by Randy Partington, County Connections
Reno County employees make a meaningful impact on our community through the work they do and their involvement in local initiatives. During November and December, our employees demonstrated that they are not only dedicated public servants but also caring members of the community.
They generously supported a variety of causes, including the annual United Way campaign, Toys for Tots, Shop with a Sheriff and many other volunteer efforts throughout the holiday season.
Reno County is served by 415 employees, who care deeply about this community and work every day to make it a better place to live. I hope our residents are as proud of them as I am.
United Way of Reno County
Reno County partners with the United Way each year through the community workday, the workplace campaign and various special initiatives.
This year, a group of employees and their family members volunteered to paint the Phillips West Oxford House, located at 19th and Adams in Hutchinson.
For the annual workplace campaign, Reno County and the City of Hutchinson engaged in a friendly competition to see which organization could raise more for the United Way and its agency partners for 2026. Thanks to the enthusiasm this generated, Reno County employees contributed $12,695.40, a significant increase over previous years’ donations.
In November, when the United Way issued a rapid response request for food to support the Reno County Food Bank, our employees once again stepped up—donating 722 pounds of food to help meet community needs.
Toys for Tots
This year marks the 25th year that Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton has led the Toys for Tots drive. From Dec. 1 to 12, county employees donate, along with other community members, new toys or cash donations to support children in Reno County.
Collection boxes are available on the first floor and the district attorney’s fifth floor office at the courthouse, the county annex, and public works.
There is a traveling trophy for the department/location that collects the most toys. Last year, public works won the trophy. This year, the county commission has put out a call to mayors of cities in Reno County to help expand the cause for the collection at the courthouse.
Shop with a Sheriff
Each year, the Reno County Sheriff’s Office teams up with local law enforcement departments and our schools to find kids who could use a little extra Christmas cheer. With help from generous donors, sponsors and Walmart, a big crew of volunteers—officers, staff, family and friends—hit the aisles to shop for every child on the list. Then comes the wrapping marathon…all in one day!
On Saturday, Dec. 13, the excitement really kicks in when the kids get their gifts from Santa, Mrs. Claus and their festive crew of elves at The Clayworks at Disability Supports, 1125 N. Main Street.
This year is the seventh annual event, and about 81 kids will be treated to some holiday magic, each with a $150 Walmart shopping allowance to make their season bright. Watch a video of the 2024 event on YouTube (youtube.com/@RenoCounty).
Other Contributions and Summary
Beyond the activities already mentioned, our employees are also participating in a holiday food drive to provide additional non-perishable items for the Reno County Food Bank. One employee in the county treasurer’s office independently operates a charity called Now Serving Lunch, through which she helps feed individuals in need at a local park in Hutchinson. Undoubtedly, there are many other employees who quietly give their time and resources to support community members during the holiday season.
Reno County employees consistently go above and beyond serving this community—not only through their roles in local government but also as active contributors to local charities that rely on community support.
While this time of year often highlights acts of giving, I hope we can all continue to find ways to support and uplift those who need help to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
Randy Partington is the Reno County Administrator. He can be reached at randy.partington@renocountyks.gov.