Philanthropy Today: Recent Episodes
Dave Lewis
We talk with Lori Getch about Fairy Godmothers and how local giving meets urgent needs for women in Manhattan, Kansas. We break down the grants, the screening process, and the events that keep the mission growing.
• the origin story at the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and the core mission of women helping women
• the HUG Hand Up Grant that helps women return to school, earn certificates, and finish degrees
• mentoring that keeps grantees encouraged through graduation
• emergency grants for car repairs, safe housing essentials, and dental work
• applications routed through Shepherd’s Crossing with eligibility screening and quick turnaround
• how local nonprofits coordinate so fewer neighbors fall through the cracks
• upcoming fundraisers including the October 12 golf tournament and Wonderful Wednesday celebrating a $1M endowment
We invite you to Wonderful Wednesday, come and join us.
GMCF
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We talk with Beach Museum of Art curator Eileen Wong about building exhibitions that welcome everyone, from clear label writing to creating a space where curiosity is the point. We preview Homeslash Land Wazhazhe Artists Speak, a bilingual English and Wazhazhe exhibition featuring three Osage Nation artists, plus ways to celebrate and show up for the museum this season.
• Eileen Wong’s path from New York to Kansas and 11 years at the Beach Museum of Art
• What a curator does day to day, from research to gallery layout to writing wall labels
• Writing about art without “shop talk” so first-time visitors feel included
• Homeslash Land Wazhazhe Artists Speak opening August 18 and why “Wazhazhe” matters
• Making the exhibition bilingual with a Wazhazhe language translator
• Spotlight on Norman Akers, Anita Fields, and Ryan Redcorn plus new installations
• Upcoming events including the August 20 celebration and the October 9 Beach Ball
• The Beach Museum mission after 30 years and why we say art is for everyone
So please come, everyone, come to check out what’s going on at the beach.
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We catch up with Josh Brewer from Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Flint Hills on active builds, a major Manhattan rehab, and what it takes to keep job sites safe when the heat spikes. We also break down the repair program, the Builders Club, Hope Restored ReStore gift cards, and a fall fundraiser that brings the community together.
• four active construction sites including a large rehab near Seaco Park
• plans to split a large lot and add a prefabricated home
• heat as a real job site safety risk and how crews adapt
• ladders as the most dangerous tool and why attention matters
• bigger households and multi-generational living shaping housing needs
• Manhattan critical home repair program basics and timeline
• income eligibility up to 134% for the city partnership repair program
• Builders Club recurring giving and non-construction volunteer roles
• Hope Restored $100 ReStore gift cards through partner agencies
• Habitat Hoedown details at Lazy T Ranch and why dancing works
If you're thinking about doing this in this calendar year, now's the time to really get that application in.
If $5 a month is a meaningful amount, make that contribution.
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We talk with Kansas Green Schools Director Rachel Wahle about why getting kids outdoors is one of the fastest ways to counterbalance rising screen time and student anxiety. We share how KACEE supports teachers across Kansas with practical training, standards-aligned curriculum, and student projects that create real change at school.
• what KACEE is and how we train the trainers in environmental education across Kansas
• why outdoor learning fits what teachers already teach rather than adding extra work
• how phones, attention, and youth mental health connect to the “anxious generation” conversation
• the scale of the Kansas Green Schools Network and what partnerships look like in districts
• how Kansas teachers co-develop curriculum by grade band to match standards
• the screen time and outdoor time gap and why it matters for learning and well-being
• free professional development and curriculum guides teachers can use right away
• Green School Investigations on energy, waste and recycling, water, and air quality
• why the message stays simple through strong partnerships and an “arsenal” of resources
Visit k-a-c-e-e.org to sign up for free, find professional development, and use the donation link for one-time or recurring support
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We sit down with Tyler Dupey, the new Executive Director of Kanza United Way, to hear how he plans to lead with strategy, strong volunteers, and smarter use of data. We also dig into how local giving becomes local grants, plus the volunteer tools and literacy programs that help families across Manhattan and Riley County.
• Tyler’s path from western Kansas to Manhattan and into nonprofit leadership
• Board governance, strategy, and stretching limited nonprofit resources
• How workplace campaigns, payroll deduction, and employer matching build impact
• Annual campaign timeline and the September 15 kickoff at the Shamrock Zone at Bramlage
• How partner agency grants are reviewed and selected by volunteers
• Volunteer hub basics, tracking hours, and what Stuff the Bus accomplishes for USD 383
• Dolly Parton Imagination Library details, including 140,000 books delivered and eligibility for ages 0 to 5
They can go on our website, conziunitedway.org
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We talk with Rachel Fontenau from Sunflower Children’s Collective about how their Child Advocacy Center and CASA program support kids and caregivers through investigations, court, and recovery. We also share how the community can fund free services through Champions for Hope and how volunteers can train to become a CASA.
• serving about 315 children across programs each fiscal year and seeing steady growth over time
• why Child Advocacy Center referrals increase as MDT partnerships expand across counties
• what a forensic interview is, who is in the room, how it is recorded, and what happens after
• how wraparound advocacy supports caregivers with resources, referrals, and next steps
• Champions for Hope fundraising, including event ideas, dates, and promotional support
• training paths to become a CASA, including National CASA guided learning model
• what we look for in CASA volunteers, including time, heart, and willingness to speak up for a child
Sunflower Children’s Collective.com
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We talk with Dane Malone about how Switch Wicked Studios grows from a screen printing shop into a nonprofit community art space in downtown Manhattan. We dig into the events, the low-friction ways artists can participate, and the big goal of making creativity feel accessible for all ages.
• expanding from design and screen printing into a retail space plus community studios
• running weekly meetups like Independent Craft Night and Film Club
• hosting a First Saturday Art Market that helps local artists start selling
• treating the studio as a creative idea incubator for workshops and new events
• building all-ages music through the Frog Wizard concert series
• partnering locally and creating a welcoming landing spot for people new to town
switchwicked.com
Following us on social media is a great way to keep up on all of our events as well
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We talk with Carla Johnson from Disabled American Veterans about how trained service officers help veterans and families access VA benefits, file claims, and avoid getting lost in paperwork. We also dig into a Kansas policy win and the everyday ways a local DAV chapter steps in when someone needs help fast.
• the DAV mission and who it serves, including spouses and dependents
• how chapter and national service officers support VA disability claims
• annual recertification and what it takes to stay trained
• what “power of attorney” means for filing and managing claims
• what happens at a DAV state convention and why elections matter
• the new Kansas sales tax exemption for certain 100% disabled veterans
• emergency help a chapter can provide, from bus tickets to rent support
• the Elizabeth Dole Act and a way some Vietnam era vets can check for free dental
• monthly meetings, community events, and how new members can join
They just go on the website and do that. Yes, d'a v dot org.
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We talk with Daphne McNally from Adabus about how local public transportation connects people across Manhattan and the surrounding counties with fixed routes, curb-to-curb rides, and regional service. We also share practical tips for first-time riders plus what’s changing next, from better stops to new software and possible microtransit.
• ATA bus services across Riley, Pottawatomie, and Geary counties
• Fixed route buses plus curb-to-curb scheduled rides
• K-18 Connect regional service and how it’s working
• Why public transportation means access, freedom, and independence
• Rider patterns and the stat that 55% ride to work or school
• Stop and rider upgrades including shelters and digital sign readers
• East West Express and how limited stops speed trips
• Ridership trends and why weather affects demand
• New software plans and what microtransit could look like
• How to ride for $1, use passes, and ask drivers for help
• Using Google Maps, the Transit app, and printable route maps at www.fhata.org
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We talk with Virginia Rodriguez of the Manhattan Area Resettlement Team about what it really takes to help refugees build stable lives in Manhattan and the surrounding area. We also dig into how fast changing policies and public narratives are shaping fear, opportunity, and day to day reality for the families MART serves.
• MART’s role as a refugee resettlement agency serving a 50 mile radius around Manhattan
• How a volunteer led Afghan resettlement effort grew into a staffed organization
• Behind the scenes work at the Damon Runyon House headquarters and why paperwork drives the process
• Policy shifts affecting refugees including SNAP cuts and upcoming Medicaid changes
• Legal status realities alongside rising fear of deportation
• Washington Post reporting focus on human stories and Afghan women’s lived experience
• The Estherbrook Scholarship and why higher education support matters
• Volunteer needs including a volunteer coordinator and an English buddy style community connection
send us an email to infoallieswelcome.com
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We talk with Dr. Sarah Barrett about the YES! Fund and how a community-funded grant model builds safe, engaging after-school programs for youth across Manhattan. We trace the fund’s roots back to the 1993 flood, the moment local leaders listened to young people, and how that choice has led to more than $6.3 million in support over 30 years.
• what the Yes Fund is and what “YES” stands for
• why youth engagement matters outside school hours
• how the 1993 flood recovery shaped youth priorities
• examples of programs funded, from sports to leadership to creative exploration
• how the Yes Fund differs from other GMCF grants through community donations and matching
• the Kansas State University College of Education partnership and why it matters
• results to date and what the funding makes possible for local kids
Folks can contribute to the Yes Fund throughout the year, but our 2026 campaign begins on July 12th, and that will run through September 7th. Folks can send a check to GMCF, P.O. Box1127, Manhattan, Kansas, 66505, or donate directly at mcfks.org at the YES! Fund tab, and check the Manhattan Mercury each week for donor names and program stories.
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We talk with Elizabeth Nelson about how USD 383 Early Learning keeps working through the summer and why now is the time to apply for preschool. We break down the July 16 in-person application day, what “kindergarten readiness” really looks like, and how one central application connects families to inclusive support.
• Summer learning and year-round enrollment work in USD 383
• July 16 application day details and what families should bring
• How the program supports ages three to five not yet in kindergarten
• Funding options including Head Start, at-risk grants, and fee-paying slots
• Fall-to-spring growth in early literacy, numbers, and social-emotional skills
• One-stop application model that replaces multiple waiting lists
• Head Start’s comprehensive services that support the whole family network
• What a typical preschool day feels like and why routines matter
Get online, fill out an application, and get in contact with us to attend our July 16th application day at 2600 Kimball at College Hill Early Learning Center, and you can find out more at USD383.org
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We talk with Tom Roberts about how the Engineers Foundation of Kansas turns donations into hands-on STEM opportunities for students across the state. We dig into robotics, MathCounts, Future City, and why AI makes critical thinking more important, not less.
• what the Engineers Foundation of Kansas is and why it exists
• how statewide support strengthens the engineering pipeline in Kansas
• using grants for Lego Mindstorms kits and MathCounts memberships
• why robotics teaches logic, design, teamwork, and accountability
• how the Little Apple Cyborgs reached national competition with community fundraising
• how Future City builds engineering thinking plus public speaking and leadership
• what students say years later about the impact of early STEM programs
• why AI is a tool that still requires math fundamentals and verification
• how we support educators directly with teacher and professor awards
• how match partners and community giving fuel the work
Kansasengineer.org is the place to go
Remember Philanthropy Today, wherever you get your podcast
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We catch up with Jack Lindquist on how the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program recruits and trains leaders who understand the whole region, not just one town. We talk through who qualifies, how the program is funded, and why class projects turn networking into real community change.
• recruiting for the 2026-27 class and why the program looks for motivated, growth-minded leaders
• eligibility across Geary, Riley, Pottawatomie, Wabaunsee, Morris and Fort Riley, including people who work in the area
• the value of a diverse cohort for better listening, decision-making and problem solving
• how Fort Riley strengthens the region through economic impact and long-term community ties
• program history and the shift toward regional thinking beyond city limits
• tuition, scholarships for small business and nonprofits, and the role of underwriters instead of tax dollars
• the online application, curriculum dates, and the short recorded intro that replaces an interview
• class projects and the Ogden youth center example of sweat equity unlocking faster progress
Go online at frlp.org and go into the apply menu link.
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We talk with Deb Klutz of Homestead Ministries about long-term, holistic care for adult female survivors of sex trafficking in Manhattan and Celina. We dig into why trafficking is underreported, why some survivors seek faith-based support, and how the community can offer practical help that makes recovery possible.
• Homestead Ministries’ residential model and what holistic long-term care looks like
• Why many survivors ask for faith-based recovery and spiritual support
• How highways, large events, and local conditions can increase trafficking risk
• Why the numbers look “low” and how fear drives underreporting
• Klutz’s description of SRA claims and why higher-structure care may be needed
• Success stories after one to three years of care and the impact of stable housing
• A leadership pipeline that equips graduates to lead anti-trafficking work
• Concrete ways to help now through mentoring and household supply donations
homesteadministry.org
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We welcome Brent Sigman as the new executive director of the Flint Hills Volunteer Center and hear why he’s bringing a boots on the ground mindset to volunteer coordination. We talk through where the biggest needs are right now, how we build stronger community partnerships, and how we can bring more young people into volunteerism.
• Brent’s local background and the path from public service and theatre to nonprofit leadership
• A hands-on approach to storm cleanup and showing up early for community needs
• Building and rebuilding partnerships with local organizations across Manhattan
• How we connect volunteers with opportunities and why education improves retention
• Why the mall location helps visibility and makes it easier to walk in and ask
• Youth outreach through a K-State football camp and early volunteer education
• Current volunteer gaps including medical transportation drivers and lawn care help
• Festival of Trees planning and the need for a strong committee
Flint Hillsvolunteer Center.com is uh the website. Our phone number is 785-776-7787. Mine is director.fvc at gmail.com.
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We talk with Gail Urban and Willie Thomas from the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Foundation about how better parks, stronger programs, and smarter funding can lift a whole community. We dig into scholarships that help kids participate, plus the July 4 cardboard boat regatta that turns fun into long-term support.
• why the foundation forms and what it funds for Manhattan Parks and Rec
• How the Steel and Pipe Ballpark at Seco Park changes youth sports and tournament travel
• What happens when the quality of life sales tax sunsets and why maintenance planning matters
• how facility sponsorships and local business support create sustainable funding
• Star Spangled Spectacular details, including the cardboard box regatta and corporate challenge
• what it feels like to volunteer coach and why relationships matter as much as wins
• how the scholarship program works, including free and reduced lunch discounts
• the scale of scholarship need and the push toward an endowment model
Go to the Manhattan Parks and Rec Foundation website and you can also go to July4mhk.com
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We talk with Erin Dragotto from the Museum of Art and Light about why the Picasso experience feels so powerful when you see the full creative timeline in one place. We also dig into how arts access, school partnerships, and citywide collaboration can help Manhattan grow as a destination for culture and community life.
• what it means to see Picasso’s work in context with his life and creative range
• how long the Picasso display runs and why timing matters
• the transportation reimbursement bus grant for grades 3 to 8
• Why removing barriers is the fastest way to expand arts education
• how arts and culture support tourism and economic development
• museums working together through Museum Month and future partnerships
• early attendance numbers and how visitors are finding the museum
• Manhattan High students are building a full exhibition with “Planet Oket’ra"
You can always find out more at your website, which is artlightmuseum.org.
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We talk with Melissa Solden and incoming principal Jared Taylor about what makes Manhattan Catholic Schools feel joyful, mission-driven, and deeply connected to the wider Manhattan community. We also run through the biggest events and simple next steps for families and supporters who want to tour, enroll, donate, or volunteer.
• Jared Taylor’s path from English teacher to incoming principal
• Discernment, faith, and choosing Catholic education after public schools
• Why Manhattan feels like a big small town
• The 38th annual golf tournament and what it funds
• The annual auction date and why it matters
• Second graders partnering with 4-H on a community garden
• Celebrating 10-year and 25-year staff milestones
• Pre-enrollment, school tours, and how enrollment works
Manhattan Catholicschools.org. Sign up, do whatever, learn, tour, engage, yes, support.
Pray.
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We talk with Little Apple Splash organizer Kitty Pursley about the dock diving competition returning to Blue Earth Plaza and why it is one of the most fun free events to watch in Manhattan. We break down how the sport works, what makes this year special, and how local partners help bring a national-level canine competition to town.
• what Little Apple Splash is and why it is family friendly
• how Big Air, Extreme Vertical, and Speed Retrieve work
• the scale of the setup, from dock length to pool size
• how the sport spread through Doc Dogs and national events
• June 12 to 14 competition dates plus the June 11 kickoff party
• world champion Crystal McLaren returning for a fourth year
• Aggieville Brewing’s Chili’s Bomb Brew honoring a retired military working dog
• community support that makes the weekend possible, from Visit Manhattan to the fire department
• silent auction fundraising, including online bidding and on-site items
• event schedule, waves, finals, and America 250 features like presenting colors
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We share what makes Manhattan’s Juneteenth weekend feel like a true community homecoming, from live music and barbecue to a walk that helps strangers become friends. We also connect the celebration to the history of Yuma Street and close the weekend with a free screening of 42 at the Douglas Activity Center.
• Party Train concert details and why the show is free
• Fellowship focus through food sports and music
• Barbecue contest format including $5 sampler kits and audience voting
• How to register a barbecue team at JuneteenthMHK.org
• Community walk plans and the updated route highlighting historic churches
• Local history ties including Jackie Robinson and the Yuma district
• Movie night logistics for 42 with lawn chairs and free popcorn
• Sponsors partners and volunteers who make the weekend possible
Please put the word out that it's happening on June 19th from 5 to about 9:30 or 10 on June 20th. All day, please come out
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We talk with Jennifer Elliott about how the Midwest Dream Car Collection has become one of the top car museums in the country by pairing world-class vehicles with real storytelling and up-close access. We also dig into the Route 66 centennial exhibit, hands-on family activities, and the member events that make a return visit feel like a tradition.
• Travel + Leisure recognition and what sets the museum apart
• Storytelling behind the cars and why it matters
• Route 66 100th anniversary exhibit with Pixar Cars characters
• Rotating displays and what’s kept in the vault
• Family features like scavenger hunts, activity sheets, and a kids audio tour
• Larry’s car and other hands-on moments for kids and adults
• Dream Cars Club membership benefits and member reveals
• Amphicar picnic at Tuttle Creek with rides
• Summer calendar highlights including Start Your Engine kickoff and community programs
The website is Midwest Dream Car Collection.org if you'd like to find out more. But stop by, take a look around.
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We talk with Gary Lloyd and Gene Clausen about a practical way to remove a major barrier to music education: getting real instruments into kids’ hands. We also hear how the Manhattan Optimist Club funds youth programs, builds community partnerships, and keeps the work fun and welcoming.
• the story behind the Manhattan Optimist Instrument Recovery Program and why it started as a pilot project
• how donated band and orchestra instruments can help students who cannot afford rentals or purchases
• where to drop off gently used instruments across Manhattan through local bank partners
• the partnership with the Kansas State University Instrumental Repair Program to help restore instruments
• how GMCF grant funding helps cover repair parts and outreach costs
• what Optimist Club membership looks like, including meetings, service projects, and fundraisers like the Chili Crawl
• a quick thank you to the community for support during Grow Green Match and how that strengthens youth programs
You can go online to ManhattanOptimistClub.com
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We sit down with Dr. Alaya Mestrovich C. from UFM to break down what’s new in their summer catalog and why community education still matters in Manhattan. We also dig into inclusive ceramics, practical AI training, and a new after-school option designed for working families.
• what UFM is and how it serves Manhattan, the region, and Kansas
• new ceramics classes and how the studio supports neurodiverse learners, veterans, and people with disabilities
• summer catalog highlights across art, sports, life skills, history, cooking, and beekeeping
• professional development options including how to use AI in the workplace
• how UFM gathers class ideas and fills community gaps without competing with partners
• the updated partnership work with Kansas State University
• Lou Douglas Lecture details featuring Dr. Kerry Magro and a focus on autism resources
• Project Excel and customized Saturday programming for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities
• how to find or request a catalog and where to sign up online
Go online to tryUFM.org. We hope people will sign up early because space will be limited.
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We talk with Vicky James and Andrea De Jesus about how Nourish Together connects local farms, health partners, donors, and volunteers to fight food insecurity and reduce food waste in Manhattan, Kansas. We dig into produce prescriptions, blessing boxes, and food recovery wins that show how small actions can drive real systems change.
• rebranding to Nourish Together to unite programs under one clear umbrella
• Healthy Food Rx and the Food Is Medicine approach to chronic disease prevention
• $25 produce vouchers plus a $10 match and where vouchers can be redeemed
• AH Farms as a hands-on place to learn agriculture and practical produce skills
• making food education fun for kids through simple, memorable experiences
• Grow Green Match Day results, building an endowment, and why matching matters
• 29 blessing boxes and the easiest way families can stock them together
• Flint Hills Food Recovery milestones: 95,000 pounds recovered and 3,500 runs
• how the recovery app matches donors, agencies, and volunteers
We invite people to get involved, whether you have dollars to share or want to volunteer
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We talk with Morningstar executive director and co-founder Donja McDonald about building a peer-run mental health community where safety and dignity come first. We dig into why a sober environment matters, how funding works for a consumer-run organization in Kansas, and what real acceptance looks like when stigma starts to loosen.
• relocating to a bigger space without increasing rent
• defining Morningstar as peer support led by people with lived experience of severe mental illness
• reducing power imbalance so members can focus on strengths
• prioritizing safety as the first requirement for healing trauma
• maintaining a clean and sober space to protect people in recovery
• supporting dual recovery through a 12-step group
• funding through Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services and writing grants that tell an emotional story with data
• noticing improved community acceptance while naming ongoing stigma for schizophrenia spectrum conditions
• describing the Recovery Conference as a shame-free, energizing space for people with mental illness
morningstar.mentalhealth.org is the website.
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We catch up with Michelle Sink from Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters on how the organization is rebuilding after the January fire while keeping mentorship at the center. We talk fundraising wins, a plan for a new community-minded space, and the urgent need for more Bigs so kids are not left waiting.
• progress toward a roughly $700,000 rebuild goal in the same neighborhood
• plans for a historically fitting exterior and open concept interior
• using the space for match events and offering free room to other nonprofits
• demolition and historical board steps shaping a year-plus timeline
• a potential $100,000 matching gift to help finish the capital campaign
• community generosity through Grow Green Match Day and civic groups
• the ongoing shortage of Bigs and what that means for the waiting list
• Tessa’s story and why stable matches matter
• upcoming fundraisers including golf events and a Studio 54 themed gala
• temporary office moves, relocation strain, and staying adaptable
you can reach out to me anytime and through our website at kansasbigs.org
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We talk with Diane Hinrichs of Pawnee Mental Health about making support easier to find, easier to accept, and more connected to everyday life. We share what Pawnee offers across 10 counties, why 24/7 mobile crisis matters, and how art can help people move toward more good days.
• mental health as physical health and why asking for help matters
• youth and adult community services as wraparound support in real-world settings
• serving nearly 7,000 people a year with a large regional team
• critical stabilization support and coordination with local law enforcement
• 24/7 mobile crisis response and how it meets people anywhere
• Pancakes for Pawnee as accessible, community-driven fundraising
• Grow Green Match Day support for expanding art therapy
• More Good Days art shows and local display partners in multiple towns
• client pride, recovery, and the ongoing nature of mental health care
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We talk with Beach Museum of Art curator Liz Seaton about “Rural America” and how the show connects past images to the realities people live right now. We share the themes artists capture and the stories visitors are leaving in the comment book about what rural communities lose, protect, and still love.
• framing historic and contemporary works to reflect rural life today
• themes of isolation, hard work, weather, drought, and too much rain
• rural strengths like calm, nature, extended family, church, clubs, and preservation
• John Steuart Curry’s storm-focused Kansas imagery and tornado aftermath
• Jeremiah Arias documenting local Kansas newspapers and what happens when they disappear
• Gordon Parks church imagery as a center of belonging
• visitor reactions highlighting population loss, aging towns, and everyday resilience
I hope you’ll see the exhibition and the rest of what we have going on at the museum.
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We talk with Katie Seal from Wonder Workshop Children’s Museum about how hands-on play builds real community ties in Manhattan and why Grow Green Match Day feels like a town-wide reunion. Student guest Zake brings soul food history to the table and helps us see the museum’s signature fundraiser as culture, connection, and learning not just a meal.
