MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON — As Community Foundation Week is observed nationwide, the Hutchinson Community Foundation is using the celebration to highlight its work, encourage community engagement, and remind residents that its impact reaches far beyond the city limits.
Wendy Skellenger, Director of Communications and Development, joined the KWBW Morning Show to talk about the week — held annually Nov. 12–18 — and what it means for Reno County.
“Community Foundation Week began in 1989 under the first Bush administration and overlaps with National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 15,” Skellenger said. “It’s a time to acknowledge the generosity of people who give their time, talent, and treasure to change lives.”
Grantmaking & Local Impact
The Hutchinson Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity that awards grants to nonprofit organizations across Reno County. Its primary unrestricted pool, the Fund for Reno County, supports two annual “impact cycles,” offering local nonprofits an opportunity to apply for funding.
“Any 501(c)(3) or project with a fiscal sponsor can apply,” Skellenger said. “We receive applications, our grants committee reviews them, and awards are made twice a year.”
But grant cycles are only one part of the Foundation’s work. Skellenger highlighted the Foundation’s recent three-year housing initiative, created to address the community’s ongoing housing needs. After years of research and partnership with local leaders, the Foundation launched the fund as a way to make a targeted impact in one of Reno County’s most urgent areas.
LINK: Hutchinson Community Foundation launches $1.5M housing initiative
Listening to Residents
Skellenger also emphasized the importance of resident feedback through the Foundation’s “Love Where You Live” community empowerment initiative. A countywide survey — now in its second year — guides the board’s priorities.
“Our board has said they want more community engagement. They want us listening,” she said. “So we’re using survey responses to help align our grantmaking with what residents say they need.”
Results from the latest survey will be posted soon at RenoSurvey.com.
Countywide Reach
Despite its name, the Hutchinson Community Foundation supports the entire county.
“We serve all of Reno County. We make grants in rural communities just like we do in Hutchinson,” Skellenger said, noting that about 75 nonprofits across the county benefit from Foundation support, from housing and human services to arts, culture, and community development.
Youth Leading the Way
One of the most unique programs is the Youth Philanthropy Council, a group of high school students who evaluate grant requests for youth-serving projects. They will award about $5,000 in spring 2026.
“It’s a way to teach young people about philanthropy, evaluation, and working together for the common good,” she said.
Giving Opportunities Ahead
With Giving Tuesday approaching December 2, Skellenger encouraged local residents to support the Foundation’s work — or any of the many funds it manages.
Donors can give through HutchCF.org, send checks, or discuss options with staff. Donor-advised funds allow contributors to target specific causes, and Foundation staff frequently connect donors with proposals that match their interests.
Buhler residents can also participate in the Buhler Community Foundation Match Day on December 2.
What’s Next?
The Foundation is already planning its 2026 initiatives, including upcoming grant cycles and expanding community-led funding strategies.
“We’re a learning organization,” Skellenger said. “Our goal is always to listen, respond, and invest in what matters most to the people who call Reno County home.”
For more information or to donate, visit HutchCF.org.