Get Involved

We offer a wide variety of free nature-based programming suitable for all to enjoy regardless of experience level. Explore the below opportunities and register for those that interest you. Some opportunities may have limited availability. We look forward to stewarding these experiences with nature within the Blue River watershed. Hope to see you there!

2025 Events & Programs

 

Saturday, October 18th: 2025 Garmin Kansas City Marathon. HCA is a charitable partner this year. Donate to HCA when registering for the race, volunteer with our Green Team near the finish line on race day, and join our mailing list to stay up-to-date!

 

Oct 16 from 2-7pm & Oct 17 from 11am-7pm: KC Marathon Fitness Expo – Come visit the HCA table for some The Heart of KC Runs Blue merch to wear on race day. We’ll also have our Human Need Nature water bottles available for donation. Event is free and open to the public!

 

Saturday, October 11th: Blue River Discovery Days Festival

Volunteer Workdays

Woodland Restoration – Heartland Overlook Preserve

Our restoration season has come to a close, thank you to everyone who joined us! We’ll resume events in March of 2026, and we can’t wait to see you then.

See Renewing the Blue section below for additional volunteer workday opportunities.

Guided Nature Tours

Run the Blue (6:30pm-8pm): Every other Tuesday at Minor Park along the Blue River Parkway.

    • September 2nd
    • September 16th
    • October 14th

Renewing the Blue

Together, we can Renew the Blue—the metro’s largest watershed—to advance a healthier, more climate-resilient future for the entire Kansas City region.

Be part of the effort—connect with neighbors and project partners at Renewing the Blue events held along the Blue River. Check out our project calendar for details.

Saturday, October 4th (9am-12pm): Blue Valley Park Food Tree Planting at Blue Valley Park.

All participants and volunteers — or their legal guardians, if under 18 — are required to accept HCA’s Liability Waiver and Photo Release (click to review and/or print) as part of the online event registration process. Alternatively, a paper copy can be signed upon arrival or emailed ahead of time to the designated event staff contact (preferred) or info@heartlandconservationalliance.org.