Today we chatted with Rachelle Wertenberger & Kent Saylor about how a beloved classmate's legacy inspires and transforms lives even after tragedy strikes. Join us as we honor Tara Ploeger through a heartfelt conversation with Kent and Rachel, who share their deeply personal connections with Tara and the scholarship created in her memory. You'll hear how an unexpected tragedy led to overwhelming community support, ultimately transitioning the Tara Ploeger Scholarship into an endowed fund. Through Kent and Rachel's touching stories, we highlight the emotional challenges of fundraising and celebrate the enduring tribute to Tara's vibrant spirit and dedication to her community.

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Today we chatted with Morree Floersch Chairperson of the Clay Center Community Improvement Foundation and Bill Oetinger President of the Clay County Education Endowment Association (CCEEA). Listen as Bill retells the remarkable journey of the CCEEA, whose humble beginnings over two decades ago have transformed into a powerhouse for local scholarships, bolstered by the incredible $2.6 million McDaniel family donation. But the story doesn't end there. Mitzi discusses with Morree and Bill the ambitious $8 million fundraising campaign for a new community center in Clay Center, fueled by technology, grants, and a vision for the future. We celebrate the vibrant culture of philanthropy fostered by passionate individuals from all walks of life, contributing to the Clay Center Kansas growth. This episode is a testament to the power of collaboration, pride, and the enduring legacy of donors committed to nurturing future generations.

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Today we talked with Claudia Jones and Nicole Kucherov about The American Association of University Women (AAUW) scholarships and its role in empowering women since the 1920s. Claudia, an AAUW board member, shares the AAUW's incredible history and community contributions such as traveling libraries and Depression-era daycare support. Listen to Nicole's heartfelt experience as a non-traditional student and mother who found new hope through targeted scholarships. Discover how her teaching English in Chile and her AmeriCorps service have fueled her dreams of blending research and education.

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