Kansas Animator Network Introduction
/Episode Summary
Three Kansas Animator Network cohort participants from across the state of Kansas join us this week to share what they have learned over the past four months as they have engaged in asset-based community development and have begun working within their communities to explore the gifts and treasures their communities have to offer.
Quotable Moment This Week: "No matter where you are, rural/urban/wherever, there's always a stranger who wants to become a neighbor."- Allie Utley
Episode Notes
Guest Speaker: Allie Utley from Allen County, KS
Allie has worked across the state since 2018 as the Executive Assistant to the CEO at Thrive Allen County, the largest and most prominent rural health advocacy organization in Kansas. Outside of Thrive, Allie is the Secretary of the Kansas Young Democrats, a Young Kansans for Barbara Bollier co-chair, a columnist at the Iola Register, and a tennis instructor.
Guest Speaker: Rev. Jeff Prothro from De Soto, KS
"I am a lifelong Kansan who has served as pastor in United Methodist Churches since 2008. I was appointed to De Soto UMC in 2014 and have been blessed to serve in this community. I am married to Leighann and we have two fantastic children. I am a graduate of Southwestern College in Winfield (Go Builders!) and earned my Masters of Divinity from Wesley Theological Seminary in D.C. I enjoy reading, movies, music, trivia, running, Royals baseball and KU Basketball. I am dedicated to sharing in Christ's love to all people in words and action.
Guest Speaker: Tori Gleason from western KS
"Hello, friends! My name is Tori and I’ve been working in NW Kansas since 2006 as a Sports Chiropractor. I was born and raised in Dodge City and educated in the Little Apple as well as Davenport, IA. I have a passion for youth mentorship, coaching, health equality in LGBTQ+ populations, and rural healthcare leadership as I serve on our rural hospital board. I’m a Mum to a 12-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old son. I’m excited to learn from others as we elevate voices across the state to tell a story about how diverse and wonderful the people really are."
The Kansas Animator Network video is COMING SOON!