The Pledge - Winter 2025

THE PLEDGE KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION

WINTER 2025

CONTENTS

FLORA FOOD GROUP: FUELING KANSAS YOUTH

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TRANSFORMING SUMMER ENRICHMENT FOR KANSAS YOUTH

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6

ACCESSIBILITY FUND

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FROM CAMPFIRES TO CONFIDENCE: LEADERSHIP AT ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

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PROJECTS AT THE STATE FAIR

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2024 STATE PROJECT AWARD WINNERS

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STAY CONNECTED

16-17

A PLACE FOR KANSANS TO REFLECT, CONNECT, AND GROW

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4-H SPOTLIGHT: KATIE’S CAR FRESHIES

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FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO: ADVANCING THE FUTURE OF KANSAS 4-H

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YOUTH COUNCIL PRESIDENT: NICHOLAS ZERR

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80 YEARS OF CAMP-FILLED FUN AT ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

MAKE AN IMPACT WITH A DONOR-ADVISED FUND

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Kansas 4-H began in 1905 when organized groups of youth came together to “learn by doing.” In 1914, the SmithLever 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.

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Advancing the future

OF KANSAS 4-H

As we begin to ref lect on 2025, it’s clear that Kansas 4-H is experiencing remarkable energy, growth, and impact.

Across the state, youth are discovering their passions, developing leadership skills, and preparing for a future full of Mindy R. Weixelman possibilities. This President/CEO incredible progress is fueled by people like you who choose to invest in the growth and potential of Kansas youth through 4-H. At the heart of this work is Rock Springs Ranch, where for 80 years, young people have discovered their sparks and built the confidence, curiosity, and resilience that define the 4-H experience.

This year, renewed philanthropic investment is helping these experiences continue to grow by strengthening leadership development, expanding hands-on learning, and ensuring the spirit of discovery that has shaped so many lives lasts for decades.

These stories are just a glimpse of the powerful support sustaining Kansas 4-H today. From investments in leadership initiatives at Rock Springs Ranch to statewide programming that reaches youth in classrooms and community spaces, donors across Kansas are creating opportunities that prepare young people to thrive in school, careers, and life. In this edition, you will also read about transformative investments that are expanding access through summer enrichment and hands-on learning in STEM, agriculture, creative arts, personal development, and more.

This exciting momentum is guided by the Kansas Bold Goals, an ambitious statewide vision 4

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led by Dr. Maass and embraced by philanthropic partners, dedicated volunteers, and generous donors: ● Increase traditional 4-H enrollment by 10% by 2030. ● Increase non-traditional 4-H program participation by 10% by 2030. ● Every youth in Kansas will have a 4-H experience at some point in their childhood.

Achieving these goals requires more than great programs. It requires a community of individuals who believe in what young people can become.

Beyond Ready helps bring this vision to life, preparing youth not only with skills, but with the mindset and tools to thrive in work, life, and leadership. Employers, educators, and communities are counting on young people who can innovate, collaborate, and lead. Thanks to your generosity, they are ready.

Thank you for being part of this extraordinary moment in our history. Your support through time, resources, mentorship, and gifts ensures that Kansas 4-H continues to grow, evolve, and reach every young person who can benefit from its impact. Together, we are preparing youth to be Beyond Ready as we write the next chapter of the Kansas 4-H story.

Mindy R. Weixelman President/CEO, Kansas 4-H Foundation Feel free to contact Mindy at mindy@ks4h.org or call the Foundation office at 785-775-0123.

Youth Council President:

NICHOLAS ZERR

BY LOGAN LEE, COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS INTERN

For Kansas 4-H Youth Council President Nicholas Zerr, 4-H has been a constant source of growth, challenge, and opportunity since he was young.

Now a young adult, he credits the program with equipping him not just with valuable skills, but with the confidence and resilience needed to step into the Nicholas Zerr world Beyond Ready.

Youth Council “To me, being beyond President ready means that you are prepared to take on life’s challenges without being overwhelmed by them,” Nicholas shared.

“You will struggle, but you don’t succumb to those challenges. You have the knowledge and preparation to overcome them.”

Nicholas’ 4-H journey provided him with handson experiences that shaped the leader he is today.

