Topeka's Doorstep Celebrates 60 Years of Community Service

Nonprofit marks milestone with fundraisers, events, and plans to expand support for local residents

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:19pm

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A vibrant, abstract silkscreen print featuring a repeating pattern of donated clothing and canned goods, conceptually representing Doorstep's charitable work in the Topeka community.Doorstep's 60th anniversary celebration highlights the nonprofit's enduring mission of providing essential aid and support to the Topeka community.Topeka Today

Doorstep, Inc., a Topeka-based nonprofit organization that provides food, clothing, housing, and other essential support to community members in need, is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. The organization was formed in 1966 following a devastating tornado, and its mission to assist local residents remains strong today as it sees increased demand for its services. Doorstep is hosting various fundraisers and events, including a quilt raffle, a 5K run, and a community festival called NeighborFest, to support its work for the next generation.

Why it matters

Doorstep's 60-year history demonstrates the enduring importance of community-based organizations that step up to provide critical resources and aid to those facing hardship. As Topeka continues to evolve, Doorstep's ability to adapt and expand its services has allowed it to remain a vital lifeline for vulnerable residents, making it an integral part of the local social safety net.

The details

Doorstep was formed in 1966 by a coalition of Topeka churches in the aftermath of a devastating tornado that struck the city. The organization's initial mission was to provide food, clothing, housing, and other essential support to those in need, and that core purpose remains today as Doorstep sees increased demand for its services. To celebrate its 60th anniversary, Doorstep is hosting a variety of fundraisers and community events, including a quilt raffle, the annual Neighbor Helping Neighbor 5K run, and a larger festival called NeighborFest that will feature a car show, kids' activities, and more. The organization is also partnering with local businesses like Re-Imagined Jewelry, which is selling earring designs at a Topeka cafe and donating 95% of the proceeds to Doorstep.

  • Doorstep was formed in 1966 following a devastating tornado in Topeka.
  • Doorstep is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026.
  • The Neighbor Helping Neighbor 5K run will take place on June 6, 2026.
  • Doorstep's volunteer appreciation event, where quilt raffle winners will be chosen, is scheduled for April 21, 2026.
  • Re-Imagined Jewelry is selling earring designs at Cafe Quetzal in Topeka through April 2026.

The players

Doorstep, Inc.

A Topeka-based nonprofit organization that provides food, clothing, housing, and other essential support to community members in need. Doorstep was formed in 1966 following a devastating tornado and has been serving the Topeka community for 60 years.

Lisa Cain

The executive director of Doorstep, Inc.

Jason Parker

The associate director of Doorstep, Inc.

Re-Imagined Jewelry

A local business that is selling earring designs at Cafe Quetzal in Topeka and donating 95% of the proceeds to Doorstep.

Christ the King Catholic Church

The location where Doorstep's NeighborFest community event will be held on June 6, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Doorstep formed in 1966, following the devastating June 8 tornado. A coalition of churches came together to meet people's needs, from food and clothing, to housing and other support. The mission remains much the same today.”

— Lisa Cain, Executive Director, Doorstep, Inc.

“Community members and groups are offering support as Doorstep sees increased demand for its services.”

— Jason Parker, Associate Director, Doorstep, Inc.

What’s next

Doorstep invites the community to save the date for NeighborFest on June 6, 2026, which will feature the annual Neighbor Helping Neighbor 5K run, a car show, kids' activities, raffles, and more. The organization is also holding a quilt raffle, with winners to be announced at its volunteer appreciation event on April 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Doorstep's 60-year history of serving the Topeka community demonstrates the vital role that local nonprofits can play in providing essential resources and support to those in need, especially during times of crisis and hardship. As the organization continues to adapt and expand its services, it remains a crucial part of the social safety net for vulnerable residents in the Topeka area.