July 27, 2026
Courtesy story and photo submitted
Volunteers In Action of Central Kansas has been awarded the 2026 AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP grant, allowing the organization to once again partner with AmeriCorps to strengthen volunteerism and meet critical community needs throughout Barton County.
The grant marks an exciting new chapter for Volunteers In Action after a year of transition. While the organization continued to serve the community through local partnerships and the unwavering support of volunteers, staff, donors, and community leaders, receiving the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP grant restores an important partnership that has helped connect volunteers with meaningful service opportunities for decades.
Director of Volunteers In Action of Central Kansas Linn Hogg said she is excited to once again be working alongside AmeriCorps Seniors.
"This grant allows us to continue building strong volunteer connections while helping address some of the greatest unmet needs in our communities,” she said.
Hogg said she wanted to extend her sincere appreciation to Barton Community College for its steadfast support throughout the past year.
“As the sponsoring organization, the College provided invaluable encouragement, resources, and stability during a period of change, allowing Volunteers In Action to continue serving residents while pursuing renewed federal funding,” she said. “The support of Barton Community College has been instrumental. Their belief in our mission gave us the foundation to continue moving forward. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and commitment to volunteerism in Central Kansas."
Barton President Dr. Marcus Garstecki said the College is proud to continue supporting AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP.
"At Barton, we believe the strength of our communities is built through service," he said. "Volunteers in Action reflects our commitment to connecting people with meaningful opportunities to make a difference, one act of service at a time."
AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP is one of the nation's largest volunteer engagement programs for adults aged 55 and older. Through the program, volunteers use their time, talents, and experience to improve the quality of life in their communities while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Locally, Volunteers In Action recruits, trains, and supports volunteers serving in a variety of programs, including Meals on Wheels, non-emergency medical transportation, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, Medicare counseling, blood drives, food distribution, and numerous nonprofit and community organizations throughout Barton County.
Hogg said the renewed partnership with AmeriCorps Seniors will expand opportunities for individuals who want to give back while helping local organizations address growing community needs.
"Our volunteers are the heart of everything we do," she said. "Whether someone has a few hours a month or several days each week, there is a place where their skills and compassion can make a real difference. We look forward to welcoming both returning and new volunteers as we continue connecting people with opportunities to serve."
Individuals interested in becoming an AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteer or organizations seeking volunteer support are encouraged to contact Volunteers In Action of Central Kansas at (620) 792-1614 or visit the office at 1025 Main Street in Great Bend to learn more about available opportunities.
With the 2026 AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP grant in place, Volunteers In Action is excited to continue its mission of connecting community volunteers with meaningful service opportunities, strengthening nonprofit organizations, and improving the lives of residents throughout Barton County.