• gratitude for Grow Green Match Day and donors
• Wonder Workshop’s 30+ year mission of hands-on learning and play
• Richard Pitts’ legacy of inclusion and community connection
• the Soul Food Dinner tradition and its 25-year history
• the new Soul Food Summer Bash and what families can expect
• Zake on soul food as heritage tied to the Great Migration
• favorite dishes from mac and cheese to collard greens plus the mystery of hog cheese
• why the fundraiser supports the museum’s long-term survival
• museum updates including rising attendance and summer camp prep
Tickets will go on sale in a couple of weeks. Just go to our website, it’ll be on there. Wonderworkshop.org is the website.
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We talk with Wareham Hall executive director Blade Magis about turning a beloved downtown Manhattan landmark into a modern, accessible venue while still honoring what made it historic. Along the way we dig into the weird little artifacts found under the floors and the final fundraising push tied to Grow Green Match Day.
• Wareham Hall’s multi-year transition from idea to full-scale restoration
• Artifacts uncovered during demolition including a handwritten 1896 Bachelor’s Ball invitation
• Why most interior elements people remember were later remodels rather than original features
• How historic tax credits shape what can be built and what must be approved
• The new basement, structural work, and what remains of the original theater
• Expansion into the adjacent tower building and what it unlocks for storage and operations
• Elevator shafts and major accessibility improvements across both buildings
• Seat naming campaign details and how it connects to Grow Green Match Day
• Current timeline targeting late 2027 and what to expect next
You can always follow along with what's happening with the Wareham on their Facebook page. Wharumhall.org.
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We talk with Kathy Ray about receiving Kansas’ Visionary Voice Award and what it reveals about the long, steady work of supporting survivors. We also share how Sexual Assault Awareness Month activities, free Crisis Center services, and community giving keep prevention and response moving forward.
• receiving the Visionary Voice Award and why the work is collective
• Teal Tuesdays, Denim Day, and community events that spark honest talk
• how myths and self-blame keep survivors isolated
• free 24/7 support through hotline, advocacy, counseling, court help, and shelter
• why primary prevention starts with teaching healthy relationships
• how Grow Green Match Day donations cover gaps grants cannot
If you or somebody you know needs help, contact us. You know, our services are completely free, they're completely confidential. You do not have to go through this alone, and we are here ready to help.
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We talk with Kyle Smith, Scout Executive and CEO of the Coronado Area Council BSA, about how Scouting serves families across 32 Kansas counties while still keeping local donations working right here in Riley County. We dig into Grow Green Match Day, what it costs to join, and how community fundraising keeps the program open to every kid who wants in.
• covering 32 counties with headquarters in Salina and a Manhattan field office
• using Grow Green Match Day to tell the Scouting story and fund both endowment and operations
• keeping Riley County giving local through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation
• offering simple financial assistance for registration, handbooks, and uniforms
• breaking down typical startup costs for a new Scout family
• turning nostalgia into support through the corporate Pinewood Derby fundraiser
• celebrating the legacy of Brown Memorial Camp and planning for the 2027 centennial
• navigating a fundraising transition after Crystal Baldwin’s retirement
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We catch up with Christina Nolte from Good Shepherd Home Care and Hospice as she shares how a downtown tradition fuels compassionate care across Manhattan. We also dig into what it takes to fund long-term hospice support while keeping access simple for families who need help now.
• celebrating Promenade on Points and what makes it a favorite night out
• how the event works with downtown business hosts and ticketing
• key FAQs on drinks, flow between stops, and planning for weather
• a social media trivia question that can win two tickets
• the hospice house endowment campaign and progress toward the $5 million goal
• why Grow Green Match Day is a major awareness and giving moment
• Good Shepherd’s mission to provide hospice and palliative care regardless of ability to pay
• how hospice referrals work and how a first conversation can start with a phone call
Go to our website, which is goodshepherdh.org, or on our Facebook page or Instagram page, https://goodshepherdhh.org, Good Shepherd Home Care and Hospice. Click the link right there.
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We talk with Brady Armstrong, interim CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs of Manhattan, about the 27th annual Casino Night and why it fuels real, everyday support for local kids. We also look ahead to summer programming and how families can find openings across Manhattan and beyond.
• what Casino Night funds for youth, including scholarships, healthy snacks and meals, and field trips
• what to expect at the event, including the Monte Carlo theme, dinner, raffles, and the golden ticket prize
• how the silent auction and live auction work, plus standout items and experiences
• where the club serves kids each day across Ogden, Manhattan, and Wamego
• why the club focuses on youth development beyond childcare, including leadership and academic enrichment
• summer program locations, hours, staffing needs, and open enrollment
Go to bgclubmanhattan.com and fill out that enrollment info if you’re looking for something for your youth to do this summer
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We catch up with Lisa Isaacson on how the Flint Hills Community Accelerator is expanding childcare in Manhattan through eight licensed suites and a hub built around education, health care, workforce, and family support. We dig into what it takes to keep providers from burning out, meet hard-to-serve needs like overnight care, and build a model other Kansas communities can copy.
• rapid build-out and first months of operations at the Flint Hills Community Accelerator
• eight childcare suites filled with KDHE-licensed family child care providers
• how the four pillars shape daily work: education, childcare, health care, workforce
• early childhood education credits launching with Manhattan Area Technical College
• realistic look at childcare churn and how support keeps providers open
• provider transitions into the community and the challenge of finding locations
• exploring overnight childcare for shift workers and first responders
• childcare support for military families living off Fort Riley
• why other towns can start accelerators without new buildings
• safety practices families value: codes, sign-in, badges, cameras
• conference space rentals and partnerships that sustain the building
tell them that you are supporting the Flint Hills Community Accelerator on the 15th from five to seven
GMCF
CFAs
We talk with Emily Wagner, executive director of the Manhattan Emergency Shelter, about how a long career in social services turns into leadership and what it really takes to keep a shelter stable. We dig into Bids for Bags, the stress of restrictive grant funding, and the changing faces of homelessness in our community.
• Emily’s 25-year path from volunteer to director
• Bids for Bags event details, auction items, and how donations work
• Why unrestricted funds keep operations steady
• Grant season pressure, increased competition, and shifting requirements
• Grow Green Match Day as a major support and a safety net during delays
• Trends in shelter guests, including unaccompanied youth and seniors on fixed incomes
• The value of nonprofit collaboration and community spirit in Manhattan
Go to our website, www.MESIKansas.org
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CFAs
We talk with Kendra Coleman from the Manhattan Arts Center about how a single weekend can bring 3,000 neighbors together and still raise real money for programs. We trace how festivals, partnerships, and match-day giving turn into scholarships, equipment, building fixes, and a bigger arts season for Manhattan.
• mac and cheese festival growth and what worked
• large-scale printmaking with K-State and the road flattener reveal
• artist market, live music, costume garage sale, and the annual art contest theme Unravel
• how proceeds support ceramics, Common Table, and youth programming scholarships
• outdoor classroom plans including murals, furniture, Wi‑Fi, electricity, planters, and a small stage
• auditions and upcoming shows including Radium Girls and youth theater
• season highlights including a Britney Spears musical, The Nutcracker partnership, and more
• why Grow Green Match Day funding matters for maintenance, space, equipment, and supplies
ManhattanArts.org is the website. You can always find out more there.
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We talk with Dr. Rachel Dirks about how the Manhattan Symphony Orchestra forms, grows, and keeps concerts free for the community. We dig into programming choices, real-world logistics, and the partnerships and donations that help a new orchestra dream bigger without losing its values.
• spotting a gap in Manhattan’s arts scene and deciding to start a community orchestra
• using practical startup steps and an open call that draws more than 90 interested musicians
• building an ensemble with pros and amateurs from ages 11 to 81
• programming a Mid-Century Modern classics concert with Bernstein, Howard Hanson and Paul Reade
• selecting repertoire by balancing player ability, time, and a single anchor work
• handling logistics with a working board and shared leadership
• covering expenses like music, venues and specialist players such as harp
• keeping musicians unpaid by design so concerts can remain free and accessible
• partnering with McCain Auditorium and performing alongside Celtic Woman
• planning future runouts, community venues and a September 11 commemorative performance
• inviting new musicians, sponsors and community partners to get involved
Just go to the website and give, learn. Check us out, learn more, join us uh in any ways you you think appeal to you.
GMCF
CFAs
We catch up with Rick Hernandez from Manhattan Free Clinic on a big year of growth, including a second location and thousands of patient visits. We also talk about what real healthcare access looks like, how new tech helps patients learn at home, and why Grow Green matters for funding patient care.
• celebrating 20 years and honoring Dr Jim Reed’s foundational impact
• opening a second clinic location near the hospital for easier access
• offering sick care and comprehensive care on set days each week
• removing barriers like transportation and bus fare for patients
• doubling patient volume over six years to 1,600 people and nearly 6,000 touches
• serving more uninsured patients after eligibility expands to 300% of federal poverty level
• using touchscreen patient education tools and email follow-ups to improve understanding
• explaining Grow Green match details and how donations go straight to patient care
MHKfreeclinic.com is her website.
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We sit down with Scott Voos from Be Able and hear from Gary, a program graduate who goes from jail and instability to recovery housing and a real plan for the future. Gary shares how basic needs, accountability, and community help him rebuild his health, reconnect with family, and aim for a traditional lease.
• winter pressure points and why cold months are harder
• what a Be Able program graduate means in practice
• Gary’s path from jail and probation to stability
• why showers, clean clothes, and a safe bed unlock employment
• rebuilding trust and family connection through consistent change
• how peer examples create hope inside a recovery community
• the biggest barrier after progress starts: renting with a record
• how Be Able’s transitional recovery housing program is growing and staying structured
Find out more about their efforts at BeAbleCommunity.com
On the 28th, just in front of the houses at 10:30, 500 block of Yuma
Don’t forget Grow Green Match Day is coming up, too
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CFAs
We share how GMCF’s new strategic plan responds to rapid growth and sets a 2035 vision for being the community’s trusted philanthropic partner. We walk through the three goals guiding our next decade and the practical steps we’re taking to strengthen staffing, grow resources, and deepen measurable impact.
• why reaching $400 million in assets changes expectations and operations
• the 2035 vision to be the community’s philanthropic choice and trusted resource
• three strategic goals driving decisions: build capacity, grow resources, increase impact
• capacity plans including cost revenue study and clearer staff roles
• adding executive leadership in development plus investment and real estate management
• criteria for deciding when to join major community initiatives
• how board retreats and staff retreats shape alignment and accountability
• turning strategy into execution through “by whom, by when” ownership
• resource growth through community leadership engagement and a focused marketing plan
• donor-advised funds education and alignment with community needs
• planned giving as a priority while complementing existing financial advisors
• impact measurement, impact communication, and a comprehensive grant strategy
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We share how local dollars and volunteer time turn into rent relief, utility help, free clothing, hot lunches, and real casework that follows clients from court to hospital to home. The result is practical hope that stays in Riley and Geary counties and grows when neighbors step up.
• two staff running casework, meals and clothing support
• how vouchers provide free business and family clothing
• Angel Tree planning for 1,200 children
• kettle funds staying local and what they pay for
• volunteers needed for meals, sorting and cleaning
• most-needed items for warmer months
• donation hours, furniture and mattress acceptance
• veteran support and ID replacement help
• partner referrals without barriers to entry
• Texas Roadhouse appetizer cards funding support
“Give us a call at 785-770-3171 or stop by 310 Points Avenue to pick up a Texas Roadhouse free appetizer card; donations at the restaurant go straight to us and are good through the end of September.”
GMCF
CFAs
Spring brings energy to Sunset Zoo as we welcome Kiatu, a four-month-old colobus monkey named through a community vote, and introduce our new director, Dr. Kaylee Reyes. We share expanded hours, family programs, membership perks, and a full slate of events that connect fun with conservation.
• Kiatu’s growth, behavior and striking color changes
• The community naming story and tribute to Scott Shoemaker
• Dr Kaylee Reyes’ primate expertise and leadership
• Spring break hours, story time and daily encounters
• Future plans for lemur habitats and Americas zone
• Friends of Sunset Zoo membership tiers and perks
• Venue rentals for weddings, formals and company nights
• Tiger personalities and the unforgettable wedding moment
• Summer camps, Junior Zookeeper and Wildlife Warriors
• Party for the Planet, Wine in the Wild and Brew at the Zoo
Find hours, membership and event details at sunsetzoo.com
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CFAs
We share how Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeast Kansas keeps families close to pediatric care, removes daily burdens, and plans upgrades and events to meet rising demand. We also outline simple ways Manhattan-area listeners can help, from rounding up at McDonald’s to sponsoring local fundraisers.
• mission to house families with children in treatment
• services including private rooms, meals, laundry, and transport
• steady demand with average 13-day stays and waitlists
• exterior facelift and new security system for safety
• upcoming room renovations and practical facility upgrades
• spring sporting clays and golf events with auctions
• August gala with live and virtual auctions
• sponsorship options and social media amplification
• auction item needs matched to each event’s theme
• Manhattan, Geary, and Riley County families as major users
• how to help locally via roundup, CX012 at Dylan’s, pop tabs, and Amazon wishlist
• website link and contact to get involved
“Registration's open right now if you want to get in on that early bird pricing for a round of clays”
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We spotlight how the Manhattan Optimists turn a simple motto, Friend of Youth, into concrete programs that open doors for kids and strengthen the city. From a thriving instrument drive to free t‑ball and flexible meetings, the club shows how service scales when people show up.
• Purpose and history of the Manhattan Optimists since 1959
• Band and orchestra instrument drive for families who cannot afford rentals
• Breadth of impact with over 30 programs and grants
• Partnerships with schools, Parks and Rec, and local nonprofits
• Free t‑ball access for every five and six year old
• Fundraising pillars: Christmas tree sales, chili crawl, spaghetti dinner and silent auction
• Member recruitment through split breakfast and lunch meetings
• Benefits of merging two clubs to expand reach and leadership
• Youth recognition programs that build future service leaders
• Practical advice for future civic philanthropy awardees
ManhattanOptimist.com • Spaghetti Dinner at Pottorf Hall, March 28, 5–8 p.m., with silent auction
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We welcome Museum of Art and Light executive director Erin Dragado for a conversation about building a 21st century museum in Manhattan, Kansas and why audiences are responding. From Dean Mitchell’s moving showcase to a U.S.-exclusive Picasso immersive, we explore art, tech, and community impact.
• Origin story of the Museum of Art and Light
• Erin’s museum path from California and Chicago back to Kansas
• Blending fine art, immersive storytelling and digital works
• Why Web3 and generative art belong in museums
• Dean Mitchell’s career, themes and audience response
• Creating an immersive narrative from 400 high‑res images
• Exhibit timelines for Dean Mitchell and Picasso
• Vsitor data, regional draw and economic impact
• Partnerships with schools and arts education goals
• Upcoming digital show Emulation with Art Blocks 500
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We share how a grassroots directory grew into a regional network serving over 200 entrepreneurs a year and why the Yuma Street Cultural Center will unite culture, community, and commerce. We unpack leadership lessons, capital readiness, and partnerships that close access gaps across the Flint Hills.
• Founding story of Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills
• Journalism and marketing roots shaping social entrepreneurship
• Why a directory was not enough for lasting impact
• Kitchen and restaurant incubators as missing infrastructure
• Capital readiness beyond grants to loans and hiring
• Partnerships with Chamber, Commerce, Network Kansas, GMCF
• Reaching Manhattan, Fort Riley, Junction City, Salina, Topeka, Lawrence
• Volunteer beginnings and long-term funding from Kansas Health Foundation
• Leadership influenced by family ethos and pipeline building
• Preserving local Black history while expanding resources
• Details for the Yuma Street Cultural Center groundbreaking
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We sit down with Dennis Mullen of SPS Companies to explore how faith, volunteerism, and focused giving can transform a community. From childcare and housing to the case for growth over cuts, we share practical ways to get involved and why small towns amplify impact.
• award recognition rooted in service, not credit
• faith as a daily habit that fuels giving
• volunteerism as leadership training and culture
• SPS support for employees on local boards
• strategic local giving through trusts and sponsorships
• urgency of childcare and housing solutions
• economic growth as the path to lower taxes
• GMCF as the “neck of the hourglass” for solutions
• practical starting points for time, talent, and treasure
• why visible giving inspires teams and donors
“when we come back, we’ll talk a little bit about some of the things that are happening within the community”
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We trace how the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program builds servant leaders who think bigger than their zip code and act locally with speed and empathy. Alumni form deep networks, serve on boards, fuel civic conversations, and find purpose that anchors long-term community impact.
• origins in 1980s agricultural leadership and 1990s regional expansion
• 683 alumni to date with seven-county reach
• sharp rise in women leaders and cross-sector diversity
• visits to the Statehouse to build civic fluency
• systems thinking and collaborative decision-making
• lifelong networks that support personal and professional growth
• alumni service on boards, councils, and commissions
• application window May 15 to July 15 at FHRLP.org
• Eileen Cray Memorial Scholarship covering up to 50 percent of tuition
To get signed up to find out more, the website is FHRLP.org
GMCF
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We sit down with retiring K-State Police Chief Ronnie Grice to talk recovery, service, and why Manhattan became home far beyond his two-year plan. He shares how partnership with Cheryl fuels joyful volunteering and outlines what comes next after the badge.
• near-death health scare and community support
• Distinguished Volunteer Award and meaning of recognition
• 46-year law enforcement journey and leadership shifts
• campus safety, game day planning, and partnerships
• making service a family habit with Cheryl
• post-retirement goals: training chiefs and awards committee
• practical path to start volunteering locally
• gratitude, friendship, and the CFA celebration
“Pick two or three organizations you’re passionate about and devote your time to them”
GMCF
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We share how a joyful Valentine gala with big band music and a ballroom lesson funds urgent aid, food security, critical repairs, and long‑term homeownership. We also outline the repair program, ReStore impact, and new builds that move families toward lasting stability.
• new Monday 9am slot and show setup
• three nonprofits join for a Valentine benefit
• big band, dance lesson and community building
• short‑term, medium‑term and long‑term impact explained
• limited tickets and how to buy online or by phone
• repair program scope and city partnership
• income eligibility and five‑year forgiveness model
• ReStore throughput and Hope Restored gift cards
• rehab of Oak Grove School and modular builds
• ways to plug in if not attending
Buy your ticket to Valentine’s Day.
GMCF
CFAs
We talk with WTC’s Jeff Sackrider about turning corporate philanthropy into everyday practice, from quarter‑million dollar grants to citywide public Wi‑Fi and rapid food security support. A 114‑year local story shows how structure, culture, and partnerships make impact stick.
• why time, talent and treasure all matter
• how formalizing giving speeds emergency response
• roots in 1912 and a community-first mission
• free public Wi‑Fi as digital inclusion
• partnering with foundations and schools across towns
• building employee buy‑in in a small team
• practical steps for small businesses to start
• choosing one joyful cause and one urgent problem
We sure will. We’re looking forward to it. It’s always a lot of fun on March 23rd at the Hilton Garden Inn
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We share how Flint Hills Breadbasket transformed into a grocery-style space that welcomes 800–900 families each week and why demand continues to rise. We also spotlight the Super Bowl food drive, our Valentine collaboration with Habitat and Shepherd’s Crossing, and the role of Grow Green Match Day in stabilizing support.
• rising demand after relocation and during government shutdown
• grocery-style, dignified shopping experience that eases fear
• volunteers, Knights of Columbus, and store partners enabling smooth drives
• Super Bowl food drive logistics across Dillons and Hy-Vee
• how to give if you cannot attend in person
• collaboration with Habitat and Shepherd’s Crossing on Valentine’s event
• how joint events expand reach and reduce duplication
• Grow Green Match Day as a key budget stabilizer
• guidance on healthier donation choices for pantry shelves
Super Bowl Saturday. Dillons locations and Hy-Vee collection efforts for soups, dry food, hygiene items. FlintHillsBreadbasket.org is where you can find out more and also help out financially if you are so inclined
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We spotlight the Manhattan Polar Plunge and how one brave jump funds health screenings, Unified sports, and leadership for 10,000 Special Olympics Kansas athletes. Katelyn Andrist and Corporal Rachel Pate share how athletes and officers build real inclusion, one cheer and costume at a time.
• Polar Plunge purpose, date, location, and $100 fundraising minimum
• Healthy Athletes screenings and statewide impact
• Unified sports with K‑State volunteers and community teams
• Law Enforcement Torch Run partnership and officer participation
• Costume tips, heated tents, and event flow
• Why saying athletes’ names and showing up matters
• How to register, form teams, and out-fundraise RCPD
• Statewide plunges and school-led “cool school” events
Register at soks.org for the Manhattan Polar Plunge on February 14 at Tuttle Creek Lake State Park. Registration opens at 10 a.m., teams start at 11 a.m.
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We showcase how Manhattan Area Technical College aligns new programs with real employer demand, turning education into high-wage jobs and community growth. From a community-driven campus to regional testing and NBAF-ready talent, we map the path from skill to paycheck.
• New plumbing, electrical, and cybersecurity-focused IT programs
• Community building as shared training and meeting space
• Employer connections that speed hiring for high-demand roles
• NBAF job alignment in electricians, ops techs, and lab techs
• Workforce housing pressures tied to talent growth
• Regional testing center drawing thousands across states
• Enrollment gains and second welding cohort launch
• Graduate earnings including linemen averaging $103k
• Strong ROI with lower tuition and faster completion
• Funding gaps and tangible ways to support technical education
You can always find out more about the mission that they have and the work and how you can help at the website, which is manhattantech.edu
GMCF
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We share a candid talk with RCPD Director Brian Peete on preventing targeted violence by training first responders to recognize behavioral indicators and respond with empathy. The conversation spans homelessness, social media, political rhetoric, and the mission of Prevent the Aftermath to build standardized, research-based training and tools.
• community empathy versus criminalization of crisis
• differences between East Coast and Manhattan KS approaches
• what behavioral indicators look like in real cases
• why many incidents have domestic roots
• limits of facility hardening without proactive prevention
• active shooter trainings and current national gaps
• social media signals and triage
• depolarizing rhetoric to reduce risk
• building a standardized assessment tool and training plan
• how donations accelerate national rollout
“Preventtheaftermath.org is the website.” “Right now we need donations… we’re trying to raise $200,000 to $250,000… then we can begin training first responders.” “Be that light in the world that you want to see in the world.”
GMCF
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We share how Center of Hope Ministry grew from a church basement to the Douglas School Annex to meet soaring demand for overnight warming shelter, and why local partnerships, volunteers, and small business fundraisers keep the doors open. A year-round shelter vision takes shape as we break down staffing, funding, and the rising need for cots, snacks, and safe space for families.
• mission to provide safe overnight shelter and warmth
• move to Douglas Annex with capacity up to 43 guests
• rising demand shown by bed night and guest data
• volunteer-powered model supported by targeted overnight staff
• local funding approach without state or federal dollars
• coordination with Common Table, Breadbasket, Pawnee, and coalitions
• practical needs list for snacks, breakfast items, cots, sleeping bags
• exploration of a year-round shelter model and required support
• family safety protocols and rapid partner referrals
• upcoming giving moments and small business fundraisers
Log on. And help if you can.
The website is thecenterofopehmhk.com.
You can donate through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation or our Venmo, Cash App, any PayPal, any of those things.
Our Amazon wish list is up to date.
GMCF
CFAs
We explore how relationship-based care turns clients into a community, tracing Pawnee’s seventy years of service, quality improvements, and growth across ten counties. We share events for the “New Day at Pawnee” campaign, Kansas’ rising mental health rankings, and a fundraiser that fuels care.
• what makes Pawnee’s model relational and consistent
• personal testimony on therapy and lasting support
• “A New Day at Pawnee” events and purpose
• regional reach across 17 locations in 10 counties
• Kansas’ rise in Mental Health America rankings
• ongoing challenges with stigma and the workforce
• training focus for qualified mental health professionals
• Pancakes for Pawnee details, sponsors and ways to help
Join us for Pancakes for Pawnee on February 17 at Early Edition West, 3210 Kimball Ave. For $9, enjoy pancakes and sausage, delivered or picked up.
GMCF
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We share how Light MHK removes barriers to mental health care with grants for direct treatment, provider innovation, and awareness, and we invite the community to The Light Within masquerade to fund this work. Stories, specifics, and a clear call to action replace stigma with access and connection.
