(KNZA)--The Jackson County Community Foundation Board of Directors are proud to announce a significant milestone in its mission to serve the people and communities of Jackson County: the hiring of its first Executive Director, Meghan Stockman.

The full-time position has been made possible through the Patterson Family Foundation Capacity Building Program, which was established for rural communities.

Stockman will officially begin her role as Executive Director of JCCF on April 14th, 2025.

JCCF is one of 20 affiliates of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation (GMCF) and Meghan will be a member of the GMCF development team while focusing on the growth and success of JCCF.

Stockman and husband, Roger, have two children that attend Holton schools.

She brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit and business leadership, community engagement, and strategic development. Her passion for connecting people with purpose and building strong, sustainable relationships in communities makes her the perfect fit to lead the Foundation into this exciting new chapter.

“We are thrilled to welcome Meghan to the Jackson County Community Foundation,” said Jeremiah Huyett, Chair of the JCCF Board of Directors. “Her background, energy, and vision align perfectly with our goals, and we are confident that under her leadership, the Foundation will continue to grow and deepen its impact throughout Jackson County.”

Stockman not only has strong ties and a commitment to Jackson County as a 7th Generation Jackson County resident, but also brings experience with her own 501(c)(3) organization, KidSpace Launch, which she and her husband started during COVID to connect with local schools and create a fun online experience learning about how to build a Greenhouse on the Moon. She also started and ran her own business Kookalooz, which opened in 2018 as KidSpace, Inc. in Colorado as a Space Theme playground dedicated to teaching STEM and problem-based learning to children through interactive play and informal education programs.

As JCCF Executive Director, Stockman will oversee daily operations, donor relations, coordinate events, and community partnerships. She will play a pivotal role in expanding the Foundation- reach, strengthening philanthropic efforts, and ensuring resources are aligned with the evolving needs of the community.

“I’m honored to be stepping into this role and joining a team so deeply committed to the people of Jackson County,” said Stockman. “I am eager for the opportunity to contribute to the foundation- mission of inspiring and connecting thoughtful giving while helping the Foundation grow and strengthen relationships between donors and community needs as a trusted resource and catalyst for good in our communities.”

In May 2018, a meeting was held between interested Jackson County citizens and a decision to re-establish a community foundation for Jackson County was made to support local nonprofits, empower community-led solutions, and foster a culture of giving that uplifts all corners of the county. Ten people were asked to serve on the board. The first decision made was to become an affiliate with the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, and JCCF was formally founded as an affiliate of GMCF in the Summer of 2019. Nine of the original JCCF board members remain active.