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
Jul 18, 2023•21 min
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...
Jul 11, 2023•26 min
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...
Jun 27, 2023•14 min
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 indiv...
Jun 20, 2023•34 min
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 Jesp...
Jun 13, 2023•27 min
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 significan...
Jun 06, 2023•28 min
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 #manhat...
May 30, 2023•16 min
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 participati...
May 23, 2023•18 min
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 ...
May 16, 2023•12 min
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 Coone...
May 09, 2023•21 min
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 loc...
May 02, 2023•17 min
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 u...
Apr 25, 2023•24 min
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...
Apr 18, 2023•11 min
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 passio...
Apr 11, 2023•18 min
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 GMCF CFAs...
Apr 04, 2023•13 min•Ep. 101
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 venturesnon...
Mar 28, 2023•27 min•Ep. 100
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 GMCF CFAs...
Mar 21, 2023•20 min•Ep. 99
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 #matc...
Mar 15, 2023•11 min•Ep. 98
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 Commun...
Mar 07, 2023•17 min•Ep. 97
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...
Feb 28, 2023•26 min•Ep. 96
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...
Feb 20, 2023•10 min•Ep. 95
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 GMC...
Feb 18, 2023•30 min•Ep. 94
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 GMCF CFAs
Dec 22, 2022•22 min•Ep. 93
"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 GMCF CFAs...
Dec 15, 2022•27 min•Ep. 92
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 CFAs...
Dec 06, 2022•15 min•Ep. 91
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 GMCF CFAs...
Dec 02, 2022•30 min•Ep. 90
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 GMCF CFAs...
Nov 04, 2022•15 min•Ep. 89
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 GMCF CFAs...
Oct 11, 2022•18 min•Ep. 88
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 Av...
Oct 01, 2022•16 min•Ep. 87
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 GMCF CFAs
Sep 27, 2022•18 min•Ep. 86