Flint Hills Breadbasket is a nonprofit focused on increasing food security for all residents of Riley County. Since 1982, the Breadbasket has acted as a collection and distribution site for food donations aiming to reduce food waste by pairing excess food with people in need.

SENT Inc. is a grassroots 501(c)3 organization working with under-resourced communities in Shawnee County. Our mission is to intentionally walk beside neighbors through loving relationships and strategic development to accomplish the holistic transformation of neighborhoods in Shawnee County. Our strategy focuses on the key areas of Housing and Business Development, Community Wellness, Behavioral Health, and Education, through Loving Relationships, Life-Giving Resources, and Life-Changing Experiences.

Last year we launched a new program to help spread the word about local community organizations, and we're happy to announce its return for 2025! KPR’s Community Spotlight gives these organizations an opportunity to spread awareness using KPR’s airwaves each month. Spotlight recipients will also have a small feature on-air, in our monthly enewsletter and on the KPR website at kansaspublicradio.org.

YWCA Northeast Kansas is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Our programs strengthen the community through survivor services, early childhood education, affordable childcare, advocacy, and public education and training.

Americana Music Academy is a not-for-profit music school dedicated to providing music education and music-making opportunities for people of all ages. Founded in 2002, AMA's mission is to teach, promote, and support the advancement of all forms of American roots music and its influences.

Cherry Street Youth Center, Inc., is a Christian based ministry in Chanute formed to help develop children emotionally, spiritually, physically, and academically in our community. We believe all children should feel loveable, worthwhile, capable, and responsible.

Community Village Lawrence is a local, volunteer-based, nonprofit dedicated to supporting affordable in-home aging for adults. Their network of members and volunteers help neighbors live independently as long as possible.

The Lawrence Community Orchestra provides a dynamic musical experience where people of all backgrounds celebrate and share music together.

After the Harvest rescues nutritious fruits and vegetables from going to waste and donates them to agencies that serve hungry people, primarily in Greater Kansas City. Their volunteers glean after the harvest, picking what’s left in farmers’ fields and picking up already harvested leftover produce.

Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Flint Hills builds homes, community and hope across the Flint Hills Region. We are an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity, International - operating in new construction, home preservation, and mortgage services. We are an Aging-in-Place and Veterans Build Affiliate, advocating for the unique needs of our Veteran and older neighbors.