The Pledge - Fall 2022

THE PLEDGE

KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION

Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service. K State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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 growing, and Kansas 4-H Clubs purchased Rock Springs Ranch in 1946.

In March 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 youth recognized at

EMERALD CIRCLE

STORY BY NEVA ROENNE PHOTOS BY DAVID MAYES

More than 350 guests celebrated Kansas 4-H youth at Emerald Circle June 2 at Kansas State University. After the traditional Emerald Circle banquet, Discovery Days youth joined agents, donors and families in recognizing the State Project Award winners and participated in an educational program with an ice cream social.

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 Youth Development celebrates the top achievers in each project area at the Emerald Circle Banquet, hosted by the Kansas 4-H Foundation. In previous years, Emerald Circle was attended by State Project Award Winners, their families, extension agents, and some of Kansas 4-H’s most loyal and generous donors. While the audience stayed the same, this year, organizers merged Kansas 4-H Discovery Days and Emerald Circle with the goal of increasing awareness of the state project awards, giving the younger members something to aspire to and connecting donors with talented 4-H members.

“Being named a project award winner is one of the highest individual achievements within Kansas 4-H,” said Beth Hinshaw, Regional 4-H Youth Development Specialist, K-State Research and Extension. “All it takes is one spark to ignite that passion in a 4-H project that can then create so many learning opportunities and even the possibility of a future career.”

After the awards ceremony, attendees engaged with two guest speakers. Dr. Susan Quiring, a former Kansas Extension agent, delivered a message about etiquette. Rhett Laubach, an Oklahoma 4-H alumnus and motivational speaker, spoke about what it means to #LiveToServe.

"We wanted to connect donors and youth by providing an immersive and educational experience with successful professionals."

JAKE WORCESTER, PRESIDENT/CEO KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION

STATE PROJECT AWARD WINNERS

Emerald Circle is annually hosted to recognize the State Project Award Winners for their outstanding work and mastery of a project area. Take a look at their achievements by scanning the QR code with your phone!

Wyatt Fechter Beef Rolling Prairie District

Aleah Staggenborg Civic Engagement Marshall County

Claire Mullen Clothing & Textiles Douglas County

Kyle Ruehle Communications Ford County

John Langill Dairy Nemaha County

Callie Jones Dog Care & Training Dickinson County

Claire Helsel Leadership Sunflower District

Maddix Small Entomology Wildcat District

Lynnea Nelson Wildlife Frontier District

Daegan Degraff Visual Arts River Valley District

Tyler Gillespie Sheep Frontier District

Acacia Pracht Reading Central Kansas District

Adelle Higbie Meat Goats Franklin County

Alex Young Performing Arts Chisholm Trail District

Amy Crow Fiber Arts Sedgwick County

Morgan Vogts Wood Science Coffey County

Shelby Smith Shooting Sports Wildcat District

Eric Shapland Photography West Plains District

Josiah Stockebrand STEM Southwind District

Ashton Bearly STEM: Energy Management Rawlins County

Adam Snowball Plant Science Dickinson County

Kaylen Langhofer Poultry Meade County

Ellie Seeger Foods and Nutrition McPherson County

Sukesh Kamesh Health & Wellness Kingman County

Natalee Bray Horse River Valley District

Jenna DeRouchey Swine Pottawatomie County

Clara Johnson Rabbits Meadowlark District

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT The power of positive

Fall is an exciting time in Kansas 4-H. With the start of the new 4-H year, we also reflect on the year we are putting behind us. It’s been an inspiring year at the Kansas 4-H Foundation.

This year, Rock Springs Ranch launched a new camp model, an enhanced teen leadership program, and new facilities and activities while welcoming new camp directors, Letha and Jared Causby. While there has been a lot of “new” in these transitions, it’s all in an effort to return to the core principles of 4-H: bringing youth together with caring adults to find belonging, master new skills, gain independence, and experience generosity.

JAKE WORCESTER PRESIDENT/CEO

Kansas 4-H camp meets the essential needs of youth through positive youth development and provides a transformational experience that youth can build on each year. Summer camp is a time for youth to disconnect from devices, walk in the woods, experience the refreshing cold spring water, see wildlife all around, and make new friends. We are busy thinking about what the next year will hold because registration for 2023 will open midNovember.

