2026 STEP Board Members: Back Row (left to right): Rick Smith, Kevin Feldkamp, Linda Lortscher, Anissa Bloom, Renee Meyer, Tami Mars, Leon Haverkamp
Front Row (left to right): Tim Rottinghaus, Bonnie Meeks, Maggie Grier, Tory Jost (Executive Director), Stacie Korte.  Dustin Walters was absent. Picture: submitted

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County STEP Foundation celebrated its 33rd anniversary this year, marking more than three decades of supporting local projects and charitable causes since its founding in 1993.  
On January 28th, the foundation held its annual meeting, starting with a meal catered by Home Cookin’ of Seneca, sponsored by Koch and Company.  
During the meeting, the foundation announced its 2025 grant awards, which funded a variety of projects throughout the county, and reported the opening of nine new funds.  
STEP Foundation Executive Director Tory Jost shared that the fifth Match Day set a new record with over 414 gifts totaling nearly $295,000. The sixth Match Day is set for August 28th.  
During the business portion of the meeting, Linda Lortscher was elected to the STEP Foundation Board and Bonnie Meeks was re-elected for a second term.  
Outgoing President Dan Heiman was recognized for eight years of service. Treasurer Tim Rottinghaus reported year-end assets of over $3.2 million, which is a new record.  
Following the meeting, new officers were elected: Maggie Grier as President, Renee Meyer as Vice President, Leon Haverkamp as Secretary, and Tim Rottinghaus as Treasurer.