The Pledge - Fall 2024

THE PLEDGE KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION

FALL 2024

CONTENTS FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO: CELEBRATING MILESTONES WHILE EMPOWERING YOUTH

4

MAXIMIZE YOUR IMPACT THROUGH DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS

10

4-H SPOTLIGHT: HEAR DIRECTLY FROM KANSAS YOUTH

5

PLEDGING THEIR HANDS TO LARGER SERVICE

11

AT A GLANCE: 2024 KANSAS 4-H CAMP SEASON

5

KANSAS 4-H STAY CONNECTED

12

CELERBATING 80 YEARS OF ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

6

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF KANSAS 4-H

14

KANSAS 4-H YOUTH ARE RECOGNIZED AT EMERALD CIRCLE

8

Kansas 4-H began in 1905 when organized groups of youth came together to “learn by doing.” In 1914, the Smith-Lever Act established the Cooperative Extension System connected to Land Grant universities and nationalized 4-H as a positive youth development program. As Kansas 4-H grew, a national trend for 4-H camping was also growing leading Kansas 4-H Clubs to purchase Rock Springs Ranch in 1946.

In November 1952, a committee of Kansans convened to determine what entity should hold the title of Rock Springs. With a vision for providing educational opportunities for Kansas youth, this committee created the Kansas 4-H Foundation as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. In addition to holding the title for the property of Rock Springs, early Foundation goals included international programs, leader training and advancement of Rock Springs Ranch.

The Foundation continues to partner with the Kansas 4-H program to meet the evolving needs of Kansas youth and develop future leaders. We acknowledge and appreciate our longtime 4-H friends. Their lifetime of generosity creates new opportunities for the youth of Kansas.

KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION 3

Celebrating milestones while

EMPOWERING YOUTH

MINDY R. WEIXELMAN PRESIDENT/CEO mindy@ks4h.org 785-775-0123

As we near the end of 2024, we have much to celebrate within the Kansas 4-H community! This year marked a significant achievement as we launched new specialty camps at Rock Springs Ranch, established the campership endowment fund and announced the Beyond Ready initiative. These accomplishments not only ref lect commitment to youth development, but also set the stage for exciting opportunities ahead.

Milestones give you the opportunity to ref lect on the work of our organization. As we meet the milestones, it also challenges us to think about the future.

In 2025, we will celebrate the 120th anniversary of 4-H in Kansas and the 80th year of Rock Springs Ranch as the state 4-H center. These milestones ref lect our organization’s rich history and the enduring impact of 4-H on generations of youth.

The data speaks volumes: youth engaged in 4-H programs demonstrate higher academic achievement, greater civic 4

THE PLEDGE

involvement, and a commitment to community service. They are better prepared to navigate the complexities of life and the workforce. However, the question remains: how do we ensure that today’s youth are equipped for tomorrow’s challenges?

While schools play a vital role in education, they cannot do it alone.

Employers today emphasize skills that extend beyond traditional subjects; 77% highlight the need for analytical thinking, creativity, resilience, and adaptability. This is where 4-H steps in.

In October, National 4-H Council announced the Beyond Ready initiative. As the nation’s largest positive youth development organization, reaching 6 million young people annually, 4-H is uniquely equipped to bridge the gap of learning.

Kansas 4-H is committed to the vision to grow future leaders by building a ready generation of youth, equipping them with essential skills that will serve them throughout their lives. This wouldn’t

be possible without the support of dedicated volunteers, agents, and donors. Together, we practice leadership with both youth and adults, creating a community of engaged learners.

Recently, the “48 Hours of 4-H” service project at Rock Springs Ranch exemplified this commitment, showcasing the dedication of Kansas 4-H members to community service and civic engagement. This initiative, held in conjunction with the “Live Well, Lead Well” series, benefited from our philanthropic partnership with Healthy Blue, further enriching the mission.

As we ref lect on our achievements and look forward to the exciting milestones in 2025, let’s continue to work together to build a brighter future for our youth. Thank you for your generous philanthropic support and commitment to Kansas 4-H. Here’s to a successful year ahead!