As the state 4-H center, Rock Springs Ranch is committed to the foundational H’s of 4-H. At summer camp, youth use critical thinking skills (head) , develop strong relationships that go beyond summer (heart) , learn to serve others (hands) , and participate in a variety of outdoor experiences (health)

These core values have taught thousands to make the best better. Making a commitment to the four H’s also helps the members commit to something bigger than themselves.

Within this issue, you’re going to read about youth who attended camp and donors who want to support Kansas 4-H youth. Generous donors are making gifts that allow us to enhance facilities, create safer environments, and provide access to 4-H experiences to youth from anywhere in the state.

I believe all youth deserve a 4-H experience and the generosity of donors makes this possible.

Photo by Chandler Mixon

Photo by Chandler Mixon

Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council

INSPIRES YOUTH

STORY BY ANNIKA WIEBERS, PRESIDENT OF YOUTH COUNCIL

When most folks think about 4-H, the ideas that typically come to mind are projects and leadership.

“The first time I heard about 4-H Youth Council was the first time I attended a state event (the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum),” said Chanae Parker, a three-year council member from Manhattan. “I saw (Council members’) dedication to 4-H and the difference they were able to make and was inspired. I wanted to be able to give back to the organization that challenged and shaped me into the individual I was then. So, I ran for (election to) Youth Council.”

Youth Council members include many of the highest performing 4-H'ers in the state, but they don’t reach that level right away.

“I started 4-H as a Cloverbud at five years old,” Parker said. “Prior to Council, I was heavily involved in my club and my county. I had served every office in my 4-H club and been an officer for our county 4-H Council. I was a county 4-H Ambassador and had attended state and regional events like Kansas Youth Leadership Forum, the Northeast Leadership Event, and Citizenship in Action. When I decided to run for Council, I spent months refining my application, developing my speech, and practicing interviewing.”

Once she was elected, Parker said the real work of being on Council begins.

“Council not only hosts events for Kansas 4-H, but provides opportunities for youth to develop into effective leaders, citizens, and servants in their communities,” she said. “This is what 4-H is all about and Council is a key piece in the growth and development of our future leaders.”

Parker noted that serving as chair of the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum planning committee “was one of the most challenging and impactful things I’ve done on Council.”

“It took months of planning and

taught me a lot about leadership. As a committee, we worked extremely hard to host the best event we could, and I am so proud to say that it was a success. All of the work behind the scenes was worth it because I know we were able to make a difference for Kansas 4-H'ers and inspire them to make a difference in their clubs and their communities.”

Beyond planning events, Council members serve as mentors -- inspiring and encouraging the next generation of leaders.

“As a younger 4-H'er, I admired the 4-H Youth Council members for the work that they did,” Parker said. “They had already attended the events, they had learned and grown in 4-H and so easily could have decided to step out. But they didn’t. Council isn’t about growing individually; it’s about the impact you are able to make on others because of the meaningful events and work you are able to do.”

“The ability to give back to 4-H and shape the organization for others is truly inspiring to me, and the heart of what I do on Council. One of my favorite parts about state events is watching delegates take home what they learned to share with others in their counties.”

Parker said being a member of the 4-H Youth Council involves significant responsibilities and hours of hard work, but the members attest to their growth in leadership, communication and organization skills.

She said: “Serving on Youth Council has made me the person I am today. It has instilled in me a passion for giving back and working for others. I’m truly grateful for the challenges and tribulations that I have encountered and how they have enabled me to grow. I cannot wait to see what the next generation of leaders can do for this organization.”

More information on opportunities available through Kansas 4-H is available at local extension offices in Kansas.

Kansas 4-H provides a variety of experiences to youth ages 7-18. To learn more about how to philanthropically support Kansas 4-H, email us at giving@ kansas4hfoundation.org

Courtesy Photos

Left to Right: Channing, Sukesh, Daryl and Joyce Buchholz, and Jaden teamed up with the Kansas 4-H Foundation to launch the Accessibility Fund earlier this year. For every $5,000 raised, generous donors, Daryl and Joyce, will match every gift dollar for dollar up to the goal of $20,000! Channing, Sukesh and Jaden are members of Youth Council and also serve as the 2022 Youth Philanthropy Ambassadors.

