Save the Date: Give Fest Returns October 7, 2026! Kickoff Events Scheduled to Invite Local Groups to Get Involved
Heartland Community Foundation is gearing up for the return of Heartland Give Fest on Wednesday, October 7, 2026. After another successful year of community generosity, we're looking forward to making an even bigger impact across the Heartland region.
Give Fest 2025 raised nearly $400,000 in just one day for 56 participating organizations, thanks to generous donors, bonus match games, and incredible community support. The Heartland Community Foundation has already committed $110,000 to the 2026 match pool for the community giving day, creating another exciting opportunity for charitable giving.
Organizations interested in participating are invited to attend one of three upcoming kickoff events. These informational sessions are open to nonprofits, school groups, churches, civic organizations, and any other local groups interested in learning more about Give Fest. Whether you're a first-time participant or a returning organization, we encourage you to join us.
Kickoff Event Schedule
July 29, 2:30–3:30 p.m. – Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center, Hays (Following the Heartland Nonprofit Conference, scheduled from 9-2:30 p.m.)
July 30, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. – Trego County Historical Museum, WaKeeney – includes a FREE lunch
July 30, 12:00–1:00 p.m. – Plainville Public Library – includes a FREE lunch
Attendees will receive:
An overview of Give Fest 2026
Information about participation and event expectations
Website registration assistance for current fundholders during the second half of each session
Heartland Community Foundation is also seeking local sponsors to help grow each county's match pool. These contributions increase the impact of every donation made during Give Fest and benefit participating organizations throughout the sponsor's home county.
We're also looking for sponsors to bring back one of the event’s most memorable initiatives—providing every fifth-grade student with $10-$15 to donate to the nonprofit of their choice.
"Watching students thoughtfully choose where to give was a highlight of Give Fest," said Sarah Meitner, executive director of Heartland Community Foundation. "It was exciting to see them discover that they have the power to make a difference.”
Businesses and organizations interested in supporting the county match pools or sponsoring the 5th grade giving program are encouraged to contact heartland@gscf.org for enrollment estimates and pledge information.
More information about registering, volunteering, and supporting Give Fest 2026 will be shared in the coming weeks. Bookmark www.HeartlandGiveFest.org to follow along. Together, we do more good.