• purpose of Light MHK and the regions we serve
• three grant types and how they work
• examples including pediatric resources for timely support
• why stigma reduction matters and how we speak openly
• details for The Light Within masquerade fundraiser
• ticket options, auctions, raffle, and dress code
• meaning of LIGHT MHK and our statewide vision
• board leadership and community partnerships
Visit lightmhk.com, scroll to The Light Within, and get your tickets
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We share a full slate of new and returning events that fund mentorships across Riley County while laying out simple ways to become a Big. Our focus is on shortening the waitlist, growing male mentors, and sustaining longer, stronger matches.
• Bowl for Kids’ Sake details and $20,000 goal
• Women’s Drives for Dreams golf tournament launch
• Fairways for Futures open luau-themed golf event
• Studio 54 Manhattan gala planning and timing
• 75 new matches target in Riley County
• Persistent waitlist and the need for male mentors
• School-based lunch mentoring and community-based options
• Step-by-step path to become a Big at kansasbigs.org
• Match length growth from 13 to 33 months
• Grow Green Match Day impact and date
Put that on your calendar for April 22
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We sit down with Micah Carl to unpack how Kansas Infant and Toddler Services delivers free, no-waitlist early intervention that meets families in their daily routines. Micah explains eligibility, play-based evaluation, and how family-guided goals turn small moments into big gains.
• Statewide early intervention for birth to three
• Free services with no waitlist and flexible insurance
• Eligibility via delay, risk factors, or professional judgment
• In-home, routine-based coaching across daily settings
• Family-guided goals that fit real priorities
• Micro practice over marathon sessions for toddlers
• Simple referral paths without a doctor’s order
• Structured transition to preschool special education
Visit our website at infant-tawdler.org, and we’d love to have more referrals
GMCF
CFAs
We share how Prairie Paws turned Manhattan’s shelter into a welcoming, high-performing no-kill operation, growing regional coverage while managing capacity with care. Contracts, smarter intakes, and targeted upgrades help us save more animals without sacrificing standards.
• nonprofit management replacing city operation
• 95–96% live release with complex intakes
• true capacity as staffing and time, not cages
• managed intakes and prevention support
• expanded contracts across Riley and Pottawatomie
• kennel upgrades boosting annual dog saves
• donations funding medical cases beyond contracts
• holiday adoption guidance and readiness checks
• hours, website, and spring gala details
We have a fundraising gala coming up in April at Colbert Hills—tickets and sponsorships available at prairiepaws.org
GMCF
CFAs
We explore how the Center of Hope warming shelter keeps people safe, fed, and connected during winter nights while partnering across the city to build a path from crisis to stability. Stories of medical emergencies averted, and job-and-housing wins reveal the power of trust at night.
• what the warming shelter offers overnight
• collaboration with local agencies for wraparound care
• founding story and purpose rooted in compassion
• myths about homelessness and employment challenged
• life-saving interventions and guest success stories
• new location at 901 Yuma Street with larger capacity
• immediate needs for cots, mattress protectors, and snacks
• Christmas breakfast buffet and gift plans
• volunteer roles for opening, closing, and overnight support
You can find more about them on their website, www.thecenterofopemhk.com
GMCF
CFAs
Karla Johnson shares how bell ringing, tap-to-pay kettles, and local partnerships fund year-round aid for families, students, and veterans in Riley, Geary, and Pottawatomie counties. We explore clear ways to volunteer, where the money goes, and why simple systems unlock big impact.
• Online auctions expanding into services
• Texas Roadhouse appetizer cards are driving donations
• Tap to pay kettles solving no-cash barrier
• Volunteer sign-up via registertoring.com with two-hour slots
• Eight local kettle sites plus new towns added
• Practical bell ringing tips and music etiquette
• Emergency aid for students with rent and utilities
• Help with car tags and taxes to keep jobs
• Prescription support through local pharmacy
• Veterans benefits navigation and claims support
• Clothing closet open, thrift store closed
• Angel Tree gifts due by the 18th or 21st
Please make sure you get those gifts to the store
GMCF
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We talk with Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas about serving 31 counties with rent help, food boxes, hygiene kits, and rural outreach that removes barriers and restores dignity. Partnerships, volunteers, and donors help the team expand space, respond to SNAP shifts, and make sure no one feels alone during the holidays.
• Serving 31 counties across north central and northwest Kansas
• Everyone is welcome regardless of faith or background
• Preventing eviction with rent and utility support
• Food boxes, diapers, and hygiene kits to stretch budgets
• Collaboration with Salvation Army, Shepherd’s Crossing, and Breadbasket
• Monthly outreach to 29 rural communities to reduce access barriers
• Responding to SNAP changes with flexible, donor-funded aid
• Expansion plans in Manhattan and potential sites in Concordia and Colby
• Twenty staff and 50–60 volunteers powering thrift, logistics, and distributions
• A holiday wish that no one feels alone and everyone feels seen
GMCF
CFAs
We spotlight KCCTO, a statewide Kansas initiative that delivers clock‑hour training, mental health support, and career pathways for early childhood professionals. Bronwyn Fees shares how a 65‑member team serves all 105 counties with online, virtual, and in‑person learning plus one‑to‑one career navigation.
• KCCTO’s mission and land‑grant roots
• Non‑credit clock‑hour training for licensing
• Scale of service across all 105 counties
• Director of groups and community conversations
• Mental health cohorts to reduce isolation
• Turnover drivers and workforce retention
• Statewide career pathway with stair‑step progression
• Career navigators for personalized guidance
• Simple access via phone and kccto.org
• Hub at Kansas State University with remote staff
Certainly, encourage our listeners to contact KCCTO if they have any other questions about getting into early childhood care and education or furthering their professional development
GMCF
CFAs
We follow a leader who connects counties, sectors, and people to turn local needs into regional action. From childcare capacity to urban renewal and Fort Riley immersion, the program shows how networks and context create durable change.
• origins and scope of the regional leadership program
• associate counties and why the bylaws matter
• Fort Riley immersion and workforce context
• alumni impact on childcare and civic boards
• Discovery Center as anchor for Third Street growth
• recruitment dates, eligibility, and application format
• how regional networks amplify local ideas
Applications run May 15 to July 15 at FHRL.org. Check dates, see alumni photos, and apply online. Follow us on Facebook for session photos, livestreams of class announcements, and graduation.
GMCF
CFAs
We highlight how Manhattan Kiwanis turns pancakes, paint, and planning into visible community impact, from the Blue Mont Hill overlook to scholarships and a revived kids’ parade. Victor Steiner and Kent Foster share details on fundraising, accessibility, and inviting new members to carry the work forward.
• 74-year pancake feed at Pottorf Hall, December 13, 7–1
• Funds maintenance for the hillside letters and the accessible overlook
• Scholarships, including Senior Honors recognition and drawing
• Harold Bailey 4-H scholarship and K-family scholarship
• Key Club and Circle K support across high school and college
• Plan to revive a patriotic kids’ parade for 2026
• Proposed picnic shelter delayed due to higher costs
• Collaboration with Solar Kiwanis to share manpower
• Membership drive to bring in younger volunteers
13th for the for the pancake feed of Pottorf Hall. And I'll have membership applications available that day.
GMCF
CFAs
We sit down with new CEO Liz Holle to map how Big Lakes supports 175 adults with disabilities across four counties, where Medicaid ends, and community giving begins, and how smart tech expands independence without losing human touch. From vans to accessible bathrooms to a gingerbread-themed client party, we share how donors turn essentials into everyday dignity and joy.
• New leadership continuity and mission focus
• Medicaid funding limits and budget realities
• Annual giving campaign Big Improvement priorities
• Statewide and internal waitlists and staffing constraints
• Grow Green Match Day impact on vehicles and access
• Community life through trips, errands, and events
• Remote supports and safety technology adoption
• Raise The Roof results and next facility upgrades
GMCF
CFAs
We talk with Flint Hills Breadbasket’s Carla Hegemeister about the Thanksgiving surge, the shockwaves from SNAP uncertainty, and how a bigger space and tight partnerships kept up with record demand. We share details on the community meal, holiday hours, and simple ways to help.
• Thanksgiving as peak season for donations, volunteers, and holiday meal support
• Holiday week schedule, turkey pickup times, and office-only days
• Community Thanksgiving meal hours, location, and inclusive purpose
• Volunteer capacity filled early, ongoing needs beyond the holiday
• New facility enabling higher throughput and safer distribution
• SNAP shocks and shutdown uncertainty driving mid to high 800s weekly families
• Rising demand among military and furloughed federal workers
• Forthcoming SNAP administration changes and state cost burdens
• HUD shifts likely to tighten rent support and raise risk of food insecurity
• Nonprofits coordinating to avoid tunnel vision and share resources
• Christmas focused on stability, not extra meat distributions
• Lighted parade as a food and funds driver
• Clear ways to help through drives, volunteering, and donations
FlintHillsBreadbasket.org is where you can find out more information
You can always find out more about the work of the foundation on our website at mcfks.org
GMCF
CFAs
We share how the Sunflower Children’s Collective supports kids facing trauma, instability, and court involvement across Riley, Geary, and Pottawatomie counties, and why healing requires steady relationships and time. With grant dollars shrinking, we introduce Champions of Hope, a two-week, captain-led fundraising push that turns creative micro-events into counseling and advocacy.
• mission and role of the Sunflower Children’s Collective
• scale of need across the region serving 500+ children
• impacts of instability on learning, trust and development
• trauma-informed counseling for PTSD, anxiety and attachment
• partnership with Andrews and Associates for on-site care
• funding gaps from lost grants and planning ahead
• Champions of Hope two-week fundraising window
• examples of easy-to-host, high-impact events
• how neighbors can spot concerns and call for guidance
• misconceptions about quick fixes and timelines for healing
Champions Of Hope: Become A Captain Or Start A Team Between February 14–28. Call 785-205-2970. Celebration On March 12 At The K-State Alumni Center. More Info At Sunflower Children’s Collective.com
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We highlight two local efforts that support people through the toughest seasons: a no-barrier warming shelter that keeps neighbors safe overnight and a memorial tradition that helps families grieve together during the holidays. Practical needs are met with tender rituals, and both rely on volunteers and clear information.
• Center of Hope’s nightly drop-in warming shelter hours and services
• Volunteer shifts that cover overnight windows and keep doors open
• Location update at the Douglas Center School Annex
• Immediate needs including water, coffee, hygiene and sanitation items
• Good Shepherd’s Light of Life Memorial ornaments and dedication ceremony
• Reading of names and community remembrance across years of loss
• Year-round donations supporting nonprofit hospice and home health care
• Clearing up hospice myths and explaining access and coverage
• Holidays at the hospice house with meals, decor and family comfort
• We Honor Veterans pinning ceremonies and their meaning
• GMCF’s support role and links to resources
You can always find out more about the work that we do at the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation on our website, mcfks.org
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We trace the rebirth of a historic downtown theater into Wareham Hall, a flexible, high-tech home for performance, learning, and community. Blade Mages lays out the $40M plan, the acoustic and rigging innovations, and how donors and partners make the vision real.
• renaming the opera house to a community hall
• origins of the project and early ambitions
• fundraising strategy and historic tax credits
• cost drivers, square footage, and value
• fully motorized rigging and show control
• adjustable room acoustics for amplified and acoustic shows
• object-oriented mixing and spatial sound
• construction timeline and the marquee coming down
• nonprofit governance and broad donor base
• limited public funds and streetscape changes
• community impact and vision for 2027
Follow us online, Facebook or Instagram. We will be putting updates up just about every day
Wearhamhall.org has a lot of detailed information where you can find out more about that effort
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We mark Veterans Day with a clear plan to support Fort Riley families and open the doors of Operation Santa Claus. Phil and Colin share how volunteers, donors, and soldiers create a seamless holiday experience built on dignity, choice, and community.
• Veterans Day breakfast, parade, and ceremony details
• Armed Forces Community Foundation Match Day and giving options
• Fort Riley’s economic footprint and why need is rising
• Operation Santa Claus mission and eligibility at E5 and below
• What each child receives: toys, book, stocking, game
• Role of volunteers: fundraising, decorating, wrapping, guiding parents
• New toy policy and reasons for quality control
• Drop-off times, unofficial photo day, official opening date
• Where to find updates: website first, Facebook limited
• Parade logistics, reviewing stand location, on-site donations
See you tomorrow at match day for the Armed Forces Community Foundation, which you'll be positioned right out front.
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We bring Veterans Day into sharp focus by showing how local giving meets real military needs through the Armed Forces Community Foundation. Kevin West walks us through 31 partner groups, the dollar-for-dollar Veterans Day Match, and the simple ways to donate online or in person.
• What the AFCF does and how it partners locally
• Operation Santa Claus support for junior enlisted families
• Central Kansas Military Community Foundation emergency aid
• Flint Hills Veterans Coalition parade and ceremony role
• Wamego Honor Flight impact and recent trip
• Society of the First Infantry Division scholarships and gift cards
• Why the Veterans Day Match doubles impact up to $100,000
• Where to donate in person during the parade
• How to give online via standtomatchday.com and QR codes
“Standtomatchday.com. That is standtomatchday.com.”
“Also the website is armedforcescf.org.”
“We will be set up in person down by City Hall in conjunction with the Veterans Day Parade.”
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Dave and Vern share a tribute to C Clyde Jones, reflecting on his century of service, his love for Manhattan, Kansas, and the values he taught by example. From endowments to focus, his voice offers a clear path for nonprofits and young leaders who want to make change that lasts.
• Quiet service over recognition
• Endowment building as core community infrastructure
• Practical advice for young professionals on choosing causes
• Focused missions over scattered initiatives
• Love of place and the case for Manhattan
• K-State ties and civic milestones
• Gratitude, remembrance, and funeral details
Funeral services are scheduled for November 15th at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church. Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home is handling arrangements; updates on their website and on KMAN’s site.
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We celebrate Manhattan’s Veterans Day with the biggest parade in Kansas, a salute to the National Guard and Reserve, and a free, accessible ceremony that welcomes everyone in person and online. From breakfast at the American Legion to mall exhibits and mounted color guard, the day blends pageantry with purpose.
• Parade details and route from mall to City Hall
• Focus on honoring National Guard and Reserve
• Free veteran breakfast hosted by Knights of Columbus
• Ceremony at 11 a.m. with senior Guard leader speaking
• Broadcast on KMAN, Facebook Live, and Cox Channel 3
• Mall exhibits with artifacts and local veterans’ stories
• Volunteers from E-9 Association and K-State historians
• Flags and dog tags for attendees and care facilities
• How to register, join meetings, and get involved
Our next meeting is going to be October 28th at 10 a.m., the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce
You can RSVP at chamber at manhattan.org
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We share how UFM opens doors for everyone to learn and teach, from health and wellness to AI, cooking, DIY, and veteran support. We highlight a leadership lecture that turns ideas into action and preview expansion into neighboring Kansas counties.
• UFM’s mission as an open community learning hub
• New health and wellness classes including Pilates and glucose stability
• Practical AI with ChatGPT prompting and automation
• Cooking and DIY offerings like Korean cuisine, sushi, and electrical basics
• Returning favorites including DnD, youth tennis, and piano by ear
• Veteran wellness program with $200 scholarship eligibility
• How to find the catalog, podcast, and sign-up info at tryufm.org
• Lou Douglas Lecture with Dr Kay Monk Morgan on leadership as action
• 2026 expansion through K-State Extension to nearby counties
• Invitation to teach, volunteer, or submit class ideas
Tryufm.org. Visit the website to explore fall classes and sign up
Email infotryufm.org to propose a class for Spring 2026
Tune in to our podcast on 91.9 at noon on Fridays
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We celebrate 20 years of Manhattan Free Clinic. Rick Hernandez joins us to reflect on milestones and momentum: a second clinic site inside the Flint Hills Community Accelerator, targeted grants that equipped modern exam rooms, and interactive patient education that sends videos and guides straight to your inbox. We talk about what it means to care for neighbors in a system defined by high deductibles and shifting coverage, and why preparing for newly uninsured patients is a responsibility the clinic won’t ignore. You’ll hear how a big band concert—the Thundering Cats—turns holiday music into direct support for the Manhattan Free Clinic and Shepherd’s Crossing, proving that community culture can move the needle on healthcare access.
We also step inside the accelerator’s unique model: childcare incubation, workforce placement, education, and medical services under one secure roof. That design tackles the real drivers of health, time, stability, and knowledge so that parents can work, patients can learn, and care teams can coordinate. Along the way, we honor Jim Reed, whose fingerprints are on so many of these efforts, and preview a private anniversary gathering with local leaders, with plans to share the recording online so everyone can take part.
Join us for a grounded look at how technology, partnerships, and purpose can reshape local healthcare. If this story resonates, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review telling us what would make care truly accessible in your community.
• the clinic’s 20-year history and mission
• the impact of retired physicians and volunteers
• Jim Reed’s role in founding local nonprofits
• Thundering Cats concert support for care
• technology that improves patient education
• expansion into the community accelerator
• challenges of insurance and high deductibles
• a vision for broader health coverage
• details on the anniversary gathering
• how to tour the accelerator and find resources
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We sat down with Central Kansas Military Community Foundation director Ruth Dupree to unpack how a 2004 grassroots effort grew into a fast, reliable safety net. Ruth shares moving stories, a temporary fence so an autistic child can play safely, emergency help for a new arrival who received no pay due to a system error, and support for parents making repeated medical trips when the Ronald McDonald House is full. The pattern is clear: quick relief, simple process, and deep respect for the realities of military life. With most grants between $500 and $1,000, impact comes from speed and precision, closing the gap exactly where benefits and insurance stop.
CKMCF runs with no paid staff and a volunteer board, so donations go straight to the point of need. We dig into how leadership at Fort Riley streamlines referrals, why a one-page form and supervisor sign-off keep cases moving in 24–48 hours, and how community support from Match Day to a long-running pewter ornament series keeps the mission funded. Ruth’s own military family roots underscore the foundation’s empathy for families facing deployments, holidays apart, and sudden expenses that can upend a tight budget.
If you or someone you know needs help, start with your first-line supervisor to connect with CKMCF quickly. To support the mission, share this episode, donate during Match Day, or spread the word about the ornament fundraiser. Subscribe for more stories of practical generosity, leave a review to boost our reach, and tell us: which moment moved you most? Ruth explains simple steps to request aid, real stories of impact, and how community donations fuel rapid help.
• Purpose of CKMCF and who it serves
• Examples of small grants solving urgent problems
• Process for applying through a first-line supervisor
• Typical needs during pay glitches, moves, and medical travel
• Volunteer-led structure and donation-based funding
• Pewter ornament fundraiser and Match Day support
• Support for families during deployments and holidays
• Where to connect on Facebook as CKMCF
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We share how Wonder Workshop is growing after a whirlwind summer, honoring Richard Pitts’ legacy while launching new programs, exhibits, and a reimagined Soul Food Dinner. We talk candidly about needs—supplies, volunteers, and funding—and how small actions keep the doors open.
• Remembering Richard Pitts and the roots of Wonder Workshop
• The giant blue chair as a beacon for new visitors
• Weekly preschool sessions with tripled attendance
• Rotating afterschool programs and Discovery Days
• Teen mentors supporting younger kids
• Soul Food Dinner moving to spring as an outdoor picnic
• Practical needs including supplies, volunteers, and donations
• Funding mix from grants, Grow Green Match Day, and sponsors
• New Evergy-funded energy exhibits and opening plans
• Address and visit details for first-time guests
Grow Green is a great opportunity. But if people are wanting to make year-in donations, there's a link on our website to do so.
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We share how our 360 Life Center model turns a former store into a hub for emergency aid, street outreach, free clothing, meals, and community gatherings. We ask listeners to help us hit a modest auction goal that keeps rent, utilities, food, and medication assistance local.
• what a 360 life center is and why it differs from big-city salvation armies
• renovations that enable meals, more freezer space, and a larger case manager office
• free clothing closet, no-cook food, tents and sleeping bags for street outreach
• specific donation needs including brand-new underwear, baby clothes, men’s workwear, and winter coats
• Fork It Over online auction details and featured local restaurant items
• how every dollar stays local across Manhattan, Junction City, and parts of Wamego
• partnerships with Shepherd’s Crossing and Catholic Charities to close rent and utility gaps
• Angel Tree sign-ups and Junction City service coordination
• bell ringing timeline, volunteer needs, and how to get involved
• hours, address on Points Avenue, and direct phone number for the director
32auctions.com/360Life2025 — Help us reach $800 today
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We talk with Leslie White, director of the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation, about how Bison, Beef & Bourbon funds exhibits, programs, and a new outdoor classroom to serve learners year-round. We clarify the roles of foundations vs. cities, share event details, and explain how to bid or donate even if you can’t attend.
• Difference between the Discovery Center and the 501(c)(3) foundation
• What past Bison, Beef & Bourbon proceeds funded
• Why the outdoor classroom matters and phase one timeline
• event date, time, venue, distilleries, food, cigar demo
• ticket options, tables, and online purchase links
• remote bidding for the silent auction and close time
• Kansas Community Tax Credits for $250+ gifts
• region-wide mission across the Flint Hills
• Leslie’s favorite space and what it means for kids
• how to attend, reserve a table, or donate
Gather your friends, reserve a table, and get your tickets at flinthillsdiscovery.org or the Foundation’s Facebook page. If you can’t attend, register for the auction only, bid online, or donate $250+ to leverage Kansas Community Tax Credits. Please call the Foundation with any questions.
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We share what the Crisis Center does each day to keep survivors safe—from 24/7 advocacy to a confidential shelter now delivering roughly 9,300 bed nights a year—and why outreach, staffing, and community support are crucial. We also unveil the Clothesline Project at Manhattan Town Center and invite help for the holidays through gifts, volunteers, and essentials.
• what our safe shelter and advocacy services include
• the rise from 2,500 to about 9,300 bed nights
• police co-response and why immediate advocacy matters
• barriers survivors face and how outreach meets them
• Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the Clothesline Project
• holiday needs for families in shelter and in the community
• how to help through gifts, volunteering, and essentials
• funding reality across grants, donations, and year-end giving
Please come to the Clothesline Project opening reception Monday, October 20, 5:30–7:30 p.m., at Manhattan Town Center; display runs October 20–24. Visit www.thecriscenterinc.org to volunteer, view in-kind needs, and join our Christmas bureau; our year-end mailing is the one time we ask the community to give if they can.
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Rich Jankovich, president of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Fort Riley-Central Kansas Chapter, discusses the organization's mission and Fort Riley's significant economic impact on the Manhattan area. Despite being less visible than Kansas State University, Fort Riley contributes approximately $4 billion annually to the local economy, representing about 47% of the region's total economic benefit compared to K-State's 23-25%.
• AUSA serves as "the voice of the Army," supporting active duty, Reserve, National Guard, veterans, and military families
• The Fort Riley-Central Kansas Chapter benefits from unique partnerships with both the Manhattan and Junction City Chambers of Commerce
• AUSA membership is open to everyone regardless of military service background
• Fort Riley houses approximately 40,000-45,000 people, with many military families choosing to stay in the community during deployments
• Black Tie Tactical, AUSA's signature program, provides formal wear, transition clothing, and professional development seminars for military spouses
• Upcoming Chipotle fundraiser on October 8th from 5-9 PM will donate 25% of proceeds when customers mention AUSA
• The AUSA National Convention happens October 11-13 in Washington, DC
• Membership options include free two-year memberships or paid memberships currently at half-price for the Army's 250th birthday
For those interested in getting involved, email prezfortriley@ausa.org or visit ausa.org to join.
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We spotlight two extraordinary local philanthropic organizations - Fairy Godmothers and Guardians - that provide critical support to Manhattan residents in need through emergency grants and educational funding.
• Fairy Godmothers, founded in 2006 as "Women Helping Women," has grown to 700 members and distributes over $60,000 annually
• Members contribute $100 for a lifetime membership with funds managed through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation
• The organization primarily assists with emergency needs like auto repairs and dental work that other programs don't cover
• Their newer "Hand-Up Grant" program provides educational funding, with over $20,000 distributed this year for CNA/LPN training
• Guardians, the male counterpart established seven years later, helps men reintegrate into the community
• Both organizations maintain partnerships with local businesses that provide services at cost to maximize impact
• The 19th Annual Fairy Godmothers and Guardians Charity Golf Tournament on October 6th is their major fundraising event
• Community First National Bank has been the presenting sponsor for 13-14 years
• Those interested in joining can visit fgfund.org (Fairy Godmothers) or gafund.org (Guardians)
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Mike Rezkalla, CEO of Pawnee Mental Health, shares how the organization serves 185,000 people across 10 Kansas counties with integrated mental health services. September marks both National Suicide Prevention Month and Recovery Awareness Month, highlighting the critical work being done to address the 49,000 annual lives lost to suicide - one every 11 minutes.
