UFM Community Learning Center

Goal: $20,000.00

Mission

UFM Community Learning Center is a creative educational program serving Kansas State University, the Manhattan area, and the state of Kansas. Based on the philosophy that everyone can learn and everyone can teach, UFM provides opportunities for lifelong learning and personal development. UFM serves as a forum for the exchange of ideas and as a catalyst for new programs and services that enhance the quality of life for all.

Profile

UFM provides opportunities for lifelong learning for all ages and in many formats. Community Enrichment classes offer a variety of classes for all ages through instructors from the community. Class instructors come from all areas of the community and have ranged in age from 6, sharing knowledge about rabbit care, to 98, teaching a class on healthy living. Class topics include, but are not limited to, arts and crafts, personal development, health and wellness, career and leadership, cooking, recreation and fitness, language and culture, earth and nature, special interests, hobbies, and youth classes. Over 13,000 people participate in UFM programs and activities each year.

Through your donations, you can contribute to equitable and accessible educational opportunities. This year, we are making a special ask: Can you help us raise funds for a new K-5 after-school enrichment program? Beginning in Fall 2026, USD 383 elementary schools will dismiss students at 2:30 PM, creating a critical childcare gap for working families during the 3:00–6:00 PM after-school hours. UFM plans to launch an After-school Building Leadership and Enrichment (ABLE) program serving up to 25 K-5 students, providing transportation from school, homework support, enrichment activities, social-emotional learning, and youth leadership opportunities through teen mentoring. Some Grow Green funds will help purchase a program van, support staff training, provide scholarships for families, and supply the resources needed to ensure a safe and successful launch.

UFM sponsors many special programs and collaborations. These include:

Veteran Wellness - UFM is proud to offer Veteran Wellness, a free class in partnership with the VA Eastern Kansas Whole Health program. This program supports veterans in creating personalized health plans, setting meaningful goals, and exploring the next steps that align with their individual wellness journeys. Open to veterans currently enrolled or enrolling in VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare, the class encourages participants to reflect on what matters most to them and take charge of their well-being. Each semester, up to 35 qualifying veterans will also receive a $200 scholarship to use toward any of UFM’s non-alcohol-related community enrichment classes, offering opportunities to learn, connect, and grow in supportive and engaging ways.

Community Enrichment & Personal Development - UFM Community Learning Center offers a variety of local community enrichment and personal enrichment classes for all ages through instructors from the community. In the Manhattan area alone, we offer over 200 community enrichment classes per semester. Offering grassroots community education across the state of Kansas allows Kansans to learn for learning’s sake.

Teen Mentoring Program - This program, for middle school and high school students, offers friendship, fun, food, and guidance with volunteer mentors! The goal of this program is to provide a positive environment and friendship while modeling positive life skills with the students, so the students involved do not have to walk the confusing path of middle school and high school alone.

Project EXCELL - Project EXCELL provides personal enrichment and life skill classes to adults 18 years and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities. EXCELL strives to give these students a college-like experience. It also provides the opportunity for EXCELL students and Kansas State University students to grow and learn through interactions with each other. 

Community Gardens - The Manhattan Community Gardens are a cooperative gardening project located in the southern part of Manhattan, Kansas.

Solar Ceramics Program - The Solar Ceramics Program offers hands-on opportunities to explore clay through community classes and open studio access. Whether you are just starting or have experience, it provides a welcoming space to create, practice, and connect with others.

Lifetime Learning Program - UFM’s Lifetime Learning program is designed to celebrate lifelong curiosity and personal growth for adults aged 50 and older. These classes and events offer opportunities to connect, explore new interests, and stay engaged through a variety of social, cultural, and intellectual experiences. While the program is designed with the interests of adults 50+ in mind, all ages are welcome to join in and experience the joy of continued learning.

Lou Douglas Lecture Series - The Lou Douglas Lectures aim to expand understanding of public policy and the issues that shape our communities. These lectures contribute to the education of K-State students and others on campus and in the broader community by featuring speakers who explore public policy and examine the social, political, and economic factors that influence our world.