Today we’d like to introduce you to LaRonda LaNear.
Hi LaRonda, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started We Got It Covered out of a genuine love for food and community. What began as a small passion for cooking and hosting quickly grew into a full-service catering company built on quality, creativity, and care. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to serve countless events — from intimate gatherings to large celebrations — all while building lasting relationships with clients who trust us to deliver exceptional experiences.
In addition to catering, I founded Warm Up KC in 2017, a nonprofit focused on providing winter essentials to families in need across Kansas City. What started as a small neighborhood effort has grown into an annual community event that brings people together through giving.
Today, both ventures continue to thrive because of the same driving force that started it all — a passion for serving others and making a difference, one meal and one family at a time.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. There have been plenty of ups and downs along the way. When I first started We Got It Covered, I didn’t have much — no big kitchen, no fancy setup, just a dream and a lot of determination. There were nights I barely slept, trying to make sure every order was perfect. I made mistakes, learned as I went, and there were moments when I honestly questioned if I could keep going.
With Warm Up KC, the challenges hit even deeper. Seeing the real needs in the community — families without coats, kids without basic essentials — it broke my heart. There were years I wasn’t sure we’d have enough donations to help everyone who came. But somehow, every single time, the community showed up. People gave, volunteered, and poured out love in ways that reminded me why I started.
The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been meaningful. Every setback, every late night, every doubt has shaped me into who I am today. And seeing the impact — a warm meal, a family with coats, a smile on someone’s face — makes it all worth it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We Got It Covered is more than just a catering company — it’s an experience built on love, flavor, and connection. We specialize in creating memorable meals for all kinds of events, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. Our goal has always been to take the stress off your plate (literally!) so you can relax and enjoy your moment while we handle every detail.
What sets us apart is the personal touch. Every menu is made with care, seasoned with soul, and customized to fit each client’s vision. We’re known for comfort food with a twist — dishes that feel familiar but are elevated with creativity and flavor. I want every bite to remind people of home, happiness, and good company.
On the nonprofit side, Warm Up KC holds a special place in my heart. It’s a community-driven effort that provides winter essentials — coats, hats, gloves, hygiene products, and more — to families in need across Kansas City. We’ve been doing this since 2017, and each year the love and support from the community continues to grow.
What I’m most proud of, brand-wise, is that both We Got It Covered and Warm Up KC are built on the same foundation — service, compassion, and community. Whether it’s through food or giving, my mission is the same: to bring people together and make a difference.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was always that kid who wanted to take care of everybody. I loved bringing people together — whether it was helping in the kitchen, organizing something fun, or just making sure everyone felt included. I was curious, creative, and a little stubborn in the best way — once I set my mind on something, I found a way to make it happen.
Food and community have always been a part of who I am. I used to watch my family cook and loved how meals could bring everyone to the table, no matter what was going on. That feeling stuck with me — that food isn’t just about eating, it’s about love, comfort, and connection.
I’ve always had a giving heart, too. Even as a kid, if someone needed help, I wanted to do something about it. Looking back now, it makes perfect sense how We Got It Covered and Warm Up KC came to be — they’re really just extensions of what’s always been in me: caring for people, creating joy, and showing love through service.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wgicfood.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPeMkWQka0k/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WGICLLC/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larondalanear/
