What began in 2007 as a fun, charitable event supporting a single beneficiary has grown into one of the community’s most impactful annual fundraising traditions. This year, the event reached a new milestone, generating $220,000 in proceeds to support five local organizations focused on feeding those in need. And, we hit another huge milestone. Since 2007, Empty Bowls/Feed Lee’s Summit (www.feedls.org) has raised more than $1,000,000 to fight food insecurity in our community!
Since its inception, the event has demonstrated steady growth and expanding purpose. By 2018, proceeds had increased to $15,000 and was serving two beneficiary organizations. A year later, in 2019, the event was rebranded and broadened to include two additional beneficiary organizations, resulting in proceeds tripling to $45,000.
In 2020, the event transitioned to a virtual format due to the pandemic, which led to a temporary decline in revenue. However, resilience and community support remained strong. The event gained new momentum in 2021 when all Lee’s Summit Rotary Clubs partnered together, setting the stage for future growth.
That growth culminated in 2023, when proceeds peaked at $165,000—bolstered in part by a one-time $25,000 donation—and the number of beneficiaries increased to five. While 2024 saw a slight dip to $137,000, the event rebounded significantly in 2025, achieving the highest fundraising total in its history.
“This year’s record-breaking $220,000 is a testament to the generosity of our community and the dedication of our partners, sponsors, attendees and volunteers,” said David Fritz, President and Co-Chair for Feed Lee’s Summit. “Together, we continue to expand our impact and strengthen the organizations that serve our neighbors in need.”
The funds raised in 2025 will be distributed among the five beneficiary organizations—Boost4Success, Coldwater of Lee’s Summit, Lee’s Summit Social Services, Meals on Wheels and One Good Meal—helping to advance their missions and sustain vital services throughout the community.
Of course, this year’s committee deserves a huge shoutout for their huge hearts and commitment to “filling the gaps” and “doing good” as Rotarians do!
2025 Feed Lee’s Summit Committee Members:
Frank Blanck, Lee’s Summit Sunrise Rotary Club
Jeff Carey, Lee’s Summit Sunrise Rotary Club
John Faulkenberry, Rotary Club of Lee’s Summit
David Fritz (Co-Chair, President), Lee’s Summit Sunrise Rotary Club
Julie Fritz (Co-Chair, Secretary), Lee’s Summit Sunrise Rotary Club
Carl Froeschle (Treasurer), Lee’s Summit Sunrise Rotary Club
Lauren Hess, Community Member
Monica Humbard, Community Member
Ben Martin (Vice President), Rotary Club of Lee’s Summit
Jody Springer, Rotary Club of Lee’s Summit
Mark your calendars for Friday, November 13, 2026!
David Fritz
(816) 809-8891, davidafritz1728@gmail.com