Laura Crossley, Founder of Takes Heart and Wendy Doyle, President and CEO of United WE
Takes Heart was an endeavor that blended my roles as a creative, entrepreneur, mother, and community advocate. My professional path spans over two decades, weaving through strategy, creative direction, marketing, and technical innovation for global brands. And at home, I find immense joy with my husband Aaron and our two children, Isai and Elin, who fill our lives with boundless energy and chaos.
The genesis of Takes Heart stemmed from a personal challenge: balancing the demands of motherhood and career aspirations while nurturing a deep-seated desire to contribute meaningfully to my community.
Since its inception in 2022, I've dreamt of creating a heart for Kansas City's Parade of Hearts. The initiative beautifies our city and raises crucial funds for local nonprofits. I hesitated to submit an idea in 2023 because I worried I wouldn’t have the time to complete the project while juggling full-time work and care for our young kids. But, a year later, driven by a desire to uplift women entrepreneurs facing economic challenges, I seized the opportunity. I finally finished my design and submission at 2 a.m. the day of the deadline.
Those worlds collided for me: the artwork I wanted to create and the women I wanted to help. “What if we could represent every single women-owned business in some way?” This question fueled my creative process.
Crafting Takes Heart was a labor of love that unfolded over many months of dedication. With 430 handmade tiles and 30 tech-enabled elements, each meticulously crafted, the heart embodies the resilience and diversity of our community’s women entrepreneurs. Each one was created individually, pressed with a pattern and then hand-painted. These tiles, like the businesses they represent, are imperfect yet purposeful—each telling a story of determination and creativity. When you step back, the end result is beautiful.
Drawing from my background in web design, I envisioned a heart that not only captivated visually but also engaged interactively. Hidden chips within tiles connect visitors to profiles of local women-owned businesses, fostering connection and awareness in our community.
Takes Heart: A Celebration of Women Entrepreneurs Event
Photo by Matt Long; Copyright: Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation selecting the heart as its home is serendipitous. Positioned at the heart of philanthropy dedicated to fueling entrepreneurship and economic growth, the artwork became a focal point where people gather to celebrate and support women-owned ventures. Collaborations with United WE and the Kauffman Foundation further amplify this mission, providing resources and advocacy crucial for sustained impact.
In less than a year, Takes Heart has resonated deeply within the community, sparking conversations and generating significant economic impact for women-owned businesses and nonprofits alike. It’s more than an art installation; it’s a catalyst for change and economic progress, fostering a sense of belonging among women entrepreneurs.
Supported by my loving family and dedicated collaborators, I am humbled by the opportunity to create something that not only beautifies but also uplifts and empowers. Takes Heart embodies the resilience of women entrepreneurs and the vibrant spirit of our community. By shining a spotlight on their achievements, we inspire others to support and uplift women in business in Kansas City and beyond. Women can add their businesses to the heart and movement at takesheart.org.
Looking forward, my vision for Takes Heart extends beyond its physical presence. I see it as a symbol of hope and inspiration, continuing to foster connections, empower women, and drive meaningful change for years to come.