Foundation accepting high school board member applications for 2025-26 academic year

The Sheridan County Community Foundation (SCCF) is now accepting applications for its Youth Ambassador Board Member position for the 2025–2026 term. This unique leadership opportunity invites local high school students to serve on the SCCF Board of Directors and make a meaningful impact in their community.

Since the Youth Ambassador position was introduced in 2021, the Foundation has welcomed high school juniors and seniors to share their voice at the board table. In 2023, the program expanded to include sophomores as well, opening the door for even more young leaders to engage in community philanthropy.

SCCF is a nonprofit organization focused on supporting local projects, causes, and nonprofits that enrich the lives of Sheridan County residents. Its mission is to encourage, prudently manage, and distribute charitable contributions to improve the quality of life in the area—both now and for future generations.

The Youth Ambassador serves a one-year term from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026. During that time, the student board member will attend monthly board meetings—held the second Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:00 a.m. at Bottle KAP Studios in Hoxie—and will have full voting privileges. The role includes participating in grantmaking decisions, assisting with fundraising campaigns such as the Foundation’s annual November Match Month, planning youth-focused projects, and helping with SCCF events throughout the year.

To be eligible, applicants must be entering their sophomore, junior, or senior year in fall 2025, reside in or attend school within Sheridan County, and be in good academic standing. Ideal candidates are responsible, motivated, and passionate about serving their community.

Interested students must submit a completed application form, respond to short essay questions, and include one letter of recommendation from a teacher, mentor, or community leader. Applications can be mailed to the Sheridan County Community Foundation, Attn: Karl Pratt, PO Box 445, Hoxie, KS 67740, or emailed to director@growsheridancounty.org. All application materials must be received by April 28, 2025.

After the deadline, selected applicants will be invited for an in-person interview. Finalists will be notified by May 5, and the newly appointed Youth Ambassador(s) will be announced by May 15.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for students to get involved, grow their leadership skills, and play an active role in shaping the future of Sheridan County,” said Karl Pratt, Executive Director of SCCF. “We value the perspective and energy our youth bring to the board, and we look forward to welcoming new voices to the table.”

Applications are available online at www.growsheridancounty.org/yap, in the Hoxie High School office, or by contacting Karl Pratt directly.

For more information, contact Karl Pratt at 785-677-5090 or email director@growsheridancounty.org.

SCCF is an affiliate of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation based in Bird City. The foundation seeks to encourage, prudently manage, and distribute charitable contributions to improve the quality of life in Sheridan County residents, now and in the future. To learn more, contact Pratt at 785-677-5090, director@growsheridancounty.org, or visit www.growsheridancounty.org. Connect with SCCF at www.facebook.com/sheridanccf.