Our story is an unbelievable tale of growth over the past 25 years. But to tell it, we needed YOU — longtime Kids Unlimited participants, volunteers, staff and donors.

More than 40 people, representing diverse aspects of our organization, shared their experiences from 1998 to the present day for a special project commemorating KU’s quarter century of youth development. Released at our 25th anniversary fundraising gala, “The Kids Unlimited 25th Anniversary Story” is available on our website for download, so everyone can celebrate with us.

This 72-page keepsake book contains iconic images of the musical artists, politicians, activists, athletes and others who have supported KU. Revisit performances by Bo Diddley, Ziggy Marley, The Temptations, Korn, Sir Mix-a-Lot and other transformative artists in music history.

The Temptations visit Kids Unlimited for a benefit concert.

We dug deep into our photo archives for mementos of KU’s visits with Latina civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, professional athletes Kyle Singler and Odell Beckham Jr. and U.S. President Barack Obama. Our clipping files also chronicle KU’s massive building campaigns and campus expansions over the past two decades.

U.S. President Barack Obama (back row) visits Kids Unlimited.

But ultimately, the faces that defined our mission and journey for the past quarter-century are yours: the people who worked tirelessly — giving their time, energy and resources — to serve those who have come of age in our programs to become leaders in our community.

Kids Unlimited players celebrate their Rotary basketball season.

“Watching our kids work hard and effect change inspired the belief that anything was possible, and today those efforts have become institutions,” said KU founder and CEO Tom Cole.

“Today, it’s incredible to see the generational impact our work has made on transforming our kids, their families and our entire community … We will continue to listen, learn and evolve to build on our accomplishments, taking the Unlimited to even greater heights”

Thank you for helping all of us here at KU to soar toward our next 25 years.