Hays Arts Council
The Hays Arts Council launched its For the Heart of Hays $3 million campaign in 2024 and has already raised $1.78 million as of early 2025.
A monumental $1 million gift from the Schmidt Foundation demonstrates strong support for the project.
Other major contributions have included $166,000 in Community Service Program Tax Credits from the Kansas Department of Commerce, which are fully sold, and a $25,000 gift from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.
While the Hays Arts Council leadership teams continue to pursue grant opportunities, community support is vital to reaching the campaign’s $3 million goal.
“We’ve made great progress and are excited for the future,” said Brittney Squire, Hays Arts Council board president. “The community’s support has been invaluable in advancing arts programs in Hays.”
Upcoming Events
• Special Campaign Raffle (Now–Feb. 7): Tickets are available at the Hays Arts Center for prizes, including local coffee, artisanal bread accessories and handmade art.
• The Art of Bread Tasting Party (Jan. 31, 6–8 PM): Sponsored by Cathy’s Breads and Stone House Spirit & Cigar, this SOLD-OUT event will feature delicious bread tastings and wine pairings. A waitlist is available at 785-625-7522. Follow @HaysArtsCouncil on Facebook for additional Cathy’s Breads items for purchase.
• Valentine’s Youth Classes (Feb. 2 and Feb. 9): Kids can make DIY Valentine cards while exploring their creativity. Ages 6–8 (1:30–2:30 p.m.) and ages 9–12 (3:00–4:30 p.m.). $15 per child; take-home kits are also available. Registration and payment can be made on the day of the event. Hosted at the Hays Arts Center Annex.
• Dine Out at TRIO Tap House (Feb. 4 and 5): Enjoy a meal as 10% of food sales benefit the campaign.. A Conversation on Love (Feb. 7, 5:30–7:00 p.m.): A cocktail hour featuring Fort Hays State University experts Dr. Rob Byer (Philosophy) and Dr. Whitney Whitaker (Psychology). Free and open to the public.
• Dine Out at Las Hefas Latin Cuisine (Feb. 13): Another chance to dine for a cause as 10% of food sales support Hays Arts Council.
• A WWII Love Story Presentation (Feb. 16, 2 p.m., Hays VFW): A true story of WWII soldier Francisco “Frank” Malizia and his Kansas bride, with additional insights on the Coffelt Database from its founder, Richard Coffelt. Free and open to the public.
Donations can be made as one-time gifts or pledges, with the goal of completing the campaign by the end of 2025 to begin renovations.
Founded in 1967, the Hays Arts Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural vibrancy of Hays.
Learn more or donate at www.haysartscouncil.org.
SEE RELATED STORY: Hays Arts Council launches $3M capital campaign