As of March 31, Jewell County donors had raised $43,150 of the allotted $50,000 Dane Hanson Foundation match goal. Because of the interesting climate that we are in now because of COVID-19, the Hansen Foundation is extending their generosity. Jewell County has until April 15 to raise the last $7,000.

Jewell County Match Month has been occurring since 2017 and individual donations have been more than matched by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation each year. From the accumulated amount, four percent can be spent off of the interest in the account for Jewell County projects that often benefit the neediest. “Thank you to those of you who donated to Match Month this year and to those of you who are planning to donate to help us get the rest of the way there!” stated Jenny Russell, Jewell County community foundation marketing director.

Also don’t forget, the spring round of local Hansen grant applications will be due May 1. Jewell County municipalities and non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for money toward community projects that utilize volunteers. To find the application and criteria, go to http://jewellcountykansas.com/jewell-county-community-foundation-apply/.

. Because of those who donate during Match Month, the Jewell County Community Foundation is able to give out additional grants every cycle. Money that is raised and matched during Match Month is held in a permanent fund where the interest will go to support Jewell County projects. In addition to Match Month donations given to the unrestricted fund and matched by Dane G. Hansen during March, here are other ways to donate:

• Establish a fund that supports something in your community that you are passionate about

• Give a living gift any time of year, but it’s most beneficial when it’s doubled in Match Month

• Consider the foundation in your estate planning. Think of your community as another one of your children or commit as little as 5 percent of your estate to the community (95% to your heirs)

• Consider a donation of grain, cattle, or land. Cash is not the only thing that the foundation can accept.

Because of Jewell County’s participation in the Strategic Doing process each year, the Hansen Foundation makes a commitment to infuse up $50,000 to be awarded in the spring and in the fall. The funds will support immediate needs for local community grants and build or grow permanent funds for future community grants.

Apply at http://jewellcountykansas.com/jewell-county-community-foundation-apply/.