Susan Ferrin

What is Giving Tuesday and Why Should You Care?

Giving Tuesday falls on the Tuesday following U.S. Thanksgiving. Last year, a record $3.1 billion was raised in the U.S. in 24 hours. Its primary purpose is to inspire generosity during the holiday season and promote the idea that everyone has the capacity to give back. It encourages people to donate their time, resources, or talents to charitable organizations and causes.

While it originated in the United States, Giving Tuesday has become a global movement with participation from individuals, organizations, and businesses worldwide. It is a day for people to unite across borders and cultures to support causes they care about.

Giving Tuesday is often associated with online donations and social media campaigns. Many nonprofits use this day to launch fundraising campaigns, leveraging the power of social media platforms and online giving portals. However, offline events and activities also play a role, with communities and organizations organizing local events to encourage charitable giving.

Social media plays a crucial role in the success of Giving Tuesday. Nonprofits and donors use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to share their stories, campaigns, and encourage others to join in. The hashtag #GivingTuesday is widely used to promote and track related activities.

What about Giving Tuesday’s impact on rural America?

In even the most prosperous times, rural communities encounter persistent challenges in accessing essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. These challenges often stem from geographical isolation, limited resources, and a lack of attention compared to more urbanized areas.

Nonprofits like the Fay Rural Community Foundation are crucial in addressing these challenges. Giving Tuesday provides a strategic platform for such organizations to educate and remind the wider public about the pressing needs of rural communities. These nonprofits can use this day to shed light on the issues faced by rural areas, fostering awareness and understanding among potential donors.

For instance, the Fay Rural Community Foundation might use Giving Tuesday to highlight the healthcare disparities in rural regions, emphasizing the need for medical services, outreach programs, and health education. They can showcase the limited educational opportunities and resources available to rural students, advocating for initiatives that enhance access to quality education.

Moreover, the Foundation can draw attention to the inadequate infrastructure in rural areas, from roads and bridges to utilities, impacting residents’ overall quality of life. By leveraging Giving Tuesday, nonprofits can stress the importance of addressing these issues to ensure the survival and thriving of rural communities.

The message conveyed on Giving Tuesday is a powerful one: these communities need sustained support, and their survival is at stake if they are neglected. Through targeted fundraising efforts and community engagement on Giving Tuesday, nonprofits can mobilize resources to make a lasting impact on rural America, helping bridge the gaps and create a more equitable and sustainable future for these often overlooked communities.

To learn more about what we do in rural communities, visit our Projects page!

Susan Ferrin

Cokeville, Wyoming: A Small Town with a Big Heart, Supporting Cokeville High School’s DC Trip

Cokeville, Wyoming, is different from a place you’ll find in travel brochures or on the front pages of national newspapers. It’s a small, unassuming town nestled in the rugged landscapes of the Cowboy State. With just over 500 residents, it’s a quintessential small town where community values run deep. Lately, this peaceful rural community has shown strong support for education by coming together to help 16 junior students from Cokeville High School head to Washington, DC. This trip is designed to immerse them in the nation’s capital, bringing them closer to its history, culture, and government. For 16 eager high school juniors, this journey represents more than just a school trip; it is a chance to broaden their horizons and enhance their education in a way that textbooks and classrooms alone cannot provide.

