Heartland Community Foundation Announces Give Fest 2024: A Day of Generosity and Community Spirit

HAYS, Kan.— The Heartland Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Give Fest 2024, a 24-hour giving event that unites Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties in a shared mission to support local nonprofit organizations. Save the date for October 10, 2024, this exciting day is designed to increase philanthropy, energize community spirit, and spotlight the life-changing work of our local nonprofits. Registration is now open for nonprofits that would like to participate.

Give Fest was created to mobilize the community to “give back” in a big way. This event not only raises crucial funds for nonprofits but also brings a fun, playful Oktoberfest twist to the giving season, reflecting the cultural heritage of our region. We believe that community members, donors, and all those involved will enjoy the day-of Oktoberfest giving celebration. Visit www.HeartlandGiveFest.org to learn more.

This October 10, from midnight to 11:59 p.m., all donations made to participating organizations will be matched up to 100% (proportionate to the total money raised) from a match pool of $150,000 — or $50,000 allocated for each county! These donations go directly to the nonprofit's endowed fund at the Heartland Community Foundation while the match dollars are available for immediate use, providing both a stable financial future and immediate support. The match pool was established and strengthened with grant dollars from the Patterson Family Foundation.

The benefits of this community giving day extend beyond the immediate financial boost. For the community, Give Fest fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, highlighting the collective impact of local generosity. It creates an opportunity for residents to learn more about the vital work being done by nonprofits in their area and to feel more connected and invested in their community’s well-being. For nonprofits, participating in Give Fest offers several advantages: visibility and financial growth through access to matching funds. Contributions go to endowed funds, ensuring long-term stability and growth for the organizations.

Nonprofit organizations, schools, and religious institutions serving Ellis, Rooks, or Trego counties are invited to participate in Give Fest at no cost. Registration is now open! To be eligible, nonprofits must have an organization, designated, or field-of-interest fund at the community foundation and complete the registration process by August 31.

Donors can participate in several ways: donate online at www.HeartlandGiveFest.org between October 4 and October 10. Supporters will also be able to attend and donate in person at special events on October 10 with additional details coming soon.

New fundholders in Rooks and Trego counties are eligible to receive a $2,000 matching incentive, available for the first five new funds in each county. This initiative encourages the establishment of new funds and supports long-term community development.

The Heartland Community Foundation invites everyone to participate in Give Fest 2024. Whether you're a donor looking to make an impact or a nonprofit seeking support, this event is a powerful opportunity to come together and celebrate the spirit of giving. For more information and to get involved, email heartland@gscf.org.

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About Heartland Community Foundation

Since 2007, the Heartland Community Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties through philanthropy. As an affiliate of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, HCF connects donors with the philanthropic causes they love, supporting initiatives in various areas including education, healthcare, youth, community development, and more. By fostering a spirit of generosity and engaging local donors, nonprofits, and community members, HCF aims to create a vibrant, supportive community for all. The Heartland Community Foundation is committed to promoting generosity, building endowment funds, and empowering communities to thrive. For more information, visit heartlandcommunityfoundation.org.