RESOLUTION NO. 250852
title
Sponsor: Councilmember Nathan Willett
RESOLUTION - Honoring the Surviving Spouse & Family Endowment (SAFE) and recognizing Lexi Johnson for her support of fallen first responders in the Arrowhead Stadium stair climb.
body
WHEREAS, the Surviving Spouse & Family Endowment (SAFE), a nonprofit of the Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission, provides immediate, unconditional financial assistance to families of first responders who lose their lives in the line of duty across the Kansas City metro area; and
WHEREAS, SAFE, under the leadership of Director Jan Zimmerman, has served as a compassionate and stabilizing force for grieving families, especially in the past 18 months, during which five local first responders died in the line of duty; and
WHEREAS, Lexi Johnson, a health expert and trainer inspired by her father and brother, both firefighters, founded the Lexi J Wellness 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb to honor those lost on September 11th and to support SAFE; and
WHEREAS, the 2025 event, held at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, brought over 700 participants and raised more than $50,000.00 for SAFE, building on the success of the inaugural event which raised $22,000.00 with over 500 participants; and
WHEREAS, Johnson stated, “The Kansas City community is so special - we’re really excited to give back and honor those that put their life on the line every day;” and
WHEREAS, Director Zimmerman shared, “It is awe inspiring that so many would come out to support our local first responders - events like this are humbling and vital;” NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and Council hereby commend SAFE for its service to the families of fallen first responders, recognize Jan Zimmerman for her leadership, and honor Lexi Johnson for her dedication and success in organizing the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in support of SAFE.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that copies hereof presented to Jan Zimmerman and Lexi Johnson as expressions of the Mayor and Council’s appreciation for their dedication and hard work.
end
______________________________________________________