In partnership with Fay Ranches’ agents Kelsea Vaughan and Neil Bangs on behalf of the Mackey family, who have been dedicated members of the community for generations, the Foundation took on a special mission – to assist in helping Cokeville High School’s junior students embark on the enriching journey to Washington, DC. Cokeville High School serves 106 students in grades 7-12. The Mackey family’s longstanding commitment to the community made this initiative even more meaningful, reflecting their deep-rooted desire to support the education and growth of the next generation in Cokeville. “Cokeville represents a typical rural American community, embodying the core principles of our mission at the Fay Rural Community Foundation. Our steadfast commitment is dedicated to improving education, healthcare, and youth resources within small towns nationwide. Within the serene backdrop of Cokeville, where 16 high school juniors harbor ambitious aspirations, our Foundation recognized a compelling responsibility to effect positive change.” – Susan Ferrin, Executive Director, Fay Rural Community Foundation. “In Cokeville, we believe in the power of community and the value of education. Our small town may not be in the spotlight, but our commitment to our students’ dreams is unwavering. The journey to Washington, DC, is not just a school trip; it serves as a unique opportunity for our 16 motivated high school juniors to broaden their perspectives and uncover the heart of the nation. The invaluable support provided by the Fay Rural Community Foundation, Kelsea Vaughan and Neil Bangs from Fay Ranches, have made this educational endeavor a reality. Together, we’re proving that big hearts and strong communities can make extraordinary things happen even in the most unassuming places.” Kenneth Deitz, Principal
Kelsea Vaughan and Neil Bangs, agents with Fay Ranches, are more than just real estate experts. They are passionate advocates for the communities they serve. Their dedication extends beyond property transactions; they go above and beyond to support local initiatives. The Fay Rural Community Foundation was founded with a distinct purpose: to address the resource and opportunity deficits commonly witnessed in small rural communities nationwide. Our commitment remains unwavering as we aim to improve healthcare, education, and youth resources in rural America. By directing our endeavors towards these pivotal areas, our objective is to make a profound difference in the overall welfare, quality of life, and economic vibrancy of these communities. Our passion and mission are centered on providing resources and opportunities that elevate the prospects and spirit of rural America.

This program is still in need of your support to achieve its vital goal of sending all 16 juniors to Washington, DC! If you’re passionate about making this dream a reality, please reach out to the Fay Rural Community Foundation. Let’s rally together and ensure the entire class can experience Washington, DC!

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Susan Ferrin

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders with Cutting-Edge Technology: The Manhattan School’s Touchscreen Chromebook Initiative

Manhattan, Montana, nestled in the picturesque Gallatin Valley, is a charming and close-knit community with a population that embraces its small-town charm. Surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Montana landscape, Manhattan offers a serene and friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal place to call home for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle while still being within reach of the vibrant culture of larger cities like Bozeman.

In a world where technology is rapidly evolving, educational institutions must adapt to ensure students receive the best possible learning experiences. The Manhattan School in Manhattan, Montana is no exception to this rule, and they have recently unveiled an ambitious plan to enhance the education of their youngest students: kindergartners and first-graders. After in-depth discussions and careful consideration, the school identified a critical requirement—a 30 Chromebook cart with touchscreen capabilities.  With the generous support of the Fay Rural Community Foundation and several exceptional donors this requirement is being filled.

These touchscreen Chromebooks are set to be a game-changer, distinguishing themselves from regular models by offering an intuitive and interactive learning experience. The decision to introduce this cutting-edge technology was driven by a keen awareness that young students often face challenges with keyboarding skills.

By providing touchscreen Chromebooks, the Manhattan School aims to bridge this gap and significantly improve the learning experience for their youngest scholars.

“With the invaluable support of the Fay Rural Community Foundation and dedicated donors, we are igniting a transformative educational journey for our young learners. These touchscreen Chromebooks are the embodiment of opportunity and progress, helping us nurture a generation of agile, tech-savvy minds ready to conquer the challenges of a dynamic future.” – Brian Ayer, Superintendent of Manhattan School

The introduction of these touchscreen devices promises to bring about a wave of positive change within the school. Beyond addressing keyboarding challenges, they are expected to elevate student engagement, foster interactive learning, and familiarize students with technology from an early age. With the world becoming increasingly digital, the ability to navigate and leverage technology effectively is a crucial skill that will benefit these students throughout their academic journeys and beyond.

