The Great Bend Tribune is proud to present the fourth class of 20 Under 40 Award recipients, honoring twenty outstanding young professionals who are shaping the future of Central Kansas. This special magazine edition highlights individuals—each under the age of 40—who exemplify excellence in leadership, career achievement, and community involvement.
From entrepreneurs and healthcare professionals to educators, electricians, and stay-at-home moms, this year’s honorees represent the very best of our communities. They are the doers, dreamers, and difference-makers—people who lead by example and dedicate themselves to building stronger, more connected communities.
Now in its fourth year, the 20 Under 40 program recognizes those who have made meaningful contributions both in their professions and through civic engagement. Beyond honoring this year’s recipients, it seeks to inspire the next generation of leaders to get involved, give back, and create lasting change.
Each year, nominations are accepted from across the area, with submissions for the 2026 class due by August 14, 2026. From these entries, an independent panel of judges—comprising past honorees and committee members—selects twenty rising leaders who will be celebrated at a special recognition event.
This year also marks the second annual Silver Impact Awards, honoring five exceptional senior volunteers for their decades of dedication and service. Learn more about these remarkable individuals on page 23.
Join us as we celebrate the passion, purpose, and perseverance of these inspiring honorees at the 20 Under 40 & Silver Impact Awards Ceremony, taking place Friday, November 7, at 7 p.m. at the Crest Theatre.
Let’s come together to recognize their achievements, applaud their service, and celebrate the community spirit that makes Central Kansas such a special place to call home.
Professional Career:
Luke was born and raised in Great Bend. He graduated from Fort Hays State University in 2016 and began teaching Math at Ellinwood High School where he is now in his 10th year. While teaching, he earned his MS in Mathematics from Emporia State University in 2018. This has allowed Luke to offer dual credit math courses through Barton Community College’s College Advantage program. In addition to his teaching duties, Luke also sponsors Ellinwood’s Student Council which is responsible for homecoming activities, a winter formal, and other student activities throughout the year. He has also worked as staff at the Kansas Student Council Leadership Workshop the past two years. Luke holds a leadership position in the Ellinwood Teacher Association and recently began teaching the Driver Education program during the summer. At Ellinwood home sporting events, you can often find Luke working the score table or supporting the pep band.
Community Involvement:
Luke is heavily involved with the Great Bend Community Theatre (GBCT) at the Crest, being involved with all productions since 2017. He first became involved with managing the technical side with lights and sound, but he has since expanded into serving on the board of directors and helping lead set construction. He is currently serving the role of Business Manager for GBCT. Additionally, Luke has served as the Treasurer for the Ellinwood Chamber of Commerce since 2019 supporting Ellinwood’s annual After Harvest Festival and promoting local businesses. Last year, Luke rejoined the Great Bend City Band which he has thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting to playing music. He is also a member of St. John Lutheran Church Choir.
Great Bend Community Theatre
Angela Beck
Age: 37
Nurse Practioner; Paramedic Clara Barton/Pawnee Valley
Professional Career:
Angela Beck began her healthcare career as a CNA while still in high school, setting the foundation for a lifelong passion for emergency medicine. After graduating from Otis-Bison High School, she earned her Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from North Central Kansas Technical College and became an RN in 2009, joining Clara Barton Hospital’s emergency department. That same year, she completed her paramedic certification through Barton Community College while balancing full-time work in the ER and with two local EMS services.
Determined to advance her expertise, Angela earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master’s degree from Fort Hays State University while raising young children with the support of her husband, Chris. In 2021, she accepted a full-time position as a Nurse Practitioner in the emergency department at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital. She also continues to serve with Hoisington EMS, Barton County Transfer Service, and Clara Barton Hospital’s ER, where she has dedicated over 16 years of service.
Community Involvement:
Angela proudly serves on the Barton Community College EMS Advisory Board and assists with the countywide Arrive Alive event to educate students about the dangers of impaired driving. Active in St. John the Evangelist Church, she supports Kans for Kids, the Clara Barton Foundation, 4-H, food banks, and local schools.
Personal Life:
At the heart of Angela’s story is family. She credits her husband, Chris, for his steadfast support and calls their children – Ally, Ada, and Case – her greatest motivation. Angela finds joy in life’s simple moments and measures success through faith, love, and the values built within her home.
Professional Career:
In 2014, Lyndsey Bell opened Shear Madness Salon & Boutique in St. John, Kansas, transforming what began as a small, single-stylist space into a thriving full-service salon and boutique that now attracts clients from across central Kansas. She specializes in advanced color services, beaded weft hair extensions, Hydrafacial and Keravive scalp treatments, eyelash extensions, and other custom beauty experiences tailored to each client.
In 2018, Lyndsey expanded Shear Madness to include a curated boutique featuring clothing, accessories, and self-care products. Her mission has always been to help people look and feel their best, inside and out, by creating a space that reflects small-town warmth with modern, high-end rough her commitment to continuing education and innovation, she has built a trusted brand known for exceptional service, creativity, and community connection.
Community Involvement:
Lyndsey takes great pride in being an active member of the St. John community. Shear Madness regularly participates in local events, vendor markets, and fundraisers, supporting causes that uplift local families and small businesses. She collaborates with other entrepreneurs to promote local growth and enjoys mentoring new stylists and beauty professionals as they begin their careers in the industry. Beyond her business, Lyndsey en seen cheering on her husband at the races, attending local events, and supporting organizations and activities throughout Barton and Stafford counties. Her passion for people, both in her salon and community, shines through in everything she does.
Congratulations Lyndsey!
Happy to see you get the recognition you deserve! We are all proud of you!
Dylan Bell, Jerry Soden, Steve & Jeni Jones
Tim & Sheila, Mark & Chrissy, Shari Williamson
Keaton Carsan & Rhett, Pam Watson, Lara Wolfenden
Mike & Jill, Danette Russell, Marshal & Mandy
Terri Stapleton, Brandon Bree Jaxton, Eli & Kaden
Carl & Lorelei Nelson, Blake & Tara Kirchhoff, Marilyn Grizzell
Makayla Devine, Val Ward, Lisa Cornwell, George & Kim Unruh
Professional Career:
Lacy Bowman, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner providing care to patients of all ages at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Family Medicine Clinic in Larned. Originally from Russellville, Arkansas, she has called Larned home since 2021. Lacy began her nursing career in 2018 at Baptist Health Little Rock, where she earned the DAISY Award in 2019 for compassionate, high-quality care. Her experience spans cardiac telemetry, women’s and children’s services, intensive care, emergency medicine, and infection prevention. In 2024, she earned her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Practice. Lacy is passionate about patient-centered care, with clinical interests in diabetes prevention and management, women’s health, and postpartum mental
Community Involvement:
Lacy is deeply involved in the Larned community, where she and her husband—a fifth-generation farmer—are raising their three daughters. She serves as secretary of the Larned Elementary PTO, is an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and volunteers with Pawnee County 4-H and the Gem Dandy’s 4-H Club. She also participates in local events, plays golf with Larned Ladies’ Golf, enjoys coed softball through Larned Recreation, and lends a hand on the family farm.
