OSBORNE, Kan. — The Osborne County Community Foundation (OCCF) is proud to announce the creation of the Tools for the Future Fund, a new endowed fund established to support students pursuing technical and skilled trades education while strengthening the long-term workforce and economy of north-central Kansas.
The fund was launched with an initial $10,000 grant from the foundation of Kansas Gas Service’s parent company, ONE Gas. This foundational gift allows OCCF to begin building the endowment, so it can provide sustainable support for students for generations to come.
The Tools for the Future Fund is designed to benefit students from USD 392 and USD 272 who have started or plan to pursue postsecondary technical education. Eligible programs include specific technical and career-focused programs at Fort Hays Tech and Colby Community College. A key goal of the fund is to encourage students to return to the area to work, build careers, or start businesses, helping address workforce needs in rural communities.
Grants from the Tools for the Future Fund will be awarded through a competitive grant process, ensuring funding supports students with clear educational goals and a commitment to applying their skills locally.
“Technical education plays a critical role in rural communities,” said Mindy Miller, director of the Osborne County Community Foundation. “By establishing this as an endowed fund, we are investing not just in today’s students, but in the future strength of our local workforce. We are grateful to ONE Gas for their leadership gift that helped make this fund possible.”
“Supporting the Tools for the Future Fund is an investment in our neighbors and the future of our communities,” said Lisa Holleron, vice president of Operations at Kansas Gas Service. “Many students in our region have the talent and drive to pursue technical careers, and this fund helps remove financial barriers while opening pathways to meaningful, local opportunities. We’re proud to play a part in helping students build their skills close to home, because when they succeed, our communities and our workforce grow stronger too.”
While the initial grant allowed the fund to be established, OCCF is actively seeking donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations to help grow the endowment. Donations to the Tools for the Future Fund are tax-deductible, and additional contributions will accelerate the fund’s ability to begin awarding grants and expand its long-term impact.
Those interested in contributing to the Tools for the Future Fund or learning more about how to support technical education opportunities are encouraged to contact OCCF at 785-221-4823 or visit www.osborneccf.org