In recent years, the Manhattan School has actively embraced several educational products from Renaissance, a leading provider of educational software and assessments. Their successful integration of tools like STAR assessments for Math and English/Reading, along with Freckle, a powerful support tool for academic growth, has been notable. However, recognizing the unique challenges faced by younger students, the school has identified a need for touchscreens to optimize the utilization of these platforms.

The touchscreen Chromebooks will not only assist students in
navigating these educational resources more effortlessly but will also
contribute to building their confidence and proficiency in utilizing technology
effectively. This integration of technology into their learning experiences
aligns with the school’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education that
equips students with skills for the future.

“As we look ahead to a future where technology plays an ever-increasing
role, initiatives like these empower young minds to thrive in an evolving
world. The Manhattan School’s commitment to their students’ growth and
development demonstrates their pledge to provide an outstanding education that
prepares these young scholars for the challenges and opportunities of
tomorrow.”– Susan Ferrin, Executive Director, Fay Rural Community Foundation

 

Susan Ferrin

Building a Brighter Future: Fay Rural Community Foundation Sparks STEM Learning in Ennis School District

Nestled in the breathtaking Madison Valley, Ennis is a hidden gem of southwestern Montana. With a population of just around 1,000, this small town is big on adventure, offering unparalleled outdoor recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re an angler in search of the perfect trout fishing spot, a nature enthusiast hoping to catch a glimpse of elusive wildlife, or simply someone looking to soak up the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, Ennis has something for everyone.

Ennis Schools, known as Ennis School District #52, operates one school which serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Ennis Schools prioritize small class sizes and individualized attention to meet the needs of each student. The school district is known for its strong academic programs, focusing on reading, writing, math, science, and technology. In addition, the District has received recognition for its efforts to integrate technology into the classroom, with all students having access to laptops and other digital devices.

“We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to contribute to Ennis elementary school by purchasing Lego Education SPIKE sets. By investing in the education of our rural youth, we are investing in the future of rural America.” Susan Ferrin, Executive Director

“We are incredibly grateful to the Fay Rural Community Foundation and the Richard Adkerson Family Foundation for their generous donation of the Lego Education SPIKE sets. These STEM-based educational kits will allow our students to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way. The Ennis School District is committed to providing the best education possible to our students. We are excited to see the positive impact that these resources will have on our students’ academic growth and success.” Brian Hilton, Elementary Principal

The Fay Rural Community Foundation was founded to combat the lack of resources and opportunities indicative of small towns nationwide. We are dedicated and focused on helping rural America improve the quality of its healthcare, education, and youth resources. Concentrating on these areas can significantly impact residents’ overall well-being and quality of life and the community’s economic vitality.

Providing resources and opportunities for these communities is our passion and mission. We invite everyone to join us in looking toward the future of rural America.

Susan Ferrin

Introducing the Fay Rural Community Foundation: Empowering Rural America with a New Name and Unwavering Mission

We are delighted to announce that Fay Ranches Community Foundation is now known as the Fay Rural Community Foundation. This new name reflects our commitment to fostering the prosperity of rural communities amidst the dynamic and expansive landscape of our modern world.

At the core of the Fay Rural Community Foundation lies a steadfast dedication to addressing the dearth of resources and opportunities that often afflict small towns across the nation.

We are resolute in our mission to empower rural America by elevating the standards of healthcare, education, and youth resources. Recognizing that these pivotal areas profoundly impact the well-being and quality of life for residents, as well as the economic vitality of the community, we wholeheartedly concentrate our efforts in these domains.

Our organization is driven by an unwavering passion to provide the essential resources and opportunities that rural communities desperately need. Through strategic initiatives, partnerships, and community engagement, we endeavor to create a promising future for rural America. We extend a warm invitation to all individuals and organizations to join us in envisioning and actively shaping the path ahead for rural communities nationwide.

Together, let us champion the resilience and vitality of rural America, cultivating a legacy of thriving communities for generations to come.