Personal Life:
Family is at the heart of everything Lacy does. Whether at work, volunteering, or helping on the farm, she finds her greatest joy in spending time with her husband and daughters. Her commitment to faith, service, and family reflects the values she hopes to instill in her children.
Professional Career:
Born and raised in Great Bend, Kelly Calcara graduated from Great Bend High School in 2008 before earning her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Sterling College, where she also played on the Women’s Basketball team. After returning home in 2012, she student taught at Lincoln Elementary School while serving as an assistant basketball coach at Great Bend High School. Kelly went on to coach for eight years and taught fourth grade at Jefferson Elementary School for five years. Following the birth of her second child, she embraced the opportunity to step away from full-time teaching to focus on raising her three young children.
Community Involvement:
Kelly takes pride in contributing to the community that shaped her. She has been active in Barton County Young Professionals, serves at First United Methodist Church, and recently joined both the CASA Auction Committee and the USD 428 Site Council. Her true passion lies in youth sports—coaching numerous Great Bend Recreation teams and mentoring young athletes as they grow in skill, confidence, and teamwork.
Personal Life:
Family is at the center of Kelly’s life. She and her husband, Taylor, are raising their three children in Great Bend, where they enjoy being part of a strong, supportive community. Kelly treasures time spent cheering at her kids’ activities, enjoying local events, and creating memories together as a family. She believes in teaching her children the same values she models through her career and community service, hard work, kindness, and a love for teamwork. Whether in the classroom, on the court, or at home, Kelly’s focus remains on nurturing growth and making a positive impact on the next generation.
Mark Calcara, Allen Glendenning, Taylor Calcara, Jeffrey Kuhlman, Spencer Bailly, Clarissa Roenne, Jack Roenne Mark Rondeau, of counsel, Richard Friedeman, of counsel, L. Earl Watkins, Jr., of counsel
Professional Career:
Jessica began her nursing career in 2013 at Great Bend Regional Hospital, now part of The University of Kansas Health System, working as a CNA on the medical-surgical unit. While advancing her education, she earned her LPN and Associate Degree in Nursing from Barton Community College in 2015. After becoming an RN, she expanded her experience across multiple departments, including the ER, ICU, surgery, and pediatrics. In 2017, she joined the Special Nursing Unit, playing an instrumental role in expanding patient services.
By 2021, Jessica transitioned into informatics before returning to her passion– bedside nursing and leadership. In 2023, she was promoted to Nurse Manager of the medical-surgical unit, where she leads a team of nearly 50 nurses and CNAs. She mentors nursing students, oversees patient care, and collaborates across hospital departments.
Jessica received the Nurse Leader DAISY Award in 2024 and now serves on the selection committee. She is a member of the ethics committee and the Kansas Organization of Nurse Leaders, attends leadership symposiums, and is currently pursuing her BSN at Pittsburg State University while working full time.
Community Involvement:
Jessica served on the Lincoln Elementary School PTO and actively volunteers at health system-sponsored community events. She completed the Golden Belt Community Foundation Leadership program and serves on the Barton Community College Nursing Advisory Board. Additionally, she is a member of First Southern Baptist Church. Jessica participates in Bible study classes there and also volunteers during their Vacation Bible School program.
Professional Career:
Born and raised in Ellinwood, Kansas, Shelbi has built her career around a passion for healthcare and community service. After graduating from Ellinwood High School in 2011, she earned her associate degree in nursing from Barton Community College in 2015, her BSN from Wichita State University in 2018, and her Master of Science in Nursing from Spring Arbor University in 2023.
Shelbi began her nursing career at Ellinwood Hospital in 2015, serving in multiple roles as a full-time RN and per diem with AllStaff Chartered. In 2023, she advanced to her current position as an APRN. She also partners with the local school district to expand health and wellness education, reflecting her commitment to preventive care and community health.
Community Involvement:
Shelbi takes pride in giving back to the community where she was raised, particularly by supporting local youth. She has coached within the Ellinwood High School softball program and coaches her daughters in various sports and activities through the Ellinwood Recreation Commission, where she also serves on the board, helping shape opportunities for children and families. Shelbi gives her time to her church as well, leading Vacation Bible School at St. John’s Lutheran Church for several years. Whether through healthcare, youth programs, or faith-based service, she remains dedicated to strengthening the Ellinwood community she calls home.
Personal:
When she’s not working or coaching, Shelbi enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, whether hunting, fishing, camping, or at the farm. she also loves quilting and baking in her downtime. She and her husband, Austin, are raising three daughters, Madilyn, Ila, and Jaylyn, and are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their fourth child.
Professional Career:
Born and raised in Great Bend, Ryan graduated from Great Bend High School in 2006 before earning his degree in Justice Studies from Fort Hays State University in 2010. He went on to spend eight years in law enforcement before returning to Hammeke Electric in 2018. Since then, he has advanced quickly in the trade, earning his Journeyman Electrician License in 2019 and his Master Electrician License in 2022. Today, Ryan not only works as a Master Electrician but also teaches a Journeyman prep course at Hammeke Electric, helping apprentice electricians prepare for and pass their exams.
Community Involvement:
Ryan’s roots run deep in Great Bend, where his family still lives. He is an active member of First Christian Church, serving whenever he can by playing bass guitar in the worship band or running sound on Sunday mornings. He also shares his love of music through Homebrew, a local band that performs at community events. Beyond music, Ryan lends his expertise as a member of the Barton Community College Construction Technology Advisory Board and the Board of Construction Trades Examiners and Appeals (BOCTEA). He also stays active on the court as part of the Great Bend Rec Commission’s Morning Basketball Association.
Personal Life:
When he’s not working or volunteering, Ryan treasures time with his wife, Megan, and children. Between traveling, kids’ activities, lake trips, and time with friends and extended family, life is always busy—and he wouldn’t have it any other way. Surrounded by loved ones and a strong community, Ryan is proud to call Great Bend home.
Professional Career:
Amanda Hammond serves as the Director of Services at Rosewood Services Inc., one of Kansas’s largest agencies supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Through programs in residential care, employment training, community involvement, and recreation, Rosewood empowers clients to live with independence, purpose, and dignity.
