About Us

Formed in 2005, the fund serves as a fundraising organization to address current and future opportunities that will make Pender and Thurston great places to live and work. We are a member of the Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) and contributions to our fund are made to an Unrestricted Endowment account.

Our volunteer Fund Advisory Committee consists of voting members and non-voting members. We oversee thirteen accounts, all aimed at developing the community and its people through transformative and strategic initiatives. The Pender Thurston Education & Community Foundation Fund is a member of the Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) network.

Mission
Vision
Values

MISSION

We provide the framework for our community to dream big, flourish, and grow.

VISION

Through collaboration, we create opportunity.

With determination, we set and achieve goals.

Embracing progressive thinking, we move forward.

VALUES

We...

  • are passionate leaders.

  • go further together than we do alone.

  • do our best work when we have fun.

  • work towards a vibrant future for our community.

  • challenge the status quo.

Our Advisory Committee + Coordinator

    • Dee Moeller

    • Gavin Gralheer

    • Joe Strahm

    • Mikayla Doht

    • Brian Kent

    • Matt Samuelson

    • Karissa Johnson

    • Ashley Bessmer

    • Candice Gardea

    • Don Heineman

    • Laura Gamble

    • Matthew Smith

    • William Keiss

    • Ray & Deb Welsh

    • Mark Lorensen

    • Bob Rainer

    • Katie Gutzmann

    • Channing Reha

Locally Thriving, Connected Statewide

We are one of over 250 communities across the state of Nebraska that partner with the Nebraska Community Foundation. Their staff and network teaches us how to help our communities grow using grassroots philanthropy that builds leadership, engages young people, and supports people attraction. The resources, training, and support from the Nebraska Community Foundation have played a significant role in the development of our Fund and our community. We are grateful for their partnership and guidance.