Susan Ferrin

Igniting the Rural Spirit: Conquering the Casper Half Marathon for the Fay Ranches Community Foundation

Last weekend two of Fay Ranches’ very own ran in the Casper Half Marathon in Casper, Wyoming, to spread the word about the Fay Ranches Community Foundation (FRCF). Their purpose? To champion the cause of the Fay Ranches Community Foundation (FRCF) and ignite a transformative spark within the heart of rural America.

The Casper Half Marathon, an event steeped in tradition and celebration, offered a quartet of exhilarating challenges: Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay, and a 10k. This year’s race marked a momentous occasion, commemorating the Marathon’s 20th anniversary, and resonated with the shared passion of the FRCF and the Marathon itself—a dedication to fostering health, well-being, and vibrant community engagement.

 

Fay Ranches HQ Operations Manager, Ryan Gardent and WY Fay Agent, JW Robinson

In an impressive display of commitment, JW Robinson, Wyoming Broker of Fay Ranches, joined forces with Ryan Gardent, a Bozeman, Montana office staff member. Together, they embarked on the Casper Half Marathon, fondly known as the “Run for the Herd,” as a personal test of their limits. For JW, it was an opportunity to honor a promise made to himself, buoyed by the accountability of others. Donning the emblem of the Fay Ranches Community Foundation on his shirt infused his journey with more profound meaning and purpose.

“The Foundation rests upon three pillars—Healthcare, Education, and Youth Initiatives—which serve as lifelines for rural America,” shared JW Robinson, whose roots in rural Nebraska and Wyoming have granted him firsthand insight into the challenges faced by these communities. “Wearing my FRCF ‘Scan Me’ shirt filled me with immense pride, representing a cause close to my heart. Completing the race demonstrated the importance of proactive healthcare and educated those within my sphere of influence, setting a powerful example for the youth in my community.”

The Fay Ranches Community Foundation was founded to combat the lack of resources and opportunities indicative of small towns nationwide. We are dedicated and focused on helping rural America improve the quality of its healthcare, education, and youth resources. Concentrating on these areas can significantly impact residents’ overall well-being and quality of life and the community’s economic vitality. Providing resources and opportunities for these communities is our passion and mission. We invite everyone to join us in looking toward the future of rural America. Let’s celebrate rural communities’ resilience, heritage, and vitality together.

Susan Ferrin

How the Powell Middle School Fly Fishing Club is Hooking Students on Conservation and the Great Outdoors!

Powell, Wyoming, is a charming and picturesque town in the state’s northwest corner. It’s nestled amid the Big Horn Basin, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Powell is fly fishing, and this legacy continues in Powell Middle School, where Coach Oram takes time after school to teach kids about the sport of fly fishing.

The club was established to introduce young people (6th to 8th) to the joys of fly fishing and foster a love of the outdoors. Members of the club learn about the various types of fish found in the local streams and rivers, as well as the different techniques and equipment used in fly fishing. It’s also an excellent way for kids to connect with nature and learn about the importance of conservation.  The unwavering commitment to these values is precisely why the Fay Ranches Community Foundation wholeheartedly embraced this exceptional project.

“Supporting local communities and initiatives that foster a love of the outdoors and conservation is at the core of the Fay Ranches Community Foundation’s mission. We are thrilled to have been a part of the Powell Middle School Fly Fishing Club project and to see its positive impact on students. It’s inspiring to see young people connect with nature and learn valuable skills through activities like fly fishing.” Commented Susan Ferrin, Executive Director

Thanks to the generosity of Fay Ranches brokers JW Robinson and Neil Bangs, as well as other incredible donors, the club could purchase the equipment to make their own fly fishing rods and numerous fly fishing flies. These donations have been instrumental in allowing the club to continue growing and offering students more opportunities to learn and develop their skills. JW has spent most of his life on Rocky Mountain lands, which has fostered his desire to preserve the Western way of life, promote wildlife habitats, and protect the lands.

