The Sandhills Area Foundation (SAF) demonstrated its commitment to community development by awarding $93,000 in grants to various local organizations during its annual fundraiser held on Saturday, November 9, 2024. Casino Night, which took place at the Cherry County Fairgrounds in Valentine, Nebraska, also saw impressive fundraising results, with preliminary figures indicating approximately $30,000 raised through auction proceeds and chips buy-ins.
The foundation, known for its dedication to investing in the Sandhills of Cherry County, distributed funds to support a diverse range of community initiatives.
The organizations receiving funding and their corresponding award amounts are:
Cherry County 4-H Leadership Program $ 500
Friends of the Valentine Library/Valentine Book Club $ 1,000
Sparks Cemetary Board $ 2,000
Thedford Volunteer Rescue Squad $ 5,000
Valentine Children and Families Coalition $ 5,000
Valentine Wrestling Club $ 14,200
Cody Cowboy GRIT $ 15,300
Heart City Theater $ 50,000
Carolyn Moore, Executive Director of the Sandhills Area Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the impact of these grants: “These funds will directly benefit our area community, and this larger than usual amount was made possible due to our regular allocation of grant monies together with a portion of the gift from the estate of Michael Davenport, which was received in July.
This year’s annual event not only served as a platform for grant distribution but also as a successful fundraiser for the foundation. The preliminary tally of $30,000 raised through auction items and chips buy-ins demonstrates the community’s strong support for SAF’s mission.
Since its inception in 1998, SAF has awarded over $932,000 in scholarships and has consistently provided substantial grants to area organizations totaling just under $600,000.
For more information about the Sandhills Area Foundation, its grant programs, or how to get involved, please contact:
Carolyn Moore
Executive Director, Sandhills Area Foundation
Phone: 402-322-0031