Stephen Metzler, area executive vice president at Gallagher Metzler Insurance, has been part of the Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey ever since the group started in 1984. He was a founding board member for the nonprofit, which helps support the late Ailey’s legendary New York-based dance company.

“They’re one of the world’s greatest modern dance companies,” said Metzler, a 25 Under 25® alumnus for Metzler Bros. Insurance. He and partner Brian Williams were among the sponsors of the Kansas City Friends’ recent 30th anniversary gala.

The Kansas City Friends formed after Ailey brought his company to Kansas City for a performance and fell in love with the community and its jazz scene. The Kansas City Friends are the only official “second home” for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

The Kansas City Friends launched a summer dance program, AileyCamp, which has grown from Kansas City to a total of nine cities, and a yearround studio program. Through their educational services, the Friends reach about 30,000 young people annually.

“It’s been a passion of mine for 30 years, and will continue to be,” said Metzler. “It’s a great organization, and it’s done great things for this city.”