Gayle Ausmus
Gayle Ausmus is a dedicated nonprofit leader who has served as Executive Director of United Way of Dodge City since 2006. With nearly two decades in the role, she leads fundraising, community advocacy, strategic planning, and cross-sector collaboration to address the most pressing needs in Dodge City and the surrounding area. Her work spans disaster relief coordination, community resource development, and building strong partnerships that strengthen the local safety net.
Throughout her career, Gayle has focused on mobilizing people and resources to support initiatives related to homelessness, food insecurity, education, financial stability, and health. She is known for her relationship-centered leadership style, bringing community members, agencies, and stakeholders together for meaningful conversations that lead to practical solutions. She believes deeply in accountability and impact, striving to ensure every dollar raised is used thoughtfully and effectively to create measurable change.
Before becoming Executive Director, Gayle served within the United Way structure in board and allocations roles, giving her a well-rounded understanding of community investment and nonprofit governance. She has also been active in broader United Way networks across Kansas and has received recognition at the state level for her leadership and service. A graduate of Dodge City Community College, she remains passionate about strengthening her community through trust, collaboration, and service.
• Dodge City Community College
• United Way
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to building long-term relationships and earning trust, developing strong fundraising skills from an early age, and my deep passion for helping others. I’ve always been a giver—raising funds as a child and supporting causes like the March of Dimes—and that drive continues to guide my work today.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to focus on building relationships and trust in your community from the very beginning. Take every opportunity to sit at the table with local leaders and cultivate a strong network that will support your work. Be prepared for the realities of nonprofit fundraising and the need to adapt when circumstances change, and make sure this line of work truly aligns with your passions and strengths.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now are the increasing difficulty of fundraising as communities and demographics shift, and the decline in federal, state, and foundation funding. Events like economic downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic have created major disruptions, so organizations must be adaptable and ready to pivot in order to meet evolving community needs.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are giving and service, with a focus on ensuring that no one goes hungry or experiences homelessness. My faith-based upbringing instilled in me the importance of generosity and caring for others.