Philanthropy Today

We talk with Jori Louise Cheville, Director of Curatorial Affairs at the Museum of Art and Light, about the fall lineup and how the museum builds connections between old masters and contemporary artists. We dig into Picasso's immersive experience, new exhibitions on AI and identity, and the hands-on events that turn a museum visit into something you can actively take part in. • how curatorial planning links exhibitions across floors and mediums • the fall exhibition lineup including Generation to Generation and Barry Anderson's Janus Restraint • the Picasso immersive experience and the Nov 2 end date • Picasso Line and Lens pairing original prints with David Douglas Duncan photographs • how AI and technology can expand creative process while raising human questions • augmented reality features that let visitors activate artworks with QR codes • upcoming programs including a free family day, an adults' creative night, an after-hours panel, and a movement-based museum experience make sure you go to our website and register for that if you're interested. GMCFCFAs

We talk with Chris Spooner of the Manhattan Community Health Foundation about how local philanthropy strengthens access to care, fills practical gaps, and supports programs that keep people healthier at home. We dig into mini-grants, workforce scholarships, and a new community award that spotlights the leaders who make health and wellness possible in Manhattan. • the foundation's mission and the shift to the Manhattan Community Health Foundation name • support for quality healthcare locally, including the hospital as a beneficiary • Dispensary of Hope providing free medication for people without prescription insurance • Flint Hills Wellness Coalition partnerships that help residents navigate services • Community Health and Wellness Awareness mini-grants, timing, and how awards are chosen • recent grant examples including cooling shelter support, fresh food purchases, senior fitness scholarships, and children's program meals • Mary Lindquist Auxiliary Scholarships that fund training and credentials for hospital associates • examples of specialized training that keep advanced care in Manhattan • Cornerstone of Community Health Award criteria, nomination window, and selection process • Crystal Gala planning and how fundraising supports health programs and scholarships If you'd like to learn more about the organization, you can visit their website, which is healthymhk.org GMCFCFAs

We welcome Dene Kaster to the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and talk through how her nonprofit finance background strengthens donor support and long-term community impact. We dig into real estate giving, the coming transfer of wealth, and the practical goal of making every dollar work harder for Manhattan-area nonprofits. • Dene's path from nonprofit finance to GMCF • Her focus on investments and real estate gifts such as farms, homes, and commercial properties • Working with donors and advisors to steward charitable gifts • Using philanthropy planning to maximize impact and align with donor goals • Building relationships across donors, advisors, and nonprofits as a priority • Growing community impact as a long-term mission Manhattan GMCF is here for you.GMCFCFAs

We pivot mid-show and pull our intern, Liv Tubbs, onto the mic to talk about what she actually does at Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and why she's leaning into nonprofit work. Along the way, we dig into Match Day prep, annual reports, and a surprise drop-in about Fort Riley ghost tours coming back. • Liv's path from marketing intern to campaign support and design work • What Match Day materials look like behind the scenes • How growing up around a community foundation leads to youth board service • Why nonprofit leadership training starts to feel like a real career plan • Building annual reports with executive directors and telling impact clearly • Learning community needs across 20-plus affiliate partners GMCFCFAs

We pivot to Friends of the Fort Riley Museums and map out how Apple Days turns a fun day on post into real support for local history. Tara shares what to expect, how to get through the gate smoothly, and why the ghost tours keep people coming back year after year. • Fort Riley Fall Apple Days as one of the biggest events on post • Libby Custer apple pies as the signature fundraiser and why people stock up • Static displays, food vendors and a simple way to explore Fort Riley • Online pre-approval and QR scanning at the gate to make entry easier • Community partners helping produce and store hundreds of pies • Fort Riley ghost tours with changing stories and a walking route with multiple stops • Free tour model paired with donation items like gloves or socks • Where to find updates and sign-up details online and on Facebook Right now you can go online and fill out a form, an easy little form, which gets you access to Fort Riley.GMCFCFAs

We talk with Rebecca Fitzgerald and Sarah Duggan about how Meadowlark serves Manhattan and the Flint Hills with free community programs that go far beyond senior living. We dig into record-breaking support for Parkinson's, a growing cancer community, and a new raffle fundraiser that helps keep these resources open to everyone. • Meadowlark Market as a monthly fundraiser for the Good Samaritan Fund • Speedy PD's 1,209 participants and why voice and music matter in Parkinson's • Community partners and volunteers that make large events run well • The Meadowlark cancer program, from education nights to peer connection • Her Cancer Collective, men's meetups, and arts-based support • Caregiver support circle for anyone facing chronic diagnosis at home • The memory program's focus on education, exercise, and empowerment • Rock Steady Boxing, plus the wellness center and building project updates Wear your purple, celebrate the start of football season, and buy a raffle ticket. GMCFCFAs

We talk with No Stone Unturned leaders about a sold-out Wildcats fundraising weekend and how community support translates into real therapy access for kids and families. We also share what it takes to grow responsibly, from finishing a capital campaign to tightening clinic operations so families do not get blindsided by billing issues.• Wildcats for No Stone Unturned weekend recap, including gala turnout and golf participation• Auction and raffle strategy that boosts donor energy and total fundraising• The organization's 18-year growth from an idea to a therapy campus• How staff and family stories make the impact of therapy tangible• New facility results, including bringing 125+ kids off the waitlist• Plans for rural outreach and the long-term possibility of expanding beyond Manhattan• Capital campaign status and how future services depend on sustained support• Bringing clinic business functions in-house to better serve families who come multiple times a weekThe website is nostoneunturned.org.GMCFCFAs

