When Amy Lee Sewell was named a recipient of Lockton’s Community Impact Award, she was overwhelmed with emotion. “I was so shocked—I had no idea,” she recalls. “They asked me to be a greeter at State of the Company, and when we walked into the auditorium, there was a reserved seat up front. When they announced my name, I started crying. It was such a big honor.”

The Lockton Cares Community Impact Awards celebrate Lockton Associates across the globe who go above and beyond to improve their communities through volunteering and philanthropy. Each recipient can direct a $25,000 donation to a charity of their choice, funded directly by the Lockton family.

For Amy Lee, the recognition sparked a heartfelt decision. “There are so many organizations close to my heart,” she says. “I volunteer with several, and I wanted the donation to truly make a difference.”

After careful consideration, she chose ShelterKC, a Kansas City nonprofit she had long admired and supported. “They were in the middle of a capital campaign to expand their services—adding beds, mental health and addiction recovery resources. Then they mentioned needing a new walk-in freezer, and the bid came in at exactly $25,000. It felt like fate.”

ShelterKC, formerly Kansas City Rescue Mission, has been transforming lives in the heart of the city for 75 years. Amy Lee was drawn to their mission of sustainable change. “They don’t receive federal funding and rely entirely on private donations. They’re tackling the root causes of homelessness—mental health, addiction—and offering year-long programs that provide accountability, support, and job training.”

In fact, one-third of ShelterKC’s staff are formerly homeless, a powerful testament to the organization’s impact. Amy Lee has witnessed that transformation firsthand. “I know several men who’ve gone through the program. One of them told me, ‘They saved my life.’ That’s powerful.”

Helping others discover purpose and meaningful work isn’t just a passion for Amy Lee—it’s her calling. Whether mentoring young Associates, volunteering in the community, or championing causes she believes in, she’s driven by a desire to help people uncover what lights them up. “There’s something incredibly fulfilling about watching someone connect with their purpose,” she says.

“Over the past 18 years, Lockton has helped me discover my purpose. It’s become part of who I am. I get to do what I love every day: help others find their passion and purpose here.”

She credits Lockton’s caring culture for nurturing that journey. “We’re encouraged to use our time and talents to serve others. Lockton pays us and empowers us to do it. No matter where your passions lie, you can find a way to make an impact.”

Delivering the award check to ShelterKC was a defining moment in her life and career. Surrounded by her husband, friends, and coworkers—many of whom were learning about the organization for the first time—Amy Lee saw the ripple effect of her choice. “The executive director gave us a tour, shared the mission, and introduced us to some of the residents. It was incredibly moving.”

Looking ahead, Amy Lee is committed to deepening her involvement. “I want to continue supporting ShelterKC and help others discover the joy of giving back. It’s not just about meals or donations. It’s about transforming lives.”