• Pawnee offers comprehensive services under one roof including recovery services, outpatient therapy, crisis services, psychiatry, and care management
• Manhattan community shows exceptional commitment to mental health through county proclamations and support
• "Inspiring Hope Dinner and Auction" fundraiser set for October 2nd at K-State Alumni Center with tickets at $75 per person
• Funds will support new primary care services at the Claflin clinic, integrating physical and mental healthcare
• Integrated care model has shown 19% reduction in hospital admission rates
• People with mental illness often die decades too soon due to lack of physical healthcare access
• Pawnee serves everyone regardless of ability to pay or established client status
Visit pawneeorg to learn more about the Inspiring Hope Dinner and Auction and Pawnee's services.
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Scott Voos of Be Able shares how his organization provides support, resources, and community to Manhattan residents facing personal challenges. Neighbor Kia courageously tells her powerful journey from addiction to recovery, crediting Be Able with providing the consistent support that changed her life.
• Be Able is celebrating five years of serving the Manhattan community
• The Upside Down Auction fundraiser on September 25th sells opportunities to give hope rather than selling items
• Free tickets available at beablecommunity.com for the event at St. Thomas More Church
• Kia, a veteran and mother of three, found support at Be Able after struggling with addiction
• Be Able provided practical help (furniture, clothing) and emotional support when Kia needed it most
• The organization offers workshops, support groups, and a welcoming environment with "coffee, a smile, and maybe some donuts"
• Kia is now employed full-time and working toward her goal of entering ministry
• Be Able fills a crucial gap as a community center where everyone is welcome, regardless of circumstances
Support Be Able by attending the Upside Down Auction on September 25th at 6pm at St. Thomas More Church. Register for free tickets at beablecommunity.com.
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Brady Armstrong, Chief Development Officer of the Boys and Girls Club of Manhattan, discusses how federal funding challenges have impacted their services and the innovative ways they're responding to ensure no child is turned away.
• Over 600 kids walk through their doors daily across 13 locations
• Recent funding freeze forced them to cut enrollment by half, creating waitlists and impacting parents' ability to work
• Community response has been strong, with parents advocating to representatives
• Their "Manhattan Needs Club Kids" campaign highlights how club kids become valuable community assets
• Early Learning Center serves children as young as six weeks, with a capacity for 120 kids
• "Up Next" program placed 14 high school students in internships throughout Manhattan
• Mini Golf Classic fundraiser scheduled for September 28th at Wildcat Fitness and Fun
• Annual Casino Night fundraiser set for April 10th at the Alumni Center
• Youth of the Year program showcases success stories, including past winners now graduating from Yale
• Volunteer opportunities available for those wanting to support beyond financial contributions
We invite you to see what we do firsthand. Reach out to schedule a tour of our Early Learning Center, elementary sites, or teen center to witness the impact your support can make.
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Fort Riley's annual Apple Days Festival returns October 18th at the artillery parade field, featuring 800 apple pies made from Libby Custer's historic recipe. Two newly crowned Pie Queens, Christy and Kelly, will oversee pie production and represent the festival in period-appropriate dresses and royal regalia.
• Apple Days combines military displays with homemade pie and ice cream for the community
• Pies follow Libby Custer's original recipe with minor modern modifications for food safety
• 600 pies available for pre-order at $20 each, with 200 fresh pies reserved for the festival
• "Pies for Soldiers" program allows people to donate pies to military units for holiday meals
• Volunteers needed both for pie-making and festival day (bakers must complete online food handler certification)
• Junction City High School culinary classes and JROTC students partnering to support the event
• Pre-order information available through the Friends of Fort Riley Museums website and social media www.fortrileymuseums.org
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Lori Bishop from the Flint Hills Volunteer Center and board member Ronnie Grice are discussing their upcoming 9/11 Family Event and Picnic on September 7th at Pottorf Hall.
• Annual event honors the memory of 9/11 through community service projects
• 400 pairs of athletic shoes will be distributed to children in grades K-5
• First responders will personally fit children with their new shoes
• Emergency vehicles will be on display for children to explore
• Activities include commemorative rock hunt, tattoos, and coloring pages
• Barbecue provided by Riley County Police Department
• Event creates opportunity for younger generations to learn about 9/11
• First responders share personal memories of where they were on September 11, 2001
• Event runs from 3-6 pm at Pottorf Hall and the surrounding areas
Join us Sunday, September 7th, at Pottorf Hall from 3-6 pm for this meaningful community event that honors our heroes while serving local families.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters prepares for their fifth annual Manhattan fundraiser, a 1950s-themed cocktail party on September 20th at the K-State Alumni Center to support their youth mentorship programs.
• One-to-one mentoring connects caring adults with youth facing adversity to build long-lasting friendships
• This year's event transforms from a bourbon tasting to a Mad Men-inspired 1950s cocktail party
• Special auction items include diamond earrings and a mystery trip to an undisclosed location
• Event features photo opportunities, cocktail contests with local bartenders, and both silent and live auctions
• Currently serving 167 matches with approximately 47 children ready to be matched and 50 more in process
• Community member volunteers tend to maintain longer relationships with their "Littles" than college students
• Time commitment is manageable—just 30 minutes weekly for school-based or 4 hours monthly for community-based mentoring
• Anyone can be a "Big"—individuals, couples, and families are all welcome to participate
• The most important qualification is simply showing up consistently for a child who needs connection
Join us September 20th at the K-State Alumni Center in your 1950s attire. Visit The Manhattan on Facebook or kansasbigs.org under community events to purchase tickets or participate in the silent auction.
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Sunflower Children's Collective operates as an umbrella organization encompassing three vital agencies serving vulnerable children: Sunflower CASA, Stepping Stones Child Advocacy Center, and Sunflower Bridge Child Exchange and Visitation Center. CASA volunteers serve as court-appointed advocates for abused and neglected children, walking alongside them through their court cases to ensure their voices are heard and needs are met.
• CASA volunteers provide crucial advocacy for children in the court system due to abuse and neglect
• New two-Saturday training format launching in October to make volunteer training more accessible
• Recently acquired a dedicated vehicle (nicknamed "CARSA") for staff to visit children placed throughout Kansas
• Successfully navigating funding challenges after temporary loss of federal expansion grant
• Implementing innovative therapy program for children with problematic sexualized behaviors, with 98% success rate
• Currently seeking gas cards or fuel donations to support their outreach vehicle
• Planning to reapply for federal funding in 2026 to continue expansion into underserved counties
We would love to have support from the community for gas money. We've created a Give Butter link on our website and in our newsletters where you can donate to help fuel our outreach vehicle.
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Meadowlark's Parkinson's Program provides free education, exercise, and support services to anyone affected by Parkinson's disease throughout the Flint Hills region. The program helps combat the depression, anxiety, and apathy often associated with Parkinson's while providing crucial exercise opportunities that are proven to slow disease progression.
• Boxing therapy shows immediate results with participants taking larger steps by mid-class
• Virtual and hybrid formats connect participants from as far as Indiana and Kansas City
• The 17th annual Speedy PD race aims to reach 1,000 participants this year
• Race features a half-mile memorial walk/run, 5K, and 10K events starting at 8:00 am
• Special recognition for VIPDs (Very Important People with Parkinson's Disease)
• Post-race celebration includes food, drinks, and activities - "a party with a purpose"
• K-State's Ireland game has sparked international connections with Dublin Parkinson's organizations
• Coach Kleiman and wife Rhonda support the program through their personal connection to Parkinson's
Register now at runspeedypd.org, in person at Meadowlark, or at the event on Saturday, August 23rd at Tuttle Creek State Park.
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Candice McIntosh and Melissa Colby share their mission at Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills, bringing joy and confidence to girls in third through eighth grade across a ten-county region. The program combines physical activity with lessons on confidence, friendship, and community engagement.
• New "Hello Bold Heart" curriculum focuses on helping girls find and use their voices
• Program teaches girls to be good teammates and friends while building individual confidence
• Expanding to new counties with Clay Center joining this season
• Volunteer coaches don't need running experience—just a desire to empower girls
• Male coaches especially welcome as positive role models
• Annual fundraiser "Sneaker Soiree" becoming a luncheon on October 16th at Manhattan Country Club
• Looking for event sponsors and auction item donations
Visit gotrflinthills.org to register a girl, become a coach, or learn more about supporting the organization. Tickets for the Sneaker Soiree Luncheon go live September 1st and typically sell out quickly.
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Kent Michael Smith, director of the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, introduces the inaugural Kansas Triennial, a new exhibition showcasing contemporary artists living and working in Kansas that will occur every three years.
• Beach Museum is the only major museum with a focus specifically on Kansas art and the region
• The Triennial emerged from Smith's desire to highlight this focus and connect with artists across Kansas
• Unlike typical exhibitions, the Triennial uses an artist-centered approach rather than starting with a predetermined theme
• Four diverse artists featured: Mona Cliff (indigenous beadwork), Mark Cowardin (sculpture/ceramics), Poppy Delta Dawn (fiber arts), and Ann Resnick (intricate paper works)
• Exhibition will run through May 31, 2026
• Kansas has a vibrant arts scene outside the pressures of major art hubs like New York and LA
• The exhibition demonstrates that Kansas art "can hold its own anywhere"
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The Rural Riley County Community Foundation unites three small towns—Keats, Leonardville, and Riley, creating meaningful community impact through local philanthropy and robust fundraising initiatives.
• Foundation manages 26 funds, with 23 participating in their upcoming Match Day
• Raised over $97,000 in their first Match Day with $23,000 in matching funds
• Community Food Basket program addresses food insecurity with a central pantry and blessing boxes throughout the region
• Board includes representatives from all three communities plus dedicated ambassadors
• Second annual Match Day scheduled for August 28-29 at Riley County High School
• Already secured $32,000 in matching funds for this year's event
• Satellite locations will be available in all three communities during Match Day
• Online donations accepted at ruralrileycountycf.org
• Support extends to churches, schools, wellness programs, and mental health services
Join us for Match Day on August 28-29 at Riley County High School or visit ruralrileycountycf.org to donate online and support our rural communities.
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Christine Benne discusses the new Gold Star Family monument being established at Victory Park on Fort Riley, honoring the 13,578 members of the First Infantry Division who made the ultimate sacrifice across multiple conflicts. This monument provides Gold Star families, those who have lost a loved one in military service, a place for reflection and remembrance.
• Gold Star Family Fund initially created to help Kansas families visit the First Infantry Division Memorial in Washington, DC
• Monument features the inscription "Their duty was to serve, Ours is to remember" with the Gold Star family seal
• Monument lists total casualties: 5,516 in WWI, 4,325 in WWII, 3,079 in Vietnam, 27 in Desert Storm, 439 in Iraq, and 192 in Afghanistan
• Unveiling ceremony scheduled for September 26th at 1:00 PM at Victory Park with Senator Marshall and General Rohn attending
• Memorial service at Kansas State Capitol in Topeka on September 25th at 10:00 AM, organized by the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs
• Support for Gold Star families available through Fort Riley's Survivor Outreach Support (SOS) program
To support the Gold Star Family Fund, visit the Armed Forces Community Foundation website at www.armedforcescf.org or contact GMCF directly through mcfks.org.
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Amy Payton shares the mission of Packages for Warriors, a nonprofit offering free shipping of medium flat-rate care packages to deployed service members through their partnership with Box and Ship in Junction City. Started as a grassroots effort after 9/11 and eventually becoming a nonprofit in 2006, the organization helps civilians support military personnel with comfort items from home.
• Service available to anyone sending packages to military members with APO/FPO addresses, regardless of branch
• Operates with zero payroll staff, functioning entirely through volunteers
• Featured on Trace Atkins' "Great American Heroes" TV show in 2012
• Each package costs approximately $20 to ship; every $1,000 donated funds 50 packages
• Participates in Combined Federal Campaign and local community foundations like the Armed Forces Community Foundation
• Hosting upcoming Pumpkin and Spice Holiday Bazaar fundraiser on October 24-25 in Salina
• To date, they have never had to turn anyone away from their services
Contact Packages for Warriors at 844-785-4404 or info@packagesforwarriors.org. Learn more at packagesforwarriors.org.
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Sheila Ellis-Glasper of Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills shares how her organization has distributed over $114,000 in grants to business owners of color and launched a groundbreaking loan fund with a 4% interest rate. She unveils plans for the Yuma Street Cultural Center, the first Kansas initiative combining African-American heritage, entrepreneurship support, and cultural preservation while revealing fascinating historical connections, including Dr. King's impromptu Yuma Street speech.
• Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills has graduated over 20 entrepreneurs through a 12-week Kauffman Foundation business training program
• The Elevate and Empower Loan Fund offers entrepreneurs up to $15,000 at just 4% interest
• Yuma Street contains rich but often overlooked history, including visits from Jackie Robinson, Joe Louis, and Lena Horne
• The Woods family (including Tiger Woods' father, Earl Woods) was among Manhattan's first African-American settlers
• The inaugural Yuma Street Cultural Festival takes place August 31st from 1-9 pm with free admission, food, dancing, and historic tours
• The $2.3 million Yuma Street Cultural Center project is planned to open by 2027 in the historic Shepherd's Chapel building
• The Center will feature event space, entrepreneurial resources, a commercial kitchen, and a rotating restaurant incubator
Learn more or contribute to these initiatives at blackflinthills.com and yumastreet.org.
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Richard Stitt shares his journey from psychiatric patient to co-founder of Morningstar, an organization that has provided invaluable support to individuals with persistent mental illness for 21 years. After finding stability with proper medication and achieving sobriety, Richard transformed his struggles into a mission that has helped countless people find purpose and community.
• Morningstar started 21 years ago after being discharged from Osawatomie Psychiatric Hospital
• Organization grew from 12 to 100 members before COVID; now serves about 60 people
• Everyone working at Morningstar has experienced mental illness, creating authentic understanding
• Services include transportation, social activities, job assistance, and therapeutic groups
• Daily schedule includes pick-up services, socialization time, and various support groups at 2 PM
• Richard hired successor Doncha McDonald after seeing "a spark in her eye."
• Now retiring at age 70 to spend time with his wife and pursue simple pleasures like fishing
• Maintained sobriety from methamphetamines for 22 years
• Proud of creating a safe environment where people can openly discuss mental health challenges
Thank you, Manhattan, for supporting Richard and Morningstar over the years. For more information about Morningstar and their work, visit MorningstarMentalHealth.org.
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Virginia Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Manhattan Area Resettlement Team (MART), shares how the organization has helped over 250 refugees establish new lives in Kansas since 2021. From airport pickups to job placement to navigating complex documentation, MART provides comprehensive support that has helped many refugees achieve self-sufficiency in just a few years.
• MART began in 2021 following the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan
• Currently serving 175 active clients with many others now self-sufficient
• Refugees come from diverse countries including Afghanistan, Congo, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Haiti
• The organization helps with housing, employment, school enrollment, and documentation
• Approximately 100 clients have been placed in jobs in Manhattan
• 70-80 active volunteers assist with various services including translation
• A single mother success story showcases how MART helped navigate childcare and employment challenges
• New fundraising campaign "Rooted in Welcome, Growing in Hope" aims to raise $165,000
• Funds will expand English language training and job readiness programs
• A matching donor will double contributions up to $50,000
Donations can be made through Venmo, the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, or at allieswelcome.com.
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Homefront Heroes is a faith-based ministry called to reach unconnected military wives by providing them with discipleship, resources, and a supportive community to help them thrive amid the unique trials they face.
• Founded in 2019 by three military wives who identified a gap in support services
• Offers multiple support channels including social media, the Hope on the Homefront podcast, and Bible study curriculum
• Provides practical support through monthly "hope boxes" containing items for military wives experiencing trials
• Partners with organizations like Full Range Foundation to offer free counseling services
• Aims to combat the 80% divorce rate among combat military marriages through faith-based support
• Recently launched "Thrive Bible Study" - a 9-month curriculum designed to guide military wives through deployments
• Working to create remote employment opportunities specifically for military wives
• Currently serving almost 20,000 military wives worldwide
• Focusing on the "unseen struggles" of military spouses including career sacrifices, isolation, and reintegration challenges
To support Homefront Heroes, you can pray for military wives, partner financially, or volunteer at events like their upcoming Fort Riley block party on August 2nd. Visit homefrontheroes.org for more information.
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Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeast Kansas provides crucial support to families whose children need medical care, functioning as a home away from home where families can stay at no cost while remaining close to their hospitalized children. Their historic house offers eight private guest bedrooms, meals, transportation, and emotional support for families during difficult times.
• Supporting primarily families with newborns in neonatal intensive care, assisting approximately 100 families annually
• Housing families for as long as needed - their longest stay last year was 150 nights
• Providing all services at absolutely no cost to families already facing medical expenses
• Hosting their biggest fundraiser, the Viva Las Vegas Gala, on August 23rd with a goal of raising $160,000
• Offering multiple ways for people to help: collecting pop tabs, linking Dillon's Plus cards, shopping their Amazon wishlist, or rounding up at McDonald's
Visit rmhcneks.org for more information about the organization or to purchase gala tickets. Sponsorships for the event range from $250 to $5,000, and they welcome auction item donations until August 1st.
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The Food and Farm Council of Riley County and City of Manhattan serves as a network hub bringing together partners to address persistent food insecurity issues, reduce food waste, and support local farms. Riley County consistently ranks among the highest counties for food insecurity nationwide, with approximately 13-14% of residents affected and 2,700 people currently receiving SNAP benefits.
• Council consists of 15 volunteers who serve three-year terms with Vicki James as coordinator
• Goals include reducing food insecurity, minimizing food waste, and supporting local farms
• Riley County has consistently held the title as one of the highest food-insecure counties nationally
• One in six children and one in seven adults in Riley County are affected by hunger
• Recent federal legislation threatens significant cuts to SNAP funding
• Many funding cuts that were strategically planned for 2026-2027, after the midterm elections
• States may need to make funding differences to maintain SNAP benefits
• "Blessing Box Stock the Box Challenge" encourages groups to stock emergency food boxes
• Participating groups receive $100 to restock boxes again
• Power Produce program at Farmers Market educates children while providing fresh food access
• Volunteer opportunities and donations accepted through nourishtogether.org
For those interested in volunteering or donating, visit the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation website or nourishtogether.org, or email rileycountyfoodandfarmcouncil.com to get connected.
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Jack Lindquist, Executive Director of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program, shares the 33-year history and impact of this regional leadership initiative. The program builds collaborative relationships across Geary, Riley, Pottawatomie, Wabaunsee, and Morris counties to foster regional problem-solving and create positive change.
• Created 33 years ago through partnership between Fort Riley, Kansas State University, and regional Chambers of Commerce
• Nearly 660 graduates have completed the program since the first class in 1993-94
• Participants develop regional networks and collaborative relationships across diverse communities
• Selection process targets emerging leaders already demonstrating leadership qualities
• Monthly sessions rotate through different communities covering topics like team building, conflict resolution, and advocacy
• Program runs September through February with graduation in Pottawatomie County this year
• Application deadline is July 20th with all materials submitted through frlp.org
• $600 tuition with scholarships available for nonprofit employees and small business owners
Applications for the upcoming class are now being accepted at frlp.org through July 20th.
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The YES Fund supports Manhattan's youth through after-school programming, creating opportunities for young people and strengthening the community since its founding in 1993 following devastating floods.
• YES Fund originated when community leaders recognized that youth lacked meaningful after-school activities
• Annual campaign generates approximately $300,000 for youth programs across Manhattan
• Supports diverse organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club, the Manhattan Arts Center, and sports programs
• K-State education students volunteer with funded organizations, creating a university-community partnership
• Originally housed at the Manhattan Mercury through connections with the McCormick Foundation
• Now operates through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, with major donors providing matching funds
• Campaign runs publicly from July through the first Sunday in September
• Organizations rely on YES Funding as part of their annual budgets for sustainability
Support the YES Fund campaign starting July 7th through the first Sunday in September to help strengthen our community by providing engaging activities for Manhattan's youth.
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Karla Hagemeister of the Flint Hills Breadbasket shares remarkable statistics about their new facility and the rising need for food support in Manhattan. After moving to a larger location in May, they're now serving record numbers. With over 2,000 family visits in June alone, Karla reflects on both the community's generosity and growing economic challenges.
• The Breadbasket moved to a new, larger facility in late April, beginning operations May 8th
• Weekly visits have increased dramatically, with 601 families served in a single week
• Monthly household visits rose from 795 in April to 897 in June
• High housing costs and service industry jobs contribute to food insecurity in Manhattan
• Summer brings increased demand as children are home, while donations typically decrease
• SNAP benefits provide nine meals for every meal a food bank can provide
• A family of eight saved $1,000 in grocery costs in one month through Breadbasket support
• The organization welcomes K-State student interns who gain valuable nonprofit experience
• Volunteers are always needed to meet the growing demand
If you'd like to support the Flint Hills Breadbasket's efforts to combat hunger in our community, please consider volunteering your time or making a food or financial donation. Every contribution helps us serve our neighbors in need.
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The Salvation Army's 360 Life Center in Manhattan, Kansas, represents a groundbreaking approach to community service as the first rural pilot program of its kind in the United States. Director Susan Evans and volunteer Carla Johnson share how they've expanded from helping 25-30 people monthly to over 1,000 by identifying and filling service gaps through collaborative partnerships.
• The 360 Life Center approach allows flexibility to address any area of need without time limits
• Operation Street Outreach helps those living on the streets with immediate necessities and connections to services
• Center works collaboratively with numerous local organizations to avoid service duplication
• Special focus on helping those who fall between the cracks of traditional assistance programs
• Transformed froma traditional thrift store to providing free donations to those in need
• Created an outdoor garden and hydration station accessible 24/7 during extreme weather
• Specific support for women, families, and individuals with criminal or addiction histories
• Veteran support services, particularly for women veterans
If you'd like to help, the Salvation Army currently needs water, Gatorade, tents, sleeping bags, and blankets. Drop off Tuesday-Friday 10-3 or Saturday 3-10 pm at 310 Poyntz, or call for pickup arrangements.
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The Art Press Fund is transforming Manhattan's cultural landscape by bringing diverse events to the community while renovating a historic Art Deco building into a 400-person indoor venue to complement their successful outdoor space.
• Eric Kleiner, musician with Headlight Rivals, leads the organization alongside Derek Richards and his sister
• The fund's three main goals include providing affordable/free entertainment for all ages, bringing diverse music genres to Manhattan, and creating year-round entertainment options
• The historic Ag Press building renovation will create a 400-person indoor venue expected to open in early 2025
• Arts in the Park concert series, now in its third year under Art Press management, continues a 50-year tradition of free community concerts
• The venue will host more than concerts, including art showings, speakers, and community meetings
• The organization seeks community support to continue growing its cultural offerings
• People can find information about upcoming events and support opportunities via "The Press" on social media platforms and the Art Press District website
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Rich Jankovich, Chapter President of the Fort Riley-Central Kansas AUSA chapter, explains the organization's mission to serve America's Army, veterans, National Guard, Reserves, and their families through education, professional development, and advocacy.
• AUSA's Fort Riley-Central Kansas chapter covers from east of Topeka to the western Kansas border, making it one of the largest chapters geographically
• The organization works alongside the Military Relations Committee and Military Affairs Committee to connect military and civilian communities
• AUSA has collaborated with General Perry Wiggins to implement reciprocal licensing laws for military spouses in professions like nursing and teaching
• Membership is open to everyone, not just those with military backgrounds
• The Army is celebrating its 250th birthday while AUSA marks its 75th anniversary with special half-price membership options
• Gary Sinise recently performed at Fort Riley with the Lieutenant Dan Band and spoke about the importance of simply "showing up" for military members
• Jankovich, though not a veteran himself, is driven by understanding the unique challenges military families face compared to civilian families
To learn more about AUSA or become a member, visit ausa.org, contact Rich Jankovich at rbjankovich@gmail.com, or reach out through the Manhattan or Junction City chambers.
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Michael Stubbs, president of Mount Mitchell Prairie Guards, shares the inspiring 20-year journey of preserving a historically and ecologically significant 165-acre park. From rescuing the land from potential development to creating accessible trails where visitors can experience wagon ruts from the 1840s and diverse prairie ecosystems, this volunteer-led effort showcases grassroots conservation at its finest.