ACCESSIBILITY FUND Kansas 4-H teen leaders launch

STORY BY MARIA CHILDS

Since the beginning, Kansas 4-H has always been committed to enhancing accessibility to 4-H experiences for current and future members.

As clubs across the state prepare for the upcoming 4-H year, they are setting goals for their project areas and practicing generosity. Every year, more than 80,000 Kansas youth have a 4-H experience. Through those experiences, 4-H provides youth essential life skills, and there are even more youth who could benefit from a meaningful 4-H experience.

One way the Kansas 4-H Foundation partners with the Kansas Youth Leadership Council is by selecting Youth Philanthropy Ambassadors (YPAs). These youth leaders apply to be selected to lead the annual youth philanthropy initiative and inspire their peers to practice generosity. The YPAs lead workshops and activities with 4-H members across the state to identify and prioritize the needs of youth. They launched the Accessibility Fund in response to feedback they received and have a goal of raising $20,000

this calendar year! This fund will support the financial, physical, social and emotional needs of Kansas youth. Here are some examples of how they envision enhancing accessibility for current and future 4-H members:

Photo by Maria Childs

Courtesy Photo

● Providing financial assistance to cover the 4-H enrollment fee for a member in need

● Paving trails at Rock Springs Ranch so a camper with physical limitations can participate in all camp experiences

● Online access to educational programs for 4-H members across the state.

For every $5,000 raised, generous donors, Daryl and Joyce Buchholz, will match every gift dollar for dollar up to the goal of $20,000. Daryl and Joyce believe in providing the 4-H experience for all youth. Their gift will make the fund total $40,000.

“We want to help in a major way to increase access for more young people to experience the great 4-H program,” they said. “We look forward to increased access, availability, and opportunity for involvement of all Kansas youth. With our matching contribution, support to the Accessibility Fund will be doubled and will create greater opportunities for all Kansas youth to experience 4-H!”

When clubs make a gift to support the Accessibility Fund, they are recognized as 2022 Gavel Club members. Gavel Club celebrates the generosity of Kansas 4-H clubs across the state.

Once all the club gifts are counted, the Kansas 4-H Foundation’s Impact Committee will collaborate with Youth Leadership Council members to determine the method for distributing the funds.

at www.kansas4hfoundation.org/give/accessibility

KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION OFFICE

“The generous matching gift from Daryl and Joyce Buchholz inspired the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council to make a $1,000 gift to the Accessibility Fund. This fund and vision have been a dream of mine for many years, and I’m so glad that we can finally have opportunity for all in Kansas 4-H!

Generous support to the Accessibility Fund will help so many Kansas youth, and the impact will be immeasurable.”

Jaden 2022 Youth Philanthropy Ambassador

If you feel inspired to make a gift to the Accessibility Fund, you can give online

EXPERIENCES Reflection of summer camp

STORY BY MARIA CHILDS

Rock Springs Ranch, the state 4-H center, south of Junction City, has been a hub for youth development in Kansas for more than 75 years. This summer was no exception.

Campers participated in outdoor recreation activities including horseback riding; a leadership adventure course featuring a new zipline and low and high ropes courses; aquatics; conservation education; shooting sports; and the experience ended with a campfire and new friends from all over the state. These activities provide unique opportunities for youth to do things they may not otherwise do, in a safe and encouraging environment.

“Summer camp is more than activities. It is about the way your child feels when they are at camp and the goal to make this place special,” said camp director Letha Causby. “We hope that each camper feels a sense of belonging, independence, generosity, and mastery of skills that they can take back with them to their club, community, and world.”

Letha and Jared Causby are the camp directors at Rock Springs Ranch. Among creating the memories made at summer camp, Letha and Jared are responsible for camp programming and overseeing summer staff. Their favorite part of summer camp is getting to meet and work with campers and families.

“There is an endless supply of entertainment when there are kids at camp,” Jared said. “You get to hear all about their favorite things and get to spend time with them during some very cool moments. During our weeklong session as we loaded the vans to take kids back home after saying our goodbyes one child got buckled up, put his head down, and I noticed his watery eyes. I asked if everything was ok and he shook his head yes and said that he just didn’t want to leave. Those are the moments that remind me of why I do what I do.”