Mindy R. Weixelman

President/CEO, Kansas 4-H Foundation

AT A GLANCE: 2024 KANSAS 4-H CAMP

4-H SPOTLIGHT

Planting Success in a Field of Clovers

Summer of 2024 was a massive success, not only did we continue to see the 4-H camp program grow in size, but we were also able to expand our program with the launch of both Jared Gleason Ranch and Shooting Sports Camp Director Specialty Camps that hit full capacity. I hope to bring my experiences and knowledge from the Illinois 4-H camp branch and continue to build on this program.”

CAMPERSHIPS PROVIDE ACCESS TO CAMP

Hold campership testimonial

As a donor to the campership fund, I appreciated the opportunity to see first-hand how today’s participants benefit from the Linda Cecchini (right) and her sister Virginia Wulfkuhle (left) at Rock Springs Ranch. beautiful and unique Rock Springs Ranch.

My sister and I returned to Rock Springs Ranch in September 2024 for a tour. The last time we were there was probably in 1959. We recalled that the food back in our day was excellent and the horse barns jogged our memories of riding there at the ranch.“ If you’re interested in joining Linda and supporting camperships, contact Lindsey Pannbacker, vice president of development, at lindsey@ks4h.org or call 785-775-0123.

If I had to sum up the past nine years in one word, it would probably be… well, I don’t think you can sum up something as life-changing as 4-H. I’ve learned so much through projects, club activities, county programs, and other 4-H members that one word wouldn’t be able to give justice to what 4-H means to me.

Traditionally, and maybe a little stereotypically, 4-H has been about livestock. But it’s so much more than that. I’ve learned how to work with others, problem solve, leadership, and too many other skills to count. I used to be the shyest kid you’d ever meet, but 4-H has helped me come out of my shell. The projects that have taught me the most life skills have been Leadership and Self-Determined.

These projects make you think outside the box and come up with solutions that may not be clear to you at first. I teamed up with Henry’s Haul for my leadership project to give back to my community, and through this I learned how to write grants, honed negotiation skills, and how to get people excited and involved. Self-Determined is a little different in the way where the 4-Her makes the rules, and it strengthens your critical thinking skills.

Looking back, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

4-H has been, and still is, a huge part of my life.

Without it, I don’t think I would have even half the skills I have now. While my time in this organization as a member is over, I’m not done being involved.

My younger sister joined Boling 4-H Club six years ago because she saw how much fun I was having and the friends I was making, and I want to keep that love going. I want kids to see how much 4-H can impact a life. I want parents to see the things their children can learn and develop. I want 4-H to flourish and keep engaging people from across the state, even the country, because as it turns out? I can describe this organization in one word: innovative.

LORELEI, LEAVENWORTH COUNTY 4-H MEMBER

To submit an article from a Kansas 4-H member to be featured in the 4-H Spotlight section of the Pledge, email Maria Childs, director of communications and public relations, at maria@ks4h.org.

KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION 5

Celebrating 80 years of

ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

Kansas 4-H club members break ground at the newly constructed Rock Springs State 4-H Leadership Center in 1946.

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Located just southwest of Junction City, Kansas, Rock Springs Ranch has been a cornerstone of leadership development since 1946. As the 80th anniversary of the State 4-H Center approaches in 2025, we reflect on its rich history of leadership development and community engagement.

The story of Rock Springs Ranch began in 1945 when J. Harold Johnson, the State 4-H Leader, envisioned a dedicated space for all Kansans to enhance their leadership skills.

Identified as the perfect spot on what was once a large cattle operation, Kansas 4-H clubs came together to purchase the land, creating a vision for experiential learning and outdoor education opportunities.

In 1946, Rock Springs Ranch opened its doors, quickly becoming a vibrant hub for Kansas 4-H activities.

From summer camps to various handson activities, it has consistently reflected the 4-H values of Head, Heart, Hands, 6

THE PLEDGE

and Health. Kansas youth and adults alike have the chance to explore new career paths and foster personal growth in a supportive environment at Rock Springs.

“With the guidance of our board of trustees, we have a philanthropic vision to enhance leadership development statewide, “ said Mindy R. Weixelman, President/CEO of the Kansas 4-H Foundation. “When participants come to the state 4-H center, they’re not just learning; they’re practicing leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills that help build even stronger Kansas communities.”