• Original 30-acre site commemorated the Beecher Bible and Rifle Colony and contained historic trail ruts, Underground Railroad connections, and Native American sacred sites
• Prairie Guards formed in 2005 when the state planned to return the undeveloped parkland to private ownership
• Volunteers purchased adjacent properties, eventually expanding to 165 acres when development threatened in 2019
• New improvements include an access road, ADA-compliant trails, water, power, and a specially designed parking area for all visitors
• The site serves as an educational resource for schools, libraries, and athletes while preserving one of Kansas' most diverse tallgrass prairie remnants
• Mount Mitchell Prairie Guards operates entirely with volunteers and no paid staff
• The name "Prairie Guards" connects to the original militia formed by Connecticut abolitionists who settled the area in 1856
• The original Mitchell farmstead, once an Underground Railroad station, will be open for tours during the 20th anniversary celebration
For more information about visiting Mount Mitchell Prairie, located at the junction of K-18 and Highway 99 (approximately 15 miles from Manhattan or 3 miles south of the Wamego bridge), join us for the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday.
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Manhattan Area Technical College has transformed from a vocational technical school into an enterprise center for workforce training, offering both traditional college pathways and flexible skills-based education through their Tech Plus program. The college boasts an impressive 98-99% job placement rate with graduates earning $50-70K+ right out of school, demonstrating the critical need for technical education in today's workforce landscape.
• Tech Plus program offers individual-facing, skills-based education without traditional college enrollment
• Easy online enrollment system makes signing up for classes as simple as shopping on Amazon
• 86% of graduates stay in the Manhattan area, creating significant local economic impact
• Regional Testing Center features eight national accreditations, attracting students from across the Midwest
• Nursing initiative has expanded to address critical healthcare workforce shortages
• AI cannot replace hands-on technical skills but creates new opportunities for technically skilled workers
• MATC proactively works with businesses to identify and address workforce skills gaps
Visit manhattantech.edu/techplus to explore our skills-based education options and enroll in courses today.
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Kitty Pursley joins us to discuss the third annual Little Apple Splash, the world's premier canine aquatics competition coming to Blue Earth Plaza this weekend, featuring dogs jumping from a dock into a pool competing in three disciplines.
• Manhattan hosts the national competition as a qualifier for the world championship in Dubuque, Iowa
• Competition includes big air (long jump), extreme vertical (high jump), and speed retrieve
• 295 entries will transform Blue Earth Plaza into "Dog Town" with competitors from across the country
• Free admission for spectators with events Friday (11am-6pm), Saturday and Sunday (9am-4pm)
• Various vendors include banks, K-State Vet Hospital, dog-related businesses, and food from Aggieville Brewing
• Special "Frankly Unacceptable" beer created for the event with $1 from each going to Bark Foundation
• Hy-Vee partnership creates "grab bags" for Prairie Paws Animal Shelter that shoppers can purchase and donate
• Launch party Thursday at 6pm at Aggieville Brewing's patio is open to the public
• Tyler Jackson joins to discuss his role in promoting the event through social media and event support
Join us at Blue Earth Plaza this weekend for this free family fun event!
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The Flint Hills Summer Fun Camp offers inclusive summer camp experiences for all children regardless of their abilities. Founded in 2010 by mothers of children with autism, the camp has grown to serve approximately 40 children from three school districts with professional staff and community support.
• Started in 2010 by mothers who wanted camp experiences for their children with autism
• Serves children ages 5 through high school with and without special needs
• Accommodates visible and invisible disabilities including autism, anxiety, TBI, and ADHD
• Staffed by certified teachers, paraprofessionals, and ABA providers
• Runs six weeks during summer from 8am-4pm at Marlette Elementary
• Partners with community organizations like Beach Museum and the library
• Plans special events including sensory-friendly movie outings
• Currently in its 13th year with the potential to serve 44 children
• Welcomes new camper registrations throughout the summer
• Relies on community support and fundraisers to provide scholarships and activities
Visit flinthillssummerfuncamp.com to register your child or find information about supporting the camp. Join their fundraiser tonight at Raising Cane's from 3-10pm!
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Thrive, a relatively new nonprofit organization, works to break cycles of poverty by building community support systems, increasing financial stability, and teaching essential parenting skills to families who would otherwise feel isolated and overwhelmed.
• Founded by Jamie Morris Hardeman in response to patterns observed at CASA, where families in the foster care system often lacked financial stability, support networks, and parenting skills
• Meets weekly on Thursday nights with approximately 50 participants including volunteers, families, and children
• Takes a multi-generational approach to address poverty by working with parents and children simultaneously
• Uses science-based stress reduction techniques including mindfulness, journaling, and doodling, which can cut cortisol levels in half
• Success stories include participants attending college, completing vocational training, securing better jobs, and becoming Habitat homeowners
• Volunteers are crucial to the program, working with adults, teenagers, or younger children depending on their interests
• First United Methodist Church provides their fellowship hall for meetings, which include shared meals and programming
To learn more or volunteer, visit thriveflinthills.com or email directorthriveflinthills@gmail.com.
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Matt reflects on his journey with the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, sharing insights from his time as Board Chair and the innovative initiatives that have positioned the foundation for future success.
• Joined GMCF after moving to Manhattan in 2005, serving first on the grants committee before joining the Executive Board
• Spearheaded an innovative childcare solution that functions as a business incubator for childcare entrepreneurs
• Led the foundation through a strategic planning process that established three pillars for future growth
• Shared the legacy of Jack Goldstein and how his donation of company stock has helped grow foundation assets to $412 billion
• Expanded the affiliate program to 20 communities, representing about $60 million in assets
• Envisions the foundation evolving from a conduit for charitable giving to a proactive community problem-solver
• Advocates for growing unrestricted assets to address unforeseen future community challenges
• Celebrates the foundation's status as the largest in Kansas and 87th largest in the United States
Learn more about the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation at mcfks.org. Subscribe to Philanthropy Today on Apple, Spotify, Amazon or wherever you get your podcasts.
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The Manhattan Optimist Club is launching an instrument drive to collect gently used band and orchestra instruments for students whose families can't afford them. This initiative brings together the Optimist Club, K-State's instrument repair specialist, and local school music directors to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate in music education regardless of financial circumstances.
• Instrument collection runs June 2-7 at K-State Credit Union and Landmark Bank locations
• Clyde Scott has been with the Manhattan Optimist Club since 1969
• Gary Lloyd, a retired band director, initiated the instrument drive as a new member
• K-State music department's instrument repair specialist will refurbish donated instruments
• Research shows students who participate in music programs perform better academically
• Optimist International provided a $1,000 grant matched by the local club to fund repairs
• The Manhattan Optimist Club has a foundation for tax-exempt donations
• Instruments will be distributed through school music directors to students in need
• Community members can donate instruments or contribute financially through manhattanoptimist.com
To donate instruments or learn more about joining the Manhattan Optimist Club, visit manhattanoptimist.com or drop off instruments at any of our collection sites from June 2-7.
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Tara Clausen, CEO of Kansa United Way, discusses their upcoming Community Investment Day where volunteers help decide how donor funds are allocated to programs supporting ALICE families (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed).
• Community Investment Day on July 23rd is a full-day event where volunteers review grant applications and hear from nonprofit partners
• Dollars raised through United Way campaigns are invested directly back into community programs in four key areas: healthy communities, youth opportunities, community resilience, and financial security
• Federal funding cuts are putting additional pressure on local nonprofits, making United Way support even more critical
• The United Way recently surpassed its campaign goal but still aims to engage more workplaces and increase funding
• Volunteers for Community Investment Day can register through the Kansa United Way website (KansaUnitedWay.org) or by calling their office
Visit KansaUnitedWay.org to register for Community Investment Day on July 23rd or to learn more about supporting their campaign efforts.
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The Symphony in the Flint Hills prepares for its final concert on June 14th after 20 remarkable years of bringing music to the Kansas prairie. This signature event has faced growing challenges, including weather disruptions and rising costs, but remains committed to celebrating and raising awareness about one of the last tallgrass prairies in the world.
• Started when Jane Coger hosted the Kansas City Symphony on her property for a birthday celebration
• Final event will be held at the Evans property in Chase County on June 14, 2024
• General admission tickets sold out, but patron packages and sponsorships are still available
• Creates a temporary "city" in remote prairie locations with stages, tents, and amenities
• Features the Kansas City Symphony, Logan Mize, educational tents, a powwow, and stargazing
• The organization hopes to continue its mission of promoting the Flint Hills through other programs
• Has attracted visitors from every state and around the world over its 20-year history
• Weather challenges and rising costs, especially insurance, contributed to the decision to end
• Board Chair Mary Ice hopes the symphony's legacy will be "being remembered for having done it well."
For more information or to purchase remaining patron packages, visit symphonyintheflinthills.org or call the office in Cottonwood Falls.
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The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce's HYPE program creates a community for young professionals through social events, professional development, and nonprofit engagement. Rebranded five years ago, HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Emerge) focuses on building connections and making Manhattan a place where 18-40 year olds want to live, work, and play.
• Program operates through five pillars: play, engage, develop, connect, and Love MHK
• Monthly "HYPE Happy Hour" on the last Thursday and "Lattes with Leadership" provide regular connection opportunities
• Robust mentorship program pairs members with established business leaders for one-on-one development
• Collaborates with GMCF Young Trustees on nonprofit engagement, including annual Nonprofit Happy Hour
• Membership costs $50 annually, with special rates available for students and certain career fields
• Approximately 300 members across Gary, Riley, and Pottawatomie counties
• Creates belonging that helps retain talent in the Manhattan area
• Next HYPE orientation scheduled for July 8th at the Manhattan Public Library
For more information, visit hypemhk.com or email amove@manhattan.org
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Manhattan Area Technical College receives prestigious Carnegie Foundation classifications, positioning it among an elite 8% of institutions nationwide with outstanding student outcomes including 97% job placement rates and 86% of graduates remaining in Kansas.
• Carnegie Foundation classifications include Applied and Career Studies (top 8% of institutions) and Opportunity College and University (top 16%)
• New campus building attracts students and enables partnerships with employers like PTMW
• Flint Hills Business Accelerator Project in child care developing curriculum with almost 30 high school students already enrolled
• $700,000 Patterson Family Foundation grant funding mobile VR training lab to serve surrounding counties
• Economic impact includes $8 million annually from alumni and $5 million from operations
• Launching new programs in plumbing, electrical training, and security technology
• Doubled CNA training capacity and filled nursing programs for first time since pre-COVID
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ECM at K-State creates an inclusive campus community through student-driven programming and a mission of "all humans welcome, no strings attached." The organization fosters belonging while addressing important topics like sustainability, community building, and inclusive dining.
• Friday Real Food Lunches provide vegan, gluten-free meals for 20-30 students weekly
• Student-driven programming allows participants to create the community events they want to see
• Retreats focus on practical sustainability actions like creating bee watering stations and native seed bombs
• ECM building at 904 Sunset Avenue serves as both event space and open study area for students
• Organization's flexible structure accommodates changing student populations and interests
• Board involvement provides valuable nonprofit leadership experience and deeper community connection
Want to get involved? Visit ECM at KSU on social media, stop by the building at 904 Sunset Avenue, or check out their website at ecmatkstate.org to sign up for their monthly newsletter with upcoming events.
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No Stone Unturned Foundation has moved into their new facility on Tuttle Creek Boulevard in Manhattan, allowing them to start pulling children off waiting lists and expand their pediatric therapy services. Their holistic care model has gained such recognition that therapy organizations from across Kansas are visiting to learn about their approach.
• Topped the Grow Green Match Day leaderboard with over $133,000 from 122 gifts, averaging more than $1,000 per donation
• Preparing for the 17th annual Wildcats for No Stone Unturned fundraiser on July 11-12
• Event includes two days of golf at Manhattan Country Club and a gala at Hilton Garden Inn
• Auction items include luxury trips to Telluride, Tuscany, and an exclusive hunting experience with private jet service
• Nearly 60 former K-State football players attended last year, making it both a reunion and a fundraiser
• Outdoor Bank serves as the title sponsor, drawn to the organization's impact on both children and parents
• The foundation started 17 years ago when the Wofford family envisioned a holistic care center for children
Visit nostoneunturned.org or call to schedule a tour of the new facility and learn more about their services.
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The Center of Hope Ministry serves Manhattan's homeless population as a warming shelter, providing dignity and safety during the harshest winter months. This volunteer-run organization now offers nightly cots, meals, and life-changing support to up to 30 guests.
• 100% volunteer-operated with working board members covering overnight shifts
• Recently moved from Vineyard Church to First Congregational Church downtown for better accessibility
• Remained open 24/7 during a severe winter storm despite volunteer shortages
• Community partnerships include Dara's providing breakfast sandwiches, support from Chick-fil-A, and Fort Riley
• Helped a guest named Logan recover from cardiac arrest, who has since been accepted to K-State's anthropology program
• Shelter now serves families with children, requiring more resources and space
• The current goal is to raise funds to hire a part-time overnight facilitator
To support the Center of Hope Ministry, donate through their website at thecenterofhopemhk.com or through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation.
Foundation.
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Be Able Community Center provides life-changing support to Manhattan residents facing adversity, offering essential services and a compassionate community. The center is celebrating its fifth year of operation while preparing to launch a crucial supportive housing program to bridge a significant gap in local resources.
• Located at 431 South Fifth Street, Be Able functions as a daytime community resource center open 8 am-4 pm daily
• Services include coffee, computer access, laundry facilities, showers, and connections to community resources
• Structured programming for life improvement includes peer mentoring, finance education, and creative outlets
• Phil Hicks shares his journey from living in his car to finding support, healthcare assistance, and community
• Health challenges, including diabetes complications and osteomyelitis, require medical intervention
• Be Able connected Phil with resources, including Kansa Prairie for affordable medications and The Guardians for car repairs
• Manhattan's network of support organizations creates comprehensive care for vulnerable neighbors
• New supportive housing program launching within weeks addresses critical need in Manhattan
• Community support through fundraisers and Grow Green Match Day has made the housing initiative possible
Visit beablecommunity.org to learn more about their services or to support their mission of creating a community where everyone can be able.
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Good Shepherd Home Care and Hospice hosts their 19th annual Promenade on Points fundraiser this Thursday, allowing participants to visit nine downtown Manhattan businesses for food and beverage tastings while supporting end-of-life care for those regardless of ability to pay.
• Two and a half hour event features nine participating businesses offering food and drink samples
• New check-in location at Union Hall, where guests receive a tasting glass, plate, and event map
• Participating locations include J&Z Imaging, Manhatchet, The Boutique, G Thomas Jewelers, Gaia, Fragrant Blends, S&W Gallery, Brown Shoe Fit, and Wildflower Trading Co
• Funds raised support Good Shepherd's mission as the only local nonprofit hospice provider
• Event designed to remove financial stress from end-of-life care, allowing families to focus on the final moments
• Special Vet to Vet program provides veteran volunteers and pinning ceremonies for veteran clients
• Grows Green Match Day, happening the day before Promenade, offers another opportunity to support
Tickets are available now by calling 785-537-0688 or can be purchased at the door on the night of the event. Visit www.goodshepherdhh.org for more information.
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Emily Wagner, Executive Director of Manhattan Emergency Shelter, discusses their fundraising initiatives and the challenges of securing consistent funding for homeless services in Kansas.
• Manhattan Emergency Shelter collaborated with the Center of Hope Ministries to provide a warming shelter during the difficult winter
• The 21st Annual Bids for Bags Benefit takes place May 2nd at St. Thomas More Church with Derby chic attire
• Event features silent auction of 100-125 new designer bags, live auction of premium bags, and a section for 150+ used designer bags
• Kansas provides no state funding for homeless shelters, creating dependency on unstable federal grants
• MESI works closely with the Crisis Center, referring clients between services as needed
• Grow Green Match Day funds have become crucial for maintaining operations amid funding uncertainty
• Tickets still available for Bids for Bags at mesikansas.org
Visit mesikansas.org to purchase tickets or make a donation to support Manhattan's homeless shelter services.
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Lori Feldkamp reflects on her 30-year career at Big Lakes Developmental Center as she prepares to retire, while introducing her successor, Liz Hawley, who brings 18 years of experience with the organization.
· Big Lakes has grown from 100 to over 200 employees during Lori's tenure
· The organization faces a statewide waiting list of 4,500 people needing developmental disability services
· Around 100 people are waiting for services in their four-county service area
· Funding challenges require piecing together resources from multiple sources
· Transportation is a critical need, as 99% of clients cannot drive themselves
· The organization plans to use Grow Green Match Day fundraising to purchase two used vehicles
· Staffing remains challenging, but dedicated employees often work overtime to meet client needs
· Big Lakes empowers clients through involvement in program development and event planning
· The organization's summer party on June 20 will feature a "Party in the Desert" theme
· Consistent leadership has been a hallmark, with only two CEOs since 1978
Support Big Lakes Developmental Center on Grow Green Match Day to help them purchase much-needed vehicles for client transportation!
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The Manhattan Free Clinic has been providing free primary care for 20 years to uninsured residents living within 200% of the poverty level in Riley County, which has one of the highest poverty rates in Kansas. They're celebrating this milestone while expanding services to the new Community Accelerator facility on Kimball Avenue, which will improve accessibility for patients on Manhattan's west side.
• All services, including medications, are completely free through partnerships with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Memorial Hospital Fund, United Way, Via Christi's Dispensary of Hope, and Shepherd's Crossing
• Success story of Roger, a legal immigrant with diabetes, who received life-saving care when he unknowingly stepped on a nail that became infected
• The clinic employs bilingual staff to overcome language barriers for patients
• New presence planned in the Community Accelerator behind Via Christi, opening in August
• The Accelerator will house multiple services, including childcare provider training and workforce development
• Community support through Grow Green Match Day is critical as they expand services
• Find them listed as "Manhattan Free Clinic" (not Flint Hills Community Clinic) at growgreenmanhattan.com
Please support Manhattan Free Clinic during Grow Green Match Day to help us continue providing free healthcare services to our community's most vulnerable residents.
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Kansas climbs 29 ranks in mental health ratings, while Pawnee Mental Health provides innovative solutions for community needs despite ongoing challenges from the lack of Medicaid expansion. CEO Mike Rezkalla discusses the organization's progress, rural outreach programs, and upcoming initiatives to improve access to critical mental health services.
· Kansas jumped from 51st to 22nd place in Mental Health America's state rankings, ranking 5th in youth services
· Despite progress, the lack of Medicaid expansion creates barriers for many Kansans who need but cannot afford mental health care
· Pawnee offers a free Agricultural Assistance Program for farmers and their families in ten Kansas counties
· Employee Assistance Programs are available to businesses for only $1 per employee per month
· Same-day access services eliminate 8-12 week wait times for mental health assessments
· Fundraising underway for a blood analyzer to improve crisis stabilization unit access for uninsured patients
· New grant will integrate primary care with behavioral health services for existing clients
· Mental health awareness training has reached over 1,000 community members
· 2023 saw the highest suicide rate on record, with a life lost every 11 minutes
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The Flint Hills Breadbasket is transforming food assistance in Manhattan with its upcoming move to a spacious new facility on Skyview Drive, which will open in early May. Executive Director Karla Hagemeister shares how this expansion will create a dignified shopping experience while nearly doubling its weekly service hours.
• New location will feature a grocery store-like environment with polished concrete floors and tall ceilings
• Moving from cramped quarters to a space designed for dignity, comfort, and accessibility
• Service hours expanding from 14.5 to 26 hours weekly
• Volunteer opportunities available, including preparing 15,000 bags for the upcoming letter carriers' food drive
• The current Yuma Street location will transfer to the City of Manhattan for community use
• Grow Green Match Day funds are crucial for operations, as federal program cuts impact fresh produce options
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The Flint Hills Volunteer Center coordinates over 925 volunteers serving in 85 different opportunities across Riley County. It helps seniors age with dignity in their homes while creating meaningful service roles for community members.
• Operates the medical transportation program with volunteers driving 57 clients to medical appointments in Manhattan
• Facilitates the Neighbor-to-Neighbor program, providing leaf removal, snow clearing, and other home maintenance services
• Coordinates 69 volunteers who deliver meals through the Friendship Meals Program
• Supports 248 volunteers helping with Harvesters and local food pantries
• Celebrates volunteers of all ages, with the oldest currently being 100 years old
• Plans community events, including an annual 9/11 commemoration and "Heart for the Holidays" fundraiser
• Works to meet the increasing needs of seniors, who will outnumber children under 18 by 2035
• Provides weekly email updates about volunteer opportunities
• Creates meaningful relationships between volunteers and those they serve
Support the Flint Hills Volunteer Center during Grow Green Match Day at GrowGreenManhattan.com or visit flinthillsvolunteercenter.com to become a volunteer.
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Doncha McDonald shares how Morningstar's unique peer-led approach transforms lives by creating power balance among those with mental illness. Through her personal journey with schizoaffective disorder, she reveals how finding purpose through community support was more healing than medication alone.
• Morningstar's "secret sauce" is that everyone who works there has lived experience with mental illness
• Doncha struggled with delusions for years, including symptoms of anosognosia—the inability to recognize one's own illness
• Depression was more painful and dangerous than delusions for Doncha
• Connecting with others at Morningstar who had mental illness helped her develop self-love and purpose
• EMDR therapy has helped address underlying trauma behind depression
• Morningstar offers free daily groups and activities at their location by Goodwill on East Poyntz
• Success stories include individuals moving from homelessness and addiction to stable housing and family reunification
Visit morningstarmentalhealth.org to learn more or arrange for Doncha and Richard to speak at your organization about mental health.
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The Boys and Girls Club of Manhattan prepares for its 26th annual Casino Night fundraiser on April 4th at the K-State Alumni Center, featuring a prom theme and introducing their first-ever dance floor to the event.
• Now operating in 13 locations across Ogden, Manhattan, and Wamego
• Early Learning Center serves over 80 infants and toddlers with room to grow
• New dedicated Teen Center fulfills 30-year dream, serving over 30 teens daily
• Casino Night fundraiser proceeds ensure program access for all families regardless of ability to pay
• Live auction includes game day package with Gene Taylor, Cancun vacation, and private game show experience
• Silent auction features Bobby Witt Jr. signed jersey, Chef fast pass, and various sports memorabilia
• Steel and Pipe Supply returns as presenting sponsor alongside Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation
• Tickets available at bgclubmanhattan.com with discounts for full table purchases
Join us on Friday, April 4th at the K-State Alumni Center for a night of gaming, auctions, and dancing while supporting life-changing programs for local youth. Get your tickets now before they sell out!
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Jim Gordon sits down to discuss his 26 years of community impact through the Community Foundation and the Community Foundation Awards, which honor those who give their time, talent, and treasure.
• Jim Gordon, co-founder of GMCF and title sponsor of the CFAs, shares how the awards began
• The CFAs focus on celebrating volunteers who contribute time and talent alongside those who give financially
• Starting with four title sponsors (Kansas State Bank, Steel, and Pipe Supply, Trust Company of Manhattan, and Sink Gordon), the event now attracts 500-600 attendees
• The awards spotlight lesser-known community programs, introducing new volunteer opportunities to attendees
• Jim Gordon advises finding a charity you're passionate about and turning that passion into action
• His philosophy: "You can't wait to make a difference" – take opportunities as they come to serve the community
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Leslie White, Director of the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation, shares her passion for supporting the Discovery Center through fundraising for exhibits, educational programs, and community events while making learning accessible to everyone in the region.
• The annual Friend of the Flint Hills award will honor Carl and Mary Ice on April 11th for their contributions to protecting the Flint Hills ecosystem
• This year marks the final Symphony in the Flint Hills event on June 14th, which White describes as "a truly remarkable experience" worth attending
• The Foundation is developing an outdoor classroom with all-weather shade structures, informational panels, and prairie landscaping expected to open by fall 2026
• Community tax credits are available for donations of $250+ toward the outdoor classroom project
• The "Stepping into the Prairie" immersive exhibit showcases all four seasons and was developed with grant funding from Kansas Tourism and Commerce
• The Discovery Center offers engaging experiences for all ages, from young children to grandparents
• Grow Green Match Day donations support the youth education endowment fund
Visit flinthillsdiscovery.org for information about events and donation opportunities.
