Western Cooperative Electric Powers Community Revitalization with $5,000 Grant to Ransom VFW

In the heart of western Kansas, a community beacon for veterans and local residents alike, the Ransom VFW Post 7972 is receiving a much-needed revitalization thanks to a $5,000 Sharing Success grant from Western Cooperative Electric. This funding boost is part of a larger effort spearheaded by The Forgotten Stewardship, a veteran-led nonprofit committed to enhancing rural community spaces across the region.

The project, affectionately dubbed 'Move and Groove', aims to breathe new life into the VFW post by upgrading its facilities to better serve its members and the broader community. The updates include replacing ceiling tiles, carpeting, adding footers, and applying concrete sealer, among other improvements. These enhancements are crucial not only for the aesthetic and functional uplift of the space but also for ensuring it remains a safe and welcoming environment for the numerous community events it hosts, from weddings to dances.

Nolan Numrich, Assistant General Manager of Western Cooperative Electric, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "Supporting The Forgotten Stewardship's project at the Ransom VFW Post aligns perfectly with our mission to empower and uplift the communities we serve. We are proud to assist in preserving a place that holds tremendous significance for our veterans and the Ransom community."

The involvement of Western Cooperative Electric in this project is a testament to their commitment to community development. The Sharing Success grant, funded in part by CoBank, a national cooperative bank, is designed to match contributions by cooperatives towards nonprofit organizations and charitable causes.

Dylan Nuttle, founder of The Forgotten Stewardship and a United States Marine Corps veteran, shared his vision for the project, highlighting the crucial role of community support in bringing such initiatives to fruition. "We all have to work together," he noted. "It's going to be communities that build this back. With Western Cooperative's generous contribution, we're set to make significant headway in not only repairing but fundamentally enhancing this beloved local landmark. Community support is vital to our success."

The Ransom VFW Post has been an all-state post 33 times and serves veterans and military members from active duty, the National Guard, and reserve forces. It's a vital part of the community, offering a place of camaraderie and support for those who have served their country.

For those interested in supporting the 'Move and Groove' operation, donations can be made directly to The Forgotten Stewardship. Contributions will help cover costs not only for the immediate repairs but also for future projects aimed at supporting rural communities and veterans.

As the project moves forward, it's clear that the impact of such work extends beyond physical renovations. It's about creating a sustainable environment where the community can gather, support one another, and thrive. Thanks to the support of Western Cooperative Electric and the dedicated efforts of The Forgotten Stewardship, the Ransom VFW Post is set to continue its legacy as a cornerstone of community life in western Kansas.

For more information on how to donate or get involved, please visit The Forgotten Stewardship's website or contact their office directly. Your support can make a real difference in the lives of our veterans and the vitality of our rural communities.