14 Nov Mastermind Grants Check-In
Last year, The McPherson County Community Foundation (MCCF) awarded more than $60,000 in grants for various projects. As final reports begin to come in from the recipient organizations, MCCF would like to provide an update on the impact each project has had in their respective communities.
McPherson Chamber of Commerce Volunteer Portal (Leadership):
Completed in April 2024, this project is a permanent resource for McPherson County nonprofits to post volunteer opportunities, including relevant dates and job expectations. The platform is designed like a job posting, providing volunteers with a clear understanding of their roles and offering more detailed information about the type of volunteer work available.
“There are so many people who want to get involved but don’t know where to start,” said Debbie Hawkinson, McPherson Chamber of Commerce director. “We also have a number of Chamber-affiliated nonprofits looking for volunteers.”
NAMI Kansas Mental Health Support (Health):
This project successfully implemented two support groups, deployed one NAMI Family-to-Family class, and hosted three of the four planned outreach events, all of which contributed to meeting the expected impact. The two support groups—one for individuals with mental health disorders and the other for affected family members—have provided a consistent and safe space for people to connect, share experiences, and receive support.
“We find that this distinction is important because they are two completely different experiences,” said Tayla Naden, NAMI affiliate development and volunteer coordinator. “Our whole goal is to create that connection, that camaraderie, and solidarity with each other.”
McPherson Coalition of Equity, Inclusion and Diversity (MCEID) Leadership Literacy Library (Leadership):
This project involved a one-time purchase of leadership development books from the Kansas Leadership Center. The book sets were distributed to partnering libraries across McPherson County, and online access to copies was provided through the Libby app. MCEID also hosted book studies to facilitate discussions on how to apply the concepts to community leadership.
“We were able to use tangible examples from the books to increase familiarity and confidence in changing the collective mindset around leadership,” said Kieryn McCann, MCEID director. “Overall, people were enthusiastic about having access to these reading resources and the potential for continued education, as well as the opportunity to bring attention to their communities and organizations.”
Marquette Chamber Main Street Beautification (Placemaking):
Completed prior to the town’s 150th anniversary, the project included the removal of more than 15 dead trees, the replacement of decking at the train depot, improved landscaping at museums, and the replacement of three welcome signs for travelers.
“These projects really gave us the opportunity to show off our community to people who aren’t originally from Marquette,” said Haley Samford, Marquette Chamber president. “It also creates pride among visitors who grew up here, knowing that their town is not just surviving, but thriving—when many towns of our size are struggling to retain people and community assets.”
McPherson County Health Department Underserved Health Services Program (Health):
This program funds adult health services at the McPherson County Health Department for uninsured individuals who earn 200% or less of the federal poverty level, with priority given to those earning 100% or less. Services include adult immunizations, sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment, and laboratory testing.
“The McPherson County Underserved Health Services Program exceeded our expectations,” said Shalei Shea, director of the McPherson County Health Department. “To date, we’ve provided confirmed assistance to more than 40 individuals, totaling $5,808.”
Inman Chamber of Commerce Main Street Banners (Placemaking):
This project aimed to replace the faded banners along Main Street. The Chamber purchased two sets of 25 banners, allowing the town to change them throughout the year.
“The Chamber worked with the Inman High School Graphic Design class to design the new banners, which brought in local student talent as part of this project,” said Lucas Sawyer, Inman Chamber of Commerce president. “The new banners have brightened up Main Street and given the town the updated appearance we were hoping for.”