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Greater Manhattan Community Foundation founder Mark Knackendoffel shares how recognizing philanthropy drives more charitable giving and strengthens the community. The GMCF has exceeded all expectations in its 25-year journey, providing structure, discipline, and support to local organizations while avoiding direct competition in fundraising.
• Community Foundation Awards bring visibility to worthy causes and inspire others to contribute
• GMCF was created to provide structure and discipline to philanthropic efforts, not to be a direct fundraiser
• The foundation reached its "10 in 10" goal ($10 million in 10 years) in just 7-8 years
• Trust Company actively encourages staff to take leadership roles in community organizations
• Community involvement provides leadership development opportunities that benefit both organizations and businesses
• Foundation affiliation gives nonprofits credibility with donors and ensures good stewardship
We love this town.
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The Kansas Honor Flight pairs area veterans with high school students for life-changing journeys to Washington D.C. memorials, creating powerful connections between generations and providing long-overdue recognition for those who served.
• Created in 2012 as one of five national hubs pairing veterans with student guardians
• 309 veterans have participated across 13 completed flights at no cost to them
• Student guardians are selected through the National Honor Society and essay applications
• Program provides healing experiences, especially for Vietnam veterans who received negative homecomings
Veterans interested in applying for future flights should visit www.honorflight.org or contact Wamego High School directly. The public is invited to the homecoming ceremony on April 30th at 10:30 am in the lower gym.
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We explore the dynamic partnership between MATC and GMCF, focusing on workforce development and community engagement. Jim Jeanette shares insights into how local philanthropy creates a ripple effect that lifts everyone.
• Conversations around the role of philanthropy in education
• The impact of MATC and GMCF collaboration in workforce training
• Stories of individuals benefiting from local scholarships and support
• Emphasis on giving, regardless of the size of contributions
Your support matters! Reach out and find out how you can contribute to local initiatives that spark change.
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Heather Peterson, Jim Franke, and Greg McCune from the Manhattan Optimist Club share their initiatives to uplift the community's youth through various fundraisers and programs. Driven by a shared mission, the club highlights its upcoming events and its vital role in fostering a positive atmosphere.
• Discussing the Optimist Club's efforts to engage the community
• Highlights of their annual fundraising events, including the spaghetti dinner
• Emphasis on empowering local youth through various programs and activities
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On this episode of the Community Hour Show we highlight the transformative work of the Armed Forces Community Foundation, which aims to enhance the lives of military families through community support. Kevin West shares insights on fundraising successes and future initiatives.
• Overview of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation's role
• The mission and achievements of the Armed Forces Community Foundation
• Importance of community events like Stand-To-Match Day and their impact
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This segment of the Community Hour delves into GMCF's strategic planning process and its implications for the community. Board Chair Matt Crocker and Chair Elect Beth Smoller, discuss the importance of clarity, stakeholder engagement, and purposeful abandonment in shaping GMCF's future efforts.
• The transition of GMCF from a funding conduit to a community leader
• Engaging with stakeholders for collaborative planning and input
• The role of nimbleness in addressing emerging challenges
• Measuring impact through rigorous metrics to showcase effectiveness
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On the GMCF Community Hour, Michelle Haub, the Special Programs Leader at Meadowlark Talks about the Memory Program Art Mingle, which celebrates the connection between art, memory, and community support while highlighting the importance of creativity for cognitive health. Michelle also discusses upcoming events, and the invaluable resources available for caregivers and individuals facing cognitive challenges.
- Introduction to the Art Mingle event and its impact
- Importance of creativity on memory and cognition
- Overview of Meadowlark Memory Program's offerings
- Educational opportunities for cognitive health
- Event ticket details and auction items
- Acknowledgment of community sponsors and support
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This episode highlights the role of the Manhattan Public Library in promoting community engagement and literacy through diverse programming and events, including an upcoming book sale. Eric Norris, the library director, discusses membership benefits, volunteer opportunities, and the importance of community support in maintaining accessible library resources.
• Eric Norris shares his experiences as the library director
• Overview of engaging library events and discussions
• Opportunities for community involvement and volunteering
• Focus on local history through Humanities Kansas initiatives
• The library as a resource for all ages and backgrounds
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The Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program offers a comprehensive approach to developing regional leaders through hands-on learning, community engagement, and servant leadership principles. By emphasizing collaboration and diversity, the program prepares participants to navigate challenges and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
• Overview of the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program
• History and evolution since 1992
• Curriculum centered on regional community needs
• Emphasis on servant leadership and practical experiences
• Diverse participant demographics fostering collaboration
• Application process and scholarship opportunities
• Graduation benefits and networking outcomes
• The importance of preparing for community challenges
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Discover the vital role that the Friends of the Fort Riley Museums play in preserving military history and fostering community engagement. This segment of the radio show explores exciting events, restoration efforts, and opportunities for the public to connect with their heritage through local initiatives.
• Exploration of the Fort Riley Museums and their significance
• Overview of the First Infantry Division Museum and its historical importance
• Insights into community events like Apple Days and ghost tours
• Discussion of volunteer programs and community outreach initiatives
• Update on restoration projects, including the clock tower
• Announcement of upcoming historical chats with Dr. Bob Smith
• Overview of collaborative efforts with regional organizations and events
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Join us as we celebrate Jimmy Carter's legacy and explore Habitat for Humanity's impactful work in the Northern Flint Hills. Our conversation takes us through local community initiatives, upcoming events, and pioneering projects that aim to provide dignified housing for families in need.
• Discussion of Jimmy Carter's influence on community service
• Details about the Home is When the Heart Is Valentine's Gala
• Insights on the deconstruction of the former Commerce Bank building
• Overview of the Neighbors Helping Neighbors initiative during the snow crisis
• Exploration of Habitat’s future housing projects and modular construction plans
• Emphasis on the importance of community engagement and support
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This episode of the GMCF Community Hour Radio Show highlights the ongoing developments of the Child Care Business Initiative, emphasizing its collaborative approach to enhancing childcare services in the community. Listeners learn about the construction progress, recruitment of childcare providers, the support offered to entrepreneurs, and the broader impact on families seeking reliable care options.
• Updates on construction progress and plans
• Recruitment efforts for childcare providers
• Importance of training and licensing for providers
• Development of a supportive environment for businesses
• Overview of funding sources and community partnerships
Join us in our mission to uplift child care in our community!
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Today we chatted with Rachelle Wertenberger & Kent Saylor about how a beloved classmate's legacy inspires and transforms lives even after tragedy strikes. Join us as we honor Tara Ploeger through a heartfelt conversation with Kent and Rachel, who share their deeply personal connections with Tara and the scholarship created in her memory. You'll hear how an unexpected tragedy led to overwhelming community support, ultimately transitioning the Tara Ploeger Scholarship into an endowed fund. Through Kent and Rachel's touching stories, we highlight the emotional challenges of fundraising and celebrate the enduring tribute to Tara's vibrant spirit and dedication to her community.
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Today we chatted with Morree Floersch Chairperson of the Clay Center Community Improvement Foundation and Bill Oetinger President of the Clay County Education Endowment Association (CCEEA). Listen as Bill retells the remarkable journey of the CCEEA, whose humble beginnings over two decades ago have transformed into a powerhouse for local scholarships, bolstered by the incredible $2.6 million McDaniel family donation. But the story doesn't end there. Mitzi discusses with Morree and Bill the ambitious $8 million fundraising campaign for a new community center in Clay Center, fueled by technology, grants, and a vision for the future. We celebrate the vibrant culture of philanthropy fostered by passionate individuals from all walks of life, contributing to the Clay Center Kansas growth. This episode is a testament to the power of collaboration, pride, and the enduring legacy of donors committed to nurturing future generations.
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Today we talked with Claudia Jones and Nicole Kucherov about The American Association of University Women (AAUW) scholarships and its role in empowering women since the 1920s. Claudia, an AAUW board member, shares the AAUW's incredible history and community contributions such as traveling libraries and Depression-era daycare support. Listen to Nicole's heartfelt experience as a non-traditional student and mother who found new hope through targeted scholarships. Discover how her teaching English in Chile and her AmeriCorps service have fueled her dreams of blending research and education.
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In this episode, Dave Lewis sat down with Penny Wika, who, alongside her late husband Norris, has devoted her life to enriching education and fostering philanthropy in Wamego. Penny's inspiring transition from a career in journalism to becoming a beloved teacher at Manhattan High School, the story behind the creation of the Norris and Penny Wika Scholarship, a $1,000 renewable annual award initiated in 2015 that helps students throughout their undergraduate studies. Additionally, they chatted about the expansion of the Penny Wika Journalist of the Year Award, which now grants a $5,000 scholarship to talented student journalists, promoting excellence and dedication in the field. As well as the formation of her family’s trust, and the Noris & Penny Wika Trust Scholarship.
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Today we talked with Linda Fincham, Vice President of the Frankfort Community Foundation Board of Directors, and Haley Stevens, a former scholarship recipient. Linda provides a heartfelt account of her parents' memorial funds and their dedication to supporting local students pursuing medical careers. Peek into the lives of those who juggle work, school, and family, and learn how a strong support system can make all the difference. Haley shares her inspiring journey emphasizing how the scholarship played a critical role in her academic and professional growth. This episode is a testament to the enduring power of community bonds and the transformative power of philanthropy. We also explore the Frankfort Community Foundation’s initiatives, such as Match Day, and their significant contributions to community generosity.
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Today, we talked with GMCF’s President and CEO Vern Henricks, and Gants & Scholarships Coordinator Edee Nichols about the impact of GMCF’s scholarship initiatives, from the heartwarming origins fueled by donor interests and memorial funds to the tangible success stories from students in the community of Clay Center, Atchison, Dover, Wamego, and Manhattan, Kansas. You'll learn how these scholarships address critical educational needs in communities without local universities.
Discover the strategies behind establishing and managing scholarships. Vern and Edie reveal secrets on determining criteria, thoughtful naming, and the difference between endowed and non-endowed scholarship funds. Avoiding the pitfall of scholarships going "underwater" during the years of the scholarship and the expertise of the Community Foundation in managing these funds ensuring donors see the positive impact on students’ lives are just a few insights you’ll gain.
How to Start a Scholarship Fund
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Today, we talked with Jason & Jill Selland and Tray Lockwood about the inspiration behind establishing a scholarship to honor influential educators Jay Logan and Larry Potroff and discover how these teachers shaped the Sellands' lives and inspired them to give back to their community. Jason & Jill share touching stories of past recipients who have gone on to positively impact their communities, including a passionate horticulturist who returned to inspire current students. They also reflect on their own educational experiences, emphasizing the empowering effect of community support and mentorship. Trey Lockwood provides his perspective as a recent scholarship recipient, offering a glimpse into the real-world impact of the Potroff-Logan Scholarship. In this episode, we navigate the journey of creating a scholarship promoting vocational education in South Brown County. Hear about the challenges and successes faced along the way and the pivotal role played by the South Brown Community Foundation.
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Today, we chatted with Ken Culbertson Monroe Say, about the motivation behind establishing the Home Care and Hospice Employee Education Fund scholarship. Ken opens up about the journey that led to the creation of this scholarship, fulfilling his wife Rhoda's final wish to support the compassionate hospice staff. Over the past eight years, this scholarship has paved the way for ten recipients, including Monroe, to achieve their educational and career aspirations, underlining healthcare providers' critical roles in offering holistic patient care and grief support.
Join us as we explore the broader impact of this scholarship on the community and its significant legacy. Ken discusses his family's unwavering dedication to growing the fund to enhance its reach and sustainability.
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To wrap up our GMCF Cornerstone Award Series, we chatted with Vern Henricks GMCF’s President and CEO about his interviews with the 25 GMCF Cornerstone Award winners. We dove into the impact of the individuals who have envisioned and shaped the foundation’s legacy throughout our 25-year history. Learn how the foundation has navigated initial challenges and evolved to create lasting positive change. We also shine a light on the transformative power of significant gifts that have propelled GMCF’s growth, such as the Goldstein gift. You'll hear stories of dedication and community involvement that highlight the unique close-knit nature of Manhattan. From visionaries to influencers, catalysts, and lasting legacies, their contributions and dedication have been pivotal in making Manhattan a beacon of community spirit and generosity.
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Today, we chatted with Mark Knackendoffel, the recipient of the Vision Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, Mark shared his journey from leading the trust department at First National Bank to founding his own company and becoming a key player in forming the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. Mark's first interaction with philanthropy in his early days with the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program inspired his lifelong efforts with Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. Get ready to be inspired by his personal stories of influence from his wife Ann and various mentors, along with his love for cooking, sports, and community involvement.
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Today, we chatted with Bob and Jim Morrison, the recipients of the Vision Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, we uncovered the story behind his 53-year journey in Manhattan, from his roots in Clay Center to his impactful roles in organizations like The Breadbasket, Meadowlark Hills, and The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. Jim shares candid insights about the influential figures in his life and his love for fishing in Saskatchewan, Canada. He paints a vivid picture of the man behind the accolades, Jim illustrates the power of dedication and community spirit.
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Today, we chatted with Bob and Tracy DeBruyn, the recipients of the Vision Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, we unearthed how Bob's family and friends played pivotal roles in his development and Tracy’s touching story of how a significant act of generosity sparked her lifelong commitment to philanthropy. Listen to Bob's incredible transition from military life to education and Tracy's pioneering achievements, including her tenure as the first female president of the local Rotary Club and one of the first women graduates of Notre Dame.
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Today, we chatted with Jim Gordon, the recipient of the Vision Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, we uncovered his love for photography, early experiences at K-State University, getting hired and making partner at Sink Gordon Accountants & Advisors, and how at 9 years old an invitation to join 4-H ended up cultivating his deep-rooted commitment to philanthropy and community engagement.
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Today, we chatted with Joe Lyle, the recipient of the Catalyst Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes individuals who inspire and drive transformative processes for GMCF’s benefit. We explored Joe’s professional journey, transitioning from teaching accounting at Kansas State University to becoming a local philanthropic leader. We learned about her love for travel, gardening, reading, and playing bridge. She delved into her early involvement with her church and how that early involvement played an influential role in her participation in organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and Meadowlark Hills, as well as her deep commitment to the Fairy Godmothers.
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Today, we chatted with Lee Meigs, the recipient of the Catalyst Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes individuals who inspire and drive transformative processes for GMCF’s benefit. We explored Lee’s heartwarming story during our discussion, highlighting her work with Big Brothers Big Sisters and co-founding Fairy Godmothers. We got to know Lee’s thoughts on retirement, the joys of an active lifestyle playing golf, pickleball, and spending family time in Pittsburgh, Kansas, to reveal the joy of giving back to the community.
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Today, we talked with C. Clyde Jones, the Influence Cornerstone Award recipient at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, we learned about this 101-year-old pillar of the Manhattan community becoming Kansas State University's inaugural dean of the College of Business Administration, his commitment to community service and philanthropy, the origins and growth of Shepherd's Crossing, the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation's transformative impact on local nonprofits. This episode is a love letter to Manhattan from a man dedicated to a lifetime of service and community involvement.
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Today, we chatted with Therese Miller, the recipient of the Influence Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, we uncovered how her parents and church ignited her passion for giving, her extensive volunteer work with the United Way, and her engagement with the Community Foundation, Therese's story is a compelling reminder of the evolving landscape of nonprofit work and the power of community involvement.
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Today, we talked with Dennis Mullin, an Impact Cornerstone Award recipient at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who had a strong impact in making GMCF successful. During our discussion, we delved into Neil's professional life, from his early days in Topeka to his role at the Beyer Construction Company under the mentorship of Burke Bayer, Neil's story is one of unwavering dedication to his family and community. Neil also shares his love for gardening, reading, K-State sports, and the joy of spending time spoiling his grandchildren.
Watch Neil's interview and other related content on our YouTube Channel.
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Today, we chatted with Cheryl Grice, the recipient of the Catalyst Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes individuals who inspire and drive transformative processes for GMCF’s benefit. During our discussion, we explored Cheryl’s background, professional life, the pivotal role played by supportive local groups like the Little Apple Pilot Club, the founding of Fairy Godmothers, her passion for service and commitment to community engagement, and her love for photography.
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Today, we chatted with Terry Arthur, the recipient of the Influence Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, we discovered Terry’s journey in the Manhattan community from serving as general counsel for the Kansas Farm Bureau to teaching at Kansas State University. Join us to learn more about Terry Arthur’s personal stories about his love for golf, travel, and flying. As well as the profound influence of his father's community involvement, his Christian values on his life, and his lifetime dedication to the Manhattan philanthropic community.
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Today, we chatted with Tom Fryer, the recipient of the Influence Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, we explored Tom’s background, and professional life, talked about his wife Angie, her work with the Fairy Godmothers, and his advice to young people wanting to do philanthropy work.
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Today, we chatted with Polly Stoecklein, the recipient of the Catalyst Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes individuals who inspire and drive transformative processes for GMCF’s benefit. During our discussion, we explored Polly’s background, professional life, passion for dogs, the founding of Fairy Godmothers, and her commitment to creating impact beyond herself.
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Today, we talked with Dennis Mullin, an Impact Cornerstone Award recipient at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who had a strong impact in making GMCF successful. During our discussion, we delved into Dennis's professional life, his mentoring of college students, starting the Flint Hills Breadbasket, founding the Flint Hills Christian School, and his involvement with the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation.
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Today, we talked with Sue Maes, the Influence Cornerstone Award recipient at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who saw the potential of what a community foundation could do for Manhattan. During our discussion, we delved into Sue’s history, professional life, involvement with the foundation, starting the Fairy Godmothers, and her newfound passion for climate change education scholarship.
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Today, we talked with Bill Richter, the Impact Cornerstone Award recipient at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who had a strong impact in making GMCF successful. During our discussion, we dove into Bill’s sixty-year philanthropic journey, exploring his involvement with his church, the community foundation, and the Crisis Center.
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Today, we talked with Dirk Daveline, a recipient of a Catalyst Cornerstone Award at the Community Foundation Awards. This award recognizes those who inspire and drive transformative processes around them for GMCF’s benefit. During our discussion, we dove into Dirk's journey, exploring his involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters, his views on philanthropy, and his advice to prospective board members.
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Today, we chatted with GMCF's president and CEO, Vern Henricks. In the second of our two-part series, we discussed the community foundation's MHK Together Program initiated to combat the COVID business shutdown, GMCF's disaster relief fund, and the childcare and business accelerator.
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Today, we chatted with GMCF's president and CEO, Vern Henricks. In the first of a two-part series, we discussed the community foundation's 25 years. We covered everything from the initial $200 donation to legalize GMCF as a non-profit community Foundation to our 365 million dollars in assets 25 years later and everything in between.
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Today, we talked with GMCF's current Board of Directors Chair, Matt Crocker. We discussed how he became involved with the community foundation the year ahead with the goal of finishing the projects that past chairs Jackie Hartman Borck and Kim McAtee started and laying the foundation for GMCF's next 25 years.
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Today, we chatted with outgoing board chair, GMCF’s 2023-2024 Board of Directors Chair, Kim McAtee. We talked about her getting the philanthropy bug from her parents, getting her children involved in Youth Impacting Community (YIC), and championing the Flint Hills Community Accelerator. Her strategic insights and expertise contributed greatly to GMCF's success.
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Today, we chatted with GMCF’s 2022-2023 Board of Directors Chair, Jackie Hartman Borck. We discussed how she became involved with the foundation, her year as board chair, and the importance of the arts for community growth.
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Today, we chatted with GMCF’s 2021-2022 Board of Directors Chair, Therese Miller. We discussed her time as the board treasurer, her year as board chair reintegrating after the pandemic, starting the Philanthropy Today podcast and the GMCF community arts program, and her passion for affordable housing for our community.
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Today, we spoke with GMCF’s 2020-2021 Board of Directors Chair, Bill Bahr. We chatted about his year as board chair, adapting and overcoming challenges during the COVID lockdown, and helping those most impacted by the pandemic in the Manhattan community with the MHK Together program.
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Today, we spoke with GMCF’s 2019-2020 Board of Directors Chair, Matt Paquette. We chatted about his year as board chair, his personal and professional involvement with the foundation, and his adaptability during the initial months of the pandemic.
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Today, we spoke with GMCF’s 2018-2019 Board of Directors Chair, Dean Thibault. We discussed his involvement with the foundation from the beginning, his year as board chair, and serving the Manhattan community by volunteering in various charitable organizations.
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Today, we talked with GMCF’s 2017-2018 Board of Directors Chair, Karen Roberts. We talked about her work through Fairy Godmothers, Karen’s initial involvement with GMCF while working in the USD 383 School District, and her family’s legacy of giving.
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Today, we talked with GMCF’s 2016-2017 Board of Directors Chair, Neil Helmick. We chatted about being a GMCF trustee, becoming a member of the executive board, and his experience as chair of the board of directors.
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Today, we talked with GMCF’s 2015-2016 Board of Directors Chair, Jodi Kaus. We chatted about her initial involvement with GMCF, being behind the scenes from the beginning, getting her children involved in our Youth Impacting Community program, and starting the Young Trustee Program here at GMCF.
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Today, we chatted with GMCF’s 2014-2015 Board of Director Chair, Neil Horton. We discussed his term as Board of Directors Chair, the various programs started during his year as Board Chair, and the legacy of philanthropy he has built over the past 25 years.
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Today, we chatted with GMCF’s 2013-2014 Board of Director Chair, Jim Gordon. We discussed his second term as Board of Directors President, the hiring of our CEO Vern Henricks, and the impact GMCF has had on the community for the last 25 years.
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Today, we talked with GMCF’s 2012-2013 Board of Director President, Dennis Mullin. We discussed his influence on the formation of GMCF, the Goldstein Foundation’s impact on GMCF’s growth, his involvement with various non-profit organizations, and an insightful philosophy on hiring practices.
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Today, we chatted with GMCF’s 2011-2012 Board of Director President, Terry Arthur. We discussed Terry’s father’s legacy of philanthropy and service to the community, his involvement with various non-profit organizations, and the formation of GMCF’s first supporting organization, The Community Foundation of The Flint Hills, now named The Goldstein Foundation.
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Today, we caught up with GMCF’s 2009-2010 Board of Director President, Don Wissman. In our conversation, we discussed Don’s thoughts on GMCF’s affiliate program, the move to change the foundation's name from Manhattan Community Foundation to The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation during his term, and his admiration for how well community leaders work together.
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Today, we chatted with GMCF’s 2007-2008 Board of Director President, Tom Fryer. We discussed the economic downturn during his year as the president, his work raising money to get one of the Kansas Health Foundation matches, and how leaders with integrity help bridge trust between the community and the foundation.
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Today, we caught up with another of GMCF’s past presidents, Sue Maes. We discussed her year as the president, her volunteerism, and the formation of the Youth Impacting Community Program.
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Today, we caught up with another of GMCF’s past presidents, Jim Morrison. We discussed the factors that led to the formation of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, his year as the president, and the legacy of philanthropy he has built as a leader in the community.
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Today, we caught up with another of GMCF’s past presidents, Dirk Daveline. We discussed the foundation's formation, his year as the president, and Steel & Pipe's philosophy on community involvement.
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Today, we caught up with another of GMCF’s founders and past presidents, Jim Gordon. In our conversation, we discussed the foundation's formation, GMCF’s early years, his year as the president, and his advice to people who want to make a difference in their community.
Related Podcast: Philanthropy Today Episode 127 Ed O’Malley President and CEO of The Kansas Health Foundation
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1630930/13679150-ed-o-malley-president-and-ceo-of-the-kansas-health-foundation-philanthropy-today-episode-127
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Today, we caught up with another of GMCF’s founding members, Mark Knackendoffel. In our conversation, we discussed the inception of the community foundation, the necessity for non-profits to plan for the future, and educating the community about philanthropy.
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Today, we caught up with another of GMCF’s founding members, Neil Horton. In our conversation, we discussed Bayer Construction Company’s philanthropy legacy, learning to be philanthropic from mentors, and finding the next generation of leaders for the Manhattan community.
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Today we caught up with one of GMCF’s founding members, Marty Vanier. In our conversation, we talked about her motivation to fund GMCF, the importance of GMCF to smaller communities, and her advice to anyone wanting to get involved in philanthropy.
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Today we caught up with one of GMCF’s founding members, Mary Vanier. In our conversation, we talked about her motivation to fund GMCF, getting advice from her mother on foundation matters, and GMCF’s early years.