Showing livestock taught him to stay calm under pressure. Serving as a club officer helped him

learn how to effectively run a meeting. Giving project talks and presentations built his confidence of speaking in front of large groups. Each experience, big or small, added new skills that he continues to use in college, work, and daily life.

As Youth Council President, Nicholas especially enjoys attending state events and seeing 4-H’ers push themselves to grow. “What I enjoy most is seeing young people take their next step toward becoming leaders and knowing I played a small part in that,” he said. He especially loves Kansas 4-H Discovery Days, which he believes provide “amazing opportunities to try new things and come out of your shell.”

Nicholas’ story ref lects what happens when youth are supported, challenged, and empowered.

The Beyond Ready initiative continues to help young Kansans develop the mindset, skills, and experiences they need to step forward with confidence today and for years to come.

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80 years of camp-filled fun

AT ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

BY KYRA FRISBIE, DONOR RELATIONS COORDINATOR

For 80 years, Rock Springs Ranch has been a place where youth of all ages come to grow, discover, and thrive. Through an immersive camp experience, young people develop confidence, independence, and friendships that last a lifetime. Camp is more than just summer fun; it is a launchpad that equips youth with skills to be Beyond Ready for the future.

“In 2025, Rock Springs Ranch welcomed more than 1,400 campers.

576 of those campers had their very first 4-H camp adventure. For many, it was their first time away from home, and camp gave them the chance to practice decision making, develop social skills, and build resilience in a safe and supportive environment. Watching youth grow through these experiences is why we do what we do,” said Jared Gleason, Camp Director.

This season, we expanded specialty camp options, designed to give youth a deeper dive into their personal passions while still gaining the benefits of the camp experience. From Ranch Camp and Shooting Sports Camp to Cooking Camp and Outdoor Wilderness Leadership Skills (OWLS) Camp, these programs empower youth to explore their interests and gain confidence in their abilities.

Whether they are navigating trails, learning new skills, or discovering what it means to be a leader, campers leave Rock Springs Ranch with more than just great memories.

They leave prepared to take on life’s challenges and opportunities to be Beyond Ready: ready to lead, ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to conquer.

Interested in summer camp? Visit Rockspringsranch.org or scan the QR code!

2026 summer camp registration is open!

2025 summer campers enjoying Stream Studies.

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From Camp Lessons

TO LIFELONG LEADERSHIP

BY CALLIE LEHMAN, INTERIM DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

For Shawn and David Delker, the lessons learned at 4-H camp didn’t end when summer was over; they became a way of life. Now, through their support of the Leadership Initiative at Rock Springs Ranch, the Delkers are transforming those early experiences into opportunities for youth and adults across Kansas to grow as leaders and be Beyond Ready, equipped to lead, serve, and thrive in work and life.

“4-H taught me essential life skills and gave me new learning experiences in a safe and supportive environment,” Shawn ref lected. “Those life skills often go overlooked, but they make all the difference in how we contribute to the world around us.”

David agreed, recalling how his early 4-H electric projects sparked a lifelong curiosity for technology that guided his career in electrical engineering. “That passion continues with me today,” he shared. “4-H taught me to learn by doing, and that same mindset has carried me through my professional and volunteer experiences.”

Their shared commitment to learning didn’t stop when their 4-H experiences came to an end. Both served as 4-H club leaders and mentors, helping guide the next generation of members. David’s time serving as a project leader and coaching judging teams sharpened leadership and communication skills that later proved invaluable in his role as a college administrator.

“More than once,” he laughed, “the parliamentary procedure I learned through 4-H impressed my colleagues when I chaired university committees. It’s amazing how those skills stay with you.”

When Shawn and David learned of the Leadership Initiative taking shape at Rock Springs Ranch, they saw a natural opportunity to support the next generation. For them, the initiative’s purpose of cultivating leadership and lifelong learning resonates deeply with their own values.

“This initiative will promote continued learning and personal growth,” Shawn said. “People operate at their best when they’re encouraged to grow, and Rock Springs Ranch offers the perfect setting to do that.”

