SCCF Awards $24,404 in October Grants and Prepares for November Match Month Campaign

The Sheridan County Community Foundation (SCCF) has awarded a total of $24,404.20 in grant funding to four local organizations during its October grant cycle, supporting projects that strengthen education, culture, and community well-being across Sheridan County.

USD 412 Hoxie Community Schools received $11,000.00 from the Cultivate Sheridan County Fund to assist with the Track Renovation Project, aimed at improving the safety and accessibility for students and residents who use the facility for school and recreational purposes.

Golden Plains Elementary School was awarded $5,000.00, also from the Cultivate Sheridan County Fund, to support the purchase and installation of new playground equipment, encouraging physical activity and outdoor engagement for students in grades Pre-K through 5.

The Hoxie Gun Club received $4,404.20 from the Dane G. Hansen Community Fund for the purchase of a 5-Stand Wobble Trap Thrower, enhancing recreational opportunities and promoting safe, skill-building shooting sports in the area.

The Main Street Arts Council was awarded $4,000.00 from the Dane G. Hansen Community Fund in support of its new Community Choir Project, which aims to bring together singers from across Northwest Kansas for concerts, education, and cultural exchange.

“We are continually inspired by the creativity and commitment of our local nonprofits,” said Karl Pratt, SCCF Executive Director. “Their dedication makes Sheridan County an extraordinary place to live, work, and raise a family. Each project funded through our grants program reflects the power of community collaboration and the desire to make our hometowns stronger together.”

SCCF accepts grant applications from eligible nonprofits on a rolling monthly basis, with the final day of each month serving as the deadline for review at the following month’s board meeting. Grants are available in the categories of education, healthcare, social services and security, conservation and environment, arts and culture, and community beautification.

Several updates to the Foundation’s grantmaking process will be introduced in the new year to better serve applicants and streamline the review process. These changes will be announced soon with educational opportunities offered to educate the public and area non-profits on how to apply for potential grant funding.

Organizations are encouraged to apply for grant funding to support their projects and initiatives. Learn more and apply at www.growsheridancounty.org/grants.

Looking Ahead: November Match Month Campaign

As the Foundation continues its mission to build a stronger, more vibrant Sheridan County, preparations are underway for the annual Match Month Campaign, taking place throughout November. This year, SCCF aims to raise $100,000 locally, which will be matched with an additional $100,000 from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and $100,000 from the Patterson Family Foundation—tripling the impact of every gift received.

Funds raised during Match Month will help grow SCCF’s largest endowed grant fund, Cultivate Sheridan County, which supports community improvement projects across all sectors. A portion of matching dollars from each partner will also help grow SCCF’s operating endowment fund, strengthening the Foundation’s long-term operational sustainability and capacity to serve the community for generations to come.

“We are so grateful to everyone who has given to the Foundation in the past and to those who will give during this year’s Match Month campaign,” Pratt added. “Every contribution—no matter the size—helps ensure that the resources needed to support our local organizations and community initiatives will be here forever. This campaign is truly about building a stronger future, together.”

Match Month Kick-Off Reception

Community members are encouraged to stop by the Foundation offices inside Bottle KAP Studios, 721 Main Street in Hoxie, on Monday, Nov. 3, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., to enjoy refreshments and conversation during SCCF’s day-long Match Month Kick-Off Reception celebrating the start of this year’s campaign.

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 of 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.