Heartland Community Foundation Hosts Strategic Doing Meetings in WaKeeney and Plainville

The Heartland Community Foundation invites all interested residents, leaders, and community stakeholders to two upcoming Strategic Doing meetings in Trego and Rooks counties.

These collaborative gatherings are designed to bring people together to address local opportunities and challenges through a practical, action-oriented approach.

Plainville – Thursday, July 17 at 5:30 p.m.
Plainville Senior Center
Topic: The Future of Redbud Village and Estates
Redbud Village and Estates has served as a vital provider of long-term care and employment since 1963. As the facility undergoes a cultural and operational renewal, the time is right for the community to consider its future direction. This session will focus on sustaining and strengthening Redbud for future generations.
“For decades, Redbud has provided essential services in our area,” said Deanna Hammerschmidt, Heartland’s Rooks County Director. “We’re asking our neighbors to join us, share their ideas, and help shape a strong path forward.”

WaKeeney – Wednesday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m.
Western Kansas Electric Cooperative Community Room
Topic: Exploring Opportunities for WaKeeney and Trego County
This broader session will highlight current projects in the area and invite residents to contribute ideas and feedback. Participants will help identify actionable next steps to ensure continued community vitality.
“Strategic Doing goes beyond just sharing ideas—it’s focused on taking action,” said Savannah Downing, Heartland’s Trego County Director. “We’re inviting our community members in WaKeeney to come together and be part of creating real solutions.”

Both meetings use the Strategic Doing model, a guided process that helps communities form collaborative groups, develop practical solutions, and build momentum through measurable steps. Participation is also part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, which encourages long-term, collaborative thinking by offering additional grant opportunities to communities that actively engage in this process.
No RSVP is required. Refreshments will be provided at both events. All are welcome.
For more information:

• Plainville meeting: Contact Deanna Hammerschmidt at (785) 621-4090 or visit www.heartlandcf.org.
• WaKeeney meeting: Contact Savannah Downing at (785) 743-3270 or email savannah@gscf.org.