Big Brothers Big Sisters to host 2026 Empower Auction at inspireU

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Joseph will host its annual Empower Auction to honor local leaders making a significant impact in their professions and throughout the community.

Each year, a class of dynamic, charismatic, charitable, passionate and hard-working professionals is selected to be honored.

This year's class of honorees are Ryan and Ann Rush, Kelly Crawford, Rayna Vogan, Jennifer Brown, Christy Rippe and KQ2's Hometown This Morning Anchor and Miss Missouri, Courtney Rowe.

"This outstanding group exemplifies leadership, service and a deep commitment to making St. Joseph stronger," a BBBS news release detailed.

The Empower Auction has quickly become one of the organization's most anticipated annual events, according to a news release.

Guests can expect an evening of live music, entertainment, inspiring mission moments and live and silent auction packages.

Proceeds from the event directly support BBBS' mission to create and support one-on-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.

Community members are encouraged to attend, celebrate the honorees and invest in the futures of local children.

The event will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, at the inspireU Children's Discovery Center, located at 521 Felix St.

For more event details, to purchase tickets or to support the 2026 Empower Honorees, visit empowerauction.com.