By Kellie Houx<n>KHoux@cherryroad.com

GLADSTONE — Vinnie Vaccaro is the epitome of perseverance through trials. He has dealt with personal loss and continues to deal with cancer, but Vaccaro still makes sure to be present and give what he can. That generosity and leadership earned him the honor to be named the 2024 Gladfest Grand Marshal.

Vaccaro served on the original board of directors of the Kansas City Dream Factory, which started in 1985, for 14 years, leading the organization as president for nine. During his tenure with the Kansas City Dream Factory, wishes were granted for over 1,500 seriously ill children. He also served as a board member for the Shadow Buddies Foundation, as well as the Deron Cherry Foundation, supporting Camp Quality and children facing cancer diagnosis. He is currently an active member of UNICO, the largest Italian American service organization in the United States, where he aids in raising $40,000 annually in scholarships for area graduates.

Vaccaro grew up in Hamilton Heights neighborhood of Gladstone. He graduated from North Kansas City High School and then attended Northwest Missouri State, where he still attends games and volunteers regularly.

Vaccaro began as an English and speech teacher in St. Joseph. He then moved back to his alma mater, serving as the alumni relations director at Northwest Missouri State University. He worked as executive director at the North Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and later as the founding director of the Northland Regional Chamber. Following his time in the chamber business, Vaccaro worked as a casino host for Harrah’s, a branch manager at Commerce Bank and finally as a real estate agent.

For Gladstone, he has served on the Bluesfest, Gladfest and golf tournament planning committees, co-chairing the golf tournament for many years. He has co-chaired the Bluesfest VIP area and as the greeter for Gladfest vendors at check-in. He also served on the chamber board of directors, leading the organization as chairman for two years in 2012 and 2013.

Vaccaro’s awards are numerous as well: Columbian of the Year Award, presented by the KC Chapter of the Son’s of Columbus Organization; St. Theresa’s Academy Youth Humanitarian Award; Service To Mankind Award presented by the Liberty Sertoma; the Northwest Missouri State University Turret Service Award; Joe Wally Spirit Award winner; and recently was nominated by UNICO, earning the privilege of sitting in the Buck O’Neil Legacy Seat at a Kansas City Royals game.

“I am blown away to be given this honor,” said Vaccaro, after the grand marshal announcement Sept. 26. “I learned to get involved thanks to my grandmother who brought home a couple orphans one Christmas. She taught me that if you have half a loaf of bread, you cut it in half and share it.”

The Dream Factory holds a special place in his heart, he said.

“The friendships have gotten me through my own cancer experience. It makes the work with the Dream Factory realize that people need help,” he said.

Vaccaro said the honor to be named grand marshal goes to many people who support him.

“There are hundreds of people behind the award,” he explained. “You don’t do these things alone. You can’t get them done alone. It’s an honor. This town has been good to me.”