Our Work

At the Henry Perry Foundation, we are committed to building onto the legacy of Henry Perry, the recognized “Father of Kansas City Barbeque,” by investing in programs that strengthen families and builds community. Since its inception, the foundation has been a strength in several areas, with additional initiatives to come in 2025/2026.

  • Childcare Scholarships – Providing December scholarships to selected daycares to help families in need.

  • Community Meals – Through a local church, preparing and serving individuals and families a nutritious sit-down Sunday meal.

  • Youth Education – Creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and build brighter futures through access to educational programs.

Through these initiatives, we continue Henry Perry’s spirit of entrepreneurship, generosity, and community care—helping children, youth, and adults build better lives.

The Foundation continues to expand in the community by addressing the need for financial literacy for youth, CPR training, youth and adult mental health, and building skills for better communication and conversation.

Youth Education

Creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and build brighter futures through access to educational programs. Above are four of the students that the Foundation sponsored to take part in the Advent Health Youth Introduction to Babysitting Course.

“The babysitting course helped me to feel more confident when I am watching little ones. We received training in what to do if someone chokes or if there is a fire or some other emergency. Now, when I watch kids, I feel good knowing I have a plan for any situation.”

~ O.M. Class Attendee      

“I enjoyed the class. The teacher was very friendly and helpful. I learned how to use an epi pen, and also how important it is to keep emergency numbers handy. I recommend this course to others like me, who are just getting started.”

~ K.T. Class Attendee

Childcare Scholarships

Seeing the need in our community and wanting to help families, every December the Henry Perry Foundation awards surprise scholarships to families who do not receive outside assistance.

The scholarship recipients are chosen by selected daycare providers based on their knowledge of the families most in need.

In the spirit of Christmas giving, the Foundation hopes that these scholarships give well-deserving parents a little something extra at this special time of year.

Brandi Staples from Smart beginnings Learning Center says “K.H. received the $150 Scholarship and was extremely grateful to have been chosen. “I truly do not think I could find all the right words to express my gratitude. Please thank the Foundation for me.”

~K.H., Scholarship Recipient

Carla Hamilton from Grow in Peace Childcare says, “Thank you for blessing our parent and her children with The Henry Perry Foundation scholarship. During this Christmas season, the donation was well received. Praying for a prosperous New Year of 2025, so that many more families receive blessings like this.”

Community Meals

Foundation volunteers have been actively involved in supporting True Light Church of the Nazarene, a community-focused church that provides meals for the congregation every Sunday. As part of our commitment to serving others, our volunteers have donated and served multiple Sunday lunches, ensuring that individuals and families facing food insecurity have access to a nourishing meal in a welcoming environment. Beyond providing food, these meals foster connection, and hope, reflecting our dedication to strengthening the community through acts of service and generosity.

Contact Us

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