Young Nebraskans come across this great state for a chance to take home honors, and perhaps a ribbon, from the State Fair. These dedicated, hardworking Youth spend years preparing for a chance to showcase this passion to their agricultural roots. And, the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation has prioritized funding for Divisional Awards for both 4-H and FFA participants who bring their animals to show at the Nebraska State Fair.
Showing livestock provides kids with a sense of community, teaches important values and expands their horizons. Some of the most talented and successful young Nebraskans show livestock and are involved in the industry. The 1868 Foundation is committed to raising/seeking $120,000 in additional cash awards for Youth Premiums.
WATCH: 1868 Foundation raising funds, cash premiums for youth showing livestock at the Nebraska State Fair
“We’ve seen Nebraska youth participating in 4-H and FFA look to other state fairs who offer much higher youth premiums for exhibiting livestock,” said Lindsey Koepke, Executive Director. “We want to show our kids that we believe in them and understand a little extra financial help can go a long way.”
As a charitable organization, the 1868 Foundation offers community members an opportunity to support these amazing young people in their efforts by giving through the 1868 Foundation at NEBRASKA STATE FAIR 1868 FOUNDATION - Main Giving Page (networkforgood.com). These contributions will go directly to the young participants in awards to offset their expenses, as well as rewarding them with banners and buckles.
With a history older than the state itself, the Nebraska State Fair combines tradition with innovation to produce an educational and exciting event for the entire family. From Auburn to Chadron, Benkelman to Hartington and every town along the way, the Nebraska State Fair has 155-year tradition of celebrating the pride of all Nebraskan's. To date, nearly 4-million visitors have passed through the gates of the Nebraska State Fair since its move to Grand Island in 2010.
About Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation
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. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the 1868 Foundation has raised over 3.8 million in funds for improvements the fair needs to continue to grow. For information about the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation and continue the winning tradition of education, competition and celebration, please visit https://1868foundation.org/ or connect with Lindsey at lkoepke@statefair.org or 402-432-1393.