Heather Porter

Central Kansas Community Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to building stronger communities throughout central Kansas through philanthropy and charitable giving. The non-profit company is based in Newton, KS. It serves as a host foundation supporting 18 to 19 affiliate community foundations, enabling smaller communities to establish and manage locally governed foundations under its umbrella. Affiliates benefit from CKCF’s tax-exempt status, pooled investments, and shared administrative, financial, marketing, and estate planning services, while local advisory boards oversee grantmaking and community leadership. CKCF offers competitive grant funding, discretionary grants, and integrates the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals into its grantmaking to address issues such as poverty, health, education, inequality, and environmental sustainability. The foundation provides resources for grant applicants, donors, financial professionals, and charities, manages endowment and organizational funds, offers estate and planned giving services, and facilitates community convening on local issues. CKCF emphasizes ethical standards, donor privacy, inclusivity, and volunteer protection, and actively engages volunteers and recognizes philanthropic contributions through awards and events. It maintains transparency by publishing financial reports and provides ongoing support and training to affiliates and community partners. The company was founded in 1994 by Brad K. Heppner. The CEO is Angie Tatro.