The Kansas Sampler Foundation (KSF) is excited to announce that they are the recipients of a multi-year grant from The Patterson Family Foundation to help support its recent strategic plan implementation, including a leadership transition announced last week. This grant is the first step in bolstering the organization’s long-term sustainability.
This vital funding enables KSF to expand its reach and continue empowering rural communities across Kansas. This funding will support the staff through a leadership transition, increasing the impact of new and existing programs that support rural Kansans and their communities.
The Patterson Family Foundation is a family-led foundation that extends the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson. The Foundation’s mission, “Working together to help rural communities thrive,” is carried forward through strategic grantmaking and other collaborative initiatives that serve rural counties across Kansas and western Missouri.
The three year grant will allow the Kansas Sampler Foundation to hire staff to carry out key initiatives such as the growth of the Kansas Explorers Club, the launch of the Kansas Guidebook Online, and development of platforms to better support rural Kansans who make up the We Kan! Network. KSF projects and programs primarily target the 75% of Kansas’ incorporated cities that have a population of 1,500 or less.
“This grant is a huge opportunity for our staff to keep our focus on creating a rural Kansas where every community feels seen, valued, and connected.” said Simone Elder, incoming Executive Director. “We will have the capacity to develop a more robust donor development strategy for the long-term and meet community needs.”
Get connected, share your story, and explore ways to be part of what’s next for rural Kansas at kansassampler.org.