David added that the environment at Rock Springs, surrounded by nature, provides space for ref lection, teamwork, and connection, all essential

David and Shawn Delker are uniting with other leaders to reimagine the former Wiedemann Dining Hall and bring its next chapter to life.

ingredients for developing tomorrow’s leaders.

“We’re excited that this project will create opportunities for youth and adults to learn from one another and carry that energy back to their own communities,” he said. “It’s about helping people become Beyond Ready to lead, serve, and thrive no matter where life takes them.”

Mindy R. Weixelman, President and CEO of the Kansas 4-H Foundation, said the Delkers’ investment ref lects the spirit of 4-H and the shared vision of preparing youth for their future. “Shawn and David embody what it means to live the 4-H pledge, and they model that commitment for others,” she shared. “Their generosity helps ensure that 4-H youth and adults alike are Beyond Ready and equipped with the confidence, character, and purpose to make an impact in work, life, and leadership.”

Through their gift, the Delkers are helping expand opportunities for leadership development at Rock Springs Ranch, ensuring that the next generation of 4-H members can experience the same sense of discovery that first inspired them decades ago.

“It’s really about giving others the same foundation we were given,” Shawn said. “Because when you invest in leadership, you invest in a future that’s Beyond Ready.”

Inspired to join this philanthropic effort and empower future leaders? Contact Lindsey Pannbacker, vice president of development, by calling 785-775-0123 or emailing lindsey@ks4h.org.

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2024 State Project

AWARD WINNERS

Anthony Jelinek Aerospace/Rocketry Cowley County

Tatum Francis Ag Mechanics Welding Wildcat District, Wilson County

Karson Kahler Agronomy Meadowlark District, Jefferson County

Kassidy Kirkham Beef Wild West District, Stevens County

Clayton Kunselman Civic Engagement Wild West District, Haskell County

Lillian Hulse Communications Central Kansas District, Ottawa County

Ellie Bustamante Computer Science Johnson County

Riley Garcia Dairy Butler County

Josslyn Depew Dog Chisholm Trail District, Dickinson County

Justin Latzke Electrical & Renewable Energy Chisholm Trail District, Dickinson County

George Delancy Entomology Johnson County

Morgan Vogts Family Studies Coffey County

Genevieve Crouch Geology Sedgwick County

Norah Ellenz Health & Wellness Post Rock District, Mitchell County

Mackenzie Calovich Horse Leavenworth County

Eyler Holt Meat Goat Chisholm Trail District, Dickinson County

Hannah Walker Performing Arts Phillips-Rooks District, Phillips County

Savannah Bretton Photography Phillips-Rooks District, Phillips County

Abraham Noll Poultry Meadowlark District, Jefferson County

Miles Burgess Robotics Shawnee County

Kyser Nemecek Self-Determined Southwind District, Allen County

Trelawney Horinek Fiber Arts Wild West District, HaskellCounty

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Max Bauer Taylor Bryant Food & Nutrition Forestry Marais des Cygnes District, Pottawatomie County Miami County

Reagan Frantz Horticulture Landscape & Design Thomas County

Kierra Eck Leadership Midway District, Russell County

Alycia Granado Rabbits Lyon County

Jaeann James Reading Advenures Harvey County

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Aurora Hoffman Sewing & Textiles Meadowlark District, Jefferson County

Carleigh Abeldt Sheep Chisholm Trail District, Dickinson County

Josey Norris Shooting Sports Midway District, Ellsworth County

Jaelyn Gates Wildlife Central Kansas District, Saline County

Adelyn Oakes Shopping In Style River Valley District, Washington County

Kasen Stramel Swine Sunflower District, Wallace County

Eian Pracht Uncrewed Aircraft System Central Kansas District, Saline County

Alonna Rodgers Vet Science Coffey County

Acacia Pracht Visual Arts Central Kansas District, Saline County

Stone Nichols Woodworking McPherson County

Each State Project Award Winner has the opportunity to attend National 4-H Congress as a Kansas delegate, thanks to generous philanthropic support.

Contact us at the Foundation at 785-775-0123 to sponsor a National 4-H Congress delegate today!

2024 State Project Award Winner Group Photo taken at the 2025 Emerald Circle banquet, where outstanding 4-H members are honored as State Project Award winners.

