Heartland Community Foundation
Nonprofit leaders across western Kansas are invited to attend the Heartland Nonprofit Conference: Mission and Method — Strategies for Greater Nonprofit Impact, a one-day mini conference designed to provide practical tools, timely insights, and meaningful connections for those doing mission-driven work.
Hosted by Heartland Community Foundation, the conference will take place July 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center in Hays. Lunch is included, and attendees are invited to stay from 2:30-3:00 p.m. for a special informational session on Give Fest 2026 and how to participate.
Nonprofit organizations are facing a rapidly changing landscape — from shifting donor expectations to new funding tools and increased demand for impact. This conference is designed to help nonprofit professionals respond with confidence, clarity, and strategies they can put to work immediately.
“Nonprofit leaders are often asked to do more with less,” said Sarah Meitner, executive director of Heartland Community Foundation. “This conference is about equipping them with the practical knowledge, fresh perspective, and access to resources that can strengthen their organizations and their communities.”
Conference Topics Include:
• Meeting donors where they are and building meaningful relationships
• Practical fundraising tips for those new to development
• Cultivating an abundant mindset around philanthropy
• Understanding transfer of wealth opportunities and identifying potential legacy donor
• Current grant opportunities and how to access them
• What tax credits are, why they matter, and how nonprofits can apply
Featured Speakers:
The conference will feature Mitzi Richards, a longtime fundraiser formerly with the KSU Foundation and the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. Richards will share insights on donor engagement, fundraising fundamentals, and sustainable development practices.
Representatives from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation will discuss legacy giving, transfer of wealth opportunities and grant funding available to nonprofits
The Kansas Department of Commerce will provide an overview of grant programs and tax credits, including how nonprofits can determine eligibility and apply.
Registration Information:
The cost to attend is $15 for Heartland-area nonprofit leaders serving Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties and $20 for nonprofit leaders outside the Heartland service area. Capacity is limited.
Registration is available online at: https://gscf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list/event?event_date_id=4795
For more information, please visit www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org or email heartland@gscf.org.