02/25/26           

By FHSU Sociology Program

HAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State University Sociology Program recently partnered with Ana’s Gift to support children in Ellis County experiencing difficult situations by collecting stuffed animals. This semester, the program invited the community to participate, and friends near and far showed up in a big way, delivering and mailing more than 150 stuffed animals to Rarick Hall, each one ready to offer a meaningful source of comfort.

Ana’s Gift began when 16-year-old Ana Hertel set out with a heartfelt mission: to provide stuffed animals to children navigating challenging circumstances. Though Ana passed away shortly after starting the effort, her vision lives on through her parents, Lori and Stan Hertel, and Ana’s Gift.

Each semester, Dr. Lori Hertel is a guest speaker in Dr. Kate McGonigal’s Sociology of Death and Dying class at FHSU, sharing her story and the work of Ana’s Gift. Students are invited to participate in the drive by donating a stuffed animal for children facing frightening situations, such as riding in an ambulance, to offer comfort in their most difficult moments.

“I’m struck by how many people took part in supporting Ana’s Gift during this drive,” McGonigal said. “It’s truly a community effort with students, faculty, staff, and supporters beyond campus all coming together to carry forward Ana’s mission.”

Ana Hertel’s mission of kindness continues to ripple through classrooms, campus hallways, and the broader Ellis County community. With each animal donated, Ana’s legacy of spreading joy remains very much alive, and the FHSU Sociology Program is grateful for the continued support that makes the effort possible to comfort Ellis County children.  

For more information on how to help Ellis County children in crisis through Ana's Gift, please contact Lori Hertel at 785-650-1344.