MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Six years after its founding, KS for Vets continues to expand its mission of helping veterans across south-central Kansas while making steady progress toward a long-term goal of building housing for veterans through the proposed Patriot Village project.
KS for Vets President Danielle Steifler said the nonprofit serves as a central resource for veterans in need, connecting them with assistance or partnering with other organizations when additional help is required.
"We kind of think of ourselves as the hub of a wheel," Steifler said. "If they have a need, they can come to us. If we can't help, we help them find people who can."
The organization provides direct assistance through its Veteran Assistance Fund and works with community partners on projects ranging from accessibility improvements to helping veterans and their families during difficult times. Most recently, KS for Vets has been seeking volunteers to help maintain a veteran's property by mowing their lawn.
Steifler said the organization's vision extends beyond immediate assistance through Patriot Village, a planned development that would provide housing for veterans.
The group has already secured land for the project and completed a survey, but funding remains the largest hurdle. The estimated cost of the development is approximately $1 million. KS for Vets hopes to reduce costs by recruiting volunteers with construction skills, including electricians, drywall installers and framers, to donate their time once construction begins.
Several fundraising events are planned this summer to support the Veteran Assistance Fund.
The organization will host its annual Hot Dog Days fundraiser at Atwoods on July 18, where visitors can purchase two hot dogs and a drink for $1. On Aug. 22, KS for Vets will partner with the Central Kansas Gun Club to host a Veteran Family Fun Day featuring shooting activities, prizes and family-friendly events.
KS for Vets also holds monthly meetings at Friends Church, located at 14th Avenue and Faubion Street in Hutchinson. The meetings are open to the public on the second Friday of each month, with doors opening at 11:30 a.m. Lunch is provided, and guest speakers from veteran-serving organizations share available resources and programs.
In addition, the organization is preparing for this year's Wreaths Across America ceremony on Dec. 19 at Memorial Park Cemetery. Steifler said there are approximately 1,500 veterans buried at the cemetery, and the group's goal is to eventually place a wreath at every veteran's gravesite. Volunteers are also needed to help place the wreaths while honoring each veteran by speaking their name.
Those interested in volunteering, donating or requesting assistance can contact KS for Vets by phone at 620-931-5635, by email at KSforVets@gmail.com, or through the organization's Facebook page.