BURLINGTON, Kan. — Coffey County Economic Development announces that Coffey
County has been selected for a 2027 Common Good Partnership with the Kansas
Leadership Center (KLC), providing funding for up to 20 Coffey County residents to
participate in leadership training next year.
Coffey County is among 69 Kansas organizations selected for the partnership. The
program provides a year of grant-funded access to KLC training, resources, and
consultation to help participants work together and make progress on community
challenges.
For Coffey County, the opportunity supports a priority of growing local leadership and
encouraging more residents to take an active role in their communities.
“In a rural community, a small group of people often carries a large share of the work,”
said Jenny Tatman, Coffey County Economic Development Director. “We want to help
more residents recognize what they can contribute and give them practical tools to get
involved. Investing in people strengthens our ability to support local businesses,
address housing needs, and move community projects forward.”
Rural communities depend on collaboration among volunteers, businesses, schools,
nonprofit organizations, and local government. Leadership development can help
residents bring different perspectives together, navigate difficult conversations, and
sustain efforts that require cooperation over time.
The partnership offers an opportunity to build those skills and develop connections
among people who care about Coffey County’s future. CCED hopes to engage
residents from across the county’s communities and a variety of backgrounds.
“You do not have to hold an elected office or have a leadership title to make a
difference,” Tatman said. “Some of our most important community work starts with
someone noticing a need and being willing to help. We are grateful to KLC for helping
us invest in that potential.”
CCED will share additional information about available training, participation
expectations, and how residents can be considered for the opportunity as local plans
are finalized. Residents are encouraged to follow the Coffey County Economic
Development Facebook page for updates.
About Coffey County Economic Development
Coffey County Economic Development supports business startup and growth, workforce
development, industrial readiness, and community partnerships that strengthen the local
economy and quality of life.
About the Kansas Leadership Center
The Kansas Leadership Center is a Wichita-based nonprofit founded in 2007. KLC
provides leadership development, coaching, research, and other resources to help
people work together on challenges facing their organizations and communities.
