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Kansas City Philanthropist's Money Was The Foundation Of U.S. Conservative Ideology

By Steve Kraske,

Published April 19, 2021 at 5:26 PM CDT

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William Volker made a fortune in the home furnishings business and gave generously, and anonymously, to Kansas Citians in need.

Started in 1932 the William Volker Charities Fund focused on progressive social programs for the less fortunate in Kansas City but after his death was used to aggressively support a "procapitalist, pro-Christian, and anticommunist agenda."

The name Volker will soon be replaced by Dr. Martin Luther King on street signs in Kansas City. But few know the story of the man whose name adorned the boulevard for decades. William Volker’s life was more than an immigrant success story. Known for his charitable works, Volker’s money would go on after his death to fuel libertarian and conservative ideology well into the 1960s.

Michael J. McVicar, associate professor, Department of Religion, Florida State University

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Steve Kraske

When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.

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Danie Alexander

As senior producer of Up To Date, I want our listeners to hear familiar and new voices that shine light on the issues and challenges facing the myriad communities KCUR serves, and to expose our audiences to the wonderful and the creative in the Kansas City area. Just as important to me is an obligation to mentor the next generation of producers to ensure that the important conversations continue. Reach me at alexanderdk@kcur.org.

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Mackenzie Martin

Mackenzie Martin is a senior podcast producer at KCUR Studios and host of the podcast, A People's History of Kansas City. Contact her at mackenzie@kcur.org.

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