The upcoming 80th anniversary isn’t just a nod to the past; it’s a celebration of continuous growth and learning.

Rock Springs Ranch stands as a testament to the incredible impact that education, tradition, and dedication can have on shaping the future. Here’s to another 80 years of empowering youth and adults across Kansas!

With the guidance of our board of trustees, we have a philanthropic vision to enhance leadership development statewide.

When participants come to the state 4-H center, they’re not just learning; they’re practicing leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills that help build even stronger Kansas communities.”

MINDY R. WEIXELMAN PRESIDENT/CEO KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION

For nearly 80 years, youth and adults have gathered at the state 4-H center known as Rock Springs Ranch. At the request of 4-H members, an Olympic-size swimming pool was the first major structure built at Rock Springs Ranch. It continues to be a favorite today!

“At Rock Springs Ranch, you MWP – Mingle With Purpose! Whether teaming up to set the table for meals in the dining hall or sharing stories around a firepit, you have the opportunity to meet new friends and deepen friendships already established.

Little did I know that when I went to State Citizenship Camp as a 16-year 4-Her from a small farming community in Kansas, that the mixture of concepts learned and people met, mingled with personal courage and strength, would lead me to live in our nation’s capital and call a 4-Star Air Force General and former Chairman of the Jt. Chiefs, a personal friend.

Rock Springs Ranch is a place where you can begin to believe that anything is possible!”

Share a memory with us to be featured during the 80th year of Rock Springs Ranch by scanning the QR code below.

CAROLYN JACKSON, KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION TRUSTEE “I have many fond memories going to RSR attending many different events. I often think about my times as a camper but my favorite memories have been recently while going to Rock Springs Ranch for Kansas Youth Leadership Forum (KYLF). Some of my favorite memories are the little things like going to the dining hall or just talking to my friends as we’re walking to workshops.”

CARSON FOUARD, YOUTH COUNCIL PRESIDENT

KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION 7

Kansas 4-H youth recognized at

EMERALD CIRCLE

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS Discovery Days youth joined agents, donors and families in recognizing the State Project Award winners at Emerald Circle on June 6.

Each year, 4-H youth of all ages submit Kansas Project Report forms, and one state winner is selected from the senior division (ages 14-18) for each project. In addition to learning new project skills, these youth must also demonstrate growth and strength in leadership, organization, civic engagement, and above all, communication.

“Kansas 4-H is proud to celebrate the top achievers at the Emerald Circle Celebration,” said Dr. Sarah Maass, state 4-H leader. “This event not only highlights the accomplishments of our youth but also reinforces the importance of leadership and community engagement in their growth. As the state’s largest positive youth development organization, we are committed to nurturing these young leaders and empowering them to become the change-makers of tomorrow!”

Kansas 4-H Youth Development celebrates the top achievers in each project area at the Emerald Circle Celebration, hosted by the Kansas 4-H Foundation.

After the award ceremony, attendees engaged with Mitch Holthus, the voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, as he shared a message about the four other H’s - humble, hungry, hard and history.

“This summer, I was invited to the Emerald Circle banquet honoring the best in 4-H,” said Tim Mirt, a dedicated supporter of the Kansas 4-H Foundation. “I had a great time being introduced to the youth winners and the 4-H team of leaders. We also enjoyed being entertained by Mitch Holthus, the voice of the Kansas City Chiefs. I even shook his hand and took a picture with him.”

Meeting the youth leaders inspired Mirt to honor his late wife, Linda, through a gift to the Teen Leadership Community at Rock Springs Ranch. Linda was a Family and Consumer Science Extension agent for 40 years, who also focused on 4-H in Sumner County.

“Tim Mirt’s generous philanthropic gift will come full circle when the youth he celebrated at Emerald Circle have the opportunity to experience the newly renovated Teen Leadership Community at Rock Springs Ranch,” said Mindy R. Weixelman, President/CEO of the Kansas 4-H Foundation. “We are both grateful and honored by his investment in 4-H youth and an opportunity to recognize Linda’s legacy of leadership in 4-H. It is my sincere hope that Tim and his family get to one day enjoy seeing their grandchildren enjoy a Stoneybrook cabin that honors their grandma.”

