Just as these challenging times require us all to find new approaches to meeting needs, this online 2009 Annual Report marks the foundation’s commitment to finding a more efficient and greener approach to communicating what this year has been about for us. This online report provides complete details about the foundation and its work for the period July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009.

What we value most are our relationships with our grantees. And we firmly believe that our story is best told through their stories. This Annual Report introduces you to three organizations and three advocates, all speaking out and making a difference for those they serve. Each of these individuals was part of the foundation’s first-ever Advocacy Fellowship – a unique and exciting new program designed to help nonprofit leaders become more effective advocates and powerful voices. You will find more information about our work to strengthen nonprofit advocacy in this report.

The foundation’s mission is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans. In our 2009 fiscal year, we made 78 grants to organizations and communities across Kansas. It is a privilege to work with so many diverse causes, communities and people in Kansas. On behalf of the trustees and staff of the Sunflower Foundation, we thank you for the opportunity to serve Kansans.

We hope you will take time to read more about our grantees in this online Annual Report. Let us know what you think of this new format – and we hope you return to our Web site frequently to follow our work and that of our grantees.