a personal commitment to building a future where mental health care is accessible, integrated and filled with hope. Thank you for standing with us. I’m humbled by what we’ve accomplished together and inspired by what comes next for the children and families we serve.”
Further information about Illuminate projects can be found at childrensmercy.org/illuminate.
