SCCF welcomes new Youth Ambassador Board Members, launches Youth Action Council

The Sheridan County Community Foundation (SCCF) is proud to announce the appointment of two new high school Youth Ambassador Program (YAP) Board Members: Sarah Dardis and Nick Robben, both seniors at Hoxie High School. These students will serve a one-year term on the Foundation’s Board of Directors, providing valuable insight from a youth perspective and helping to advance the mission of SCCF through civic engagement and leadership development.

As part of their term, each Youth Ambassador will be charged with developing and implementing a community project that addresses a local need or opportunity. Their participation helps ensure the voices of young people are included in shaping the future of Sheridan County.

“After I had seen so many good things come out of the Foundation, I wanted to be a part of it and help make our community a better place,” said Sarah Dardis, who joined the Board in June.

A Hoxie native who returned to the community before 7th grade, Dardis currently works as a certified nurse’s assistant at the local long-term care facility. She’s involved in numerous school organizations including Family, Career and Community Leaders (FCCLA), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Student Council (STUCO), and National Honor Society (NHS). She hopes to focus her efforts on creating spaces that benefit local youth and increasing veteran recognition through her board service.

“Being a high school student and working in elder care gives me the ability to communicate with people from many walks of life,” she added. “That will help us advance the Foundation’s mission from multiple perspectives.”

Dardis the daughter of Aaron Dardis, Oakley, and Jen Carder, Hoxie.

Nick Robben also brings a strong passion for service and leadership to the board.

“I have a deep love for the Sheridan County community that has grown immensely over the years,” said Robben. “I wanted to take this opportunity to serve my community further by bringing new ideas to the table.”

Robben lives on a small farm southwest of Hoxie and serves as president of the Hoxie Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter. He’s also involved in FCCLA, NHS, Student Council, Cross Country, Track, and his church's Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) group. Professionally, he works as a part-time server at The Elephant Bistro & Bar.

“My leadership experiences—especially as an FFA officer—have taught me how to collaborate, stay organized, and keep an open mind,” he shared. “As a Youth Ambassador, I hope to plan impactful projects and continue growing in my ability to serve.”

Robben is the son of Doug and Kim Robben, Grinnell.

In addition to their roles on the SCCF Board of Directors, Sarah and Nick will also help launch and lead the Foundation’s new Youth Action Council—a student-led group dedicated to community engagement and philanthropy. Joining them as founding members of the Council include Kendall Baalman, Hailey Vaughn, Max Foote, Ian Giancola, Noah Nickelson, and Avery Mauck.

This team of students will participate in educational workshops focused on philanthropy, community and economic development, and project planning. Together, they will work to identify local needs, design and carry out grant-funded projects, and assist with SCCF’s fundraising initiatives throughout the year.

“This generation of leaders is already stepping up in meaningful ways,” said Karl Pratt, SCCF Executive Director. “We’re excited to support their ideas and energy and look forward to their assistance in developing these new youth leadership programs.”

The Youth Ambassador Program and Youth Action Council are part of the Foundation’s growing effort to engage all generations in building a stronger, more vibrant Sheridan County.

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.