This year marked the first year of the Counselors in Training (CIT) program, where teens are able to master the expectations of being a camp counselor. During this program, they are able to assist the summer staff and learn about the responsibility of being a mentor to younger campers. Through the Kansas 4-H Foundation and their partnership with the Patterson Family Foundation, teens across the state can apply for camperships that pay for their CIT experience.

“These camp programs are designed to shape the next generations of leaders by creating experiences where youth feel a sense of pride and commitment to their camp community, which can translate back to their schools, 4-H clubs, and communities,” said Jake Worcester, President/ CEO of the Kansas 4-H Foundation. “Generous donors believe in providing the camp experience for Kansas youth. Camperships provide access to summer camp.”

The goal is for all 105 counties in Kansas to nominate one Counselor-inTraining (CIT) to attend the week-long program at no cost to the county or camper. These funds will underwrite curriculum/program development, fund summer staff for the CIT/LIT program, and provide for additional enhancements.

Letha and Jared are looking forward to seeing campers next summer.

“We are excited to continue to build on the foundation we set in 2022,” Jared said. “We are always striving to reach as many youth as possible. For 2023, we are looking at offering additional teen opportunities with our Leaders In Training (LIT) program. We are also excited about the potential to offer a session for our Cloverbuds (youth ages 6-9).”

To register for Kansas 4-H Camp, visit rockspringsranch4hcamp.org

Rock Springs Ranch camp counselor assisting a camper who is preparing for a trail ride.

Summer camp at Rock Springs Ranch is full of opportunities including the giant swing, canoeing and team building.

Courtesy Photo

Photo by Neva Roenne

Providing a healthy break with

OUTDOOR RECREATION

STORY BY MARIA CHILDS

For 117 years, Kansas 4-H has been meeting the essential needs of youth through hands-on learning experiences. Outdoor recreation is foundational to Kansas 4-H because it teaches youth the importance of staying active and healthy.

When 4-H was established, health was defined as physical activity. Through the years, health has transformed by expanding to discuss healthy living, healthy relationships, foods and nutrition, and much more.

As part of 4-H, healthy living is woven into the curriculum.

Amy Sollock, Southwest Regional 4-H Specialist, provides leadership in the project areas of healthy living and 4-H camping, among others.

“Kansas 4-H has a long tradition of providing outdoor recreation programs for young people,” Sollock said. “These programs encourage and reinforce the importance of building healthy peer to peer relationships, leadership development, physical activity, and an appreciation of the outdoors.”

Sollock also said that summer camp at Rock Spring Ranch is one way this programming is delivered.

“While many local Extension units offer day camps across the state, the ultimate outdoor recreation experience for many young people is 4-H camp at Rock Springs Ranch,” Sollock said. “Rock Springs Ranch provides high quality programming through their trained staff, who facilitates the daily activities and operations at 4-H camp. The facilities and beautiful surroundings of Rock Springs Ranch make a prime location to get kids off their devices and outside, immersed in the natural environment around them.”

Through outdoor recreation, 4-H provides healthy living opportunities including summer camp at Rock Springs Ranch, shooting sports,

horses, livestock, horticulture, wildlife, among others. Outdoor recreation is an excellent way to reduce stress, sleep better and get stronger while also trying new activities.

Chandra Plate, Northwest Regional 4-H Specialist, provides leadership in the program areas of Natural Resources and Shooting Sports. As part of her job, she interacts with youth participating in outdoor recreation.

“The wildlife and shooting sports 4-H projects combine unique opportunities for youth to engage in healthy living, civic engagement, physical exercise, conservation, and lifetime sports,” she said. “All 4-H

projects are tools used with the goal of positive youth development.”

Plate also said that outdoor activities help meet the essential needs of youth: belonging, generosity, independence, and mastery. While they are growing in knowledge and skills they are also growing toward mastery of the skills of personal safety, responsibility, contributing to community, leadership, and communicating effectively.

“As safe, caring, certified volunteers or staff engage in outdoor activities with youth, a sense of belonging is established which helps youth grow in their ability to feel like they are a valuable part of a community,” Plate said.

A camper learns how to aim a bow and arrow while attending summer camp at Rock Springs Ranch.