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A place for Kansans to

REFLECT, CONNECT, AND GROW

BY KYRA FRISBIE, DONOR RELATIONS COORDINATOR

Since 1946, Rock Springs Ranch has provided Kansans with the space to grow, the space to try, and the space to succeed. Nestled in the heart of Kansas, this peaceful setting invites ref lection, renewal, and meaningful connection. For 80 years, individuals and groups alike have come here to step away from the busyness of life and discover what it means to be truly present, creative, and inspired.

Retreat groups of all kinds are welcome at Rock Springs Ranch. With meeting spaces and lodging to accommodate anywhere from 20 to 600+ guests, Rock Springs Ranch is equipped to host everything from intimate leadership gatherings to large-scale conferences, reunions, and club retreats. Whether you’re making important business decisions, collaborating as a team, or bonding over a shared hobby, the versatile spaces strike the right balance between quiet ref lection and meaningful interaction.

Overnight visits provide the perfect opportunity to leave daily distractions behind and return home refreshed, focused, and re-energized. Our guided activities, ranging from outdoor adventures and environmental education to team-building

experiences, help strengthen relationships, deepen collaboration, and spark new ideas.

At Rock Springs Ranch, we believe that every retreat should do more than simply bring people together; it should prepare them to be Beyond Ready. Ready to lead with clarity, ready to collaborate with purpose, and ready to bring fresh energy and innovation back to their organizations and communities. By blending natural beauty, intentional programming, and unmatched hospitality, Rock Springs Ranch ensures that every guest departs not just rested, but transformed.

I get so excited about conferences and retreats here at Rock Springs Ranch because I know groups are going to leave with stronger bonds, fresh energy, and many stories they’ll be talking about for years.

Hana Nelsen Senior Sales & Account Manager

I enjoyed the Rock Springs retreat. It was a great way to kick off the program and get the group out of their normal comfort zone and inadvertently interact with fellow participants.

Jack Lindquist Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program

Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program

If you would like to learn more about booking a retreat, please contact Hana Nelsen at hnelsen@rockspringsranch.org or 785-257-3221.

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4-H Spotlight:

KATIE’S CAR FRESHIES

BY KYRA FRISBIE, DONOR RELATIONS COORDINATOR

What started as a way to support her show goat projects in the Maple Hill Hustlers 4-H Club has grown into a thriving small business for 16-year-old Katie Aubert. In 2020, Katie began making “car freshies” decorative, scented air fresheners as a way to fund her 4-H livestock goals.

Five years later, her business, Katie’s Car Freshies, has grown beyond what she ever imagined.

Katie now owns more than 450 molds that she uses to create unique designs tailored to her customers’ interests. Just this past September, she hand-crafted nearly 600 freshies to meet demand. Her creativity, dedication, and willingness to adapt to what her clientele enjoys have helped her business continue to expand.

Recently, Katie’s hard work was recognized in a big way. Katie’s Car Freshies was awarded a $10,000 Youth Entrepreneurial Grant through The Greater Topeka Partnership’s Economic Mobility programs. This grant will provide Katie with a dedicated shed space to produce and sell her freshies, a much-needed expansion, as her business has quickly outgrown the family’s home. Construction on the shed is expected to begin soon, with completion anticipated before winter.

For Katie, what began as a 4-H project to support her goats has turned into a successful entrepreneurial journey. Her story is an inspiring example of how the skills learned through 4-H, responsibility, innovation, and perseverance, can spark opportunities that grow far beyond the show ring.

To submit an article for the Kansas 4-H member to be featured in the 4-H Spotlight section of The Pledge, email Callie Lehman at: clehman@kansas4hfoundation.org

Katie Founder of Katies’s car Freshies

Katies’s car Freshies 4-H box

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Rayna Bush from Flora Food Group inspring Kansas 4H youth during the professional career panel.

Flora Food Group:

FUELING KANSAS YOUTH

BY LOGAN LEE, COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS INTERN

Flora Food Group’s generous sponsorship opened new doors for 4-H youth to explore how their personal strengths connect to future careers during Discover Days at Kansas State University. Their investment enhanced this three-day statewide annual event, which brings together young people to build skills, connect with their peers, and discover career pathways. Thanks to Flora Food Group’s philanthropic investment, participants completed CliftonStrengths assessments and attended an engaging peer-to-peer workshop designed to help them understand and apply their strengths to achieve future success.

