TOPEKA, Kan. — The annual Celebrity Waiter Soirée returned to the Townsite Ballroom this weekend, bringing together local leaders, media personalities, and community champions for one unforgettable night — and one very good cause.
The event, benefiting Child Care Aware® of Eastern Kansas, blended philanthropy, entertainment, and a few unexpected moments that left Topeka talking long after the plates were cleared.
Guests enjoyed dinner, drinks, and live entertainment as Topeka’s most recognizable faces swapped suits for aprons — waiting tables, collecting tips, and auctioning off everything from gift baskets to personal items, all to raise money for local childcare programs.
This year’s proceeds will help Child Care Aware continue its mission of supporting high-quality, accessible childcare for Kansas families. The organization connects parents with licensed providers, trains educators, and advocates for early childhood development across the region.
Executive Director Sarah Elsen noted that the event comes at a critical time:
“COVID really put a spotlight on how essential childcare is to our economy and our families. Events like this keep that work going — supporting parents, teachers, and kids.”
While Katie Beach, Community Relationship Manager at Azura Credit Union, topped the online leaderboard with $1263, the surprise star of the night was John “The Iron Man” Cantrell, Kansas and Missouri’s undefeated heavyweight boxing champion.
In true showman fashion, Cantrell raised $700 from the auction of his clothes off his back and another $2,155 for Child Care Aware, bringing his total to $2,855 — the most of any celebrity waiter of the evening.
And the crowd’s reaction? Somewhere between awe and laughter.
The Iron Man stripping for charity — absolutely priceless.
- Katie Beach
Azura Credit Union - Natasha Gunn
Security Benefit - Marlou Wegener
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas - Michelle Stubblefield
Greater Topeka Partnership - David Oliver
WIBW-TV - Emersen Freeman
Stormont Vail Health - Robert Perez
City of Topeka - John Wilson
Kansas Action for Children - Jared Broyles
WIBW-TV - John “The Iron Man” Cantrell
Heavyweight Boxing Champion - Roger Ortega
Recording Artist & Producer - Dane Kroll
KSNT-TV & Author
Between the laughter, the competition, and the generosity, Celebrity Waiters 2025 reminded Topekans what community really looks like — people showing up, giving back, and having a great time doing it.
For more on Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas and how to support their mission, visit east.ks.childcareaware.org.