Patterson Gives Back – First Congregational UCC (Topeka, KS)

Our History

Oct 14, 1855 – At Mr. James Cowles’ cabin in Topeka, Kansas nine men met: Rev. Paul Shepard, John Ritchie, M.C. Dickey, Wm. Scales, C.A. Sexton, Augustus Barnard, Wm. Bowker, and H.H. Cowles to discuss forming an anti-slavery Congregational Church.  The church that emerged has become the home base for creative spiritual work and serves as a vehicle for benefitting the common good.

Pictured: First Congregational Church in the 1860s, Topeka, Kansas

Patterson Gives Back – Bloom House Youth Services

BHYS is a Basic Center, meaning we offer a Drop In Center and Shelter created in the Basic Center Program model for youth under 18, we offer shelter and services to homeless and runaway youth and any youth in need who may be housing insecure or at risk. Our services include trauma-informed art therapy and case management services, fiduciary services, referrals to other area resources, access to food, bathrooms and laundry faciliites, a safe place to study, gather, learn life skills, have fun, and always – we have safe adults if you or someone you know needs to talk. 

Patterson Gives Back – Emporia Community Foundation

The Emporia Community Foundation (ECF) connects the diverse citizens and communities of Lyon and its six contiguous counties through the charitable actions of a variety of funds established for the purpose of bettering the lives of individuals within its communities.  As a 501c3 Foundation, the ECF continues the traditional Kansas heritage of providing nonprofit service and supporting the charitable giving requests of donors who wish to enrich the quality of life of local citizens.

ECF represents the Kansas counties of Lyon, Chase, Greenwood, Morris, Osage, Coffey and Wabaunsee.

There are several Types of Funds whereby donors may focus their interest.  These funds are established by individuals, families, businesses, and other nonprofit organizations that have made unordinary commitments to the needs within the community. Their sole purpose is to make the “community” a better place for perpetuity.

Patterson Gives Back – Big Lakes Developmental Center, Inc.

Established in 1993, the Big Lakes Foundation solicits and facilitates donations and grants to support Big Lakes’ mission. The Big Lakes Foundation, a separate but affiliated nonprofit corporation, was established in 1993 to solicit, encourage and facilitate the contribution of funds for fulfilling Big Lakes’ mission. The foundation provides ongoing financial support for Big Lakes’ operations and special projects such as client parties, staff appreciation events, leadership development, and affordable/accessible housing for the people we serve.​

Patterson Gives Back – Be Able Community

A Few Things About BE ABLE

We are a group that has collectively noticed the gaps and the individuals burdened by falling through.

We wanted to open up a shop for those out there who perhaps don’t fit in, are reluctant to move forward, or don’t know-how. We each have ample experiences with the fantastic social service organizations of the Manhattan area and have taken note of the growing need to serve those in the gaps. Operating from a stance of loving your neighbor as yourself, we will serve our neighbors with compassion, dignity, and respect.