The Metzler Program for Leadership and Civic Engagement exists to promote and expedite the development of aspiring LGBTQ leaders and professionals in the LGBTQ and greater Kansas City community through one-on-one and group mentoring with local business and community leaders.
The mission of the program is to develop the next generation of LGBTQ leaders by focusing on the areas of Personal Identity & Authenticity, Professional Development, and Community Leadership.
Our goal is to help mentees learn to become stronger leaders in the workplace and in the community by building strong personal and professional networks, thanks in part to the connections available through our highly engaged mentors.
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Applications close Mar 31, 2026
Program Requirements & Expectations
The Metzler Mentor Program is a one-year commitment. Each class includes a number of mentors matched individually with mentees. During the program, mentors and mentees are expected to meet all requirements below, as well as those included in our Code of Conduct and Non-Disclosure Agreement.
- The Program is a one-year commitment.
- In-person meetings are held monthly, on a Saturday morning.
- Cost: $360, which may be paid by the mentee or their company. (NOTE: There is no cost for mentors)
- Mentees must be a current member of the Chamber to apply.
- Mentors and mentees will meet at least one additional time per month to discuss group activities, complete assignments, and develop a stronger personal relationship.
- Occasionally participate in community events or volunteer with local organizations.
- Mentees are expected to take initiative with their mentors when it comes to scheduling meetings, setting agendas and seeking networking opportunities.
- Mentors should actively identify networking or shadowing opportunities such as board meetings, neighborhood meetings, fundraisers, etc for the Mentees to join them.
Program schedule
Sessions are held once a month on Saturday mornings from 9am-12pm
Specific dates TBD
- June 2026
- July 2026
- Aug 2026
- Sept 2026
- Oct 2026
- Nov 2026
- Dec 2026
- Jan 2027
- Feb 2027
- Mar 2027
- Apr 2027
- May 2026
Remembering Steve Metzler
In 2015, the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce and the entire Kansas City community lost an individual who exemplified personal, professional, and community leadership through his family business, an extraordinary record of community service and civic engagement, and most importantly through the many lives and good works he inspired every single day.
The LGBT Chamber will be forever grateful for his service and friendship, and is proud to memorialize the legacy of C. Stephen Metzler through our mentor program. #BeLikeSteve