October 21, 2015, Kansas City –Almost 100 prominent business and philanthropy leaders and local elite from the Kansas City metropolitan area joined FINCA International, a global microfinance organization, for an evening to raise funds to empower hard-working women in the developing world. The fundraiser, held on Thursday, October 15, 2015 at The Carriage Club, raised funds to support low-income women entrepreneurs with access to financial services and opportunities to improve their lives.

According to the World Bank, approximately 2 billion people don’t use formal financial services. Without access to credit, savings accounts and insurance, people don’t have a secure place to save money, can’t cushion themselves against external shocks and are less likely to have control over their livelihoods. Women, in particular, are less likely to have access to credit.

For 30 years, FINCA donors in Kansas City have advanced the power of hardworking men and women who use FINCA’s financial services. With over $2 million in support from Kansas City natives since FINCA’s founding, the organization has empowered entrepreneurs to build their businesses, create jobs and improve their lives and the lives of their families by accessing loans, savings accounts, and other essential financial tools.

FINCA now reaches nearly 2 million people and is poised to help many more with responsible mobile banking and other new technologies. The organization is also working to increase access to critical non-financial products such as inexpensive solar systems for people living off the grid, and improved basic sanitation solutions.

Highlights of the event included remarks by Robert Hatch (CEO of Kansas City based Cereal Ingredients Inc.), FINCA co-founder John Hatch and Rupert Scofield, FINCA President and CEO. Kansas City Star columnist Mary Sanchez served as the night’s emcee.

“The people of Kansas City know that hard work fuels growth. This is the heart of FINCA’s mission and a deeply held value right here. FINCA’s clients don’t want a hand out. They just want a chance,” said Robert Hatch.

“The goodwill and generosity of the people of Kansas City have proven to be a tremendous force for good—well beyond Missouri and Kansas’ borders,” said Rupert Scofield. “This support is allowing FINCA to reach more people, foster more innovation and help create meaningful and lasting change.”

The fundraiser was hosted by Robert Hatch and JoAnne Field, who also serve on the FINCA board of directors. The evening included a cocktail reception, dinner and a silent auction of photographs.