Flint Hills Human Rights Project Inc.

Flint Hills Human Rights Project champions civil rights, social equality, and community empowerment for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families throughout Manhattan, Riley County, and the Kansas Flint Hills. Established in 2006 as a volunteer-driven advocacy organization, the nonprofit serves as a trusted regional resource dedicated to eliminating discrimination and promoting dignity for all residents. Operating across a largely rural region anchored by Kansas State University, the group coordinates civic advocacy, public education, and affirming community programming.

Civic advocacy and policy change remain central to the organization's mission. The group played an instrumental role in advocating for the City of Manhattan's municipal non-discrimination ordinance and continually monitors the local Municipal Equality Index to ensure fair treatment in housing, employment, and public accommodations. In addition, the organization provides vital public education on healthcare access, including comprehensive resource guides to help transgender and nonbinary individuals navigate informed consent protocols for gender-affirming care.

Community celebration and educational support are anchored by Little Apple Pride, the organization's signature annual festival featuring a colorful community parade, park festival, artisan booths, and evening entertainment that celebrate queer visibility. The agency also administers annual student scholarship awards that provide direct financial assistance for LGBTQ+ undergraduate and graduate students pursuing higher education. Residents seeking healthcare referral guides, student scholarship applications, or Pride event schedules can connect with board members through the organization's website.