Engaged Kansas Boosts Local Leadership and Public Service

By Scout Nelson

Kansas Farm Bureau’s Engaged Kansas initiative is encouraging more residents to pursue public service and take on leadership roles in local government. Launched in 2023, the nonpartisan program connects community organizations, businesses, and nonprofits to support individuals interested in elected office.

The initiative was developed in response to concerns about a declining number of candidates for local leadership positions. These roles play a key part in shaping rural communities by influencing economic growth, public services, education, and local employment opportunities.

Kansas Farm Bureau identified two major barriers preventing people from running for office: limited knowledge of elected officials’ responsibilities and a lack of campaign experience. To address these challenges, the organization created educational resources focused on leadership development and campaign preparation.

To expand its reach, Kansas Farm Bureau partnered with organizations such as the Kansas Association of Counties, Kansas Association of School Boards, Kansas Chamber of Commerce, Kansas Bankers Association, Kansas Medical Society, and Kansas Association of Realtors. These groups help promote the initiative and provide access to educational opportunities across the state.

Engaged Kansas shares information through its website, social media channels, newsletters, and outreach efforts targeting legislators, community leaders, commodity groups, and prospective candidates. The program has generated strong interest, with presentations delivered to more than 3,000 people through over 75 organizations.

A central feature of the initiative is Campaign School, which uses training materials developed by the American Farm Bureau Federation. In addition to the full two-day program, a four-hour mini session was created to provide a practical introduction to campaign strategies and public service.

More than 175 Kansans have participated in the mini sessions, and the program has expanded to college campuses, including Kansas State University, to encourage future civic leaders. These efforts aim to build a stronger pipeline of qualified candidates for local offices.

The success of Engaged Kansas was recognized with a 2026 Award of Excellence in the Coalitions & Partnerships category, highlighting its impact on civic engagement and leadership development throughout Kansas.

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