In 2001, the Kansas Health Foundation offered a $300,000 match if the Pittsburg community could raise $300,000 to establish the Pittsburg Area Community Foundation. A caring group of citizens rallied together to raise the funds, and on February 28, 2001, they established the Pittsburg Area Community Foundation. A few years later, the board of the Foundation recognized that they had funds that were supporting projects across Southeast Kansas and felt that the Pittsburg Area Community Foundation was too narrow a title, and so they changed the name to the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK).
Since its inception in 2001, the Community Foundation has provided over $23 million in grants and scholarships to SEK nonprofits, students, and projects benefiting the people of Southeast Kansas. From its humble beginning, CFSEK has grown to over $70 million in total assets and serves as host for three affiliates: Columbus Area Community Foundation, Fort Scott Area Community Foundation, and Girard Area Community Foundation.
“Southeast Kansas was blessed 24 years ago when the passion, vision, and commitment of local individuals came together with the establishment of the Community Foundation,” said CFSEK Board President Linda Grilz. “Over the years, CFSEK has grown to include three affiliates in our family and expanded the reach of our grants and scholarships. I am excited about our future! CFSEK keeps money local and funds causes most important to our area.”
The story of CFSEK is one of compassion, care, and a desire to see the betterment of all Southeast Kansas. The Foundation has seen tremendous growth in 24 years. From a staff of one to a staff of five (soon to be six), seven competitive granting opportunities, and over 40 scholarship opportunities, CFSEK has impacted the lives of thousands across our region.
“Our team is honored to build upon the legacy and dedication of those leaders who came before us to build the Foundation into what it is today,” said Devin Gorman, CFSEK Executive Director. “As we look to the future, we are committed to increasing our impact and working alongside donors and organizations who share our passion for investing in our region to create meaningful change.”
Looking back on 24 years of impact, it’s clear that CFSEK’s success has always been rooted in the generosity and vision of our community. A community foundation is only as strong as the people who believe in its mission, and without dedicated donors, CFSEK might still be striving to raise that initial $300,000. Instead, the Foundation is focused on building even more opportunities for SEK communities—granting millions more in support, funding dreams through scholarships, and driving projects that shape our future.