Participants said the exercises helped them discover their strengths and learn how to use them in future careers. Alivia, a current 4-H member from Cowley County, said, “I push myself to be better constantly because of my strengths (competition and discipline), and this will apply in the workforce as well.” Another current 4-H member from Pawnee County, Addison, states, “Knowing what I am good at and transferring that into a job or career is easier because I am doing things I like.”

Flora Food Group also hosted a professional career panel that gave teens an opportunity to listen to real-world stories and ask questions about potential careers. Rayna Bush, Senior People and Organization Lead for Manufacturing USA at Flora Food Group, joined them and talked about how important it is to know what your strengths are so that you can succeed.

Not only did the teens love this opportunity, but Flora Food Group also thought this was a great opportunity for Kansas youth. “Discovery 12

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Days opens doors for teens to explore careers and industries they may never have considered or have had exposure to, and uncover strengths they didn’t know they had. It’s a powerful step toward shaping their future careers with confidence and clarity,” said Bush.

“At Flora Food Group, one of our core values is ‘Care,’ and that includes our commitment to caring for others and giving back to our communities and helping them thrive,” said Susan Pac, Flora’s Communications Director. “The Kansas 4-H program is a perfect partner for us as we are both committed to our communities, and we are proud to support their youth development initiatives.”

Flora’s investment in Kansas teens through this experience helped develop skills to identify, discuss, and apply their unique strengths while gaining insights from professionals and industry leaders. This partnership helps ensure that Kansas youth are Beyond Ready, equipped with the confidence, skills, and experiences they need to thrive in both work and life.

4-H youth during their Clifton Strength assessment. Hosted during Discovery Days.

Transforming Summer Enrichment

FOR KANSAS YOUTH

BY CALLIE LEHMAN, INTERIM DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

For Kansas 4-H youth, summer is more than a season; it is a time of discovery, creativity, and growth. Thanks to a visionary gift from the Patterson Family Foundation, that experience will reach even more young people across the state.

The Patterson Family Foundation has committed $2,250,000 over three years to sustain and expand the Kansas 4-H Summer Enrichment Program, ensuring that hands-on, project-based learning continues to ignite curiosity and leadership in the next generation. Originally launched through the Department of Education’s CARES Act funding, the program has quickly become a cornerstone for youth development in Kansas.

Through summer enrichment, young people explore STEM, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Creative Arts, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Personal Development. The program offers more than knowledge; it cultivates confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Participants discover their “sparks,” unique interests and passions that inspire them, and apply them in collaborative, hands-on settings.

Four guiding elements: belonging, independence, generosity, and mastery, ensure that every youth walks away feeling empowered and capable of making a meaningful impact.

This Summer Enrichment funding ref lects thoughtful collaboration to advance Kansas 4-H through philanthropy and demonstrates a shared commitment to youth success.

“Investments like this change lives,” said Dr. Sarah Maass, program director for Kansas 4-H. “This leadership-level support allows us to reach more youth, spark curiosity, and help young people discover their talents and potential in meaningful ways.”

Mindy Weixelman, President/CEO of the

Kansas 4-H Foundation, added, “The Patterson Family Foundation’s generosity ensures that thousands of Kansas youth will have access to lifechanging experiences. Gifts like this do not just fund programs; they fuel dreams, leadership, and opportunity.”

The timing of this gift is especially meaningful as Kansas 4-H works toward achieving the bold goals through Beyond Ready, which include engaging every Kansas youth in a 4-H experience, increasing traditional enrollment by 10%, and increasing non-traditional enrollment by 10% by 2030. With the Patterson Family Foundation’s visionary support, these goals move closer to reality and ensure that innovative, accessible programming reaches communities across the state.

As the summer enrichment program grows, youth will continue to learn, create, lead, and discover. Kansas 4-H and the Kansas 4-H Foundation extend their deepest gratitude to the Patterson Family Foundation for this visionary support, an investment in not just summer experiences but in the leaders of tomorrow.

