Community Values
Interested creating life-changing opportunities for local kids?
Every ticket, experience, volunteer, and donation helps ensure more young people have access to moments that inspire confidence, build connections, and create lasting memories.
Learn more about MVK’s mission, become a supporter, or find ways to get involved by visiting Most Valuable Kids of Greater Cincinnati.
For 20 years, Most Valuable Kids (MVK) has helped remove financial barriers so children from underserved communities can experience the inspiration, excitement, and life lessons that come from live sports, entertainment, and cultural events. Since launching in 2005 with just five partner agencies and 6,100 distributed tickets, MVK has grown into a network of more than 80 nonprofit partners, providing over 10,000 tickets and unique experiences each year to children throughout Greater Cincinnati.
On June 10, supporters, volunteers, board members, agency partners, and alumni gathered at the Fifth Third Bank Theater in the Aronoff Center before “Disney’s The Lion King” to celebrate MVK's 20th Anniversary. The evening reflected on two decades of impact, honoring the dedicated individuals whose passion and commitment have helped create countless memories and opportunities for local youth.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of MVK's Student Impact Awards. Nominated by their mentors for the impact they have made in their communities and continued pursuit of their goals, this year's top honorees were:
Enyjah Winston, a pre-med psychology major at the University of Cincinnati
Gyp Banks, a psychology major at the University of Cincinnati
Enyjah and Gyp were awarded a transformative support package valued at $10,000. The award includes one year of on-campus housing, personalized mentorship, assistance with financial planning and savings, and career guidance designed to help them thrive during their college journey.
Several additional alumni were also recognized with support tailored to their individual needs. The honorees, Tateyana Cure, Ka’Liyah Phelps, and Brandon Cupp received mentorship and assistance in securing housing, along with resources to support their educational and personal goals, including computers, furnishings, and other essential items.
As MVK looks toward its next chapter, the organization remains committed to creating opportunities that inspire, empower, and uplift young people. The anniversary celebration served as both a reflection on two decades of impact and a reminder that the best is yet to come.
– Courtney Tomasetti