8

THE PLEDGE

ABOVE: Attendees met 2023 Kansas 4-H State Project Award Winners at a reception-style event in the K-State Student Union on June 6.

BELOW: Mitch Holthus, voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, was the guest speaker at the Emerald Circle Celebration. Holthus shared a presentation with the 4-H audience about the other 4 H’s - humble, hungry, hard and history.

Each State Project Award Winner attends National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, Georgia, as a Kansas delegate, thanks to generous philanthropic support.

Contact Callie Lehman at callie@ks4h.org or call 785-775-0123 to sponsor a National 4-H Congress delegate today!

2023 STATE PROJECT AWARD WINNERS Emerald Circle is hosted annually to recognize the State Project Award Winners for their outstanding work and mastery of a project area.

Lyle Perrier Beef Greenwood County

Ariana Baltazor Civic Engagement Central Kansas District, Saline County

Vanessa Jones Clothing and Textiles Pottawatomie County

Grace Oard Communications Sedgwick County

Alexander Young Dairy Chisholm Trail District, Marion County

Lydia Walker Dog Care & Training Phillips-Rooks District, Phillips

Renatta Heintz Entomology Chisholm Trail District, Dickinson County

Allison Rose Fiber Arts Chisholm Trail District, Dickinson County

Kierra Eck Foods and Nutrition Midway District, Russell County

Knox Crouch Geology Sedgwick County

Faith Beesley Horse Wild West District, Stevens County

Elizabeth Seeger Leadership McPherson County

Kayla George Meat Goats West Plains District, Finney County

Tobias Grubbs Performing Arts Wild West District, Stevens County

Norman Jurgensen Photography Marshall County

Isaiah Manus Plant Science Leavenworth County

Dalton Peters Poultry Meadowlark District, Jackson County

Alena Wiebers Rabbits Riley County

Lexi Wright Reading Wild West District, Haskell County

Jarrett Abel Self-Determined Meadowlark District, Jackson County

Brady Hoffman Sheep Sedgwick County

Elisha Staggers Shooting Sports Wild West District, Stevens County

Maggie Brummett STEM Riley County

Jarrett Birk STEM: Energy Management Southwind District, Woodson County

Jacob DeRouchey Swine Pottawatomie County

Brynna Anderson Visual Arts Central Kansas Disrict, Saline County

Jonas Kern Wildlife Cottonwood District, Barton County

Karson Kahler Wood Science Meadowlark District, Jefferson County

KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION 9

Through 4-H, youth practice leadership skills, build confidence, and become part of their community through hands-on learning and service.

Maximize your impact with

DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS

BY CINDY HART, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF DEVELOPMENT

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to support Kansas 4-H and empower the next generation of leaders, consider recommending a gift from a donor-advised fund (DAF). The Kansas 4-H Foundation accepts gifts from DAFs, providing donors with a simple yet powerful way to invest in the future of youth.

Donor-advised funds offer a flexible, tax-efficient way to manage charitable giving. By working with a financial advisor, donors can recommend grants that align with their values and make a lasting difference in the lives of Kansas youth. With philanthropic support, Kansas 4-H can continue providing life-changing experiences, educational programs, and leadership opportunities to 4-H members in all 105 Kansas counties.

Dr. Kent Bradley, a longtime 4-H supporter and Kansas 4-H Foundation trustee chooses to give through his donor-advised fund.

“As part of a 4-H family for many years, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact 4-H has on youth across the state,” Dr. Bradley said. “As a donor and trustee, I’m proud to support the Kansas 4-H Foundation and its 10

THE PLEDGE

mission through my donor-advised fund. This giving option allows me to maximize the impact of my contributions and help ensure that 4-H continues to provide transformative experiences and leadership opportunities for young people. It’s a privilege to invest in an organization shaping Kansas’s future, one youth at a time.”

In addition to making an immediate impact, you can also recommend a planned gift from your donor-advised fund, ensuring that your support for Kansas 4-H continues in perpetuity. By incorporating Kansas 4-H into your legacy plans, you can leave a lasting impression on future generations of Kansas youth.

Consider a gift to the Kansas 4-H Foundation through your donoradvised fund today, or as a part of your long-term philanthropic strategy.