INSPIRED BY WHAT YOU ARE READING?

Are you interested in learning more about this program and discussing how you can provide philanthropic support? Contact a member of the development team at giving@kansas4hfoundation.org.

Photo by Chandler Mixon

Delker family makes lasting impact on

ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

STORY AND PHOTO BY MARIA CHILDS

David and Shawn Delker, of Salina, Kansas, have a long history with Kansas 4-H and Rock Springs Ranch. According to David, it all started in 1971, when he met a browneyed girl who distracted him when he would go into the dining hall for a refill of his water bottle.

During the summer that year, David was a freshman in college and a summer maintenance staff member and former 4-H member from Chapman, Kansas, and Shawn worked in the kitchen. Shawn had grown up in Manhattan, Kansas, and was in 4-H as a youth. She recalled what an impact 4-H had on her life.

“4-H gave me a chance to bloom and blossom and grow in so many ways, to be able to come to camp and be a different person than I was at school,” she said. “One of the things that really has been impactful is that we got to share our 4-H passion with our own children and work with them as they developed and grew through their 4-H experiences.”

Through the years, David and Shawn have held many 4-H roles including community club leader, project leader, parent, donor, grandparent, fair judge and many more. They have three children and three grandchildren. They both have many memories of assisting with their children’s 4-H projects and teachable moments with youth at county and state fairs.

“I like to be with those kids and see what they are doing and what they are interested in,” Shawn said.

David enjoys the time he spends with youth teaching them about how to improve from one year to the next, including the couple’s grandson who is currently a Kansas 4-H member.

“We both became known in our

Through the years, David and Shawn Delker, of Salina, Kansas, have held many Kansas 4-H roles including project leader, parent, donor, grandparent, fair judge and many more. They have three children and three grandchildren.

local clubs as being supportive and we had the leadership qualities that were needed to become leaders in our club and county,” he said. “I know that was helpful too because a lot of the kids in our club did not have the technical skills or their parents might not know how to build a rocket or how to build an electronic circuit.”

David and Shawn are committed to Kansas 4-H and making the program a better experience for youth across the state. As a college professor, David saw firsthand that students who were the most confident and responsible were usually 4-H alumni.

“I feel it’s really important to philanthropically support Kansas 4-H because there are so many opportunities out there,” David said. “If we don’t support those opportunities financially, they won’t become known and utilized by students and young people in general, out in the communities.”

As part of making 4-H a better place for all youth, the Delkers recently supported the Heart of Camp initiative at Rock Springs Ranch. The Heart of Camp initiative focuses on the infrastructure of the 73 5-acre property to make sure that it can

sustain the demand of water from the springs. The enhancements to this infrastructure would significantly reduce day-to-day maintenance on the existing systems. In preparation for the next 25 years at Rock Springs Ranch, the infrastructure is a critical need.

During his time working at Rock Springs, David was on the maintenance crew that would come in between camps and fix the broken faucets or repair the roof that’s leaking. Because of this experience, he knows that the team needs to fix what needs to be fixed, but it needs to be long lasting.

“Most people don’t realize that the roads, the bridges, the power lines, the water pipes, the infrastructure here is all owned by Rock Springs Ranch, it’s not in a rural water district,” he said. “They don’t have the county paying for road upkeep. And for us, it is important to see that the facility is maintained properly and kept up to date especially in some of the areas that directly affect campers.”

As a young camper and summer staff, Shawn also saw the importance of keeping camp sustainable for the next group of campers. For her, coming to camp meant meeting new friends from all over Kansas. She explained that part of supporting the Heart of Camp effort was providing main things like water, food and comfort.

“Without those basic needs, you don’t have a place to enjoy and grow,” she said. “The first thing you need

to do is meet that comfort of guests and drinkable water is very basic to life and if you don’t have that, then you’re not willing to develop those relationships or have fun or feel free because you’re worried about getting your next drink of water.”

Through their many years together, David and Shawn agree that Kansas 4-H has made a lasting impact on their family. They believe encouraging others to support this initiative is really important.