Raised within the family-founded business, Amanda graduated from Great Bend High School and transitioned into a full-time role at Rosewood, steadily advancing through multiple positions to her current leadership role. She now oversees all residential programs, guiding staff and ensuring clients thrive in supportive, home-like environments tailored to their individual needs. Amanda also leads the medical department, coordinating healthcare services and wellness initiatives while supervising staff to maintain exceptional quality of care. With more than 20 years of dedication, she has been instrumental in expanding Rosewood’s reach and fostering inclusive opportunities for individuals of all abilities.
Community Involvement:
Amanda is deeply committed to Great Bend, where she is raising her family and advocating for inclusion across the community. A passionate supporter of Special Olympics, she has dedicated 15 years as a coach and now serves as Local Program Coordinator for the Storm Special Olympics Team, representing Great Bend and central Kansas. Under her leadership, the Storm has grown in participation and success, with athletes competing at state-level events. In 2024, she was named Kansas Special Olympics Coach of the Year, and in 2025, she delivered the Coaches’ Oath at the Special Olympics Summer Games opening ceremony.
Professional Career:
Dena Hiss attended Kansas State University, studying Public Relations, and later graduated from Newman University with a degree in Education. She currently serves as the Marketing Coordinator at Legacy Financial Solutions, where she leads business marketing, oversees client engagement, and helps guide the company’s strategic direction and growth. Alongside her professional career, Dena is an entrepreneur who co-owns and manages multiple local businesses, creating opportunities and contributing to community development. Most recently, Dena co-founded the Gifting Forward Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals to support the causes that matter most to them. The foundation’s mission— giving without restrictions—encourages generosity that helps individuals achieve their dreams while strengthening the community.
Community Involvement:
In Dena’s impact extends well beyond her career. She has served as a CASA volunteer and on numerous committees, including the Chocolate Auction, Family Crisis Center Bunco Event, and LeaderCast. She is also a MOPS leader, GetGlowing Event founder, Great Bend Chamber Ambassador, Young Professionals founding member, GB Alive Committee member, and Education Chair at First Christian Church.
Personal Life:
Dena and her husband, Matt, have been married for 14 years and have three young sons. Together, they are passionate about business, community, and family. Entrepreneurship has given Dena the flexibility to balance motherhood and leadership while building a legacy rooted in faith, gratitude, and service, values she hopes to pass on to her children.
Professional Career:
Abigail (Abby) Jonas graduated from Great Bend High School before earning both her Bachelor of Science and Master’s in Administration from Fort Hays State University. Her career in education has been defined by creativity, commitment, and a genuine love for students – qualities the community came to know well during her years at Jefferson Elementary, where her spirited crosswalk performances became a favorite part of each school day.
roughout her career with USD 428, Abby has worked to create positive, meaningful learning experiences for students and staff alike. She helped launch the Books & Braids program at two schools and has served on several district committees, including Social Studies, Trauma-Informed Practices, and the District Leadership Team. Whether leading educators or connecting one-on-one with students, Abigail’s goal is to build confidence, inspire growth, and strengthen the foundation for future generations of Great Bend learners.
Community Involvement:
Abby’s passion for helping kids extends well beyond the classroom. A former athlete, she now channels that energy into coaching youth softball, football, soccer, and volleyball—often alongside her dad, Steve. She enjoys mentoring young athletes, helping them develop teamwork, resilience, and self-belief through sports.
Personal Life:
She and her husband, Shane, are proud parents to two children, Cal and Kensey. Together, they enjoy time outdoors, attending community events, and cheering on local teams. “Everything I do centers around kids,” Abigail says. “Helping them grow and believe in themselves is what it’s all about.”
Born and raised in Ellinwood, Kansas, Josh Komarek graduated from Ellinwood High School in 2014 before completing his general studies at Barton Community College. His career in healthcare began that same year when he earned his EMR certification, followed by EMT and AEMT certifications through Ellinwood EMS, where he began serving as a volunteer.
In 2015, Josh joined Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic as a CNA, continuing to expand his hands-on experience in patient care. In 2023, he completed Barton Community College’s Paramedic program, earning an Associate of Applied Science in Paramedicine. He now serves in the hospital’s Emergency Department as both a Clinical Paramedic and Emergency Preparedness Coordinator. In this dual role, Josh provides critical emergency care while also coordinating preparedness efforts, developing response protocols, leading training drills, and collaborating with Barton County Emergency Management, local fire and EMS agencies, and neighboring hospitals to enhance regional readiness for crises.
Community Involvement:
Josh remains a dedicated volunteer with Ellinwood EMS, a fully volunteer service that responds to hundreds of calls each year. He also serves on the Barton County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) and the St. Joseph School Council, and he volunteers regularly with St. Joseph Parish, supporting community and faith-based initiatives.
Personal Life:
A lifelong Ellinwood resident, Josh and his wife, Ashley, are raising four sons. Deeply rooted in his hometown, Josh views service not just as a career but as a calling—to help build a strong, prepared, and compassionate community.
Great health starts with great primary care – and at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Family Medicine, you’ll find quality and convenience. With same-day appointments, extended hours, telehealth options and our complete range of primary care services for all ages, we are your whole family’s connection to better health. New patients welcome! We are open five days a week, with evening hours until 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday. Call now for an appointment: 620-804-6007.
Professional Career:
Professional Career:
Born in York, Pennsylvania, and raised in Aurora, Illinois, MacKenzie made Kansas her home after graduating from Spring Hill High School. She earned an Associate of Science from Barton Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Kansas Wesleyan University, where she received the LIFT Scholarship. Dedicated to lifelong learning, she went on to complete a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Emporia State University.
For the past six years, MacKenzie has taught sixth grade at Jefferson Elementary, where she is known for her creativity, compassion, and studentcentered teaching. Beyond the classroom, she coaches the Great Bend High School girls’ golf team, serves on the Professional Development Council, contributes to the science curriculum committee, and remains actively involved in school events.
Her passion for education was sparked during her time as a counselor and site coordinator at Camp Tomah Shinga in Junction City. “I always had a love for education, but my plan was to pursue engineering,” she recalls.
“After the call to serve at this camp, God placed in my heart the calling to work with youth.”
Community Involvement:
MacKenzie serves on the Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Board, leads the Jefferson Scholars Bowl team, and volunteers with youth groups at Encounter Church and Trinity Lutheran.
Personal Life:
MacKenzie and her husband, Devon, enjoy hosting friends and raising their one-year-old son, Caleb, who inspires her to live with purpose, faith, and gratitude.