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Today we caught up with Karen McCulloh, one of GMCF’s founding members. In our conversation, we talked about her involvement in philanthropy, her motivation to fund GMCF, and her experience being on GMCF’s Board of Directors during its early years.
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Today we caught up with the President and CEO of The Kansas Health Foundation, Ed O’Malley. In our conversation, we found out about the Kansas Health Foundation's contribution to getting GMCF started, Ed’s views on philanthropy, community activism, and the three major goals the Kansas Health Foundation has set for its future.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we're catching up with Sara Hackett. She oversees the Rural Community Foundation Match Program for The Patterson Family Foundation. We discussed Neal and Jeanne Patterson's background, how the Patterson Family Foundation was founded, its core principles, and the effects the rural community foundation match program has had on Kansas and Western Missouri.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we're catching up with GMCF Executive Board member and Grants for Greater Manhattan Chair Eileen Hinkin. We talked about and learned about her time as a nurse, her volunteerism, and the causes tugging at her heartstrings.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we chatted with Beth Smoller, GMCF's Lincoln & Dorothy Deihl Fund Committee Chair. In our conversation, we found out about Beth's legal and insurance background, what tugs at her heartstrings, her involvement with Girls On The Run, and her motivations for getting involved in philanthropy.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we caught up with Linda Cook GMCF's Marketing Committee Chair. In our conversation, we found out a few details about Linda's marketing and PR role while working for General Motors, her years as Chief of Staff and Director of Community Relations at Kansas State University, and her motivations for getting involved with GMCF.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we caught up with Brett Hubka and Jacob Lohrmeyer from Clay Center Community Improvement Foundation. In our conversation, we found out a few details about Brett and Jacob, the mural projects happening in and around Clay Center, and their match day fundraiser.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we caught up with Dale Bradley, Retired banker and GMCF Executive Board of Trustees member. In our conversation, we found out about Dale’s history as an educator, his transitions to banking, and his philanthropic journey.
GMCF
Leadersofthefoundation
GMCF
CFAs
Today we caught up with Dr. Eric Higgins, Investment Professor at Kansas State University and GMCF Investment Committee Chair, as we talked about his philanthropic journey. We discussed the importance of mentorship, and giving your time to the causes you care about.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we caught up with Penny Wika, as we talked about the start of her and her husband’s philanthropic journey. We talked about her history of public service as an educator, the formation of her family’s trust, and the Noris & Penny Wika Trust Scholarship.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we’re talking to entrepreneur and philanthropist Russ Briggs. In our conversation, Russ talks about how he started his car dealership business and how he first got involved with the YES! Fund.
To learn more about the YES! Fund, visit www.yesmanhattan.org
GMCF
CFAs
Today we’re talking to educator and entrepreneur Bob Debruyn. In our conversation, Bob recounts never before heard stories about the formation of the YES! Fund, statistics on Manhattan students, and reasons why the YES! Fund is so important.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we’re talking to the USD 383 School District superintendent Eric Reid. Eric Tells us about how he became a superintendent, how the community rallies during tough times, and the YES! Fund's impact on the district’s after-school programs.
GMCF
CFAs
Our guest today is a Manhattan legend who at the age of 101 still has a passion for philanthropy. Today we have the pleasure of interviewing C. Clyde Jones. We talked about his history and involvement with the YES! Fund and the impact after-school programs have on our local youth.
GMCF
CFAs
Today we're catching up with Debbie Mercer & Dirk Daveline to talk about the YES! Fund, short for Youth Empowerment for Success. A fund that supports after-school programs. We talked about the YES! Fund's history, Dirk and Debbie's philanthropy experience, and the new direction under their leadership.
Find out more about YES! Fund
GMCF
YouthEmpowermentforSuccess
YES
GMCF
CFAs
On this episode of Philanthropy Today, we spoke with CFA Youth Volunteer of The Year, Eli Conley, to talk about his experience with GMCF's Youth Impacting Community (YIC) program. Eli spoke about his role as President of YIC, going to college, and taking the leadership experiences learned through YIC into the next chapter of his life.
Find out more about YIC HERE.
YIC
GMCF
YouthVolunteering
YouthLeadership
GMCF
CFAs
On this episode of Philanthropy Today we sat with long-time Manhattan residents and 2023 Philanthropist Of The Year Bob and Tracey Debruyn to talk about their philanthropic journey, The Master Teacher Institute For The Arts, and the Museum of Art & Light. Bob and Tracey passionately share the origins of this interactive museum, its groundbreaking exhibitions, and the lasting impact it will have on the Manhattan community. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with two remarkable individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference.
GMCF
CFAs
In the latest episode of Philanthropy Today, we learn about the recent acquisition of Wenger Manufacturing by Marel Food Processing Company. Wenger Manufacturing has a long history of making a significant impact on the community of Sabetha, Kansas, which is known for its food processing plant.
We had the opportunity to sit down with John Pierson, Chief Financial Officer of Wenger, Leslie Scoby, Director of the Greater Sabetha Community Foundation and GMCF's Director of Partner Programs, and Jesper Hjortshoj, President of Wenger, to discuss the acquisition and the creation of the Wenger Marel Charitable Fund. This fund will assist in addressing community needs in Sabetha.
We are excited to see how this acquisition and charitable fund will positively impact the community of Sabetha and look forward to hearing more about the progress in the future.
To learn more about Sabetha's Community Foundation and the Wenger Marel Charitable Grant click the links below.
Greater Sabetha Community Foundation
Wenger Marel Charitable Grant
GMCF
CFAs
Mary Vanier, one of the founding members of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, has played a crucial role in fostering a spirit of giving and compassion in the Manhattan region.
However, Mary's connection with the GMCF is only a small part of her history in philanthropy. Her parents and grandparents have a long history of giving back, and they set a good example for her and her siblings. Mary is equally dedicated to the family business, which has grown over the years to play a significant role in the Manhattan community.
Overall, Mary Vanier is a great example to all of us, exemplifying the value of generosity and the necessity of investing our time, talents, and treasure to improve the community.
GMCF
Manhattankansas
philanthropy
giving
familylegacy
GMCF
CFAs
For people 60 years of age and over residing in Riley County and the Manhattan region, the Manhattan Senior Center offers services and activities. Fitness and social events, educational programs, informational assistance, and referrals are just a few of the services and activities offered. Director of the Manhattan Senior Center, Liz Nelson Stopped to tell us all about what they do for Manhattan's senior residents.
Manhattan Senior Center
CFAs
manhattankansas
nonprofit
servicetoothers
manhattanseniorcenter
GMCF
CFAs
We talked to the Hiawatha Community Foundation’s president, Virginia Freese, to find out all about the third annual Hiawatha Community Foundation Give Back to Move Forward Match Day. The Hiawatha Community Foundation is an affiliate of the GMCF, meaning we provide administrative support to help fulfill their mission for their community. Virginia joins us to discuss the HCF's third annual Give Back to Move Forward Match Day, happening May 26th through 29th. Match Day donations made to participating nonprofits are matched by a donor up to a certain amount that can be used for their most crucial needs.
Find out more about Hiawatha Community Foundation’s Match Day below:
hiawathacf.org
info@hiawathacf.org
nonprofits
matchday
hiawathakansas
GMCF
GMCF
CFAs
Shepherd's Crossing is an excellent illustration of what happens when localities band together to take care of their neighbors' needs. When local pastors and churches realized how many people in Riley County and St. George were struggling financially, they created this group. They were able to develop a program that meets the basic necessities of individuals in need while also giving each customer the respect they merit by combining their knowledge and resources. We talked to Executive Director Beth Klug about what it takes to run and operate an organization such as Shepherd's Crossing.
CFAs
Shepherd’s Crossing
Nonprofit
giving
manhattankansas
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The Manhattan community has been greatly impacted by Jamie Coones, who is truly a fantastic young man. throughout our interview, He revealed his path to winning the CFA Young Trustee of the Year, which was defined by a strong dedication to community involvement and a love for his business. The entire time we spoke, Jamie underlined his dedication to having a positive impact on the neighborhood and to using his knowledge and experience to enhance the lives of others. Overall, we found Jamie Coones to be both insightful and inspirational, and we are confident that he will continue making the Manhattan community better for a very long time.
GMCF
youngtrustees
philanthropy #CFAs
volunteers
nonprofit
manhattankansas
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CFAs
Food insecurity is a major issue in many communities, and Common Table is doing its part to help those in need. Michael Gassmann, a representative from the program, recently sat down to discuss how Common Table is making a difference in the lives of people struggling with hunger.
According to Gassmann, Common Table is a program that provides free, nutritious meals to anyone in need. The organization partners with local churches and other community organizations to offer meals in a variety of locations throughout the community. The program is open to anyone, regardless of income or background.
GMCF
CFAs
We recently had a conversation with CFA Trustee Volunteer Awardee Tom Phillips about his reasons for volunteering, his political career, and his life in Manhattan, Kansas. Tom has been an active member of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation for many years, serving as a trustee for the Foundation for over 10 years.
Tom served as a city commissioner and mayor of Manhattan, Kansas before he was elected to represent the 67th District in the Kansas House of Representatives in 2012 and served until 2020.
GMCF #Foundations #CFAs #Philanthropy
GMCF
CFAs
We recently had a conversation with CFA Rising Star Jill Sherman about her reasons for giving back, her upbringing in the church, and the charities that are most important to her.
She is enthusiastic about changing lives and assisting people. Jill has experience working with numerous organizations that assist kids and teenagers. She also enjoys working with nonprofits that offer assistance to low-income families, kids, and teens who are having financial difficulties.
GMCF
CFAs
CFA Business Philanthropist awardee Dr. Emilie Smith Talks to us about her background, her journey, and family. Emilie is the proud owner of Tooth Story, a dental practice that specializes in providing top-notch dental care to children in the community. Dr. Smith's commitment to helping others extends beyond her work as a dentist. She is also deeply involved in philanthropy, working with a number of nonprofits in the community to make a positive impact. Her staff at Tooth Story shares her passion for philanthropy, and they work together to support a variety of causes in the community.
GMCF #Foundations #CFAs #Philanthropy
GMCF
CFAs
Grow Green Match Day is a significant event for nonprofits in the Manhattan area. GMCF Director of Program Development, Kendra Kuhlman, tells us how the event has grown over the last 10 years, and how you can make your contributions grow through matching dollars from the Howe Family Foundation. Make your plans to participate on April 21!
growgreenmanhattan.com
mcfks.org
Foundation #MatchDay #GMCF
Here's a delightful interview with siblings, Mark and Brenda Butler, as we learn more about the Butler Family Foundation. Started by Pizza Hut franchise owner, Bernie Butler and his wife, Sherry, Mark and Brenda tell us about their mission, and we'll hear some of the gifts they've been able to make in their home communities in Manhattan, Seattle and Minneapolis.
At the end...enjoy the "awesome bomb" that Mark lights up!
GMCF #Foundations #KonzaUnitedWay #ImaginationLibrary
mcfks.org
venturesnonprofit.org
konzaunitedway.org
imaginationlibrary.com
Bruce McMillan has worn many hats in the Flint Hills region. Whether it's his work as an architect, advisor, visionary or philanthropist, Bruce's fingerprints can be seen throughout the region. Bruce has recently become a Trustee with the GMCF. Hear his story of education, inspiration and generosity. We're lucky to have him!
GMCF #Foundation
mcfks.org
mcmillanarchitects.com
Learn more about a new opportunity through the Kansas Association of Community Foundation from its Executive Director. Lori Huber. She and KACF Board Member, Marla Brandon, of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, describe a matching grant program for rural community foundations in Kansas and Eastern Missouri from the Patterson Family Foundation. The matching grants are available on a first come first serve basis....so apply now at kansascfs.org!
kansascfs.org mcfks.org
foundations #matchinggrants #GMCF #KACF
Philanthropy Today enjoys telling stories of Manhattan area residents that are making a difference by sharing their time, talents and treasures. This episode features visits with 4 CFA finalists.
Jill Sherman: CFA Rising Star finalist. Jill works with McCown-Gordon Construction. She shares how her faith leads her in her volunteer work.
Joy Hall: CFA Distinguished Volunteer finalist. Joy has an inspiring spirit that helps lead her interests in helping others, most particularly with Be Able Community.
Michelle Sink and Rich Sell with Konza Rotary Club: CFA Philanthropy finalist. Listen to the story of the International Rotary legacy and how the Konza Rotary Club has worked toward improving global health and local community needs.
Lance White, Bank of the Flint Hills: CFA Business Philanthropy finalist. Lance shares how a family owned bank, based in Wamego, and with locations in 6 communities, has encouraged charitable giving and volunteerism in their staff.
TheCFAs are Monday, March 20, 2023 at the Hilton Garden Inn/Manhattan Conference Center.
Tickets: TheCFAs.com. 785-587-8995
TheCFAs #Foundation #GMCF #Rotary #KonzaRotary #McCown-Gordon #BeAbleCommunity #BankoftheFlintHillss
MCFKS.org. McCownGordon.com BeAbleCommunity.com KonzaRotary.com BankFlintHills.com
We continue on Philanthropy Today to get to know some of the finalists for the upcoming CFA Awards. This episode features 4 delightful people in Manhattan!
Michael Gassman talks about "Common Table," an effort to provide meals to anyone in the community. Common Table is a finalist in the Civic Philanthropy category.
Jill Mason-Schneider is a finalist for the CFA Rising Star Award. Jill is engaged in a number of organizations, and she speaks about her work with Catholic Charities and Girls On The Run
Mary Ann Pittman is a finalist for the Distinguished Volunteer Award. Mary Ann, a native New Yorker, is a volunteer for organizations like Thrive and the Flint Hills Breadbasket
Emilie Smith owns the Tooth Story, a dentistry that specializes in working with Children. Tooth Story's staff works with a number of nonprofits in the community. Tooth Story is a finalist in the Business Philanthropy category.
Get your tickets for the CFAs, March 20th at the HIlton Garden Inn/Manhattan Conference Center. Go to the website below and join us as we recognize passionate and gracious people in Manhattan!
TheCFAs.Com
mcfks.org
theCFAs #Philanthropy #Volunteers #Foundations #CommunityFoundations
The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation is hosting the annual Community Foundation Awards on March 20th at Manhattan's Hilton Garden Inn.
This episode of Philanthropy Today features 2 CFA finalists. In the Civic Philanthropy category, Vickie Greenwood shares how the Konza Prairie Quilter's Guild works to help comfort youngsters going through a difficult time. Sue Gerth is a CFA finalist in the Distinguished Volunteer category. She shares some touching experiences that have led her to work for several non-profit organizations.
Tickets are available for the CFAs at TheCFAs.com
GMCF #TheCFAs #Quilters #ThriveFlintHills
mcfks.org
TheCFAs.com
ThriveFlintHills.com
In the next few weeks, Philanthropy Today's podcast will be focusing on the Community Foundation Awards (TheCFAs) coming up March 20th. Keith Westerveldt of Blueville Nursery is our guest on this episode. Blueville is a finalist for the CFA award for Business Philanthropy. Listen as Keith speaks to the history of Blueville, and the employee-owned business's perspective on giving back to the community.
mcfks.org
TheCFAs.com
BluevilleNursery.com
Philanthropy. #GMCF #TheCFAs. #BluevilleNursery
2022 was a banner year for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. President/CEO, Vern Henricks, recaps the year of financial challenges and rewards, a record number of grants, affiliates and partners, community needs, staff and a preview of 2023!
GMCF #ManhattanKS #foundations
mcfks.org
"The Joy of Giving," is the subject of this episode of Philanthropy Today. GMCF CEO/President, Vern Henricks, and GMCF's Director of Philanthropy, Mitzi Richards, share their thoughts on giving during the holidays, and how GMCF can assist with the process. There are some great and timely ideas shared in this episode.
Giving #Philanthropy #PhilanthropyToday #GMCF
mcfks.org
It's always noteworthy when a youngster from Manhattan joins Philanthropy Today to talk about YIC (Youth Impacting Community). Eli Conley is a senior at Manhattan High School, and currently serves as YIC President. Eli joins Dave and GMCF Communications Coordinator and YIC Advisor, MaKenna Eilert, to talk about the work members of YIC and how he has benefited from his experiences.
GMCF #CommunityFoundation #YouthImpactingCommunity #MHS #ManhattanHighSchool
GMCF Director of Philanthropy, Mitzi Richards, joins as a co-host in this episode of Philanthropy Today, as we visit with Bill Richter, who along with his wife, Linda, have an extensive record of giving. It's a delightful, informative and inspiring talk about the Richters' philanthropic journey, plus some insights on making meaningful contributions.
GMCF #CommunityFoundation #Charitablegiftannuity
Book reference: "Relation Shift" by Michael Bassoff and Steve Chandler
The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation hosted its Semi-Annual Meeting, November 2nd at the Midwest Dream Car Collection. It's an opportunity for nonprofit directors to tell board members and trustees how they applied grant monies they received. GMCF President/CEO, Vern Henricks, and Grant Coordinator, Edee Nichols, recap the meeting and speak about its significance.
GMCF. #Foundations #Philanthropy
www.mcfks.org
The Staley School of Leadership at Kansas State University offers a program on Nonprofit Leadership. Dr. Chance Lee is the director of the program, and joins us on this episode of "Philanthropy Today" to discuss the program, it's goals, it's students and the challenges that face nonprofits in today's world
k-state.edu/leadership
chance@ksu.edu
leadership
philanthropy
k-state
GMCF
ManhattanKS
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so Philanthropy Today invited Crisis Center Director, Kathy Ray, to find out more about some events they are hosting.
Kathy also says there's an exciting announcement to be made at the "Because of You" reception on October 11th!
The Silent Witness National Initiative:
Wednesday, October 5, 12pm Junction City Municipal Building
Friday, October 7, 12pm, Riley County Courthouse
"Because Of You" Thank You Reception, Tuesday, October 11, 5:30m, College Avenue United Methodist Church, Manhattan.
www.thecrisiscenterinc.org
www.silentwitness.net
domesticviolence. #crisiscenter
The Wamego Community Foundation is hosting its 4th annual Match Day on Thursday, October 6th at Iron Clad in Wamego. Executive Director Mike McCall tells Philanthropy Today of previous Match Day successes and hopes for 2022.
www.thewcf.org
wamegocf
foundation
matchday
Learn about "Operation Santa Claus" at Fort Riley. Brigadier General (Ret) Phil Mattox of the Armed Forces Community Foundation is joined by "Chief Elf," SFC Mike Cumberbatch, as they tell Philanthropy Today more about an effort that brings lots of Holiday spirit to the children of Fort Riley soldiers.
op/Santa.com
GMCF
Foundation
FortRiley
ArmedForcesCommunity Foundation
The Fairy Godmothers annually team up with The Guardians to raise money together to assist women and men with short-term financial challenges. Today's guests on Philanthropy Today are Therese Miller on behalf of the Fairy Godmothers and Dick Wertzberger with The Guardians. We'll learn more about the two organizations and their upcoming golf tournament fundraiser, scheduled for Monday, October 3rd.
fgfund.org
gafund.org
fairtygodmothers #theguardiansMHK #GMCF #foundation #fundraising
The Clay Center Community Improvement Foundation is holding its annual "Gather For Good" match day on September 15th. This episode of "Philanthropy Today" features Foundation board member, Jill Mugler, and Scott Glaves, Clay Center Public Utilities Superintendent. Hear how Clay Center's Match Day got started and how it's grown over the last 5 years.
gatherforgoodcc.com
foundation #claycenterks #matchday #fundraising
Farmers have a unique opportunity to help their communities by giving "Gifts of Grain."
This episode features GMCF's Partner Affiliate Coordinator, Leslie Scoby, and Jayson Hood of the Clay Center Community Foundation, as we discuss the ease and benefits of providing Gifts of Grain.
giftofgrain
foundation
sabetha
claycentercommunityfoundation
mcfks.org
Arts On The Green is a unique fundraising event put on by the Catholic Churches of Manhattan (MC3), Manhattan Mennonite Church, and First United Methodist Church of Manhattan, to benefit the Be Able Community. Sharon Davis of Seven Dolors Catholic Church informs us on the event which includes several styles of art, culinary delights and some wonderful music.
Arts On The Green. Sunday, September 11th, 4:00-7:30pm
Green Space at Houston and Juliette, just south of Seven Dolors
beablecommunity.com
sevendolors.com
Philanthropy Today's Dave Lewis is joined in this episode by GMCF Director of Philanthropy, Mitzi Richards. Our guest is Dr. Megan McCoy from Kansas State University, a self-described 'Financial Therapist." It's a thought-provoking and delightful interview on financial management and setting goals for philanthropy.
21 years ago on September 11th, America was attacked on several fronts, taking nearly 3,000 lives, and stunning our nation. The Flint Hills Volunteer Center has been working on recognizing 9/11 over the last several years with an event that has been named "9/11. Day of Remembrance." FHVC Executive Director, Lori Bishop tells Philanthropy Today of the activities during this event to be held in Manhattan CIty Park.
flinthillsvolunteercenter.com
785-776-7787
The Konza United Way is gearing up for it's annual campaign, and it starts September 13th! Director, Tara Claussen, tells Philanthropy Today of the importance of the campaign and introduces the campaign's Honorary Chairs, Kate and Shawn Drew.
The official Konza United Way Campaign Kickoff is September 13, 2022 at the Shamrock Zone at 8:00 am.
Please RSVP to director@konzaunitedway.org or call 785-776-3779.
There's a new director for the Riley County Historical Museum. Katharine Hensler is featured on this episode of Philanthropy Today. Learn of her background and visions for the museum
rileycountyks.gov
2309 Claflin Road, Manhattan, KS. 66502
History #rileycountyks. #GMCF #philanthropy #KsHistory #kansashistory #kansasmuseums
The Atchison Community Foundation is holding its second Match Day in August, after a sensational initial effort that brought in over $300,000! Foundation Chair and President, Jonathan Mize, tells Philanthropy Today of how this historic city is seeing its foundation grow.
AtchisonFoundation.org
AllAboardAtchison.com
Foundation #atchistonkansas #atchison #communityfoundation #GMCF #matchday
On today's edition of Philanthropy Today we spoke with our GMCF partners: Calvin Pottberg - President Greater Geary Community Foundation and Brian Lull - Chairperson Wamego Community Foundation.
We spoke about some of the greatest benefits of partnering with GMCF, and how the community foundation has made a difference in our surrounding communities.
greatergearycf.org
thewcf.org
On this edition of Philanthropy Today we spoke with Christina Nolte - Executive Director of Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice about a big event coming up at the end of the month: Festival of Wines and the funds that are raised at this event, and how they help Good Shepherd.
goodshepherdhh.org
Youth In Community is a program offered through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. YIC engages area high school students and guides them through concepts like leadership and philanthropy. YIC Advisor, Makenna Eilert, joins us for an inviting look into YIC, and how she hopes to see more teens get involved.
philanthropy #foundation #youthincommunity #youthleadership
mcfks.org
makennae@mcfks.org
785-587-8995
The Greater Manhattan Community Foundations works with many donors throughout the region on managing scholarships for graduating seniors. Edee Nichols is the GMCF's Scholarship Coordinator, and on this episode of Philanthropy Today, she speaks about a few scholarships that were awarded and provides us some impressive numbers of students and dollars!
More scholarship information is available at https://www.mcfks.org/apply-for-a-scholarship.cfm
Scholarships
Foundation
CommunityFoundation
The South Brown County Community Foundation is holding its first Match Day in July! In this episode of Philanthropy Today, Foundation members, Jackie Petersen and Sarah Gerving, describe how several locals have come together, with the support of businesses like Ag Partners and Rainbow Communications, and are working toward fulfilling needs in the area.
www.growsouthbrown.com
Mitzi Richards brings a lifetime of experience in philanthropy and finance to the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. Mitzi joined the GMCF staff in June as Director of Philanthropy. Learn more about Mitzi's background and the love she has for building relationships and helping donors make decisions they can be proud of.