Two Rivers Fishing Co. Owner & Guide and Powell Middle School Teacher, Eric Oram and Fay Ranches Agent, JW Robinson

“I chose the Powell Fishing Club as an FRCF project for several reasons. First, many kids leave rural America and never come back. I believe something as simple as experiencing a brook trout on the end of a fly rod in middle school will keep them active and involved in our rural town as adult leaders for years to come. Second, I appreciate Coach Oram for investing personal time into our local youth. Finally, I love the leadership model the program provides to middle school students. The older students are assisting, the younger students in the learning process. This teaches them to be leaders and give back to others. I am excited to see how these young fishermen will lead our community in the future.” JW Robinson, Fay Ranches Broker

The Fay Ranches Community Foundation was founded to combat the lack of resources and opportunities indicative of small towns nationwide. We are dedicated and focused on helping rural America improve the quality of its healthcare, education, and youth resources. By concentrating on these areas, we can significantly impact residents’ overall well-being and quality of life and the community’s economic vitality. Providing resources and opportunities for these communities is our passion and mission. We invite everyone to join us in looking toward the future of rural America.

Susan Ferrin

Big Dreams, Big Effect: See How We Impacted a Wyoming School in Record Time

What happens when you combine the dedication of a generous donor, the passion of a responsive school principal, and the unwavering commitment of the Fay Ranches Community Foundation (FRCF)? You get a project that exceeds expectations and leaves a lasting impact on a small rural school. We are thrilled to share our first project in Wyoming that was completed in record time, thanks to the tireless efforts of all involved.

Thanks to our donor’s support, we could purchase a wide range of resources for the school, including handheld GPS units, interactive math resources, a Vocabulary.com license, and even access to a traveling learning exhibit of an inflatable planetarium. These resources will empower students across all grade levels to achieve their academic potential and better understand the world around them.

“A little goes a long way in these small, rural schools. It is incredibly rewarding to see the kids and the teachers’ enthusiasm! This project exemplifies why education is one of the pillars of FRCF.”  – Susan Ferrin, Executive Director for Fay Ranches Community Foundation.

Hulett School Kindergarten Wyoming FRCF

Hulett, Wyoming, is a small town established in 1896 named after the Hulett family, who settled in the area 15 years earlier. It is in a picturesque setting between the red sandstone cliffs of the Belle Fourche River in the Black Hills of Wyoming. One of the notable landmarks in Hulett is Devils Tower, America’s First National Monument, and a popular tourist attraction.

Hulett School is the local educational institution in the area, serving students from kindergarten to 12th grade. The school has an enrollment of 160 students and maintains a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, which reflects the small class sizes commonly found in rural communities. The school plays an essential role in the local community, providing education and fostering student learning opportunities.

“I am grateful for the support and resources Fay Ranches Community Foundation provided. This project has been a gift to our school and will help us better serve our students for years to come,” – Kirby Baier, the school’s principal.

This project in Hulett, Wyoming, was made possible through the funding support of Mike Konstant, a broker from Fay Ranches. Mike and his wife Susan have raised their children in a nearby small town in South Dakota, which gives them a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by rural communities. Their contribution demonstrates their commitment to supporting local communities and improving the lives of residents in the area.

Hulett School Principal Mike Konstant Wyoming FRCF

“As a broker, I believe in giving back to the communities we serve. Rural schools play a crucial role in fostering education and opportunities for students. Every donation, big or small, can make a real difference in the lives of these students and their communities. It’s a privilege to support rural schools and contribute to their success. Together, we can help build a brighter future for these students and improve the overall well-being of rural America.” – Mike Konstant Broker at Fay Ranches

The Fay Ranches Community Foundation was founded to combat the lack of resources and opportunities indicative of small towns nationwide. We are dedicated and focused on helping rural America improve the quality of its healthcare, education, and youth resources. By concentrating on these areas, we can have a significant positive impact on the overall well-being and quality of life of residents and the economic vitality of the community. Providing resources and opportunities for these communities is our passion and mission. We invite everyone to join us in looking toward the future of rural America.