Adam Niedens is the Principal of Jefferson Elementary School in Great Bend. Born and raised in the community, he is a proud graduate of Great Bend High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Sterling College and later completed a master’s degree through Fort Hays State University. Now in his fifteenth year in education, Adam spent nine years in the classroom before moving into administration. He is in his sixth year as a principal and fifth year leading Jefferson Elementary, returning “home” to Great Bend in 2021 to serve the district that shaped his own formative years. A strong advocate for continuous growth, he has participated in Elevate Leadership and is an active member of the Kansas Principals Association. “Education is about building relationships first,” he says. “When students feel supported and connected, they’re ready to grow, learn, and take on new challenges.”
Community Involvement:
Committed to both education and service, Adam partners with local organizations to enhance opportunities for families. He has served on the boards of Friends of Cheyenne Bottoms and Child Abuse Prevention Education, supporting causes that strengthen and protect the community. A lifelong supporter of youth and athletics, he enjoys cheering on the Great Bend Panthers and Barton Cougars.
Personal Life:
Outside of school, Adam values time with his family. He enjoys being a dad most of all and can often be found cheering on his two children, Case and Macey, as they participate in their sports and activities. His personal and professional life share the same foundation: nurturing growth, building strong relationships, and investing in the future of the next generation.
Professional Career:
Devani Prieto-Sandoval moved to the United States at age three and has proudly called Great Bend home ever since. A 2014 graduate of Great Bend High School, she earned her associate degree from Barton Community College in 2016 and her bachelor’s in social work from Fort Hays State University. In 2018, she began her career at Larned State Hospital as a licensed social worker.
Balancing career and motherhood, Devani returned to school in 2021 to pursue her master’s degree in clinical social work while raising her daughter, Ellie. After earning her master’s-level licensure, she was promoted to a therapist role and, within nine months, advanced to Director of Social Services for the State Security Program at Larned State Hospital. In this role, she oversees clinical programming and coordinates services for patients while also serving as Kansas Interstate Compact Coordinator, managing transfers between state facilities. In 2025, she achieved the highest level of licensure in Kansas, becoming a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker.
Community Involvement:
Devani’s work extends beyond hospital walls. She collaborates with mental health centers, nursing facilities, providers, families, and the legal system to improve access to care for individuals with severe mental illness. She also mentors future social workers, offering practicum opportunities at Larned State Hospital to prepare them for impactful careers.
Personal Life:
Devani finds her greatest inspiration in her daughter, Ellie, whose love and encouragement motivate her daily to serve, lead, and make a lasting difference in her community.
Professional Career:
Born and raised in Great Bend, Cody began his career in emergency services as an EMT before advancing to the role of Paramedic, serving in re and EMS capacities for more than a decade. After several years away, he returned to central Kansas and now resides in Ellinwood with his wife, Haley, and their two children, Peyton and Isaac. His career spans ambulance response, fire suppression, hazardous materials operations, and hospital-based emergency medicine.
Cody currently works in the Emergency Department at Ellinwood District Hospital while also volunteering with Ellinwood EMS. Dedicated to lifelong learning, he is pursuing advanced education to become a Nurse Practitioner specializing in emergency medicine. Throughout his career, Cody has been driven by a passion for providing high-quality, compassionate care in high-stress environments and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Community Involvement:
Cody believes service extends far beyond the workplace. He has supported families through The University of Kansas Health System by providing education on safe infant sleep and car seat safety and is a member e National Society of Leadership and Success. Previously, as Captain Paramedic with Great Bend Fire/EMS, he mentored team members and led re safety education initiatives.
Personal Life:
In his free time, Cody enjoys quality time with his children, often spending the day at the park, exploring the zoo, or watching the newest release at the theater.
Professional Career:
Since beginning her career in the insurance industry in August 2023, Trina Smith has built a thriving multi-state practice with licenses in Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois. As an independent insurance agent, she has developed a true passion for helping individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most to them. Trina specializes in both personal insurance – auto, home, life, and health – and commercial insurance, tailoring coverage solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
Community Involvement:
Trina is deeply committed to service and community growth. She serves as Treasurer of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3111, supporting programs that honor and care for veterans. At Central Kansas Christian Academy, she partners with educators and families to enrich the student experience. She is also a Chamber Ambassador with the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, representing local businesses and fostering stronger community connections.
Recognition:
Her professional excellence and civic leadership have earned her repeated recognition. Trina is a two-time recipient of the NextGen Under 30 Kansas Award, was named South Central Regional Winner in Business Innovation (2024), and received the Best of Business Rate (2024) for outstanding service. For Trina, success is not only measured by business growth but also by giving back, lifting others, and leaving a lasting positive impact on her community.
Devin Tavarez is a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department at the University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend Campus. A graduate of Great Bend High School, he pursued his passion for healthcare immedier graduation, earning his nursing degree from Barton Community College in 2020. Devin’s career with the University of Kansas Health System began in 2016 as a CNA, followed by work as an LPN, before advancing to his current role as an ER nurse in 2021. With nearly a decade of hands-on healthcare experience, he is dedicated to delivering skilled, compassionate care to patients and their families across the Great Bend community.
Outside of his professional role, Devin is committed to serving others. He volunteers with Meals on Wheels, helping provide nourishment and companionship to local residents. He also values staying active, enjoying workouts at Anytime Fitness, biking, and playing recreational sports as a
Family is at the heart of Devin’s life. The son of Mexican immigrants who became U.S. citizens, he deeply values the sacrifices and opportunities his parents and grandparents worked to provide. Devin and his wife, Paloma, rst child in November. At home, he enjoys relaxing with their three cats, spending time outdoors, and making lasting
Professional Career:
A Great Bend native, Kenda Werth has dedicated more than 13 years to healthcare, serving in roles that reflect her commitment to both patient care and community well-being. Her career began in patient registration and insurance before advancing into coding and management positions. Balancing family, service, and professional growth, Kenda earned her bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration from Southern New Hampshire University in 2024 and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in the same field.
Today, Kenda serves as Assistant Director of Hospital Collections at Th University of Kansas Health System, where she also participates on the local leadership team. Known for her dependability and collaborative leadership, she manages a department of ten employees and is always willing to assist colleagues when needed. Her passion for healthcare finance stems from her belief that every patient deserves access to clear, compassionate financial guidance and support.
Community Involvement:
Kenda is actively involved in her hometown, serving on the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and leading her Great Bend High School class reunion committee. She volunteers regularly at events such as the Veterans Day Breakfast, FUEL Barton County’s Fall Fest, and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
Personal Life:
Kenda and her husband, Brandon, are raising their three daughters, Jaselyn, Ava, and Brielle, in Great Bend. Together, they enjoy local events, school activities, and time with family and friends, embracing a life rooted in service, community, and faith..
The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend is committed to caring for our community and meeting the needs of you and your loved ones.
