Joel Busch has volunteered at our museum for about 1½ years, both as a docent and a maintenance assistant. When we decided to purchase a train and offer an underground train ride, Joel started spending most of his days off from Westar Energy helping retrieve old rails and ties and laying down track.

Westar Energy has a Community Partners program that rewards volunteer efforts of their employees. After Joel had completed 100 hours of volunteer work with us, he completed paperwork that earned the museum a donation of $100. His name also went in a drawing, and every additional 50 hours of volunteer time earned him another chance in a drawing.

On February 15 and 16, Westar held their 13^th Annual Community Partners Celebration and handed out “Spirit of Giving” awards. Joel was one of the winners, and designated our organization to receive a donation on his behalf. They handed out $20,000 Statewide, and Joel was the only Hutchinson recipient! There were 14 awards of $500 each, 8 awards of $750 each, and 7 awards of $1000 each. KUSM received $750!!!

We have been doubly blessed with Joel’s willingness to volunteer and a cash donation that is being used to get the train “on track.” Thanks Joel and Westar Energy!

Joel Busch receives recognition during the awards ceremony.

                                                          Dave Unruh and Joel Busch