Dr. Kim Baxter will receive Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation’s “Above and Beyond Award” at the Foundation’s “Red & Black” recognition event Friday night, February 3.
 
Community Foundation president Larry Stobbs praised the personal qualities of Baxter along with his long-time commitment to the Community Foundation and to many other community organizations.  “His volunteer service in the community is extraordinary.”
 
Baxter served 6 years on the Community Foundation’s Board of Directors, including serving two years as President.  “He and his wife Nancy established a charitable fund that has helped many worthy community projects,” Stobbs said.
 
Dr. Baxter is a lifelong resident of North Platte.  After earning his Doctorate in Optometry, he returned to North Platte to practice his profession with Compete Eyecare Associates
 
Baxter has held leadership roles with Nebraskaland Days, North Platte Rotary, North Platte Chamber of Commerce, North Platte Planning Commission, Community Concert, United Way and TeamMates.  He was a founding member of the band “Chance” that entertained the community for 31 years.
 
Baxter has served the optometry profession through service to the Nebraska Optometric Association and the Nebraska Board of Optometry.  He also has volunteered his optometry skills to the poor in Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Kenya and Guatemala.
 
“The community and my profession have been tremendous to me and my family and also to my partners,” Baxter said, “and I believe in giving back.  My parents as well as my faith instilled the practice of serving others.”
 
“Being involved with the Community Foundation is so very gratifying,” Baxter said.  “It is such a positive thing and one of the best organizations with which I’ve been associated.”
 
“We are excited to honor Dr. Baxter for how he has supported our mission to help worthy causes.  His voluntary service has been remarkable and has greatly benefited people in this area.” said Eric Seacrest, Executive Director of the Community Foundation.
 
On Friday evening, February 3, Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation will hold its annual “Red & Black” buffet event at the Holiday Inn Express.  During the event there will be recognitions and entertainment.  For reservations to attend the event, call 534-3315. 
 
The Community Foundation administers more than 270 charitable and scholarship funds, each with its own charitable purpose.  Well over $1 million is paid out each year in scholarships and grants to worthy causes, made possible by donor generosity and investment earnings.
___________________________________________________
For more information about Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation, contact Eric Seacrest, executive director at: Office 534-3315, Cell 530-3663