Although our entire team cares for the Great Bend community, we are proud to congratulate the 3 members of our team who have been recognized among Great Bend Tribune’s 20 Under 40 for 2025.
Jessica Corbett, RN Medical surgical nurse manager
A lifelong resident of Great Bend, Dakota graduated from Great Bend High School in 2011 before attending North Central Kansas Technical College in Hays, where he earned a certificate in Residential Electricity. He became a Journeyman Electrician in 2015 after completing on-the-job training and a written exam. Dakota began his career at P&S Electric, where he worked until 2021, before transitioning to utility distribution with Wheatland Electric. Today, he serves as a Journeyman Lineman, ensuring reliable service while continuing to advance in his field.
Community:
Deeply committed to youth development, Dakota has been actively involved in coaching since shortly after college. He serves on the board of Bombers Baseball and is the head coach of the 9U Bombers, while also helping with youth football and basketball programs. In addition, he coaches a variety of recreation center activities, including basketball, indoor soccer, and softball. Believing in the power of sports to teach discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, Dakota says, “If we can not only teach sports but also instill life lessons through discipline and hard work in today’s youth, they will change the world.”
Personal Life:
When he’s not working or coaching, Dakota enjoys spending time outdoors and being with his family. He and his wife, Tera, are raising two children, Rhett and EmmaLynn, and share a strong foundation of faith through First Christian Church of Great Bend and self-led Bible studies.
NOMINATE A BUSINESS STAR TODAY!
0 UNDER FORTY 2026
Nominate a Barton, Pawnee, or Stafford County business star making a mark with professional success and community involvement. The nominee must be under 40 years of age as of January 1, 2027. Deadline for nominations is Friday, August 14, 2026. Selections will be published in a glossy magazine.
Candidates should have achieved professional success and be active in community matters. Form must be filled out completely and accurately. (Candidate will not be considered with incomplete registration)
Nominee’s Name:
Nominee’s Date of Birth:
Nominee’s Company/Business Title:
Nominee’s Address:
Nominee’s Phone:*
Nominee’s Email:*
Describe Nominee’s Professional Success:
Community Involvement:
Why is this person a great 20 Under 40 Candidate?:
Nominated by: Company:
Phone: Email:
* Required
Email to: dduryee@gbtribune.com. Electronic support materials will also be accepted with the applications. Or Mail to: 20 under 40, c/o Great Bend Tribune, 2012 Forest, Great Bend, KS 67530.
TU NLOE
E R
The Power of Giving Back:
How Senior Volunteers Strengthen Our Communities
Volunteering is often described as the heartbeat of a community, and for many seniors, it’s a way of life. Across towns and neighborhoods, senior volunteers pour their time, talents, and energy into causes that enrich the lives of others — and in turn, bring purpose and joy to their own.
A Legacy of Service
Many of today’s senior volunteers grew up in a time when neighbors leaned on each other, church socials filled the calendar, and lending a hand was second nature. That spirit of service hasn’t faded with age. In fact, retirement often opens new opportunities to give back. Free from the demands of full-time jobs or raising young families, seniors dedicate themselves to meaningful projects that strengthen the very fabric of their hometowns.
Where They Make a Difference
Senior volunteers serve in countless ways. They help stock shelves at food pantries, deliver meals to homebound neighbors, mentor children in schools, care for community gardens, and welcome visitors at historical sites and museums. Others dedicate time to hospitals, churches, and civic organizations — offering a warm smile, a steady hand, and years of wisdom to those around them.
These contributions not only keep organizations running smoothly, but also inspire younger generations to see the value of civic pride and community service.
The Benefits of Giving
Volunteering is good for both the soul and the body. Seniors who volunteer often report feeling healthier, more connected, and more fulfilled. Friendships blossom through shared service, loneliness fades, and the satisfaction of making a difference adds meaning to each
day. Volunteering truly is a two-way gift: it strengthens communities while enriching the lives of those who give.
A Call to Action
Every hour volunteered adds up to a stronger, more vibrant community. Whether it’s a few hours a week or a big commitment during retirement, senior volunteers prove that age is not a limit — it’s an advantage. Their skills, experience, and compassion make them uniquely suited to lead by example.
As one local volunteer put it, “I may not be able to do everything I used to, but I can still do something. And that something matters.”
Top 5 Ways Seniors Can Volunteer Locally
1. Mentor or Tutor Students
Share your knowledge and life experience by helping children with reading, math, or simply offering encouragement in the classroom.
2. Support Local Food Programs
Volunteer at a food pantry, deliver meals to seniors, or help with community garden projects that fight hunger.
3. Lend a Hand at Hospitals or Care Centers
Offer companionship, greet visitors, or assist staff with non-medical tasks. A warm smile goes a long way.
4. Preserve Community Heritage
Serve as a docent at museums, historical sites, or libraries — passing down stories that keep history alive.
5. Join Civic and Faith-Based Efforts
Get involved with local clubs, churches, or nonprofit groups to plan events, fundraisers, and community improvement projects.
Every contribution, no matter how small, helps build a stronger, kinder, and more connected community.
closed for several years.
“An officer came up, and there were too many of us to all get out the gate and run. He came up and asked who was in charge, and Bud Pinkston was the only adult that was there. The rest of us were recent college grads or high school kids. The officer said, ‘If you guys want to race, why don’t you go to the city council and see about opening the dragstrip back up?’ And so Ray and myself and Rick Remmert and Roger Hammerschmidt and Bud Pinkston were the board of directors getting the strip opened back up.
“My heart is very much in the rework of the dragstrip here.
warmed my heart. One woman said, ‘Oh my gosh, now I can give my grandkids $1 in their birthday cards.’ Another had to go to Kansas City for treatment and said, ‘Now I can eat lunch because I’ve got my $25.’”
A scholarship has been set up in Ray Cheely’s name for someone interested in earning a certificate in a service field such as electricians, plumbing or welding.
She is still involved in Great Bend Economic Development and recently contributed to the Great Bend Rec project that added a basketball court at Eisenhower Park.
“I believe in our community, and I love to see it grow. I love to see things happen.”
LaRae Craven -A heart for helping
Advocates. For more information, call 877-662-8362.
She took the training for the program when she had to stay home following a knee surgery. “I thought, ‘I’m not going to be able to work, so I’ve got to do something.’”
Alzheimer’s Association
Craven is also supportive of the new Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support group and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The support group meets at 2:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at the Volunteers in Action office, 1025 Main St., Great Bend, Room D106. It is an in-person group for caregivers for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementia.
This is also an area where more volunteers are needed, she said. Organizers would like to see people who could sit with a dementia patient when his or her spouse has to go to the doctor’s office or get a haircut, or maybe give the caregiver a chance to go out for a cup of coffee once and awhile.