“We want Rock Springs Ranch to be viewed as a top-quality experience

for campers,” David said. “Without the infrastructure, the programs may be obscured by the faucets that don’t work or the water supply that’s temperamental. We want this infrastructure to support the basic needs of campers, and those using the facility. After all, when we think of “the heart of camp” we think of the spring that gave Rock Springs Ranch its name, and the wonderful water wheel it drives. We hope our gift will give the special experiences that we enjoyed so much when we were growing up to future generations.”

In this 1971 Rock Springs Ranch staff photo, David Delker and Shawn Willis are pictured with their coworkers. This was the year that David and Shawn met while working together.

“We want Rock Springs Ranch to be viewed as a top-quality experience for campers,” David said. “Without the infrastructure, the programs may be obscured by the faucets that don’t work or the water supply that’s temperamental. We want this infrastructure to support the basic needs of campers, and those using the facility. After all, when we think of “the heart of camp” we think of the spring that gave Rock Springs Ranch its name, and the wonderful water wheel it drives. We hope our gift will give the special experiences that we enjoyed so much when we were growing up to future generations.”

DAVID DELKER, KANSAS 4-H VOLUNTEER AND FORMER ROCK SPRINGS RANCH STAFF

Courtesy Photo

CHARITABLE GIVING Planning ahead for tax-time

STORY BY LORI ROGGE, PLANNED GIVING CONSULTANT

Charitable giving comes in many forms. Whether it’s donating cash, publicly traded stock, real estate, or something else, increasing your knowledge of tax planning strategies could help reduce the amount of money you may owe while potentially maximizing your gift.

Taxes aren’t something many people prefer spending a lot of time thinking about, however, it can really be worth your time. It also means having discussions with your tax, legal, and other financial advisors to make sure all the nuances are covered.

WHEN PREPARING YOUR TAX RETURN FOR 2022

As you think about your 2022 tax return, be aware that certain charitable contribution deduction provisions implemented for the 2020 and 2021 tax years are no longer available. That means the deduction for cash contributions to public charities is no longer up to 100% of adjusted gross income (AGI) for those who itemize. Be sure to consult with your tax advisor to learn the latest on allowable deductions for charitable donations of cash and property as well as potential carryover opportunities.

WHEN TAX PLANNING FOR 2023

If you expect to realize significant gains in 2022 or 2023 from investment transactions or the sale of a business or real estate, consider implementing a charitable giving strategy to help reduce your tax bill. Kansas 4-H Foundation staff, tax and other financial advisors, can help outline a number of strategies to consider.

Review your expected itemized deductions. If your itemized deductions are less than the standard deduction, your charitable contributions are not reducing your tax bill. Evaluate “bunching” several years’ worth of charitable contributions into a single year. This may increase your itemized deductions above the standard

deduction threshold so you can receive a tax benefit for those gifts. Consider utilizing a donor advised fund for “bunching” your charitable gifts: you receive the tax benefit at the time you contribute to the donor advised fund and then have the flexibility to recommend grant distributions to one or more charitable organizations on their own personal timetables.

Evaluate the tax benefits of gifting long-term appreciated stock held longer than one year versus cash. Gifting to the Kansas 4-H Foundation will eliminate your capital gains and provide a tax deduction to you.

If you are age 70 ½ or older, consider the potential benefits of a Qualified Charitable Distribution (also known as the IRA Charitable Rollover). A QCD allows you to make a tax-free gift of up to $100,000 each year directly from your IRA (traditional or inherited, or inactive SEP or SIMPLE IRAs) to qualifying charities (exclusions include donor advised funds and private non-operating foundations). Tax law as of 2022 states that a QCD counts toward satisfying your required minimum distribution (RMD) once you reach age 72 without the federal tax consequences of being included in your AGI. QCDs prior to age 72 are still not included in a donor’s gross income

CONSIDER GIVING STRATEGIES THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

Tax planning and charitable giving should be something that you consider year-round—not just at year-end. In fact, tax planning and charitable giving should be considerations before any major financial transaction is taking place.

We have seen donors who sell an asset (business, real estate, etc.) and call after the fact, unfortunately resulting in their missing out on some potential tax benefits. Plus, thinking of charitable giving as a year-end activity means that you could be missing out on the ability to make a larger impact with your gifts.

Communicating with your financial, legal and tax advisors on a regular basis can also help you stay informed about any upcoming changes in tax laws.

