By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
Operation 'Move and Groove' to repair a VFW auxiliary in western Kansas is underway, thanks to a new veteran-led organization.
The Forgotten Stewardship is undertaking its first project at the Ransom VFW Post 7972, 516 Vermont Ave., to support local veterans.
The founder of the nonprofit, Dylan Nuttle, is a United States Marine Corps veteran dedicated to fostering connections and creating spaces for others to thrive.
"We all have to work together," he said. "It's going to be communities that build this back."
The Forgotten Stewardship's mission is to reestablish the tradition of neighbors helping neighbors by empowering local stewards committed to helping their rural communities and country.
The Ransom VFW has been recognized as an all-state post 33 times, serving veterans and military members from active duty, the National Guard and reserve forces.
The auxiliary has hosted numerous community events, such as weddings and dances, but requires repairs. The estimated cost for the 'Move and Groove' operation, including rental equipment and supplies, is $5,502.
"I have fond memories of that place," Nuttle said. "The community is full of elderly that love to dance, so that's where I got the name."
Nuttle intends to update the 5,600-square-foot building's ceiling tiles, replace the carpet, add footers, apply concrete sealer and make other improvements.
The planning and moving phase of the operation began on July 4 with a meeting with Rohrs Carpet Cleaning, preparing to cut the auxiliary floor using a cost-effective plan.
You can donate to The Forgotten Stewardship and its efforts here.
Hoping for increased interest and donations, Nuttle said the Ransom project is feasible thanks to his experience in helping others.
Nuttle joined the Marine Corps after high school in 2007, serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, Ireland and Cuba. After leaving the Marines in 2015, he attended carpentry school at NCK Tech in Hays.
"I wanted to do something that would be able to serve myself and everybody else around me with that skill," he said.
Nuttle was later accepted into the Clay Hunt Fellows Program with Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization dedicated to helping communities affected by disasters.
With connections from the nonprofit, Nuttle said he has the necessary manpower to complete the 'Move and Groove' operation.
"As far as doing work, I've got friends from Team Rubicon that are going to come help," he said.
The estimated volunteer hours donated is 640 hours.
For the remainder of 2024, Nuttle aims to address other challenges faced in Ness County as The Forgotten Stewardship introduces new capabilities.
Assistance efforts being explored include auto mechanics, haircuts, and support for farming and ranching.
"At the end of the day, what I want to do is build communities back stronger than ever so they can continue to serve their people," he said.
For more information on The Forgotten Stewardship and Nuttle's story and efforts, visit the nonprofit's website.