“We need to get more people lined up that will do that, and know what they have to do.”
For more information, the program director for the Central and Western Kansas Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association is Denise Vann and her office number is 316-267-7333.
Encouraging others
LaRae said she doesn’t understand why more people – especially older people – aren’t volunteers. “They can go walk, they can go play Bridge. So what’s wrong with coming and helping somebody?”
provided people with rides to medical services in other towns. Now in her eighties, Craven continues to serve as a long-term care ombudsman, she delivers rolls to the American Legion for veterans, and she is a team captain for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Great Bend.
Early life
LaRae was born in Moundridge and her parents moved to Great Bend when she was 4 years old. About that time, her father died in an oilfield accident. Her mother also had a 2-year-old son and was pregnant with LaRae’s youngest brother.
to rest. She still makes it to Dillons up to three times a week to get rolls. If she can’t make it, people miss her.
Ombudsman
The ability to be a good listener has served her well. For the past 25 years she has volunteered as a long-term care ombudsman at River Bend.
“I’m an advocate for people in the nursing home. That’s listening to any complaints they have and trying to get them fixed,” she said. As the only ombudsman in Great Bend, she hopes someone who reads this will look into the possibility of also becoming a volunteer with the Kansas Office of Public
It isn’t always easy to get up and go, but LaRae knows the alternative would be to stay at home and do nothing.
“And what good would that be to anybody?” she asks.
“What I’ve got to say to people is: ‘Don’t sit at home and worry about yourself. You’re better off to get out and be with people and know they care about you – because you’re going to die if you don’t get out and help people. Be around them.’ And you know, they’ve also been great to me. I wouldn’t have made it this far if it hasn’t been for volunteering and doing stuff with other people. It’s really helped me.”
Linda McCaffery - Keeping history alive
“To this day, I go nuts if I don’t have something to read,” she said.
“My sons told me that they should be in therapy, because everybody else got to go to Worlds of Fun and they had to go to the Kansas State Historical Museum.”
Summers were spent at their cabin in the small southwest Colorado mountain mining community of Westcliffe at the foot of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. It is an area rich in both Native American and early pioneer settlement history.
“We raised horses, so that’s natural that you would show horses,” she said. “And the only sport open to women at that time was rodeo, so I rode my first horse when I was 8 years old. My parents would just turn this 8-year-old kid loose in the mountains.
“The first time I ever went to Bent’s Fort, dad got permission from the landowner, and it was just this melted outline in the dirt. Because it got blown up and then all carted away. We spent I don’t know how many weekends walking up Adobe Creek by Wetmore and looking for where there was a massacre.
“Every weekend we would walk a little farther and we finally found it. But some obscure article that Dad read talked about that in 1854, that the Utes had wiped out this little settlement, and Kit Carson buried them.
“That’s what we did, anywhere we went. We’d talk about it in the car about where we were going.
“It was just a really neat childhood.”
Earning degrees in history and anthropology in Colorado, in 1981 she came to Kansas and spent three decades teaching history at Barton Community College. She has also penned more than two dozen oral histories of local personages, including the World War II experiences of Carl Soden, who served in the U.S. Navy as plotting officer on Admiral Chester Nimitz’s staff
In 2010, she wrote a book about the experiences of Dr. William Brenner, of Larned, as a prisoner of war in the Philippines.
Setting things up
a cadre of volunteers that help her with a variety of tasks. But where she makes a difference is her passion for preserving Barton County history.
In the shadow of the Rockies
Growing up in eastern Colorado with a teacher mom and rancher dad gave her an early appreciation for the past.
“I grew up in a family of readers,” she said. “My mom was a teacher until I was born; my dad had a tremendous memory and he loved history. He never met a museum he didn’t like. So we would go anywhere. Mom and Dad would research the area and so we would know all about it before we ever got there.
At the museum, McCaffery spends a lot of her time putting together projects for the volunteers to carry out. “It has to be meaningful for them, because if they don’t feel like it’s meaningful and worthwhile, they won’t be coming back,” she said. Organizing and cataloging the archival materials, literally piles of family records, boxes of memorabilia, to get them to a point of preservation. Then having them all filed. That is a really large undertaking.”
She admits that she gets a personal connection from looking at historic photos of people. “I talk to photos a lot,” she said. “I ask, ‘who are you,’ ‘can you tell me your story?’ There are so many of them that don’t have any written identification anywhere.”
Anyone can memorize dates, she said, but understanding why things happen and how that impacts the course of future events is at the core of what makes history so fascinating for her.
“I’ve been asked, ‘why don’t I just throw away the stuff that I can’t identify,’” she said. “I just cannot do that.”
Dan Sanneman - A volunteer’s volunteer
While Dan Sanneman’s roots in the Larned community run deep, they didn’t begin that way. “I’ve been here 41 years, but yes, I am a transplant,” Sanneman noted. He was working as a farm equipment salesman in Atwood in 1986, when Bob Roth, owner of Roth equipment in Larned, persuaded him to come work for the Larned business. That was good, because the Atwood store was in the process of being closed down. Sanneman became Roth’s area rep even through Roth’s merger with Straub International in 2001, for 31 years. He retired from the company in 2017.
But, according to Dan’s wife Karla, that’s when the “real” work began. That’s really not an easy thing to say about a man whose career of 31 years began before the sun was up and ended after it went down each day. But if there’s volunteer work to be done, Dan’s the man; you’d be hard-pressed to find an organization in the county he hasn’t been a part of, or an officer in.
The first one, Noon Lions Club, was an “easyin;” Sanneman had already been a member of the Atwood Lions Club for 10 years. He’d been in Larned for about four months, when Noon Lion Ray Reep asked if he could sponsor him in a Larned membership. It’s been a good gig. Sanneman is a 40year member, and been in the club president’s chair four times.
The rest seemed to build upon Sanneman’s passion for volunteerism. “Either I would find them or they would find me,” he noted. “It sort of went both ways.”
He is a charter member of the Larned Tired Iron Club, rooted in Kinsley and now a staple event of the Santa Fe Trail Center that celebrated g its 25th anniversary on Oct. 11 . He recently went off of the Santa Fe Trail Center board after 15 years of service, but is still active in the Wet/Dry Routes Chapter of the Santa Fe Trail Association.
In civic service, he’s been on the Larned Area Chamber and Economic Development board and is a charter member of the Chamber Ambassadors, who set out American Flags for patriotic holidays in the community, as well as sponsor the Chamber’s long-running Christmas Parade. He’s been involved in the local Farm Bureau.
“I was on the Fair board, the County Extension board and the Chamber board all at the same time,” he said. “One just kind of fit into the other one.”
