According to a press release from the Hutchinson Community Foundation, seven Reno County communities can receive funding to make progress on their community’s identified priorities as part of Hutchinson Community Foundation’s Love Where You Live Community Empowerment Initiative, in addition to priorities for the county. The three-year initiative to empower residents to make positive change and boost community pride began in 2024.
These viewpoints come from the 1,021 respondents to last summer’s Love Where You Live Community Perception Survey. Reports were generated for Buhler, the Fairfield area, the Haven and Yoder area, Hutchinson, Nickerson, Pretty Prairie, South Hutchinson and Reno County overall.
“We believe this process will help residents feel heard, identify shared priorities, and have some agency and resources to make progress year after year,” said Kari Mailloux, Hutchinson Community Foundation director of strategy. “Hopefully it creates a stronger sense of ownership and hope across the county.”
Following the survey, workshops were conducted in each of the communities. These gatherings centered on reviewing the survey results, discussing priorities and brainstorming ideas for progress.
The following priorities were identified in each community (and Reno County) workshop:
Buhler:
- unique partnerships and better communication
- a destination restaurant
- public infrastructure
- housing, especially to attract families
Pretty Prairie:
- an all-day restaurant
- new business lot development
- redevelopment of vacant properties
South Hutchinson:
- redevelopment of Poplar Street as a business district and
- attracting builders to sell and/or renovate blight
Nickerson:
- development north of town near the new highway
- housing, blight removal
- community engagement and communication
Haven and Yoder area:
- infrastructure planning
- incentives to attract manufacturing
- a grocery store or chain restaurant
- housing to attract families
Fairfield area:
- blight removal
- safety concerns
- housing programs
- uniting communities in ways other than the school district
Hutchinson (four workshops):
- housing affordability and development
- higher wages
- blight removal
- community engagement and communication
Reno County:
- increases in average household income
- businesses that pay above average wage
- attracting new businesses
- removing and renovating blight
- access to affordable child care
- improving public infrastructure
- expanding local businesses
All of the community reports and workshop recaps are available at www.renosurvey.com for communities to review.
Funding opportunities
Hutchinson Community Foundation is accepting project proposals for Fund for Reno County grants. The first impact cycle, due Feb. 28, focuses on supporting community catalyst projects that improve community engagement, communication and confidence. Local governments and 501(c)3 organizations can apply for grants up to $2,500 for this purpose. Other grants available now are in the areas of dynamic culture, thriving kids and strong organizations.
In August, the foundation will consider larger grants for community and economic development. Information about all Hutchinson Community Foundation grant opportunities can be found at hutchcf.org. Individuals or groups who would like to learn more may contact Mailloux, kari@hutchcf.org or 620-663-5293.
