JCRB|AJC is excited to announce that community leader Madeleine McDonough will receive the prestigious Henry W. Bloch Human Relations Award at our annual Human Relations Event this fall. Event Chairs include: Harvey Kaplan, Dr. Jeffrey Kramer, Lisa Krigsten, Cathy & Terry Matlack, Stacey Paine, Joe Reardon, and Ursula Terrasi.

A distinguished attorney, mentor, and civic leader, Madeleine exemplifies the values that defined Henry Bloch's life. As the first woman elected Chair of Shook, Hardy & Bacon — one of the nation's premier law firms — she has spent decades strengthening institutions, advancing civic engagement, and investing in the future of our community.

Her leadership spans a remarkable breadth of organizations, united by her commitment to civil rights, pro bono service, professional mentorship, and civic engagement. She serves as Chair of the Truman Library Institute, Past Chair and Executive Committee Member of the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City, and on the boards of the Legal Services Corporation, Lambda Legal, University Health, BioNexus KC, the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, and the Institute for Inclusion in the Legal Profession, among others.

Madeleine has been a steadfast friend and partner to JCRB|AJC, supporting our mission to combat antisemitism, advance democratic values, and strengthen ties across communities.

Event date and location will be shared soon. For questions or sponsorship information, contact Deputy Director, Hillary Thomas, at hillaryt@jewishkc.org or call 913-327-8184.

About the Henry W. Bloch Human Relations Award

With the Henry W. Bloch Human Relations Award, JCRB|AJC is proud to honor the legacy of Henry W. Bloch. In his memory, JCRB|AJC annually awards one person who leads by example, seeks justice, and embodies the Jewish mission of “repairing the world.” By their distinguished leadership and many contributions, each of the past honorees has made our community a better place in which to live.

A humble and soft-spoken man, Henry W. Bloch was devoted to principle, and was a caring visionary of exemplary character and integrity. Henry embodied the very best of the human spirit and JCRB|AJC is proud to have been associated with him for many years. We are honored by his words about our agency, “JCRB|AJC has worked tirelessly to make Kansas City a community that is fair and just to all its citizens... None of us are free if any of us are threatened.”