How We Help

Received $1,300 to assist with 13 mentoring matches at Central City Public Schools. Through one-on-one relationships, the program helps students build confidence, improve academic engagement, and form positive connections with caring adults.

Received $3,250 to help with staffing support and facility rental costs. The program provides students with a safe, structured, and enriching environment for learning and activities after school hours.

Was awarded $1,000 to support general operations for its summer camp in Central City. The camp welcomes youth from across Nebraska to participate in music, dance, and theater programs designed to inspire creativity and teamwork.

The local Boy Scouts received $612 to assist with annual rechartering fees, allowing them to focus their efforts on summer camps and leadership-building activities.

Was awarded $3,000 to assist with operational costs for the summer baseball season, which serves 50–60 players. The program continues to build skills, teamwork, and community pride among area youth.

Received $2,500 in operational support for the summer softball season. With more than 80 players participating, the program offers opportunities for athletic growth and community connection.

Awarded $4,500 toward construction of new community batting cages at the softball complex. The City of Central City contributed half of the $50,000 project cost, while the Stampede group fundraised the remainder. The project includes three cages on a turf and a new shed built by Central City Public Schools.

Received $4,000 to help with the costs of uniforms, training equipment, and implements for its upcoming season. Founded in 2022 by Natalie and Andrew Pearson, the club has grown every year, reaching 83 athletes last summer. With all coaches and staff serving on a volunteer basis, the club welcomes athletes of all backgrounds and skill levels.

Received $1,400 to fund five sessions of its summer reading program, engaging nearly 40 children in creative literacy activities that promote reading outside the classroom.

Additionally received $5,250 to replace worn carpeting in the upstairs area, addressing safety concerns caused by unraveling material.

Received $8,000 to support upgrades at Chapman Park, including a new pavilion, gaga ball court, walking trails, benches, and picnic tables. These improvements will enhance recreational opportunities and provide a more welcoming outdoor space for the community.

Received $5,000 to support Merrick County patients undergoing cancer treatment. In 2024, the Foundation assisted five local patients by covering essential expenses such as housing, utilities, transportation, and car payments.

Based in Grand Island but serving Merrick County, received $2,000 to help provide 232 children with free books through the Imagination Library Program. This initiative, launched 13 years ago, aims to ensure children build their own personal libraries with their families before they begin kindergarten.

Received $1,500 to support year two of its Quilts of Valor project. This initiative honors veterans and service members by presenting them with handmade quilts as a symbol of gratitude for their service.

Received $1,500 to support its upcoming two-day clinic at the Merrick County Fairgrounds. This event provides youth the opportunity to work both in group settings and one-on-one with equine industry professionals. In 2024, over 60 youth members and 30 volunteers participated, with even more expected in 2025.

Received $500 to support its club volleyball program for eighth graders in Palmer. Established in 2024, this group has been dedicated to developing skills and fostering teamwork.

Received $4,000 to expand learning opportunities through STEM Field Day, Environmental Education Day, and INVENTURE Day, benefiting more than 450 students.

Was granted $5,000 to assist with the installation of a new electrical panel in the livestock building at the fairgrounds. The upgrade will enhance safety and reliability for events held throughout the year.

Received $12,650 for renovations to one of its classrooms, including updated cabinetry, flooring, paint, and plumbing. These improvements will enhance the learning environment for local children and support the center’s mission of providing high-quality early education.

Was awarded $10,000 to install security cameras and related equipment at the new museum facility. This project will help protect historical artifacts, ensure visitor safety, and support the museum’s long-term preservation efforts.

Was also granted $1,875 to provide scholarships and supplies for the upcoming Todd Williams Art Workshop. This event will offer hands-on instruction from a professional artist and inspire local creativity later this summer.

Received $4,000 to help cover lifeline services for 11 Merrick County seniors. These services provide essential support and peace of mind, helping older residents maintain independence and safety in their homes.

Additionally awarded $5,000 for the Senior Merrick County Meal Program.

Received $5,000 to support its summer internship program, covering costs for pool and arena rental as well as equipment needs. The program provides hands-on learning opportunities for local youth interested in assisting those with disabilities.

Awarded $5,000 to enhance its playground area with new astro turf, a cement pad, and a storage shed.

Was granted $1,500 to support a science-focused session of its summer reading program, benefiting approximately 75 children. The program combines reading and hands-on learning to encourage curiosity and lifelong learning.

Was awarded $4,500 for the purchase and delivery of a storage container to support youth sports programs. This project will help the organization safely store and maintain equipment used across multiple community teams.

Awarded $3,500 to assist with an electronic search-and-rescue program that helps locate individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, or other conditions that may place them at risk of becoming lost. The Merrick County Sheriff’s Office will lead the training and coordinate the distribution of transmitters and bracelets.

Received $1,500 to assist with the removal of a tree in the cemetery.

Was awarded $38,800 to help install new lights at the Legion baseball field. The project will improve safety, extend playing hours, and enhance the overall experience for players, families, and fans throughout the baseball season.

Based in Hall County but also serving Merrick County, received $3,500 to help cover costs associated with rescuing and fostering dogs and cats. When pets have nowhere to go, this organization steps in, working with local vet clinics and law enforcement. Each animal receives full veterinary care, with expenses ranging from $300 to $500 per pet. The ultimate goal is to find each animal a loving, permanent home.

Awarded $1,120 to purchase and install decorative planters in downtown Clarks, near the community shelter, and at the city park.

Awarded $3,500 to assist with an electronic search-and-rescue program that helps locate individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, or other conditions that may place them at risk of becoming lost. The Merrick County Sheriff’s Office will lead the training and coordinate the distribution of transmitters and bracelets.