LiveWell Northwest Kansas Named August “Member of the Month” by Colby/Thomas County Chamber of Commerce

Photo Credit: Lizzie White, Colby/Thomas County Chamber of Commerce

Colby, KS - The Colby/Thomas County Chamber of Commerce has named LiveWell Northwest Kansas as its August 2025 Member of the Month, recognizing the organization’s exceptional service, positive community impact, and dedication to the chamber’s mission.

“Congratulations to our August Member of the Month, LiveWell Northwest Kansas!” said Lizzie White, Colby Chamber Director. “LiveWell provides services to 18 counties in Northwest Kansas, promoting health support, behavioral health support, childcare program assistance, and strengthening social and economic resilience. We’re thankful to have LiveWell in Colby and Thomas County, working to help keep our community healthy!”

LiveWell Northwest Kansas is a trusted early education and health support agency headquartered in Colby. The organization’s work spans four core program areas, each designed to meet the needs of families and strengthen communities.

In the area of home visiting and behavioral health services, four trained home visitors offer free home visits to parents and caregivers of children ages 0–5, helping them build healthy connections and support child development. All families, regardless of income, are eligible for these services. Free behavioral health support is also available for children 0–5 and their caregivers, with options for older children and adults to arrange services directly. Families who complete the program receive a $100 stipend.

LiveWell also partners with preschools and childcare providers to strengthen early learning in numeracy, literacy, and social-emotional development. All services are free, and the organization also operates Kids Port 1 and Kids Port 2 childcare facilities in Colby. In addition, LiveWell is building its capacity as a Family Resource Center to connect families with essential services or refer them to other organizations. Depending on available funding, the organization provides free concrete goods such as diapers, wipes, and cleaning supplies throughout its service area. Currently, free diapers and wipes are available at Nesting in downtown Colby.

Another important area of service is health support. LiveWell’s Insurance Navigators assist families in enrolling in qualified health plans, Medicaid, and Medicare, while also connecting them to other vital resources. 

In Thomas County, LiveWell serves as the fiscal agent for the Thomas County Coalition, which coordinates prevention services, the Thomas County Farmers Market, and Copeland Garden.

“Our mission has always been to strengthen the health, stability, and opportunities for families in Northwest Kansas,” said Travis Rickford, Executive Director of LiveWell Northwest Kansas. “Being recognized as Chamber Member of the Month affirms that our community sees the value in what we do, not just in our programs, but in the relationships we build every day.”

Rickford added that the recognition is a reflection of the community’s collective efforts.

“Whether we’re delivering diapers, working in classrooms, or helping families navigate healthcare, we’re committed to meeting people where they are. This award belongs to our staff, partners, and community members who make this work possible.”

For more information about LiveWell Northwest Kansas and its programs, visit www.livewellnwk.org or call 785-460-8177.