Dec. 3, 2024 – Representatives from Southern Pioneer Electric’s H.U.G.S. (Helping Us Give to Society) program awarded Barker Arts a $2,500 H.U.G.S. grant and an additional $2,500 from CoBank’s Sharing Success program for its digital drawing station.

The grants will be allocated to purchasing equipment and software for a “digital drawing hub” at Baker Arts Center.

“The goal of this initiative is to remove financial barriers and provide accessible, artistic resources for Liberal citizens,” said Julie Parsons, Baker Arts Board Member. “We hope to provide state-of-the-art drawing tablets, computers and software to have the space serve as a hub for artistic expression. By removing barriers such as expensive equipment and specialized training, our project aims to empower individuals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds to engage in digital art without financial constraints.”

The proposed space will be available for classes and workshops during the center’s open hours. The center hopes to encourage and bring in artists of all skill levels and ages.

“We aim to establish an inclusive environment where every resident feels valued and represented in their artistic endeavors,” said Parsons. “Beyond nurturing individual creativity, the digital drawing station will serve as a central hub for community engagement and collaboration.”

“We are proud to support Barker Art Center’s efforts to provide this service to our Liberal community,” said Ruby Terrazas, H.U.G.S. team member. “Encouraging community through the arts is a great means of empowering our community, and we look forward to seeing the impact of this new digital drawing station.”

Representatives from Southern Pioneer Electric’s H.U.G.S. (Helping Us Give to Society) program awarded the Medicine Lodge Wrestling Club with $5,000 in H.U.G.S. grants and a matching $5,000 from CoBank’s Sharing Success program to help purchase wrestling mats for the program.

The club offers opportunities for youth ages 5-16 in and around Medicine Lodge to compete in wrestling competitions. The club’s board hopes that having the club will grow interest in the sport and eventually be available as a school activity.

“We’re hoping to spark more interest in wrestling in the Medicine Lodge Community,” said Chase Settle, board president for the club. “Our school district will be offered the option to participate in this club, as well as other local communities that do not currently offer wrestling.”

The club has additional information regarding the program on its Facebook page and encourages interested parents to reach out to its board members.

“Empowering youth is a great mission,” said Ruby Terrazas, H.U.G.S. team member. “We are proud to partner with organizations working to provide new opportunities for our Southern Kansas communities!”

Learn more about H.U.G.S. and download the application here.