Whether you choose to give now or as a planned gift, your support will help Kansas 4-H empower the next generation of thinkers, doers, and leaders in our communities. Together, we can build a brighter future for Kansas youth!

For more information about how you can make a gift through a donor-advised fund, contact: Cindy Hart Senior Vice President of Development 785-775-0123 cindy@ks4h.org

Pledging their hands to LARGER SERVICE

BY NORA LYNN, COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS INTERN

LISA GOLUBSKI 2024 Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer When two long standing historical 4-H clubs came to an end with a merger, Lisa Golubski put all her efforts into ensuring that their traditions lived on.

Golubski worked to make the now Macon Lakers 4-H Photo courtesy of Lisa Golubski Club in Harvey County run smoothly by focusing on community service.

Through the merger, the club maintained strong enrollment and club activities, and many parents in the Macon Lakers 4-H Club attribute this success to Golubski.

“Merging two clubs was a little sad at first knowing that we were ending two long standing historical clubs, but we made the best possible situation out of it by giving the 4-H’ers ownership in the new name and continuing community service activities that both clubs had made priorities,” Golubski said.

“It was also important that the members from separate clubs continued to have leadership positions in the new club.”

Golubski demonstrates going above and beyond, and is known in her club to encourage everyone to try new things and step out of their comfort zone. She believes that 4-H is an organization that offers unique opportunities for youth and adults alike, and it’s important to her to be a part of the positive experience.

“Getting to see a young child that is very quiet or shy come out of his or her shell because of the public speaking opportunities 4-H provides definitely creates growth for 4-Hers and as an adult who gets to witness this transformation,” Golubski said.

Golubski has always had a willingness to help the youth in her 4-H club. She is grateful to have grown up in 4-H because she can better support new and current members and their families. She’s there for everyone, and families know that they can count on her.

“4-H was an extremely important part of my life growing up so I am thrilled I get to witness and assist other families that choose 4-H to be part of their lives,” Golubski said.

KATE LANGWORTHY 2024 Volunteer of the Year As a young 4-H’er, Kate Langworthy recalls participating in a Round Robin event that a young man in a wheelchair qualified for. He wasn’t able to compete in every event because it was unsafe for him to Photo courtesy of Kate Langworthy use his chair around bigger animals, affecting his overall score.

As a Shawnee County 4-H volunteer now, Langworthy wanted to make sure that no 4-H’er had to be excluded due to a disability. So when a 4-H’er with an allergy to goats and sheep qualified for the Round Robin at the county fair, Langworthy created a new system to make it fair for everyone.

Parents in Langworthy’s Silver Lake 4-H Club feel that she embodies the 4-H pillars: Head, Hands, Heart, Health.

She takes the time to give others advice and makes a point to take everyone’s ideas into account. Even in a time where Langworthy was preoccupied with returning to law school, being a wife, a mother and employed, volunteering for 4-H was still a priority.

“I feel like 4-H played a large part in my success in becoming an attorney,” Langworthy said. “You meet all sorts of different people at 4-H events, and that kind of gives you awareness of different backgrounds and the ability to see things from different perspectives, and not just where you were originally coming from.”

Members of Langworthy’s 4-H community know that she is patient and kind with all 4-H’ers, understanding of their different ways of learning and respectful of their needs. She believes in “learn by doing” and has watched her 4-H’ers grow as they take on responsibility, such as selling concessions at football games or serving pancakes at their county pancake feed.

“My 4-H kids are some of the best, most responsible and most proactive kids that I interact with,” Langworthy said.

“They’re engaged in their community. They’re looking for ways that they can help. With them doing that, that also drives me to do the same in multiple contexts.”

KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION 11

stay connected

TO KANSAS 4-H

The Kansas 4-H family wants to celebrate when Kansas 4-H alumni and friends accomplish great things. Stay connected by sharing your updates and achievements with us at www.kansas4hfoundation.org

Introducing Garrett Johnson Garrett Johnson will begin his role as the executive director of Rock Springs Ranch in November. With years of experience in positive youth development, Garrett joins the Kansas 4-H Garrett Johnson Foundation team from the YMCA camping system, where he served as Camp Director at Camp Potawotami in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Garrett has developed a strong background in camp operations, fiscal management, and facilities oversight. His commitment to outdoor recreation and understanding of how programming drives the strategy for 4-H camp and retreats will be instrumental in enhancing the experience and ensuring that 4-H is delivered effectively through engaging and impactful programming at Rock Springs Ranch.

Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Garrett is a proud graduate of Texas State University, holding degrees in Recreation Administration and Criminal Justice.

Garrett shares, “I could not be more excited to join the Kansas 4-H Foundation team as the executive director at Rock Springs Ranch.

This is an incredibly special place, and I am honored to be a steward of the Kansas 4-H program moving forward. I am eager to serve Kansas youth leaders and our community.”

We invite you to connect with Garrett and explore all that Rock Springs Ranch has to offer! You can reach him via email at gjohnson@rockspringsranch.org

12

THE PLEDGE

MELANIE ELLIOT, DICKINSON COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA

As the owner of Celebrations of the Heart, Melanie supports the Kansas 4-H program by volunteering as a judge at the State Fair and invests in 4-H youth as an Emerald Alliance member.

Melanie Elliot

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

SOUTHWIND DISTRICT 4-H LIVESTOCK JUDGING TEAM

The Southwind District 4-H Livestock Judging Team competed internationally at the Royal Highland Show in Scotland and the Charleville Show in the Republic of Ireland earlier this year.

Southwind District 4-H Livestock

Judging Team The Royal Highland Show is a toptier livestock event comparable to the American Royal or National Western Stock Show, where the Southwind District 4-H youth are divided into pairs, each team judging different species. Emery Yoho and Tate Crystal formed the Kansas 4-H Sheep Team, earning the Champion Team title, while Reegan McDaniel and Kyser Nemecek, the Cattle Team, secured 4th Overall. Carly Dreher and Brady Hurt also participated in the contest.

IONE TOLL, RICE COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA

Ione Toll recently celebrated her 100th birthday with her family at Rock Springs Ranch! She and her family enjoyed having a space and activities for the whole family during this special milestone.

Growing up, she was a member of the Hopewell 4-H Club in Rice County for six years. The projects she enrolled in were clothing, foods, home improvement, and at the time, baby beef.

WARREN WEIBERT, MARION COUNTY 4-H ALUMNUS

AMY SOLLOCK, ILLINOIS 4-H ALUMNA

Warren Weibert is the outgoing board chair for the Kansas 4-H Foundation.

Warren assumed the position as Chairman of the Board in 2020, during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and successfully guided the board and the Foundation through that uncertain time. Upon his retirement as Chairman of the Board, the Kansas 4-H Foundation highlighted his loyalty, dedication, and steadfast leadership.

Amy Sollock became the Western Regional Extension Director in July 2024.

Warren Weibert

CLARENCE AND GENEICE LINSEY, 65TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Part of a legacy of over 100 years and 5 generations of Kansas 4-H involvement and leadership, Clarence and Geneice Linsey celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on June 7, 2024. Geneice grew up in Lyon County and Clarence in Coffey County. Both were active members of Kansas 4-H. They continue their 4-H legacy through their greatgrandchildren who are still members of Geneice’s club in Lyon County.

Amy has vast experience within western Kansas. She was formerly a regional 4-H extension specialist, supporting the local units in the southwest part of Kansas. Her local unit experience was spent in three locations.

She was county extension director in Trego and Edwards counties and 4-H extension agent in Ford County.

Amy Sollock

ADELAIDE EASTER, CENTRAL KANSAS DISTRICT 4-H ALUMNA

Adelaide Easter, senior in agricultural economics and global food systems leadership with minors in leadership and international agriculture, Salina, is Kansas State University’s 39th Harry S. Truman scholar.

Clarence and Geneice Linsey

IN MEMORIAM

The Truman Scholarship is a highly competitive national award that provides Adelaide Easter up to $30,000 for continued education opportunities. Truman scholars demonstrate outstanding leadership potential, a commitment to a career in government or the nonprofit sector, and academic excellence.

JODI BESTHORN

Retired Sedgwick County Extension 4-H Youth Development Agent Jodi Besthorn, 67, passed away in January 2024.