We talk with Lori Roggi about how the Rural Riley County Community Foundation grows local giving across Leonardville, Keats, and Riley. We break down what Match Day is, what the funds support, and how small-town pride turns into long-term community impact. • how the foundation started as a GMCF affiliate and why the service area stays flexible • why rural philanthropy relies more on neighbors and less on large institutions • what the 32 funds support including school programs and community projects • how Match Day works with donor sponsors matching 27 funds • event details at Riley County High School plus satellite lunch-hour locations • broader needs that keep rural towns thriving including housing, child care, and support for older adults • ways alumni and people who moved away can still give and stay connected • how to donate online and why estate gifts matter for future generations We can always use more if you're interested in participating. We'd love to have you. So just come and visit with one of us. GMCFCFAs

We catch up with Leslie White from the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation on the projects, exhibits, and fundraising that keep hands-on learning growing across the Flint Hills. We talk about taking education programs directly to schools, what Bison Beef and Bourbon funds next, and how an upgraded outdoor classroom will handle real Kansas weather.• the new sculpture's meaning for the Discovery Center and the region • the dinosaur exhibit's final days and why families should go soon • SPARC program details and how it removes field trip barriers for schools • the Foundation's role as the 501(c)(3) fundraising arm • the next exhibit announcement: Smithsonian Sea Monsters • Bison Beef and Bourbon plans, ticket availability, and this year's “Fueling the Future” goal • how online silent auctions expand participation beyond the room • outdoor classroom renovation timeline, features, and donor support Tickets are still available, so you can find them on the Flint Hills Discovery Center website or the foundation's Facebook page are the two easiest places to go to register. But as I said, we're down to those final tickets. So Flint Hillsdiscovery.org is the website.GMCFCFAs

We trade birthday jokes with Manhattan Free Clinic executive director Rick Hernandez, then get into the real story behind a big relocation after 21 years in a basement space. We break down what the new College Avenue location changes for patient access, clinic capacity, and partnerships that fill gaps like vision care. • the decision to move after water migration issues reduced usable clinic space • the new address at 1133 College Avenue in the medical plaza • the jump from three exam rooms to seven and what that does for patient flow • bringing patient-facing technology into every exam room • keeping chiropractic care and physical therapy more efficient with a dedicated room • collaborating for low-cost vision care and using grant support when patients cannot pay • connecting health care to social determinants like food, housing, education, and resources The website is MHKfreeclinic.com, building A, and uh at 1133 College Avenue.GMCFCFAs

We talk with Pedro Melendez and Alex Garcia about building Makers Guild Inc into a judgment-free home for artists in Manhattan, Kansas, with low-barrier classes and community events that make creativity easier to access. We also get personal about how pottery and mixed media art can support mental health, especially for veterans and military families looking for a real outlet. • why Makers Guild Inc forms and what “judgment-free” means in practice • keeping artists in Manhattan by creating space to make and show work • the long-term vision for residencies, studios, and broader art classes • teaching affordable pottery classes through UFM and why donations matter • Pedro's story of military service and using art to process trauma • helping veterans find their voice and exploring potential VA support • Alex's approach to mixed media art and making beauty from hard subjects • Colores De Mi Corazón as a free public exhibit celebrating heritage • Dates, location, and planned performances and artist talks The website is themakersguildinc.com. It's not INK; it's INC. GMCFCFAs

We welcome Christina Knowlte from Good Shepherd Home Care and Hospice to share what makes Festival of Wines such a fun night and such an important fundraiser. We also talk about the real-world impact of local hospice care, veteran recognition, grief support, and ways to volunteer.• festival details at the K-State Alumni Center with cocktail hour and a five-course wine pairing dinner • winery guest and wine education from founding sponsor Standard Beverage Corporation • live auction highlights including trips, memorabilia, and the crowd-filled grab bag purse tradition • online silent auction running the week before the event for anyone who cannot attend • Good Shepherd's role as the only local nonprofit provider of hospice, palliative, home health, and home care services • hospice house misconceptions and what families experience when they walk through the doors • veteran pinning ceremonies and why they matter at end of life • free weekly grief support group open to the public every Wednesday at noon • volunteer opportunities and upcoming hospice volunteer training in October August 29th, Festival of Wines, goodshepherdh.org.GMCFCFAs

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.GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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 connectionsend us an email to infoallieswelcome.comGMCFCFAs

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 kidsFolks 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.GMCFCFAs

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.orgGMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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.orgGMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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 worksManhattan Catholicschools.org. Sign up, do whatever, learn, tour, engage, yes, support. Pray.GMCFCFAs

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 colorsGMCFCFAs

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 outGMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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.GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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.GMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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. GMCFCFAs

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 sevenGMCFCFAs

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 GMCFCFAs

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 suppliesManhattanArts.org is the website. You can always find out more there. GMCFCFAs

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.orgGMCFCFAs

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 involvedJust go to the website and give, learn. Check us out, learn more, join us uh in any ways you you think appeal to you.GMCFCFAs