Comfort, Connection, and Joy in Kansas

In Topeka, KS, one small grant is making a big difference for local students. A Topeka Community Foundation grant helped bring a new therapy dog to the Tallgrass Student Learning Center.

Velma joined her human classmates during the 2025-26 school year, and she continues to provide comfort, connection, and joy to students and staff.

"Velma's story represents one of the things we value most about grantmaking." Alicia VanWallghem, Director of Strategic Initiatives at the Topeka Community Foundation

"We worked together with the school to turn a great idea into long-lasting impact. We provided a piece of the puzzle, and Tallgrass has taken it from there—welcoming Velma, building relationships around her, and making her part of the school community."

Students are already responding to Velma's presence.

"She has had an amazing start to the school year and has already made such a positive impact throughout our building," Ashley O'Neal, LSCSW, Tallgrass Student Learning Center

"Toward the end of last school year, we began seeing some of our students really open up and connect with Velma in ways that were incredibly meaningful. We are excited to see those relationships continue to grow this year and to watch the positive impact she has on our students’ emotional well-being, comfort, and sense of connection at school.

We are truly grateful for your generosity and support in helping make it possible for us to have Velma at Tallgrass. Your donation has made a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and staff, and we cannot thank you enough for believing in the value of this work and supporting our school community."

The Topeka Community Foundation wishes Velma and her classmates a successful school year! See the full post on LinkedIn.

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