Feeling inspired to make an impact on Kansas youth like the Patterson Family Foundation? You can help sustain and expand programs that ignite curiosity, leadership, and lifelong learning.

Contact Cindy Hart, senior vice president of development, today at Cindy@ks4h.org or 785-775-0123 to learn how you can invest in the leaders of tomorrow.

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Accessibility Fund

From the very beginning, Kansas 4-H has been committed to ensuring that every young person can fully experience the opportunities 4-H provides. In 2023, the Kansas 4-H Foundation, in partnership with the Kansas Youth Council, launched the Accessibility Fund to remove barriers and enhance access for current and future 4-H members.

This fund offers confidential financial assistance to meet the needs of 4-H youth. Applications are reviewed monthly by a dedicated committee that includes 4-H youth, members of the Kansas 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees, and Kansas 4-H staff. To apply for support through this fund, simply scan the QR code provided.

The Kansas 4-H Foundation strives to make 4-H accessible to all youth regardless of financial, physical, social, or emotional challenges, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

If you would like to help make this possible for even more young people, you can support the Accessibility Fund by visiting kansas4hfoundation.org to make a gift.

Here-4-Horses

Horses are central to the Rock Springs Ranch experience, teaching youth responsibility, confidence, and leadership while creating moments of joy, challenge, and connection.

Campers leave with more than riding skills; they take away life lessons that last far beyond camp.

Caring for this special herd is a big task, and your support makes it possible.

Through the Here-4-Horses program, you can “adopt” a horse and directly contribute to its care by providing feed, hay, supplements, veterinary A Rock Springs Ranch Camper getting ready to go on a trail ride. Part of the equine care, and farrier services. program’s purpose is to teach hands-on skills, confidence, and compassion through “Your support ensures each horse receives the best horsemanship. quality care,” says Garrett Johnson Executive Director.

“By sponsoring a horse, you also free up funds for other needs within the equine program like tack and equipment.”

When you support the horse herd at Rock Springs Ranch, you’re not just caring for animals; you’re investing in life-changing experiences for thousands of youth each year.

Learn more at www.kansas4hfoundation.org 14

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Kansas 4-H campers showcase

PROJECTS AT STATE FAIR

Kansas 4-H campers from Rock Springs Ranch showcased their skills at the Kansas State Fair.

Camp Director Jared Gleason loved seeing summer campers and celebrating their great work on display!

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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/alumni-update

FROM KANSAS 4-H TO KANSAN OF THE YEAR!

LOLA COLLINGE’S, LYON COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA

Celebrating Elyce Arons’ 4-H roots and remarkable journey Elyce Arons was recently named Kansan of the Year by the Kansas Society of Washington, D.C., a fitting honor for someone who has carried the spirit of Kansas and 4-H with her all the way to New York City!

As the co-founder and CEO of Frances Valentine and author of the New York Times bestselling memoir We Might Just Make It After All, Elyce has built an inspiring path in the fashion industry. Her creativity, confidence, and perseverance grew from the foundation she built in 4-H.

Lola Collinge recently celebrated her 95th birthday with her family at Rock Springs Ranch! Although her birthday was in February, she celebrated alongside her granddaughter, Elsa Germain from France, who turned 30. She and her family enjoyed having a space and activities for the whole family during this special milestone.

Elyce Arons, Harvey County 4-H Alumna and Carolyn Jackson, McPherson County 4-H Alumna

Elyce Arons and Carolyn Jackson reciting the 4-H Pledge together.

Moments like this remind us that the 4-H spirit reaches beyond generations, professions, and miles. Whether in rolling Kansas hills or bustling city streets, 4-H alumni remain connected by shared values, lifelong friendships, and a love for Kansas 4-H that fuels them to grow, give back, and shine.

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CHANNING DILLINGER, STEVENS COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA

Channing is a 4-H alum of Stevens County. In 2022, as a freshman in high school, she served as a Youth Philanthropy Ambassador and now she is being recognized as a 2025 Outstanding Youth in PhilanthropyPhilanthorpy.

Kansas 4-H Foundation Trustee Carolyn Jackson recently had the opportunity to meet Elyce during a book signing event at the Frances Valentine store in Alexandria, Virginia. Carolyn brought along a copy of The Pledge magazine, a Rock Springs Ranch mug, and Elyce’s book as symbols of shared Kansas 4-H pride.

