Manson Grange grows, recognized at National Conference

MANSON - Several new members joined the local Manson Grange in 2021, bringing new energy and ideas to the organization. Each new member took a slice of the pie, aligned with their skills and knowledge. Christine Olson took on secretary duties and Kristine Sixel filled the treasurer position. New volunteers strengthened standing committees, and a new Grange Youth Fairs program was formed under the leadership of Norm Manly. The Youth Fairs program is similar to 4H and FFA and open to youth 5-19.
At the National Grange Leadership Conference, held in Nevada in November 2022, the Manson Grange received two awards. They included “Net Gain in Membership” and “2022 Grange in Action” awards. The “Grange in Action” program is designed to encourage all Granges to be active in their communities and complete events or projects, no matter how small. The Manson Grange thanks the Board’s leadership and all the volunteers that made these awards possible.
To make our presence known on social media, Mariah Koester and Terrie Carleton developed the Manson Grange website - www.mansongrange.com. The website offers information about the Grange, and renting the Grange, including the ability to reserve a date and apply online. There is an events calendar, a Youth Fairs section, membership information and even a members’ portal. The website was followed up with a Manson Grange Facebook page.
The Rental Committee, led by several volunteers, rolled up their sleeves and with help from other local Granges completely transformed the old rental system to one that is more in tune with today’s standards.
Rentals are only a part of the Grange’s financial stability. Recently, the Manson Grange partnered with Manson Parks & Recreation and Brenda Gelwicks, Lead Instructor, launching two fun and invigorating programs open to the public. Zumba classes are held at the Grange Hall on Tuesday and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. and Line Dancing classes are offered at 5  p.m. on Wednesdays. There is a $5 attendee donation that is used to offset the maintenance of the Grange facility. You can purchase a punch card, good for five visits for just $20. The punch card can be used for Zumba and Line Dancing classes.
Our summertime Farmer’s Market, begins its 42nd year on June 17 and will run to the end of September. The Market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday in the Manson Grange parking lot, with the opening bell at 8:30 a.m.. If you would like to rent a space contact Gordon Lester at 509-687-3158.
The Grange building requires many capital improvements. A committee including Christine Olsen, Debbie Conwell, Phyllis Coleman, and Larry Hibbard are working on creating the groundwork to present the Grange as a viable organization for grant and fundraising opportunities.
As our group of helpers grows and takes on more challenges, that will provide additional volunteer opportunities, the Manson Grange will again take its place as a prominent member of the Manson Community. There are numerous volunteer opportunities available at the Manson Grange. We encourage you to contact us at info@mansongrange.com to offer your help or come to one of our monthly meetings, held the 4th Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.