Bonding Thru Board Games
Elevate Kansas is excited to feature the success stories from our Mini Grant recipients. The 2026 Community Impact Mini Grants supported short-term, community-led projects focused on coalition capacity building, youth engagement, youth mental health and well-being, and tobacco prevention and cessation.
One of those efforts brought families together in a meaningful and memorable way.
Around 30 households attended the Bonding Thru Board Games family event hosted by Clifton-Clyde FCCLA. With over 75 people in attendance, families with children of all ages participated, ranging from toddlers to teens, creating a space where everyone could connect and engage together.
Every household was able to pick out a quality board game to take home after the event, extending the opportunity for family bonding beyond the evening itself. Handouts outlining the benefits of spending quality time together as a family, as well as the science of family mealtime in child and family development, were shared with each family.
Multiple families commented on how much they enjoyed the event and expressed appreciation for everything offered. Many also asked if the event would take place again next year—something organizers are already planning to make happen.
This project highlights how simple, intentional activities can create space for connection, support youth and family well-being, and strengthen community ties.
To keep up with Clifton-Clyde FCCLA, check out their website and Facebook for updates.
Administered by Wichita State University Community Engagement Institute in partnership with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Bureau of Health Promotion, this program provided flexible funding to support prevention and health promotion efforts across Kansas. Twenty organizations were selected to receive $1,000 mini-grants to fund locally led activities aligned with these goals. These mini grants also support the broader purpose of Elevate Kansas: strengthening community health coalitions across the state by connecting leaders, sharing resources, and supporting locally driven solutions that improve the health of Kansans.