Questions to Ask Before Joining the KHC Board

If KHC's mission excites you (see below), here are questions you should ask before accepting an invitation to join the board.

• Is the Council in good financial condition?
• How much time is required?
• What is the board's role in fundraising?
• How is the board organized?
• What is the relationship between board and staff?
• What is the Council's reputation and who does it serve?
• What future goals does the Council have?
• How may I contribute?

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Our Mission & Vision

With 30 years experience, KHC provides leadership, resources and programs that advance understanding of the history and ideas that shape our lives and build community. KHC believes in the power of ideas to open minds, spark imaginations, and nurture a sense of community. By connecting people with ideas, we strengthen civil society and encourage lifelong learning.

Central to KHC's mission are the academic disciplines of the humanities — specifically, history, literature, languages, philosophy, ethics, religious studies, archaeology, women and ethnic studies, and related social sciences. These disciplines help tell the story of the human experience in ways that help us better understand who we are as a people and what we have valued over time and across generations.

Fulfilling the Mission

KHC brings the humanities to communities across the state by investing in programs and partnerships with local libraries, historical societies and museums, civic organizations, senior centers, public media, colleges and universities, arts councils, and other nonprofit groups. KHC manages a competitive grantmaking program and conducts a range of public humanities programs directly from its office in Topeka. As a result of both approaches, KHC annually supports 700 programs in 150 communities, serving over a half-million Kansans.

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Board Members & Financial Development Responsibilities

A primary responsibility of board membership is to help assure a strong and diverse financial base, so that KHC can remain solvent and grow as an organization. Board members are expected to support KHC's work through their own donations and by actively participating in revenue-producing activities. These activities may involve serving on the financial development committee, identifying prospective donors, hosting events, or joining the executive director on calls to corporate, foundation, or legislative leaders.

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