The Jewell County Community Foundation is a permanent source of charitable funds used to meet the current and future needs of Jewell County. The philanthropic initiative began through the offerings of Dane G. Hansen local grants in 2015 and grew to become a full-fledged foundation in 2018. Jewell County Community Foundation is based on three core elements: people, passion, impact.

It starts with people with a passion who use their gifts to create impact in their communities. Community members generously offer financial support to their communities allow new, innovative projects to take place and improve their community and the county. Funds from the foundation are used to support non-profit organizations and projects in Jewell County. In 2018-2019, the following organizations received either donor-directed or competitive grants from funds at the community foundation: Burr Oak Community Library, City of Burr Oak, City of Esbon, City of Formoso, City of Jewell, Formoso Community Church, Formoso Public Library, Jewell County, Jewell County Fair Board, Jewell County Wellness Inc., Mankato City Library, Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Inc., Smoky Hills Public Television, USD 107 Rock Hills Elementary School and VFW Post 7830. Some of the projects funded by the foundation and implemented by these

organizations include the Kansas Mammoth Music and Art Festival, repairs to the historical Jewell County jail building, instructional technology and musical instruments for the Rock Hills school district and building improvements throughout the county.

These organizations and projects have contributed to growth and improvement in Jewell County and will continue to support the county in years to come. The support of the community foundation by members of the community makes a meaningful difference in Jewell County, both now and in the future. The highlight this month is the Jewell County Community Foundation and the opportunities to support the foundation and its communities