That knowledge can help you stay proactive so you can maximize your giving. It is best to audit your current and future gifts on a regular basis. It’s never too early to plan, but it can be too late.

To explore philanthropic giving opportunities to Kansas 4-H, contact a member of the development team at 785-775- 0123 or email at giving@ kansas4hfoundation.org.

Courtesy Photo

K-State president visits

ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

Kansas 4-H Foundation President/CEO Jake Worcester and Board Chairman Warren Weibert hosted a tour of the property in August for K-State President Richard Linton. The tour featured recent renovations to the Health Center and Preston and Finnup Cottages. Linton watched youth navigate the newly constructed Leadership Adventure Course and engaged with campers heading off on a trail ride. The highlight of the morning was President Linton meeting with Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council members Sukesh and Channing to learn more about the significant impact 4-H has on youth from all 105 Kansas counties. We appreciate President Linton’s commitment to Kansas 4-H youth!

HEALTH

ChrisHunter, Associate Trust Officer &WealthAdviso

Photos by Maria Childs

TO KANSAS 4-H stay connected

RYAN LITTLEJOHN, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION, KANSAS 4-H ALUMNUS

Ryan Littlejohn is the 4-H Program Coordinator for University of Illinois Extension in Richland County, Illinois. He is a 3rd generation 4-H Member and Kansas 4-H alumnus. Ryan was an active member of the Lucky 13 4-H Club in Harvey County, involved in Large Animal Livestock, General Projects and Leadership and was also involved in Kearny County 4-H as a Fair Board Member and Livestock Judging Team Coach. Ryan is ecstatic to be working with youth and volunteers in Richland County and hopes to bring new ideas and programing to the county.

TERESA CLOUNCH, KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION TRUSTEE

Washburn University named Dr. Teresa L. Clounch as the associate vice president of student life and dean of students. Clounch will oversee all matters relating to student code of conduct, including helping set and regulate Washburn University’s conduct standards. A native of Kansas, Clounch earned her associate’s degree from Allen Community College. She went on to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Emporia State University. She completed her Doctor of Education University of Kansas. Dr. Clounch serves as a trustee for the Kansas 4-H Foundation.

CHERYL GLEASON, TOPEKA KANSAS

On Tuesday, July 26, Cheryl Gleason was inducted into the KSHSAA Hall of Fame during a reception at Rock Springs Ranch as part of the 2021-22 class. Gleason served as an administrator for the Kansas High School Activities Association until retiring in July 2021. Gleason always found a way to carve out a week of her summer to attend the Kansas Association of Youth Leadership Camp held at Rock Springs Ranch. She has spent her career working with youth and teaching them the importance of healthy living and taking advantage of the opportunities in front of them.

RACHEL FEATHERSTONE, RILEY COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA

Rachel Featherstone is applying her 4-H experiences directly to her undergraduate education and future career. Rachel is a sophomore at Kansas State University majoring in bakery science with a specialty option of cereal chemistry. She loves the freedom she has to make her food projects into art. Long term, Rachel hopes to draw on her experiences and what she learns through her courses to improve the quality of wheat and other products on the market.

KASSANDRA MORENO AND JACKLYN HERNANDEZ, KANSAS 4-H ALUMNAE

Kassandra Moreno and cousin Jacklyn Hernandez, of Riley County, were instrumental in establishing a relatively new 4-H club - the Hispanic Verde Clovers club. Moreno and Hernandez took it upon themselves to lead the Verde Clovers’ effort to include youth from more backgrounds into their club. Now as high school graduates, the two happily shared that they continue to help with the club.

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

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Cheryl Gleason

Ryan Littlejohn

Teresa Clounch

The Kansas 4-H Foundation sent historical items to the High Plains Museum in Goodland, Kansas, to be displayed. Items on display include historical photos of Kansas 4-H Round-Up, now known as Discovery Days, plaques and clothing.

FINANCIAL ADVISORS, ATTORNEYS AND ACCOUNTANTS

Kansas 4-H youth benefit greatly from professional advisors who generously connect philanthropic-minded clients to the Kansas 4-H Foundation.

With each introduction, we explore philanthropic interests with individuals or families while also sharing philanthropic priorities that benefit 4-H youth throughout the state.

