Community gathering at the September 26 Chamber Coffee was more than a morning gathering — it was a celebration of community growth, generosity, and a look ahead at what’s to come in Grant County.
Hosted at the new Grant County Community Foundation (GCCF) building, the event began with a walk down memory lane. Before the coffee cups were filled, Teri Christian shared the history of how GCCF came to be. What started with a modest $200 donation grew into a lasting organization thanks in large part to the vision of Ken and Judy Keusler. Their early leadership helped launch the Foundation’s first major project, raising $50,000 for Women of Purpose during the difficult years of the recession. The effort became the seed for what is now known as Grant County Gives, touching the lives of women and children throughout the community.
The Foundation’s story has now reached a new chapter with the gift of a building donated by Dixie Flowers, one of its major benefactors. Executive Director Sabrina Gaddis, Administrative Assistant Sue Ellen Borthwick, and several board members welcomed guests to tour the building, which includes an upstairs space previously converted into a condo. Ideas are being sought for how best to use that space in the future.
The Foundation also shared highlights of its ongoing projects, including awarding eight $1,000 scholarships in 2025, supporting Jag-K through a calendar fundraiser, and recently donating $1,500 to the UHS Junior Leadership group. Applications remain open for the 2025 Grant County Competitive Grants, and a new donor software system is being implemented to improve transparency and engagement. Looking further ahead, GCCF announced the creation of a new alumni fund to benefit local schools and revealed a $50,000 unrestricted grant from the Paterson Family Foundation. Excitement is also building for the Foundation’s first-ever gala, “Rooted & Radiant,” set for January 31.
The Chamber Coffee also served as a hub for upcoming community announcements. The Ulysses News shared details on its Chalk Art Contest and put out a call for additional writers. Grant County Tourism reminded residents about the October 18 Wine Walk, featuring live music by the Adam Mathes Band, and Fall Fest on October 4. Other fall fun includes Grant County Bank’s axe-throwing event, the opening of Dr. Bishop’s Trampoline Park, and recreation department activities such as adult tricycle races and the Autumn Layers Cake Contest. Bear Creek Coffee will host a Paint & Sip on October 24, and Dream First Bank is taking registrations for an October 15 AI Business Seminar.
Several community service events are also on the calendar. A food bank produce distribution will take place October 2 at the Senior Center, with information available through the Senior Center or Health Department. A Candidate Forum hosted by the Farm Bureau and Chamber is set for October 30 ahead of the November election. Two blood drives are scheduled in October — one at the Civic Center and another at the LDS Church — while the Grant County Health Fair is planned for October 25, with CommonSpirit Health assisting with blood draws.
Local traditions are also returning this fall. The Rotary Duck Race is around the corner, as is the “Before & Crafter” Flea Market on October 11–12. The Ulysses Masonic Lodge shared that this year’s raffle will feature a classic blue 1967 Pontiac GTO alongside its popular gun raffle, with proceeds benefiting local causes and eligible for matching funds through the Masonic Foundation.
Closing out the morning, Grant County Ambassadors recognized Avida Wellness as September’s Business of the Month. The next Chamber Coffee will be hosted by Furever Friends at Unity Park.
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