Mentors Challenge 2026

This event was created by us to recognize all the incredible individuals, organizations and companies that have helped High Aspirations reach higher and higher. We recognize all the individuals who have devoted their time and joined us in the commitment to help raise young men towards successful and fulfilling lives. Featuring a keynote speaker, awards ceremony and meal this is an event you don’t want to miss!

Date: November 20th, 2026
Time:
5:00 p.m.

Hot 103.3 Jamz

Presenting Sponsor

We would like to thank our presenting Sponsor Hot 103.3 Jamz for their commitment to creating a wonderful event this year. They have sponsored our Juneteenth celebration and many more events. Their contributions are very much appreciated.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Click on the button below and enter the desired sponsorship level amount

Master of Ceremonies

Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee and Kansas City Chiefs Legend, “Will Shields”

The spirit of the Kansas City Chiefs will be woven throughout this special event—from our keynote speaker, emcee, co-chairs, and award recipients to the participation of Chiefs Ambassadors and Red Coaters. Together, they bring a powerful legacy of teamwork, leadership, and community pride to this memorable occasion.

Event Co-Chairs

Bill and Sarah Maas

Bill and Sarah Maas are the Co-Chairs of the 2026 Mentors Challenge. Bill Maas is a former Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowl defensive lineman, a member of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, and an inductee into the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Honor. Together, Bill and Sarah are dedicated community leaders and longtime supporters of High Aspirations, committed to empowering young men through mentoring, education, and opportunity. We are grateful for their leadership in helping make this year's Mentors Challenge a success.

Robert B. Rogers Award Winners

Lamar, Jr. and Rita Hunt

Every year a winner of the Robert B. Rodgers Award is given to a sponsor who has gone above and beyond. We are proud to announce this year's winners are Lamar, Jr. and Rita Hunt, co-owners of the Kansas City Chiefs. We appreciate all their support and shared commitment towards our mission.

Keynote Speaker

Kendall Gammon

Kendall Gammon is a former NFL long snapper best known for his long tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs. Born on January 23, 1967, in Rose Hill, Kansas, he built a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable specialists. After playing at Pittsburg State University, he entered the NFL in 1992 and developed a long, steady career defined by consistency and leadership. Following his playing days, he remained closely connected to the game and his community through broadcasting and public engagement.

  • Selected to the Pro Bowl in 2004, becoming the first Chiefs long snapper to earn the honor

  • Appeared in 224 consecutive games, underscoring his durability and consistency

  • Known for community involvement in the Kansas City area, including charitable work and public appearances supporting local causes

  • Transitioned into broadcasting as a color analyst for the Kansas City Chiefs Radio Network, staying active in the sport after retirement

Kansas City Chiefs Red Coaters

The Kansas City Chiefs Red Coaters are a dedicated community-service and fan-support organization of around 70 volunteer season ticket holders. Red Coaters wear their iconic red jackets on the field during home games to welcome the team as they run out of the tunnel and support the community through volunteerism.

Chiefs Ambassadors

The Chiefs Ambassadors are a unique organization consisting of former Kansas City Chiefs players dedicated to community outreach and charitable support. Founded as the first group of its kind in the National Football League, it brings together former players from throughout the franchise's history.

Mentors Challenge 2025

A look back at last years event

Take a look at last years Mentors challenge. The theme was ON THE MOVE as High Aspirations looked to expand their network and focus on increasing mentors and mentees.

Archives

Photography by David Riffel