Nearly 40% of Kansas households are gainfully employed but still can’t afford basic life essentials in the county where they live. This presentation explores new data, shares lived experiences and highlights why working families can’t make ends meet. As partners, hear the data from United Way of the Plains and the Kansas Health Foundation and join the movement on addressing solutions so that every family can thrive.
Pete Nájera leads the United Way of the Plains, guiding its work to invest over $75 million and provide more than 1 million instances of service annually in the local community. A former Army officer, entrepreneur, and business executive, Pete has also served as President of the Rudd Foundation, COO of Sterling Foundation Management, and advisor at the Pentagon and White House. A Desert Storm combat veteran, he earned the Bronze Star and Valorous Unit Award.
Pete is active in Wichita civic life, serving on boards including the Kansas Leadership Center and Greater Wichita Partnership. He holds a Bachelor’s from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s from Harvard University.
Ed O’Malley leads the Kansas Health Foundation, driving initiatives that connect health, civic engagement, and economic opportunity. Previously, he founded and grew the Kansas Leadership Center into a globally recognized hub for leadership development. He is the author of five leadership books, including Leading Health: How You and 30,000 Kansans Help Communities Thrive (Sept 2025).
A former Kansas legislator and White House aide, Ed is a proud Irish American and active volunteer with Unbound. Once a marathoner, he now enjoys hot yoga and walking. Ed brings strategic clarity, civic passion, and energy to every endeavor.
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