Great Bend, Kan.–Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. (WEC) announced today that American Legion Post 180 has been awarded a $1,000 grant from the WEC Sharing Success Fund. The grant will go towards making modifications to the building's entrance and bathroom, enhancing wheelchair accessibility for veterans and visitors.
Accessibility is more than just a convenience; it's a necessity for many individuals, particularly veterans who may live with mobility issues due to injuries sustained in service. Without accessible public spaces like the American Legion, veterans and their families can face barriers to participating in events, accessing services, and connecting with the community. Along with the recently installed wheelchair ramp, these upgrades, will help ensure that all veterans—regardless of physical ability—can take part in its programs and activities. Accessible spaces foster independence, equal opportunities, and dignity, helping to reduce isolation and promote full participation in community life.
The American Legion, founded in 1919 by veterans returning from World War I, is the largest wartime veterans’ service organization in the United States. It is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that advocates for the rights and well-being of veterans, supports strong national defense, promotes patriotism, and provides invaluable services to military families. The organization's programs are aimed at providing continuous support to those currently overseas and returning veterans of war. For more information, contact Post 180 at 620-793-5912.
The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the WEC Sharing Success Fund from community-based organizations on December 1, 2012. Since then, the application process has been moved internally and is currently handled directly by WEC. This year, WEC and CoBank have once again each contributed $10,000 to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted. Since 2012, WEC’s Sharing Success Fund has made $165,000 available to community-based organizations and projects across their service territory.
Community based organizations interested in receiving funding from the WEC Sharing Success Fund can apply online. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, Director of Member Services & Corporate Communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.