When he’s not doing that, he and Karla make regular trips to Fort Hays State University. As an FHSU grad, he’s an active member of the Alumni Association and the Half Century Club, which each year celebrates new members who have graduated in 1976 and before.
“Dan’s retirement wasn’t a retirement; he’s a volunteer mug,” Karla said.
OK then, Dan. Sounds like a plan.
“There are some things I’ve had to turn down,” Dan responded.
“Not very many,” Kara countered.
Perry & Krista Smith - Small acts, Big impact
on the Foundation’s Board of Directors from 1992–1998 and served as the board chair. She also co-chaired the Big Benefit Auction and played a key role on the presidential search committee that hired Dr. Veldon Law, while Perry most recently served on the committee that selected Dr. Marcus
Last May, the college bestowed the 2025 Distinguished Service award on the couple for their longtime efforts and support. The award was created in 1981 to recognize individuals who have shown genuine regard for, and performed outstanding service to, BCC.
For the Smiths, it doesn’t stop there. Currently, they volunteer with the Barton County Food Bank and Meals on Wheels, and both serve on the Barton County Health Department Advisory Board. They are lifetime members of the Barton County Historical Society, Brit Spaugh Zoological Society, and Great Bend Community Theatre. They were also original donors to the Golden Belt Community Foundation.
Perry currently serves on the board of the Family Crisis Center, while Krista serves on the board of Prairie Godmothers, is a Medicare Part D counselor through Volunteers in Action; is the chair of the Great Bend Public Library Board of Trustees, and serves on both local and state committees for P.E.O.
“My philosophy is that the community has treated us very well, we have made a life living here and want to give back,” Krista explained. “I want to help others. There is an empathy toward caring for people and I feel like with my time at the food bank, I can make a difference. If there is a place for me, wherever they need me, whenever they need me. I worked quite a bit as a substitute driver during the summer and then now this fall not so much.”
“Can do, needs to be done, let’s give it a ride,” Perry chimed
As senior citizens the couple realizes that volunteerism seems to be a generational thing; that younger generations might be too busy or just not interested in helping out. It might be that they weren’t exposed to it when they were younger, and not realize that even doing a little thing might make a big impact in someone else’s situation.
“I can understand that you can’t always do 50 things while you are raising a family,” Krista said. “But, you can do one.
at might be the one thing that you can do and enjoy.
“I can’t carry a 50-pound food basket, but I can pack one,” she said. “Maybe I can’t lug things around door-to-door, but I can collaborate with someone who can. I can be a substitute driver. I might not have the ability to do the physical things that a younger person can do, but I can do what I can when I
“Sometimes it is the little things that make the biggest erence,” Perry said.
ere may be a time when they have to step back, but that’s just part of the nature of things, Perry added. “There’s a common sense aspect to it, but we’ll do it as long as we’re able,” he said.
arts performances, and Shafer Art Gallery receptions. Perry administered thousands of physicals to Barton athletes, supported Barton’s nursing staff during his tenure as College physician, and served on the Nursing Advisory Board. Krista, a physical therapist, taught Rehab Aide classes and served
“You will get more than you ever give,” he said. “You might not be able to see the benefit right away, but you will down the line.”
Krista agreed. “It’s the little acts of kindness; that’s what’s required,” she said.
SILVER IMPACT NOMINATE A 65+
Nominate a Barton, Pawnee, or Stafford County 65+ making a mark with personal success and community involvement. The nominee must be 65+ years of age as of January 1, 2027. Deadline for nominations is Friday, August 14, 2026. Selections will be published in a glossy magazine.
Candidates should have achieved personal success and be active in community matters. Form must be filled out completely and accurately. (Candidate will not be considered with incomplete registration)
Nominee’s Name:
Nominee’s Date of Birth:
Nominee’s Company/Business Title:
Nominee’s Address:
Nominee’s Phone:*
Nominee’s Email:*
Describe Nominee’s Personal Success:
Community Involvement:
Why is this person a great 65+ Candidate?:
Nominated by: Company:
Phone: Email:
* Required
Email to: dduryee@gbtribune.com. Electronic support materials will also be accepted with the applications. Or Mail to: Silver Impact, c/o Great Bend Tribune, 2012 Forest, Great Bend, KS 67530.
Giving Back...
If you want to start volunteering there are many opportunities in our community, including these.
4-H AND YOUTH PROGRAMS
Michelle Beran, 4-H Youth Development Agent 3007 10th St., Great Bend 620-793-1910
AMERICAN LEGION POST #180
1011 Kansas, Great Bend 620-793-5912
AMERICAN LEGION POST #320
117 E. Santa Fe Blvd., Ellinwood 620-564-3252
AMERICAN LEGION POST #286
204 N. Main, Hoisington 620-653-4816
AMERICAN RED CROSS OF SOUTH CENTRAL AND SOUTH EAST, KANSAS Wichita, 316-219-4000
BARTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOUNDATION
245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend
Lindsey Bogner, 620-786-1141
BARTON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF CHURCHES
Nancy Sundahl, 620-793-5894
BARTON COUNTY 4-H HOLDING BOARD INC.
Great Bend, 620-793-1910
BARTON COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION
Great Bend, 620-797-3247
BARTON COUNTY FAIR FRIENDS
Barb Davenport 620-792-2647
BARTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Linda McCaffery, MA Director Great Bend, 620-793-5125
BIRTHRIGHT OF GREAT BEND INC.
Great Bend, 620-792-3316
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA QUIVIRA COUNCIL
316-264-3386
CAMP HOPE
Gail Moeder, 620-793-9052, 620-786-4055
CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SOUTHWEST KANSAS Great Bend, 620-792-1393
CENTRAL KANSAS ASSOCIATION FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED
Great Bend, 620-793-5645
620-617-8980
CENTRAL KANSAS COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES (CASA)
Great Bend, 620-792-5544
CHEYENNE BOTTOMS DUCKS UNLIMITED CHAPTER
Hoisington, Ks. Find them on facebook
CHEYENNE QUIVIRA DUCKS UNLIMITED CHAPTER ducks.org/kansas and facebook
CLARA BARTON HOSPITAL AUXILIARY
Marty Schloemer 620-791-7127
CLARA BARTON HOSPITAL FOUNDATION
Michelle Moshier, Executive Director 620-292-0814
COMMISSION ON AGING Great Bend, 620-792-3906
COTTONWOOD EXTENSION DISTRICT PROGRAMS
Jay Harris – District Director 3007 10th, Great Bend 620-793-1910
DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA, IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CIRCLE #744
Donna Gales, 620-786-2093
Shelly Arnberger, 620-617-5195
ELDERCARE INC.
