Capper’s Ambassador to the World Cup – Jarred Vega
When the opportunity to be part of the FIFA World Cup experience came along, Jarred didn’t hesitate.
Jarred, 36, is an active participant at Capper Foundation’s Topeka Adult Day Services program five days a week. He loves staying busy and enjoys volunteering whenever he can. As a lifelong soccer fan, the opportunity to serve as a Host City Ambassador at the FIFA Fan Festival in Kansas City was one he couldn’t pass up.
It wasn’t always glamorous, working outdoors through hot days and shifts that stretched close to midnight, but Jarred loved every minute of it.
“Getting to meet people from all over the world and learn about different cultures and traditions,” Jarred said. “I like interacting with people. Even if they’re having a bad day, maybe make them smile. Or if they had a good time, that’s great—tell them to come back.”
With the World Cup bringing visitors from the Netherlands, Ghana, Argentina, Algeria, and many other countries to Kansas City, Jarred was there to welcome them—providing directions, recommendations, and helpful information throughout the Fan Festival.
Jarred’s mom joined him as a volunteer and watched her son spring into action. With an encyclopedic knowledge of Kansas City, Jarred answered questions about hotels, streetcars, museums, restaurants, and more.
“Helper is a good word for him. He has a good heart and has always been very good-natured,” said his mother, Mimi Leonard. “He loves being out in the community and making new friends.”
For Jarred, volunteering is more than a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, he volunteers at the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center in Topeka, where he greets visitors, interacts with children, and helps tidy up after play.
Capper Foundation’s Day Services program encourages community involvement, helping individuals build confidence, develop relationships, and discover meaningful opportunities to contribute. Staff members knew this role was a perfect fit for Jarred.
“He’s very good with people, especially kids. Very friendly, always willing to help, lend a hand,” said Tiffany Marvin, Direct Support Professional at Capper Foundation. “He’s always there for you whenever you need him.”
In addition to volunteering, Jarred works as a food service employee at the Topeka VA, where he helps prepare meals, cleans, and washes dishes.
Sometimes, Jarred says, he gets tired, but that hasn’t stopped him from looking for his next adventure. Now that the World Cup is over, he already has his sights set on the 2028 Olympics, with satellite locations in Oklahoma City and St. Louis.
Ask Jarred why he volunteers, and his answer is a simple one.
“Volunteering is not about the money, it’s about the experience.”
Every opportunity begins with preparation. Through the support of donors, Capper Foundation helps individuals of all abilities gain the confidence, experience, and skills that open doors to moments like Jarred’s.
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