Lawrence SERTOMA Awards Community Grants to Support Local Services
Lawrence SERTOMA awarded grants to four nonprofits—funded by 2024's Lawrence Lights—to support health, advocacy, and education services in Douglas County. Recipients were honored April 9, 2025 at Six Mile Chop House.
Lawrence, KS — The Lawrence SERTOMA Club proudly awarded its 2025 Community Grants to four local organizations making a lasting impact on the Douglas County community. The awards were presented during a celebration at Six Mile Chop House on April 9, 2025.
This year’s recipients include the Schiefelbusch Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic, Heartland Community Health Center, the Douglas County Children’s Advocacy Center, and the Elizabeth B. Ballard Center.
Funding for the grants was made possible through proceeds from the 2024 Lawrence Lights holiday drive-thru fundraiser, the club’s largest annual event. Thousands of visitors from across the region enjoyed festive light displays at the City of Lawrence Youth Sports Complex, with all ticket sales supporting local service organizations.
“These organizations represent the heart of our community—supporting children, families, and individuals through accessible health services, advocacy, and education,” said a SERTOMA spokesperson. “We’re proud to invest in their missions and grateful to everyone who made Lawrence Lights a success.”
2025 Grant Recipients
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Schiefelbusch Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic
Part of the University of Kansas, the clinic provides comprehensive speech, language, and hearing services to people of all ages. It also serves as a training site for future clinicians and researchers, combining community service with cutting-edge academic work.
Heartland Community Health Center
Heartland delivers integrated medical, dental, and behavioral health care to patients regardless of income or insurance status. With a mission rooted in health equity, the center serves as a critical safety net for underserved populations in the region.
Douglas County Children’s Advocacy Center
The CAC offers a safe, child-focused environment for children who have experienced abuse or trauma. By coordinating forensic interviews, medical exams, therapy, and victim advocacy, the center reduces further trauma and supports families in their journey toward healing.
Elizabeth B. Ballard Center
A long-standing fixture in Lawrence, the Ballard Center provides early childhood education, food and clothing assistance, and family support services. Its work focuses on addressing poverty and promoting self-sufficiency for families across Douglas County.
The SERTOMA Community Grant Program continues to support nonprofits that align with the club’s mission of Service to Mankind—particularly those improving communication and health outcomes in the community.
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