Spotlight on Community Giving: Jada Tubbs and the Thomas County Community Foundation
- Kristina Hemel
- Jun 2
- 3 min read
(Information taken from Interview done on May 28,2025 on NWKS Radio's Good Neighbor Hour)
On a recent episode of the Good Neighbor Hour, Rollie Halligan sat down with Jada Tubbs, Director of the Thomas County Community Foundation (TCCF), to talk about the incredible impact the foundation is having in Northwest Kansas—and how more people can get involved in giving back to their community.
Jada began the interview with her signature warmth and humor, proudly introducing herself first as a wife and mother. But her passion quickly shifted to what she calls “the best job in Thomas County”: leading a foundation that’s working every day to strengthen the local community.
“We’re kind of the best-kept secret,” Jada said. “We’re like one-stop giving. Whether you care about baseball, healthcare, parks, education—if you have a heart for it, we can help you make a difference.”
What the Foundation Does
The Thomas County Community Foundation is part of a growing network of community foundations across the country—the fastest-growing type of philanthropic organization in the U.S. According to Jada, TCCF acts as a local hub for charitable giving, helping donors create funds that directly support the causes they care about most.
From youth sports and school improvements to beautification projects and health initiatives, the foundation supports a wide array of efforts that enhance the quality of life in Thomas County. Some donors choose to give to existing funds, while others start their own.
“We have all kinds of funds,” Jada explained. “Field of interest funds, donor-advised funds, scholarships—you can name it after your family and support the causes you love most. You don’t have to be a millionaire to make a big difference.”
Donor-Advised Funds and Estate Planning
One of the most flexible options TCCF offers is a donor-advised fund, which allows individuals or families to donate assets, grow the investment, and then direct where the money goes over time.
“It’s like sprinkling confetti,” Jada laughed. “You get to give joyfully, whenever and wherever you see a need.”
Thanks to a partnership with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, the Thomas County Community Foundation also offers estate planning assistance at no charge. Through this initiative, donors can work with attorney John Griffin to create or update wills and establish charitable gifts for the future. TCCF coordinates appointments and walks donors through the process.
“You don’t need to have millions,” Jada emphasized. “You just need a heart for your community.”
Highlight Project: Kenton Krehbiel Park
One shining example of what the foundation makes possible is the new Kenton Krehbiel Park, a project that raised over $500,000 to create an inclusive and accessible play area for children of all abilities. Named after former Colby postmaster Kenton Krehbiel , who was deeply loved in the community, the project is nearing installation and will feature a hard surface for wheelchair access.
“It’s going to be something really special,” Jada said. “And it’s the community who made it happen.”
How to Get Involved
Whether you’re interested in starting a fund, setting up a scholarship, or simply want to learn more about estate planning or Match Month (a major fundraising initiative), Jada encourages people to reach out.
“If you’re in Thomas County, give me a call. If you’re in Sherman County or another area, reach out to your local community foundation director. We’re all here to help you make a lasting impact.”
To learn more about the Thomas County Community Foundation or start your own giving journey, visit www.gnwkcf.org or contact Jada Tubbs directly through the Thomas County page.
At the heart of it all is one message: Giving back doesn’t have to be complicated or out of reach. With the Thomas County Community Foundation, anyone can be a
philanthropist—whether it’s through a big gift, a small donation, or simply taking the first step to start the conversation.
“I love to take your money,” Jada joked. “Because I love to give your money away.”
And in Thomas County, that money goes exactly where it’s needed most.
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