02 Jul MCCF continues Mastermind initiative with community focus groups
The McPherson County Community Foundation is continuing its Mastermind McPherson County initiative this summer by replacing its community survey process with a series of public focus groups across the county.
Launched in 2023, the initiative was created to help the foundation align its grantmaking with needs identified by community members. During its first three years, residents completed community surveys that helped identify local priorities. That survey process concluded with the 2025 survey.
To continue gathering community input, the foundation has shifted to a focus group model. The public meetings will give residents an opportunity to discuss challenges, opportunities and priorities within their communities. Betsy Davis, MCCF director of community services, will facilitate each session.
“Our goal is to better meet the needs of our communities.” Davis said, “Your input through these focus groups helps us in our mission.”
The first focus group is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. July 7 at the Canton Carnegie Library. Additional meetings will continue through August in communities throughout McPherson County.
Following the conclusion of the focus groups, the foundation plans to release anonymized summaries of each meeting. MCCF said the information will help guide local organizations, nonprofits and community leaders as they address identified needs.
The Mastermind initiative will conclude with a special grant cycle scheduled to open during the fourth quarter of 2026.
Foundation officials encourage residents interested in community improvement, volunteerism or nonprofit work to participate in a focus group.
Scheduled focus groups include:
Canton: 3:30 p.m. July 7 | Canton Carnegie Library
McPherson: 10 a.m. Aug. 4, 10 a.m. Aug. 12 and 3 p.m. Aug. 16 | McPherson Public Library
Moundridge: 6:30 p.m. Aug. 3 and 2 p.m. Aug. 19 | Moundridge Public Library
Lindsborg: 11 a.m. July 31 | Lindsborg Community Library
Marquette: Date and location to be announced.
Inman: Date and location to be announced.
Galva: 6 p.m. July 23 | Christ Kids Childcare Center