From UWCK
United Way of Central Kansas (UWCK) has awarded $2,600 through its May 2026 Impact Grant cycle to support five local nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities across Barton County. The grants support projects aligned with UWCK's focus areas of Healthy Community, Youth Opportunity, and Financial Security.
The May grant recipients include:
· Cornerstone Armory – Funding to support Cornerstone Youth Connect, a program designed to provide mentorship, relationship-building opportunities, and personal development activities for middle and high school students.
· Rise Up Central Kansas – Support for family education and caregiver resources focused on helping families impacted by substance use and strengthening long-term family stability.
· ESSDACK – Barton County Academy – Funding for an engineering and innovation lab that will provide students with hands-on STEM learning opportunities and career readiness experiences.
· ABCC, Inc. – Support for the creation of a shaded sandbox play area, providing a safe outdoor learning and play environment for young children.
· GPS Kids Club – Funding to improve playground safety through the installation of protective surfacing around a donated swing structure.
United Way of Central Kansas launched the Impact Grant program to provide flexible funding for innovative projects that address emerging community needs and create meaningful local impact.
“These grants help local organizations address needs and create opportunities that strengthen our communities,” said Charell Owings, Executive Director of United Way of Central Kansas. “We are proud to invest in projects that support children, families, and individuals across Central Kansas.”
The Impact Grant program provides funding for community-driven projects that create positive change and strengthen the health, education, and financial well-being of local residents.
For more information about the Impact Grant program or to learn how you can support local initiatives, visit United Way of Central Kansas.