K-State Research and Extension

Kansas communities receive funding for growth from Kansas PRIDE program

First Growth and Action grants are awarded

Released: April 21, 2016

MANHATTAN, Kan. – “It's easy to make a buck. It's a lot tougher to make a difference.” 
-- Tom Brokaw

Kansas PRIDE has named five communities as the recipients of its first Growth and Action grants.

Through the PRIDE program, communities identify what they want to preserve, create or improve for the future. Volunteers form a local PRIDE organization that works with K-State Research and Extension and the Kansas Department of Commerce to accomplish its goals.

2016 is the pilot year for PRIDE Growth and Action funding to assist communities with startup and related operating expenses. Another round will be offered in the fall. Only five awards are given each round, so these awards are highly competitive.

In the spring round of 2016, $1000 total was awarded. The following communities received Growth and Action grants for startup and other related operating expenses:

• Columbus
  
  
• Delia
  
  
• Elk City
  
  
• Linn Valley
  
  
• McPherson

“Kansas PRIDE is a volunteer-led organization. This funding is intended to give new and active communities opportunities to get their local program up and running as well as purchase project materials,” said Jaime Menon, extension assistant for community development in the PRIDE program. “Each community has its own unique structure, culture, and assets, and Kansas PRIDE volunteers work to bring out the best in their communities and promote what they have to offer. Through the work of these volunteers, Kansas communities continue to thrive and be a great place to live and raise a family.”

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K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans.  Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.

Story by:
Madison Blevins
madisonmb@ksu.edu