Advocacy Organization in Kansas
Educate. Activate. Motivate.
Our (Grass)Roots
In 1999, a group of Kansas attorneys formed Kansas Appleseed Center for Law and Justice, the statewide chapter of the national Appleseed Network.
The group sought to transform pro bono legal work from helping individuals to focusing on broad, systemic social initiatives. Law and policy should not exist solely to restrain abuses, but should instead provide a pathway to fight historic oppression so all people can fulfill their potential.
The national Appleseed Network was established five years earlier by Harvard Law School classmates. Following their 35th Class Reunion, Richard J. Medalie spearheaded the Class of 1958 to fund a “foundation to help organize, establish, and guide state centers for law in the public interest throughout the country.”
Kansas Appleseed is truly a statewide organization with staff living and working in communities across the state, including Wichita, Kansas City, Emporia, and Lawrence.
Our Mission
Kansas Appleseed is a statewide advocacy organization dedicated to the belief that Kansans, working together, can build a more thriving, inclusive, and just Kansas.
Our Work
We focus our work on doing what is right for every Kansan.
A Clear Vision of the Future for Kansas
Meet Our Staff and Board of Directors
Our staff and board of directors is dedicated to understanding the barriers and challenges facing Kansans—and facilitating positive systemic change that moves Kansas forward.
Contact Kansas Appleseed for More Information
Learn more about what we can do together to make Kansas more thriving, inclusive, and just.
Read More About Our Work
Kansas Appleseed Applauds Governor Kelly Signing S Sub HB 2402 into Law
“A school meal is an essential school supply,” said Haley Kottler, Senior Campaign Director for Kansas Appleseed. “This new law is a practical step in the right direction that helps more Kansas kids access the food they need to learn, grow, and succeed."
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BLOG: What Food Access Taught Me About Power, Place, and Policy
"Kansas Appleseed gave me a close view of how policy work actually happens. Advocacy did not move in a straight line. Wins and losses came in pieces, and progress depended on repeated effort across different kinds of organizations, from grassroots campaigns to schools to food banks."
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2026 Legislative Update: Week Eleven
The Legislature adjourned late Friday evening after a frenetic week of conference committees and floor debates. We saw some good bills advance, but we are deeply worried about other bills that could bring harm to many Kansans. Bills that passed both chambers will now be sent to Governor Kelly for her consideration.
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