When Carolyn introduced herself and mentioned their mutual 4-H connection, Elyce lit up with joy and immediately suggested they recite the 4-H Pledge together.

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This marked the Collinge family’s third reunion at the ranch and this time Lola brought 25 quilts to share with each family member.

Channing Dillinger

She was selected by the Assocation of Fundraising Progressionals and was recognized on November 12th in Wichita in celebration of National Philanthropy Day.

While in 4-H, her projects included livestock, crops, woodworking and welding. Channing also loved to help the younger 4-H members with their projects.

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AVERY RUSH, WABAUNSEE COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA

RON ROLLER, DICKINSON COUNTY

Avery Rush, Wabaunsee County 4-H alumna, serves as a kindergarten teacher at Westwood Elementary in Junction City. Recently, Rush was nominated for the Kansas Horizaon Award Program. This program Avery Rush is sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education who recognizes first-year teachers who are doing an outstanding job in the classroom.

Congratulations to Ron Roller, for being a 2025 Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame inductee!

As a former Rock Springs Ranch staff member, Ron helped make moments into meaningful memories through the horse program at Rock Springs Ranch.

Ron Roller

KAY CLUB CELEBRATING 75 YEARS AT ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

Avery loves being in the classroom and encouraging her kindergarten students to do their best every single day.

Rush received a $1,000 check from Central National Bank of Junction City on September 29 and was recognized at a Board of Education meeting.

Each summer, hundreds of Kansas Association for Youth (KAY) members gather at Rock Springs Ranch for KAY Leadership Camp, a week focused on service, leadership, and lifelong friendships. For 75 years, Rock Springs has been proud to host this meaningful experience in the heart of the Flint Hills.

ANN BAUS, 4-H VOLUNTEER AND AUTHOR

Author Ann Baus weaves 4-H into her newest book, Show Dog Rex. In this second story of the Watch Dog Rex series, Rex joins a 4-H dog obedience class and learns some good manners along the way a fun nod to Ann’s own time as a 4-H volunteer in Rush County.

Find Show Dog Rex on Amazon!

Hodgeman County High School junior Mollie Ruff described Rock Springs as “the perfect place for camp,” praising the welcoming staff and fun, energetic atmosphere.

Watchdog Rex

IN MEMORIAM

JERRY SPOHN

Jerry Spohn passed away on December 4, 2024 at the age of 81.

Rock Springs Ranch was near and dear to Jerry and the Spohn family. All 6 of Jerrys kids attended 4-H camp at Rock Springs Ranch, 3 of them went on to work at Rock Springs as either summer staffers or full time team members.

Now many of his grandchildren enjoy summers at 4-H camp.

Rock Springs Ranch will always hold a place in the Spohn familys hearts.

Rock Springs Ranch is honored to continue providing a space where Kansas youth grow, connect, and lead together.

IN MEMORIAM SUBMISSIONS

If you would like your loved one listed in the next memorial section that will be published in the Fall 2026 edition of The Pledge, please contact us one of the following ways: Mail in: 1680 Charles Pl Suite 100 Manhattan, KS 66502 Email: info@kansas4hfoundation.org Call: 785-775-0123 Scan the QR Code

VERE ENGLISH

Vere Englished passed away on May 30, 2024 at the age of 92.

Vere was a long time suporter of Kansas 4-H, including being a longtime project leader.

Vere is survived by his wife Beverly and his loving family.

Vere English

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Make an Impact with a

DONOR-ADVISED FUND

If you’re considering where to direct your donor-advised fund this year, Kansas 4-H offers a powerful way to create a lasting impact. When you For more information on giving through your donor-advised fund, support Kansas 4-H, you invest in young people contact Lindsey Pannbacker at who are developing the skills, confidence, and character to lead in their communities and beyond lindsey@ks4h.org or 785-775-0123.

Your generosity helps open doors to hands-on learning, meaningful mentorship, and opportunities that shape a young person’s path for years to come. With a DAF contribution, you’re choosing to empower a generation that is ready to serve, ready to lead, and ready to thrive.

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