Susan Ferrin

Fay Ranches Community Foundation and Theorem Ranch Partner to Provide Science Equipment to Sweet Grass County High School in Big Timber, Montana

Over the course of the last few months Fay Ranches Community Foundation (FRCF) and Theorem Ranch of Big Timber have been working with Sweet Grass County High School (SGCHS) to assist in supplying scientific supplies and equipment to their expanding science department.  Everything from digital balance scales, workstations, gel electrophoresis lab equipment, a human torso model, and so much more!  With a little leftover funding we were able to purchase requested items to create a more comfortable area for students to work with the school’s guidance counselor in a more relaxed and less clinical setting.

“We are beyond grateful to Theorem Ranch for helping us make all this possible for SGCHS.  It has been such a rewarding experience and I can’t wait to see how this funding truly impacts these kids!” stated Susan Ferrin, Executive Director of Fay Ranches Community Foundation.

Corey Austin, Superintendent Sweet Grass County High School said “We are very thankful for our partnership with FRCF and Theorem Ranch.  We are so happy to be able to provide our students the classroom materials they need.  Thanks for the support from the Fay Ranches Community Foundation and Theorem Ranch!”

The Fay Ranches Community Foundation was founded to combat the lack of resources and opportunities indicative of small towns across the country.  We are dedicated to helping rural America by focusing on improving the quality of their healthcare, education, and youth resources.  By focusing on these areas, we can increase the well-being of residents and the economic prosperity of towns.  Providing resources and opportunities for these communities is our passion and mission.  We invite everyone to join us in looking toward the future of rural America.

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The Fay Ranches Community Foundation Honors Memory of Long-time Notable Rancher, Victor Rue

In November the Fay Ranches Community Foundation donated to the Powder River 4-H in honor of the late Victor Rue. Victor, the father of Fay Ranches agent, Kebi Smith, was involved in his local 4H program from a young age. He raised his family for many years in Powder River County and was a proud member of the community. Even after a move to McLeod he returned almost every year for branding and family gatherings.  Kebi is a fourth-generation Montanan and cattle rancher who also enjoys getting involved in the agricultural aspects of the community. Kebi’s father promoted her love of the outdoors, and she has continued that tradition with her own family.

Kebi stated, “Vic Rue was so proud of his roots in Powder River County and Broadus. His family (the Rue and Scofield families) homesteaded on the Little Powder River near Biddle, Montana in the late 1800’s, where they were deeply involved in the rural, agricultural, and political communities. In the 1950’s, Lloyd Rue (Kebi’s grandfather) was instrumental in bringing a large circus tent to the Fair when a building didn’t exist for the event. Vic participated in the 4-H program during his youth in Powder River County as did his grandchildren.  He would be greatly honored knowing that the Fay Ranches Community Foundation made this donation to the 4-H program on his behalf knowing that it benefits the youth in the area. And, on behalf of Vic Rue and his family, we are grateful and thankful for the gift made by FRCF.

We are honored to assist the Powder River 4H and the youth that participate in their programs. The Fay Ranches Community Foundation was founded to combat the lack of resources and opportunities indicative of small towns across the country. The Fay Ranches Community Foundation supports these efforts because we envision a future where families choose to live in rural America, where they have access to quality education, healthcare, and growth prospects. We are dedicated to helping rural America by focusing on improving the quality of their healthcare, education, and youth resources. By focusing on these areas, we can increase the well-being of residents and the economic prosperity of towns. Providing sustainable resources to rural America has a significant impact on their communities as well as a domino effect on the rest of the country.  We must ensure that residents have the tools and resources they need to build a better life for themselves and their families thereby creating a legacy for their communities and this nation. Providing resources and opportunities for these communities is our passion and mission. We invite everyone to join us in looking toward the future of rural America.  For more information on how you can contribute to the cause, visit www.faycf.org.