ROCK SPRINGS RANCH FEATURED IN KANSAS! MAGAZINE

Jodi was an Extension Agent (FACS and 4-H) for 39 years serving Smith County and Sedgwick County. Her passion was in helping the youth grow Jodi Besthorn as individuals, learn life skills, and develop leadership abilities. She was a member of both the state and national extension agent’s associations, Rotary Club of West Wichita and PEO Chapter IY. In every organization, Jodi held leadership positions as well as serving on committees.

ROBERT “BOB” PINKALL

Robert (Bob) Pinkall, 87, passed away in March 2024.

After leaving the teaching field, he became the Director of Rock Springs Ranch where he enjoyed living in “the country” in the beautiful Flint Hills for 10 years. Bob loved illustrating things and his drawings were used in many different areas. Many 4-H publications used his drawings and sets of note cards featured his drawings.

Robert (Bob) Pinkall

The Rock Springs Ranch Food Service Team was featured in the July issue of Kansas! magazine. Food Service Diretor Irving Ramirez-Vega and Chef Brandon Stokesbary joined the Rock Springs Ranch team in 2023 and provide a wide variety of dining experience in their roles.

Dining Room Manager Michael Brock is a Rock Springs Ranch tradition singing the “Great Big Moose” song. If you missed the article, check it out online by scanning the QR code!

KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION 13

Investing in the future

OF KANSAS 4-H

BY LORI ROGGE, PLANNED GIVING CONSULTANT Planned giving offers a powerful opportunity to support the Kansas 4-H mission for generations to come. Whether you are a longtime supporter or are considering how to leave a lasting impact, here are some effective ways to give that maximize your investment with Kansas 4-H: MAKING A LASTING IMPACT Your support through planned giving ensures that Kansas 4-H continues to empower youth with essential life skills, leadership opportunities, and a commitment to community service. Together, we can cultivate the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of Kansas and beyond.

For more information on how to leave a legacy through planned giving or to discuss your philanthropic goals, please contact Lindsey Pannbacker by calling 785-7750123 or emailing lindsey@ks4h.org.

HOW TO INVEST Consult with Financial and Legal Advisors: Seek advice from professionals specializing in estate planning and philanthropic giving to tailor a strategy that aligns with your financial goals and charitable interests.

Explore Tax Advantages: Understand the tax benefits associated with different planned giving vehicles such as income tax deductions, estate tax savings, and capital gains tax avoidance.

Include Kansas 4-H Foundation in Discussions: Engage with the Kansas 4-H Foundation to learn about specific needs and priorities within Kansas 4-H and Rock Springs Ranch. This ensures your gift has the greatest impact and aligns with your areas of interest Informed Decisions: By involving the Foundation in your planning, you can make informed decisions about where your contribution can make the most significant impact, whether it’s supporting immersive experiences, fostering innovation or enhancing accessibility.

Make it happen: Contact the Kansas 4-H Foundation to obtain the necessary language for your documents to ensure it is directed properly upon your demise.

14

THE PLEDGE

WAYS TO GIVE Bequests: Include Kansas 4-H in your will or trust: Designate a specific dollar amount, percentage of your estate, or remainder after other distributions.

Retirement Plan Assets: Designate Kansas 4-H as a beneficiary: Contribute all or a portion of your retirement plan assets, which may otherwise be heavily taxed if left to heirs.

Life Insurance Policies: Name Kansas 4-H as a beneficiary: Designate Kansas 4-H as a partial or full beneficiary of a life insurance policy, potentially reducing estate taxes.

Charitable Remainder Trusts: Income Stream and Tax Benefits: Establish a trust that pays income to beneficiaries for life or a term of years, with the remainder going to Kansas 4-H. Asset Appreciation: Potentially avoid capital gains tax upon the sale of appreciated assets by transferring them to the trust.

EXPLORE LEARN GROW

Where Friends Are Where Friends Are Made & Adventure Made & Adventure Happens!

Happens!

ROCK SPRINGS RANCH Register for 4-H summer Register for 4-H summer camp today! camp today! www.rockspringsranch4hcamp.org www.rockspringsranch4hcamp.org

1680 CHARLES PL SUITE 100 MANHATTAN, KS 66502 KANSAS4HFOUNDATION.ORG