Great Bend, 620-792-5942
ELLINWOOD COMMUNITY HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM
Joyce Schulte, 620-564-2886 104 N. Main St.
ELLINWOOD FOOD BANK Ellinwood, 620-564-2660
ELLINWOOD GARDEN CLUB
Rosie Joiner, 620-792-9553
ELLINWOOD HERITAGE SENIOR CENTER
Ellinwood, 620-564-3649
ELLINWOOD HOSPITAL AUXILIARY
Sandy Roth, Ellinwood 620-786-5638
ELLINWOOD KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS #1187
110 W. 2nd St., Ellinwood
John Clayton, 620-566-7040
300 N. Schiller, Ellinwood 620-564-3226
EMERGENCY AID COUNCIL Great Bend, 620-793-3345
FAMILY CRISIS CENTER
Great Bend, 620-793-9941 866-792-1885
FOOD BANK OF BARTON COUNTY INC.
Great Bend, 620-792-4001
ORDER OF THE EAGLES 1024 Main, Great Bend 620-792-4582
GIRL SCOUTS OF KANSAS HEARTLAND 316-684-6531
GOLDEN BELT COMMUNITY CONCERT ASSOC.
Linda Jerke, 620-793-2748
GOLDEN BELT COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
1307 Williams, Great Bend 620-792-3000
GOLDEN BELT HOME HEALTH AND HOSPICE
Great Bend, 620-792-8171
GOLDEN BELT HUMANE & ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC.
Great Bend, 620-792-4297
GOLDEN BELT MODEL RAILROADERS ASSOC.
PO Box 2069, Great Bend
GREAT BENDBARTON COUNTY CRIME STOPPERS INC.
Great Bend, 620-792-1300
GREAT BEND COMMISSION ON AGING
2005 Kansas, Great Bend 620-792-3906
GREAT BEND COMMUNITY THEATER
Madison Hembree, Theatre Mgr. 620-792-4228
GREAT BEND DESK & DERRICK
620-793-4878 www.addc.org
GREAT BEND GARDEN CLUB
Nancy Williams, 620-792-2379
GREAT BEND KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL #862
723 Main, Great Bend 620-793-3930
GREAT BEND MASONIC LODGE #15
1917 17th St.
Great Bend, 620-617-3634
GREAT BEND PUBLIC LIBRARY
Great Bend, 620-792-2409
GREAT BEND RECREATION COMMISSION FOUNDATION
Great Bend, 620-793-3755
GREAT BEND SADDLE CLUB
Judy Demel, Secretary 620-791-7297
GREAT BEND WRESTLING CLUB
Great Bend, 620-282-2910
GREAT BEND
ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY
620-793-4226
Great Bend Brit-Spaugh Zoo 2123 Main, Great Bend
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Great Bend, 620-792-1232
HOISINGTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Kenny Eaves, 620-786-5975
120 E. 2nd, Hoisington
HOISINGTON KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL #152 PO Box 149, 114 N. Main, Hoisington
HOISINGTON MASONIC LODGE 620-653-4619
351 W. 2nd, Hoisington
HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL FOUNDATION
Great Bend, 620-793-3265
HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES INC.
Great Bend, 620-792-3299
INTERMEDIATE INTERVENTION PROGRAM
Great Bend, 620-793-1930
INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS VALLEY LODGE NO. 95
Ken Edgett, 620-793-0793
JEFFERSON SCHOOL PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION INC. Great Bend, 620-793-1502
KANSAS CHILDREN’S SERVICE LEAGUE 3520 Lakin, Great Bend 620-603-8442
KANS FOR KIDS FIGHTING CANCER FOUNDATION 169 S. Main St., Hoisington 620-653-2210 kans4kids@ruraltel.net
Elwyn Maneth, 620-282-2598 723 Main St., Great Bend.
LIONS CLUB, NOONGREAT BEND
Kris Sundahl, 620-603-0340
MEALS ON WHEELS OF BARTON COUNTY
Great Bend, 620-792-1833
MEDICALODGES
BENEVOLENCE INC.
Great Bend, 620-792-2165
NURSES HONOR GUARD
Sandy Morey, RNnowamsam@hotmail.com
OPTIMIST OF GREAT BEND
Steve Kummer, 620-792-5415
PHEASANTS FOREVER ROOSTER BOOSTER CHAPTER #504
Scot Moeder, 620-786-0273 smoeder15@gmail.com
PILOT CLUB OF GREAT BEND
Daniel Watson, 620-786-8912
PRAIRIE GODMOTHERS
GOLDEN BELT COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FUNDS
620-792-3000 goldenbeltcf.org/prairiegodmothers
QUILT GROUPS
Central Kansas Threadbenders
Quilt Guild, 620-617-9973
Twilight Stitchers Quilt Group, 620-564-3047
Twisted Stitchers, 620-587-3610
QUILTS OF VALOR
Amy Mellor 620-617-3627
RETIRED AND SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM (RSVP)
Great Bend, 620-792-1614
ROSEWOOD ROOTS & WINGS FOUNDATION
620-796-2242
1213 Main St., Great Bend www.rosewoodservices.com
ROTARY CLUB OF ELLINWOOD 620-792-9553
ROTARY CLUB OF GREAT BEND
Rebecca Popp
SALVATION ARMY
Great Bend, 620-792-4299
SENIOR CENTER
Great Bend, 620-792-3906
SUNFLOWER DIVERSIFIED SERVICES FOUNDATION 620-792-1325
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY OF KANSAS
Wichita, 316-652-1538
UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL KANSAS
Charell Owings, 620-792-2403 1125 Williams, Great Bend
USD 428 EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Great Bend, 620-793-1500
USD 431 EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Hoisington, 620-653-4134
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, POST 3111
504 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-2754
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, POST 7428 256 S. Main, Hoisington 620-653-4501
VINTAGE WHEELS CAR CLUB, INC. www.facebook.com/ vintagewheelscarclub
VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION/ AMERICORPS SENIORS Linn Hogg, 620-792-1614 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend
WOMEN FOR KANSAS Pam Martin, 620-285-1083
XI DELTA CHAPTER OF BETA SIGMA PHI
Nancy Sundahl, 620-793-5894
YOUTH FRIENDS
Riley SchoolGreat Bend, 620-793-1506
Park SchoolGreat Bend, 620-793-1505
You’ re invited You’re invited to
Bend Tribune’s
Friday, November 7 at 7:00 p.m. at The Crest Theatre
These 20 Under 40 Awards honor a group of outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who excel in their industry, are company leaders, and are good community citizens. The Seniors Silver Impact Award is for citizens over the age of 65 whose committment proves that leadership never retires. We hope to see you there!
