Member Spotlight- McPherson County Community Foundation
The McPherson County Community Foundation (MCCF), established in 2001 and located at 1233 N. Main, has spent the last 25 years strengthening the community by building charitable endowments, supporting donors, and awarding grants that enhance quality of life across McPherson County. From education and youth initiatives to arts, culture, health care, and human services, MCCF connects people and resources to create lasting local impact.
As CEO Michelle Huddle explains, the Foundation’s mission is rooted in relationships. “As the CEO, I get to get out in the community and be face-to-face to build the relationships and meet new people,” Huddle said. “That’s my favorite part of this job so far.”
One way MCCF directly serves residents is through programs and initiatives that meet real, everyday needs. One example is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free basic tax preparation for individuals earning $67,000 or less. “We’re doing income taxes here at the Foundation, for the second year in a row,” Huddle shared. Another major focus area is childcare. Director of Community Service Betsy Davis highlighted recent progress, saying, “It’s been a focus of the Foundation for a number of years…with our Child Care Coalition and the Marion County Child Care Coalition, we are actually working on something called the Child Care Zones grant. And through this grant, we were able to launch the new website. It’s a way to increase the transparency in what childcare is available.”
Looking ahead, MCCF continues to expand opportunities for nonprofits and communities through initiatives like Match Month and their special 25th Anniversary grant for McPherson County communities. Director of Development Jim Ostlund announced that the popular Match Week is evolving into a full Match Month, running October 10 through November 10. “Matching funds will be available the whole month,” Ostlund said. “As long as there are matching funds available, your dollars get matched.” In celebration of MCCF’s 25th Anniversary, the Foundation is also offering “Dream” Grants — a $2,500 grant for each McPherson County community. “We want to hear from you,” Huddle emphasized. “Beautification projects, community get-togethers, one-and-done ideas, or finishing a project you already have going—that’s what we want to hear.” Applications are open through February 15, reinforcing MCCF’s ongoing commitment to empowering communities with big dreams and a shared vision for a thriving future. To learn more about the McPherson County Community Foundation visit their website at mcphersonfoundation.org or you can contact them at 620-245-9070. Photos from Chamber Connections hosted by the McPherson County Community Foundation can be seen here.