PTECFF Awards Grant to Thurston Fire & Rescue for Radio Upgrades
Pender, Neb. (August 10, 2026) The Pender-Thurston Education & Community Foundation Fund (PTECFF) is proud to announce the award of a community grant to Thurston Fire & Rescue to assist with the purchase of upgraded communication radios.
Reliable communication is one of the most important tools first responders have. Whether responding to a medical emergency, motor vehicle accident, fire, or other critical incident, dependable communication helps ensure emergency personnel can coordinate effectively and safely while serving the community.
By funding these radio upgrades, the Foundation is investing not only in equipment, but in the safety and well-being of the communities served by Thurston Fire & Rescue.
"Strong communities are built on strong partnerships," said Dee Moeller, Pender-Thurston Education & Community Foundation Fund Board President. "Supporting our local emergency responders is an investment in every resident. These upgraded radios will help provide the reliable communication our firefighters and EMS personnel depend on when responding to emergencies, ultimately helping keep both our first responders and our communities safer."
Volunteer fire and rescue departments play an essential role throughout rural Nebraska, providing lifesaving services with limited budgets and countless volunteer hours. The Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to the dedicated men and women who generously give their time, talents, and energy to protect their neighbors.
"The commitment of our volunteer firefighters and EMS providers is truly remarkable," Moeller added. "Their willingness to answer the call—day or night—makes our communities stronger. We are grateful for their service and honored to help support the equipment they need to do their jobs safely and effectively."
The Pender-Thurston Education & Community Foundation Fund is committed to investing in projects and organizations that strengthen the quality of life throughout the Pender and Thurston communities. By supporting local emergency services, educational initiatives, and community improvement projects, the Foundation continues its mission of building a safer, stronger, and more vibrant future for generations to come.
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About Nebraska Community Foundation
Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving more than 265 communities. In the last five years, 45,993 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $517 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
