Pender-Thurston Education and Community Foundation FundAwards Grant for Thurston Mural

The Pender-Thurston Education and Community Foundation Fund recently awarded a grant to the Village of Thurston to help fund a mural on the north side of the Thurston Bar, as part of the community's ongoing beautification efforts.Thurston’s beautification projects have been led by local resident Cathy Simonson, who has also spearheaded the beloved Hometown Hero flags displayed throughout the community. In addition, other residents have contributed to the upkeep of the playground, garden area, and other enhancements across Thurston.

Cathy, along with village board member Diane Ballard, successfully fundraised for and completed this eye-catching project. The mural, located on the north side of the Thurston Bar, was finished just in time for Thurston’s Watermelon Days in August. It features Thurston’s skyline, highlighting notable community assets and paying homage to the long-standing tradition of Watermelon Days.

“It’s been such a great addition to our community,” said Cathy. “The mural brings a sense of vibrancy and pride to Thurston. We are so thankful to the Pender-Thurston Education and Community Foundation Fund for providing the funding to complete this project.”

The Pender-Thurston Education and Community Foundation Fund, an affiliate of the Nebraska Community Foundation, actively fundraises to build its endowment. This endowment helps increase grant payouts for future community projects. The group accepts grant applications on an ongoing basis, focusing on projects that allow Pender and Thurston to dream big, flourish, and grow.