GMCF #philanthropy #MHK #Foundation
Attention nonprofits!! The GMCF is partnering with the Manhattan Public Library for a FREE grant search program for nonprofit organizations. GMCF's Director of Programs, Kendra Kuhlman shares the details on the "Lunch and Learn" program to be held at the MPL on July 12th!
mcfks.org
kendrak@mcfks.org
grantwriting
nonprofits
foundations
C. Clyde Jones has accomplished many things over his 99 1/2 years and has lived over 60 of those years in Manhattan. The local icon recently got an early start celebrating his 100th birthday with an open house bash held by the Kansas State University College of Business Administration. In this episode of Philanthropy Today, Dr. Jones shared many memories of his work with charitable organizations, including the United Way and Shepherd's Crossing. Links to pics of the C. Clyde's 100th birthday party are below.
This interview was conducted during "The GMCF Community Hour," which is broadcast every Monday on News Radio KMAN.
GMCF #Foundation #KState
https://kstatebusiness.photoshelter.com/galleries/C0000MXTz7rUrUoI/G0000bEMIRYN3A2E/C-Clyde-Jones-100th-Birthday
https://fb.watch/dQc8yox1Dv/
The GMCF has added a new position to its staff, and one couldn't find a better fit for the job! Christine Benne is working in the role as Military Relations Coordinator, working specifically with GMCF Partner, the Armed Forces Community Foundation. Asa member of the military community for over 3 decades, Christine comes to the GMCF with numerous contacts and relationships that will help further advance the AFCF's mission. Learn more about Christine as GMCF President/CEO, Vern Henricks introduces her on Philanthropy Today.
armedforcescf.org
mcfks.org
The creation of No Stone Unturned is a story in itself. In this episode of Philanthropy Today, board member, Nancy Evangelidis, describes their work, and shares her personal stories of having 2 children that have benefited from the therapy work done at No Stone. It's a compelling, loving story that you'll enjoy. She also talks about how their annual fundraiser has grown each year. It's coming July 8th and 9th and tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online!
nostoneunturned.org
The Manhattan Emergency Shelter serves several hundred people each year. Executive Director, Emily Wagner, tells Philanthropy Today how the shelter weathered the pandemic, tells about their needs and funding mechanisms. Fundraising is always important for MESI, and Emily shares details about the upcoming Bag Lady Auction to be held Friday, June 24th in the Utopia Room at St. Thomas More Catholic Church.
mesikansas.org
Now in its 33rd year, Manhattan's Juneteenth celebration continues to broaden its lineup of events and activities. History, music, food and good times are included in the weeklong effort. Sonya and Dave Baker bring Philanthropy today up to speed on what you can be a part of during Juneteenth, June 13th-19th in Manhattan City Park.
Further details are available on their website:
https://manhattanjuneteenth.org/
The Konza United Way in 2021 sold 1,000 "Restaurant Week" passports. That's a great result for a first-time event! In 2022, the event will be held June 10-19, and passports will be available beginning June 3rd...for ONLY 5 BUCKS!
KUW Executive Director, Tara Claussen, appears on this episode of Philanthropy Today, and gives us the details of Restaurant Week and how it helps the mission of the Konza United Way.
It's a great way to enjoy specials at numerous Manhattan restaurants, and support the Konza United Way.
KonzaUniteWay.org
Elaine Dhuyvetter is our guest on this episode of Philanthropy Today. Elaine is retiring this May after serving 14 years at the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, the last several as the Foundation's Vice President Marketing and Programs.
Elaine tells us how GMCF has evolved over the last 14 years, highlights some of her favorite memories, and shares her plans following her retirement.
GMCF #Foundations
2022 marks just the second year for the Hiawatha Community Foundations "Give Back To Move Forward" match day. In the first year, local leaders were blown away by the generosity to the foundation, and they're gearing up to make the 2022 version bigger and better! Our guest on Philanthropy Today is Virginia Freese, a long time mental health professional, now serving as the President of the Hiawatha Community Foundation.
www.hiawatchcf.org
www.givebacktomoveforward,com
Big Brothers Big Sisters changes lives. Michelle Sink, Central Kansas Director of BBBS talks about the impact made in the lives of littles...AND bigs! We also will learn about a new term on Philanthropy Today, "Friendraising!" Learn how you can help BBBS by hosting a simple event.
Michelle also gives us a preview of "The Manhattan," a fundraising event scheduled for October 6th at the Prairiewood Retreat and Reserve.
www.kansasbigs.org
www.4kidsake.org
The Armed Forces Community Foundation is a new partner with the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. In this episode of Philanthropy Today, Brigadier General (retired) Phil Mattox tells us what the goals of the AFCF are, and provides details of one of its key fundraisers, the Stand To golf tournament, scheduled for Saturday, May 21st.
mcfks.org
https://www.armedforcescf.org/document-center.cfm?fx=YF4VE9OHSUVNKT74
Jeff Crist directs the Marysville Community Foundation, which is one of the many partners of the GMCF. He's getting ready for "Pony Up Marysville" match day, which is May 6th. Jeff tells us more about how "Pony Up Marysville" came to be and what to look for in 2022!
www.ponyupmarysville.com
www.marysvillecf.org
Manhattan has been designated a qualifier location for the U.S. Air Guitar Championships!! Invite MHK’s Jeff Sackrider and World Air Guitar Champion, Nordic Thunder, talk with Dave about the contest to be held at The Wareham, May 6th!
usairguitar.com
Karla Hagemeister is the new Executive Director of the Flint Hills Breadbasket. In this episode of Philanthropy Today, we learn more about Karla's work in the Manhattan area prior to taking over at the FHBB, including her work on the USD 383 Manhattan/Ogden school board.
We'll also learn more about the Breadbaskets 27th annual "Take A Swing At Hunger" golf tournament scheduled for May 2nd at Colbert Hills Golf Club.
www.flinthillsbreadbasket.org
April 22nd is a huge day for the non-profit community in Manhattan as Grow Green Match Day provides a 50% match on donations, courtesy the Howe Family Foundation. Our guests on Philanthropy Today include Beth St. Amand, on behalf of the St. Amand Memorial Fund, Kathy Ray of Crisis Center, Inc., Rick Hernandez from the Flint Hills Community Clinic, as well as Christian Watkins and Amelia Richter from Ecumenical Campus Ministry.
growgreenmanhattan.com
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Today's episode features 4 non-profit leaders, describing how Grow Green Match Day helps their organizations. Philanthropy Today speaks with Chris Jacobs of the House Cafe, Tara Claussen of Konza United Way, Christina Nolte of Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice, and Vonda Copeland from Manhattan/Riley County Crimestoppers. Remember---Grow Green Match Day is April 22nd!
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As Grow Green Match Day approaches on Friday, April 22nd, Philanthropy Today visited with leaders in several organizations about how Grow Green Match Day financially helps them. This episode features Tod Bunting of the SAVE Farm, Rebecca Fitzgerald of Meadowlark Foundation, Scott Voos of Be Able Community, Josh Brewer of the Manhattan Area Habitat for Humanity, Melissa Soldan of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Manhattan and Lesley White of the Flint Hills Discovery Center.
growgreenmanhattan.com
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The colors of Spring are coming out!!! Here to talk about some upcoming vibrant artistic efforts is GMCF's Director of Development, Kendra Kuhlman. She tells how the Diehl Family Foundation has helped support numerous public art projects, and we'll learn how Allison Bowman's poster is being utilized to support public art on Grow Green Match Day, April 22nd.
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Youth Impacting Community (Y.I.C.) is a group of high school aged youth from the Manhattan, KS area who want to make a positive difference in the lives of others. This episode of Philanthropy Today features Y.I.C.'s adviser, MaKenna Eilert, the President of the group, Claire Shamburg, and Secretary, Monroe Say.
The Festival Of Lights is a holiday experience held annually in Manhattan's Blue Earth Plaza. On this episode of Philanthropy Today, Belinda Snyder and Brad Everett describe how "Whooville" came to be, and tell us about a new aspect to the Festival Of Lights that will begin in 2022 in honor of Everett's late wife, Amy.
The Eichman family, which owns Midwest Concrete Materials, have been philanthropists for 4 generations! On this episode of Philanthropy Today’s, the Eichmans, who have been nominated for a CFA in the Business Philanthropy category explain why "giving back" is not only a family tradition, but their efforts extend to their employees as well.
Kristin Guggisberg is a CFA nominee in the Rising Star category, and with good reason! Her full-time job is being director of Kansas Special Olympics, yet she is a co-founder of Laundry Love, which provides laundry services for those in need. Here's her story!
Grow Green Match Day has a significant impact on the non-profit agencies working through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. On this episode of Philanthropy Today, GMCF VP of Marketing and Programs, Elaine Dhuyvetter, explains how Grow Green Match Day works and how it's grown and evolved the last 14 years.
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The GMCF's CFA Awards ceremony on March 21st, recognized a number of individuals who were nominated for their charitable efforts. There were a number of Awardees as well. On this episode of Philanthropy Today, GMCF President and CEO, Vern Henricks, recaps the CFAs.
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The Manhattan Optimist Club has been providing numerous opportunities for young people in the community. Club President, Mike Fincham, and member, Jim Franke, tell Philanthropy Today about the importance of their efforts in helping kids, and speak to their reaction after being nominated for a CFA in the Civic Philanthropy category.
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Joan McIlvaine has spent decades as a volunteer in the Manhattan community. On this episode of Philanthropy Today, Joan talks about her experiences as a volunteer, and we'll also get her reaction to be nominated for "Distinguished Volunteer" Award at the CFAs.
thecfas.com
David and Marcy Uphoff own "Early Edition" restaurants in Manhattan, and they're among the nominees for the CFA Business Philanthropy Award. In this episode of Philanthropy Today, the Uphoffs talk about their charitable efforts and how their faith is a key reason they give back to the community. Host Dave Lewis also shares his favorite breakfast meal at Early Edition. That's really important information.
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Ron DeChant has immersed himself and his business at Heritage Builders into giving back to the community. On today's episode, Ron tells how his faith has inspired him to volunteer, and what it means to be nominated for the CFAs "Business Philanthropy" award.
thecfas.com
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Inspired to help through her own experiences, CFA Rising Star Nominee, Cara Bilyew, describes what led her to volunteer as a Police Response Advocate, through the Crisis Center, Inc., and how her efforts are both meaningful and therapeutic.
Debbie Madsen and her mother were living in the Dix Addition of Manhattan in 1993. That portion of MHK was drastically damaged in the flood that summer. Debbie witnessed how the community came to the aid of her and her neighbors, and was inspired to work as a volunteer. Nearly 30 years later, Debbie has been nominated as a "Distinguished Volunteer" at the upcoming Community Foundation Awards (thecfas.com). She's a regular volunteer with the Flint Hills Breadbasket, Habitat for Humanity and the First United Methodist Church, among others.
Among the CFA's Rising Star nominees is Crystal Bryant-Kearns. Crystal works on Fort Riley at the USO, where she helps soldiers and military families. She's also quite involved in the area as a volunteer! On this episode of Philanthropy Today, we'll learn more about Crystal's passion for her work and community.
The Manhattan Lions Club was recently nominated for a CFA award for it's civic philanthropy. Club President, Dave Schafer, describes what the Lions club is all about, and talks about their local projects and efforts. For membership information, you can contact Dave via email: davideschafer@msn.com
The 9th Annual CFA awards ceremony is March 21st at the Manhattan Conference Center. In this episode of Philanthropy Today, GMCF's Vern Henricks and Elaine Dhuyvetter give us a preview of the nominees and other awards. Reserve your seats at theCFAs.com.
The GMCF has 15 affiliate partner organizations ranging from veteran's organizations to small communities. Leslie Scoby heads up the Sabetha Community Foundation, and is now working as the affiliate coordinator for the GMCF. On this episode of Philanthropy Today, Vern and Dave visit with Leslie and learn more about how other foundations can benefit from the resources of the GMCF.
The GMCF's Young Trustees committee was formed several years ago to better engage young professionals into the Foundation's work. This episode features the co-chairs of the Young Trustees, Sarah Siders and M.L. Latimore. They share how they became involved and their vision for the organization.
The mission of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation is to build relationships between donors and community needs. Elaine Dhuyvetter is the GMCF’s VP for Marketing and Programs. In this episode of Philanthropy Today, Elaine describes how grants from donated funds are distributed to non-profit organizations.
Dave Baker was K-State's first black head Baseball coach and had a long career in athletics. After his retirement, Baker came back to his hometown of Manhattan, Kansas. He's been deeply involved in the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department's development of the Frederick Douglass Recreation Complex and the city's annual Juneteenth celebration. In recognition of Black History Month, Baker recalls the lives of a number of African-Americans from Manhattan, and the impact they made locally on race relations.
"Home Is Where The Heart Is" is the theme for an upcoming event to benefit Manhattan Area Habitat for Humanity. MAHFH's Executive Director, Josh Brewer, and Development Manager, Ben Deaver, tell host Dave Lewis about the event coming Saturday, February 12th, at Manhattan's Sunset Zoo. Get your tickets and find out more at mahfh.org. You'll also learn more about Restore and how MAHFH is assisting in the local resettlement of Afghani refugees.
Marla Brandon is the GMCF's Vice President of Finance. In this episode of "Philanthropy Today," Marla describes the processes involved in the distribution of funds.
The GMCF utilizes a variety of social media platforms to keep the community up to date. This episode features Felix Jimenez and MaKenna Eilert as they discuss how the work they do brings together donors and community needs. GMCF President/CEO, Vern Henricks also speaks of the importance of social media in the Foundation's works.
This episode features GMCF's Director of Investment Services, Gary Fees, and he and Vern Henricks discuss the processes involved in making your contributions to the Foundation more impactful.
Arts in Manhattan are flourishing! GMCF's Director of Program Development, Kendra Kuhlman, tell Dave about a new fund for arts projects in the community, a poster contest and a new effort to establish a sculpture in downtown Manhattan.
Here's a look back at the GMCF's CFA Awards. GMCF President and CEO, Vern Henricks, "The Middles" Blade Mages and Kehoulani Krimbill join "Philanthropy Today" and CFA host, Dave Lewis.
Here's both a review of 2021 and a preview of 2022, featuring incoming GMCF Board Chair, Therese Miller, and the 2022 Chair, Jackie Hartman Borck, share their visions for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. GMCF President/CEO, Vern Henricks also tells us of new directives the Foundation will focus on in the future.
2021 was a challenging, yet remarkable year for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. In this episode of Philanthropy today, President/CEO, Vern Henricks, and GMCF VP Elaine Dhuyvetter, recap the year and provide a preview of 2022
The Flint Hills Summer Fun Camp looks to be back in full swing in 2022. Here on Philanthropy Today, Co-Directors Ashley Eckelberry and Ryan Smallwood talk about their hopes for this year's effort helping kids on the Autism spectrum.
The Douglass Activities Center in Manhattan is cherishing their new facility on Fort Riley Boulevard. Here on Philanthropy Today, Recreation and Fitness Director Kyla Kellerman tells host Dave Lewis about the new facility and programs that are available to the public.
Karen Hawes is the Director of the Kids Bike Recycling, which sets up kids in Manhattan and Ogden with bicycles. Karen tells us how you can help be a part of a growing program.
Live performances returned to the Manhattan Arts Center in 2021! Education coordinator, Michelle Ward, tells Dave that local artisans have had extra time to get creative through the pandemic, and that the center's new year has some fun activities and exhibits to share!
The Manhattan and Konza Rotary clubs have been very active in 2021. Club presidents, Robbin Cole and Richard Sell, address the goals of the long-standing civic clubs and their efforts to continue the organization's legacy through a new spin-off organization.
The last couple of years have been filled with transitions for Manhattan's Wonder Workshop Children's Museum. Board President, Brian Niefhoff, speaks to the changing leadership and direction of the Workshop.
Katie's Way continues to grow due the demand in their services for those in the age range from 2 to 26. Clinical Director, Matthew Wassom, tells Philanthropy Today how Katie's Way continues to serve our young population with mental health care.
Many neat things are in store for the Beach Museum of Art at K-State. Director Linda Duke tells Philanthropy Today about the current line up of outstanding exhibits at the award-winning museum.
2021 offered many challenges for those dealing with mental health challenges. Pawnee Mental Health Director, Robbin Cole, provides Philanthropy Today an update in the 2021 efforts in assisting in those in need of care.
Now during the holiday break is the perfect time for high school students to apply for scholarships. Edee Nichols is the Scholarship Coordinator for the GMCF and she tells Philanthropy Today how students can apply.
The First Tee program continues to grow at its host location at Colbert Hills Golf Course. Director Aaron Wall tells Philanthropy Today that 2022 is even more promising.
In the last 16 months, a new effort to assist individuals get their lives back on track launched in downtown Manhattan, and has grown so much that they've already moved into a larger facility. Executive Director, Scott Voos, describes the purpose of Be Able, and how 2022 brings new challenges and opportunities.
beablecommunity.com
Food insecurity is still an issue for many in the Little Apple, and The Breadbasket's Executive Director, Mary Beth Kiefer pays homage to the supporters, donors and volunteers who strive to minimize poverty and hunger in Manhattan.
flinthillsbreadbasket.org
2021 was a challenging year for the Crisis Center, as it's long-time director, Judy Davis, lost her long, courageous battle with cancer. Enter Cathy Ray, who worked with Judy and considers her a mentor, and she's jumped feet first into the Center's greatest project ever, a new shelter for victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault.
thecrisiscenterinc.org
A top goal for BBBS is to find new Bigs to mentor youth in the area. Executive Director, Michelle Sink, tells Dave that 2021 brought new opportunities for the organization, and in 2022, the effort to find more mentors will continue to be their biggest goal
kansasbigs.org
2021 was a year of transition for the beautiful Flint Hills Discovery Center, and 2022 brings a brand new feature during the Discovery Center's 10th year. The president of the Discovery Center's foundation board and long-time city commissioner, Bruce Snead, the foundation's executive director, Leslie White, and Assistant Director, Steven Bridenstine tell us what to look forward to in the new year.
flinthillsdiscovery.org
Habitat for Humanity continues to lend a helping hand to individuals to assist in their housing needs. In this episode, Executive Director, Josh Brewer, tells Dave that 2021 brought new hopes to families, and helped others with some goods from Habitat's "ReStore" facility.
mahfh.org
Morningstar was established in 2004 to assist individuals with severe mental health issues find work and help them get re-established in society. Founder and Co-Director Richard Stitt and Co-Director Dantia McDonald share stories of struggles, triumphs and hopes.
Empowering special populations is the goal of Big Lakes, giving hundreds of special needs adults opportunities and the attention they need. Development and marketing specialist, Emily Loudermilk, tells Philanthropy Today they have individuals ready to work! They just need businesses to hire them!
The Flint Hills Volunteer Center coordinates the efforts of over 1,200 volunteers in the area, providing valuable services to people in need. Today on PT, Executive Director, Lori Bishop, and Program Services Director, Karen Paulis, talk about a new effort to the FHVC is spearheading on suicide prevention.
2022 brings lots of new opportunities for Sunflower Casa! Executive Director, Carson Kober and board member, Scott Seel, tell Dave Lewis about the new year bringing a new name, new partnerships and a potential new home!
UFM's long time Executive Director, Linda Teenor, is joined on Philanthropy Today by UFM Program Coordinator, Christina Stratman, and brings us up-to-date on UFM's upcoming courses, and their goal of establishing a "Learning Kitchen" in Manhattan.
Jim Genandt, President of Manhattan Area Technical College updates Dave on the continued growth of the tech school and it's successes in creating an educated and capable workforce.
In our first episode in "Philanthropy Today's" 25 Days of Christmas, we visit with Christina Nolte and Jenneen LeMay of Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice in Manhattan. We learn about their mission to provide the highest quality of care for their clients, and the importance of financial support from the community. The annual "Light of Life" is just one of their many efforts to help sustain their work.
goodshepherdhh.org
This episode of the GMCF Podcast features Jeff Sackrider of WTC and Nick "Sick" Fisher, an artist who has contributed to the local vibrancy through his art. Jeff represents "Incite MHK," an organization that formed in 2019 to enhance art in Manhattan by utilizing private funds through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation.
Today's guest on the GMCF Podcast is Matt Crocker, who chairs the GMCF's Investment Committee.
We'll learn how the committee works with donors to assist them in fulfilling their goals for their contributions. Crocker is the CEO/President of SPS Companies, Inc., the parent company of long-time Manhattan business, Steel and Pipe Supply.
He tells GMCF Podcast host Dave Lewis about how he became company's leader and their commitment to the Manhattan community.
"The Manhattan" is an upcoming fund-raising event for the Riley County Big Brothers Big Sisters. Area Director Michelle Sink is our guest on this episode of the GMCF Podcast, and she shares the details of this Bourbon and Blues based event, scheduled for September 9th at Prairiewood. Further information about "The Manhattan" is available at the Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters Facebook page.
Today's GMCF Podcast features a visit with Retired Lieutenant Colonel Robert Darling. Col. Darling was in the White House bunker with Vice President Dick Cheney the day the attacks on America took place, September 11th, 2001.
Col. Darling will be the featured speaker at the 9/11 Day Of Remembrance event, Friday, September 10th at Manhattan City Park. On this episode of the GMCF Podcast, he tells host Dave Lewis, Flint Hills Volunteer Center Director, Lori Bishop, and K-State Police Chief, Ronnie Grice, of his experiences from that historic event, the importance of first responders, and his message of hope.
It's an amazing interview.
Host Dave Lewis, and GMCF President/CEO Vern Henricks, visit the Grants Committee Chair, Michael Holen, and explore the process of turning funds into grants.
This episode of The GMCF Podcast features the Chair of the GMCF Arts Committee, Jackie Hartman-Borck.
GMCF President/CEO Vern Henricks and Podcast host, Dave Lewis, talk with Jackie about the growth and future of the arts culture in Manhattan, Kansas State University, and the surrounding area.
This episode of the GMCF Podcast features Lori Bishop, Director of the Flint Hills Volunteer Center, K-State Police Chief, Ronnie Grice, and former Salvation Army worker, Deb Abner, as we preview a special event, "A Day of Remembrance," to be held Friday, September 10th, in Manhattan City Park, in recognition of the 20th anniversary of the events that occurred September 11, 2001.
Long-time Dean of Kansas State University's College of Education, Mike Holen, also serves on the advisory board for the YES! Fund, tells GMCF Podcast host, Dave Lewis, the story of how the YES! Fund got started and whom they've served.
Find out more about the YES! Fund at www.yesmanhattan.org.
Timelines:
0:00. Introduction
1:00 The formation of the YES! Fund
4:30. Local giving to the fund
7:00. Initial donors
8:10. Involvement with Kansas State University
11:30 Local impact
13:10 YES! Fund beneficiaries
14:30 How the YES! Fund resonded to the pandemic
17:50 The 2021 drive
20:25 How the YES! Fund utilizes the GMCF
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A unique opportunity to explore Manhattan restaurants is coming in June! Dine Out for the Konza United Way is going to be a GREAT long-term adventure.
The focus for the inaugural event will be to highlight the wonderful, unique dining experiences in Manhattan, and generate awareness and funds for the Konza United Way.
In this episode of the GMCF podcast, Tara Claussen, Executive Director of the Konza United Way, explains how this “Restaurant Week” experience will become an annual Manhattan favorite!
konzaunitedway #unitedway #gmcf #foundation #restaurantweek
Meet Chalice Carter, a 2021 Manhattan High School graduate, who was selected by the Manhattan Boys and Girls Club of Manhattan as the club’s “Youth of the Year.” Carter was then chosen as the “Kansas Youth of the Year” and qualified for regional competition. Learn more about Chalice’s experiences in the Junction City and Manhattan schools, and what she’s discovered about herself through the Boys and Girls Club!
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Host Dave Lewis visits with retired US Army generals Bill Turner and Phil Mattox about the AFCF’s mission and events.
Here's a teaser on the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation's work in the Manhattan community through podcasts. The host, Dave Lewis, will be hosting severl podcasts each month, featuring local non-profit organizations, their events, and the people that contribute significantly to the community.
GMCF #Gr#ManhattanKansas #MHK #Non-profits #fundraising #foundations
GMCF President/CEO Vern Henricks and Vice President Elaine Dhuyvetter preview Grow Green Match Day, April 22nd.
Today's episode features Trent Jones, Executive Director, and Melissa Soldan, Development Director, of the Boys and Girls' Club of Manhattan. We'll be talking about the club's upcoming Casino Night, Friday, April 30th.
Made your reservations for The Boys and Club of Manhattan's 22nd annual Casino Night? Get yours today at bgclubmanhattan.com/cn2021