Queen Bees Celebrate 10 Years of Supporting Families in Need

For 10 years, the Queen Bee campaign has brought together women from across the Wichita community with one shared purpose: helping families find safety, stability and hope.

Catholic Charities recently announced its 2026 Queen Bee Court, a group of nine women who will spend the coming weeks raising awareness and funds for Harbor House Domestic Violence Shelter and St. Anthony Family Shelter.

Since the campaign began in 2017, more than 50 Queen Bees have helped raise over $776,000 to support shelter operations. Those funds provide meals, clothing, linens, hygiene items and the day-to-day support that helps women, children and families begin again.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Queen Bee campaign. What started as a simple idea has become an incredible community effort. The Queen Bees use their voices, relationships and networks to help make sure families have access to safety, support and a path forward.”

Chris Flippo, director of development at Catholic Charities

The 2026 Queen Bee Court includes Cathy Guyer, Deb Stockman, Dr. Devin Vrana, Georgia Drewes, Melissa White, Sara Linnebur, Taylor Rains, Vanessa McKinney and Whitney Cornejo.

Named in honor of the humble bumblebee, the campaign reflects how quiet acts of service can create lasting change. Though small in size, bees play an essential role in sustaining life. In much the same way, Harbor House and St. Anthony Family Shelter provide the steady support families need during difficult seasons.

The Queen Bees make our services possible. Their support helps us welcome families with care and dignity and provide the resources they need to move forward.”

Ann Nash, director of St. Anthony Family Shelter

The Queen Bee campaign runs through Nov. 10, and the top fundraiser will be named the 2026 Queen Bee Woman of the Year.