Eagle Media, on behalf of The Schmidt Foundation, presented a $20,000 grant to Rise Up Reno Network, helping strengthen community-based prevention and youth development efforts across Reno County.
Rise Up Reno, now celebrating 20 years of service, operates as a coalition-based community prevention system dedicated to improving youth outcomes. The organization uses a public health approach to reduce youth substance use, promote mental health, and provide leadership opportunities and mentoring programs. Its work has been credited with significantly reducing youth substance abuse and delinquency among local eighth graders within four years of implementation.
The goal of Rise Up Reno Prevention Network is to help the community make informed, evidence-based decisions that protect and support youth. Thre partnership allows us to continue providing proven prevention programs and expand resources that make a measurable difference in the lives of young people.
The Schmidt Foundation—formally known as the Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation—was established by the late Bob and Pat Schmidt of Hays. Rooted in the belief that “the rising tide lifts all boats,” the foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Kansas communities through investments in education, healthcare, the arts, and economic development.
Bob Schmidt, a U.S. Navy veteran and longtime leader at Eagle Communications, founded the foundation with his wife Pat to extend their shared commitment to community growth. The foundation has made major contributions to initiatives such as the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art & Design at Fort Hays State University and continues to support projects that build strong, sustainable communities.
With this new grant, Rise Up Reno will continue its mission of guiding community leaders, schools, and families toward evidence-based solutions that create lasting, positive change for Reno County youth.
For more information about Rise Up Reno’s programs, visit www.riseupreno.org. To learn more about the Schmidt Foundation, visit www.schmidtfoundation.net.