Whether your clients care about advancing positive youth development or simply want to benefit from a charitable tax deduction, we are eager to share how investing in Kansas 4-H youth develops future leaders and enhances Kansas communities.

The Kansas 4-H Foundation accepts a variety of gifts including:

Charitable bequests through a will or trust

IRAs and other qualified plans

Charitable lead trust

Charitable remainder trust

If you are a professional advisor or know a professional advisor who would like to learn more about the philanthropic priorities for Kansas 4-H and how your clients can benefit from giving to a charitable organization - Contact us!

Mindy R. Weixelman Chief Development Officer (785) 775-0123 mindy@ks4h.org

Oops... We have a clarification to our last issue. Duane Arlene identified himself as a founder of the Manhattan Meadowlarks 4-H club.

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LARGER SERVICE Pledging their hands to

REGINA ROTH VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

As the Hesston 4-H Club leader, Regina Roth sees the impact of 4-H at every club meeting and service project. Most recently, her club was preparing for the homecoming parade. This allowed the older 4-H youth to mentor the youngest members as they prepared to share 4-H with their community in the parade.

“We’re always looking forward to trying something new,” she said.

When Roth’s oldest child was a young Cloverbud, she knew that 4-H was going to be an important part of their family. With her oldest now being 13, she enjoys sharing 4-H with her family.

“I fell in love with it,” she said. “We are highly involved now … honestly, the meetings have been so much fun. We have so many young families and people joining every year. We’ve tried to incorporate fun games into the parliamentary procedure.”

But Roth doesn’t do it alone. She has an assistant club leader who helps with the monthly meetings.

“Our club is continuing to grow, we have lots of young families and lots of kids running around,” she said.

Earlier this year, 4-H members and volunteers gathered for a picnic, where Roth was recognized in front of parents and youth. She said she was surprised to learn that her family knew about the award, including her four children.

“Little did I know, they were giving me the award at this picnic,” she said. “I was just shocked. I had no idea. When they were describing the person getting the award, I realized it was me. They all really surprised me, and it was cool. All the kind words that parents and my own family said just filled my heart with happiness.”

SHAWNA RIFFEL OUTSTANDING LIFETIME VOLUNTEER AWARD

Volunteering is important to Shawna Riffel, from the Kansas 4-H Chisholm Trail District, because she wants every child to feel important and heard.

“I love that 4-H has so many different projects and learning modules and that there is something for everyone,” she said. “I have watched many children grow through this program…finding their confidence to talk in front of a group or to try something new.”

Riffel serves as the club leader for the Navarre Boosters 4-H Club, Chisholm Trail Extension District Board Secretary, Dickinson County 4-H Foundation Secretary, Chisholm Trail Extension District 4-H PDC Member, Kansas Association of 4-H Volunteers Secretary, Advisor for DK SQUAD and Dickinson County 4-H Council and the Fair Superintendent.

For Riffel, having many volunteer positions is not new. She has been in most of her positions for several years. While she was not in 4-H as a youth member, she has enjoyed being able to share her experiences with her children.

“I got involved when my children got involved,” she said. “I enjoy being a part of my kids' activities and knew I wanted to volunteer from the beginning. The more I learned about the program, the more I wanted to do. ‘To Make The Best Better’ is simply a hard slogan to beat.”

Riffel’s advice to other volunteers would be to get involved.

“You are making a difference,” she said. “When you feel burnt out and need a break, take it! Try taking a class through the Kansas Volunteer Forum etc. to learn something new. I always feel refreshed and excited when I have a weekend networking with other volunteers.”

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OTIS HALL WINNERS

This year, at each session of 4 H camp at Rock Springs Ranch, an Otis E. Hall winner was announced. Responding to the 1918 national contest, Otis Hall, the first Kansas state leader, wrote the winning 4 H club pledge. This is a camper nominated award that honors someone who exemplifies the 4 H Pledge.

Below are some of the winners from the summer!

my HEAD to clearer thinking, my HEART to greater loyalty, my HANDS to larger service, and my HEALTH to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.

Matthew Camper

Levi Camper Hannah Camp counselor

Bronwyn Camper

Nora Camp Counselor

Emma Camper

June Camper

Stella Camper

Amara Counselor in Training

Toby Camper