Hailey
The Morgan Wilkie Fund, a designated component of the Emporia Community Foundation (ECF), has distributed a total of $3,800 in grants to three impactful organizations across Lyon County.
These funds were granted to K-State Research and Extension Lyon County, Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lyon County, and The Baby Closet of Emporia, all of which serve vital roles in strengthening the local community.
Honoring a Legacy of Compassion
Established by Clara Wilkie Sharpe in memory of her parents and late husband, the Morgan Wilkie Fund was designed to enhance the well-being of elderly individuals, women, and children throughout Emporia and Lyon County.
Though Clara passed away in 1951, her vision of uplifting the most vulnerable in society lives on through this enduring fund.
Linda Kehres-Schmidt, Executive Director of ECF, highlighted the enduring impact of such contributions, stating:
“Clara believed in the community and wanted to honor her loved ones in a meaningful way, ensuring their legacy lives on forever. A legacy gift supports a cause for years to come, giving back to the community over and over again.”
Breakdown of the 2025 Grant Allocations
Following a recent committee review, the fund was allocated as follows:
| Recipient Organization | Grant Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| K-State Research and Extension Lyon County | $2,500 | To offer Medicare Education Sessions during the annual Open Enrollment period, equipping residents with crucial information to make informed healthcare decisions. |
| Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lyon County | $1,500 | To support the one-to-one mentorship program, helping pair youth with responsible and nurturing adult volunteers. |
| The Baby Closet of Emporia | $1,750 | To purchase basic life essentials for children from infancy to age five, ensuring healthier early childhood development. |
These targeted grants aim to deliver timely and tangible benefits to residents across Lyon County, especially those facing health, financial, or developmental challenges.
Impacting Lives Across Generations
The recent grant cycle reflects not only the generosity of a single donor but also the long-term influence of legacy philanthropy.
Through consistent funding, these organizations can continue to address community-specific needs such as elder care, child development, and mentorship for at-risk youth.
Each recipient organization plays a strategic role in uplifting the community:
- K-State Extension helps seniors navigate complex healthcare choices.
- Big Brothers Big Sisters nurtures positive relationships that shape the next generation.
- The Baby Closet ensures that the youngest residents of Emporia start life with the necessities they deserve.
The Morgan Wilkie Fund exemplifies how a single act of generosity can create an enduring impact on a community. Through strategic and heartfelt giving, Clara Wilkie Sharpe’s memory continues to support those most in need across Lyon County.
These grants not only provide immediate assistance but also pave the way for long-term growth and stability in the region.