1868 • About Us

Dedicated to the growth & support of the Nebraska State Fair.

Established in 1989, the purpose of the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation is to raise funds for the overall improvement of the Nebraska State Fair. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Since 2010, The 1868 Foundation has raised over 3.8 million in funds for improvements that the fair needed to continue to grow. Join the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation and continue the winning tradition of education, competition and celebration. Young or old, Nebraskans have gained from their State Fair experiences and have used new knowledge, skills, talents, and creativity throughout their lives.

Lindsey Koepke

Executive Director

Lindsey Koepke has been the executive director of the 1868 Foundation since 2007. She is passionate about helping you create your own legacy with your Nebraska State Fair.

Since 2010

Over $100,000 worth of park benches, lamp posts, directional signs and concrete pavers have been funded thru the 1868 Foundation and given to the fair. You too can leave your legacy with the fair by sponsoring a park bench, a Tree or paver today.
2013

In just a few short months in the spring of 2013, the 1868 Foundation was able to successfully raise $135,000 to air-condition the Fonner Concourse, home to thousands of Open Class exhibits each year.

State Fair Volunteer Program created and launched.

We know our volunteers are the heart and soul of the state fair. That is why each year, the 1868 Foundation contributes $5500 towards the volunteer program. We are grateful to have such incredible people selflessly give their time to the fair.

Volunteer Recognition Tribute created. project was funded by: Principal Financial Group, George & Donna Wanitschke Family, Wortman Enterprises, Jayne Mann Smith & Denny Smith and the Nebraska State Fair.
2015

Thompson Foods Open Air Arena

Our largest fundraising effort to date was the construction of the Thompson Foods Open Air Arena. This 60,000sq ft arena is one of the finest in the state. It is projects like this that make us proud to be a part of the exponential growth of the Nebraska State Fair.
2018

Growing Nana’s Garden

Installation of a beautiful garden and landscape feature established to celebrate and honor Donna Wanitschke for her love of her Nebraska State Fair.

About Us

Dedicated to the growth & support of the Nebraska State Fair.

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Building a Stronger Future Through Collaboration and Dedication

Terry T. Galloway

Jay Vavricek

Bill Oltean

Dustin Beener

Eddie Biwer

Jill Staab

Steve Wehrbein

Tom Middleton

Lindsey Koepke

Ciarra Danburg

Since 2010

2013

2015

2018

Invest in the future of your State Fair.

Company

lkoepke@statefair.org

402-432-1393

Our Office

Grand Island, Nebraska. Home Of Your Nebraska State Fair

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