Lenora, Kan. — October 12, 2026 — Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth has been named the Northwest Regional Winner in the Healthcare/Nonprofit category at the Kansas Department of Commerce’s 2026 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards. The awards ceremony was held October 8 at Fiorella’s Event Center in Overland Park, Kansas.
“We are honored to receive this recognition from the Kansas Department of Commerce,” said Janette Meis, Executive Director of Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth. “Our work is focused on helping young people discover opportunities close to home, develop valuable life and career skills, and see a future for themselves in rural Kansas. This award recognizes the dedication of our staff and board of directors, the support of our business and community partners, and the investment our region continues to make in its next generation of leaders.”
Founded in 2013, Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students explore career opportunities, develop financial literacy, and gain real-world experience. Serving a 28-county region of Northwest and North Central Kansas, the organization offers programs that connect students with local businesses and future career pathways.
Its core programs include paid internships, work-study opportunities, Life$kills, a financial literacy program for high school students, and Young AmeriTowne® of Kansas, an experiential learning program where students practice real-world financial and business skills. Through these initiatives, Nex-Generation works to prepare young people for success while encouraging them to live, work, and build their futures in Kansas communities.
The annual To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards celebrate businesses, organizations, and individuals making meaningful contributions to their communities and the Kansas economy. The 2026 awards recognized nominees across 11 categories, with regional and statewide winners honored for their achievements.
“This recognition reinforces why investing in young people matters,” Meis added. “When we connect students with local careers, businesses, and mentors, we help build a stronger workforce and a brighter future for our communities. We are proud to be part of that effort across Northwest and North Central Kansas.”
For more information about Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth and its programs, visit www.nex-generation.org.
