MINDEN, Neb. — Give Big Minden is gaining momentum as donations continue rolling in for local nonprofits across the community.

The annual giving event brings residents together to support organizations that serve Minden and surrounding areas, with funds raised going directly back into local programs, schools and services.

Community leaders gathered at the Minden Opera House, serving as the event’s command center, where nonprofits tracked donations in real time and encouraged continued participation.

Kirk Ramsey with the Minden Schools Foundation said the support highlights Minden’s commitment to its students. “All of our dollars that we receive go directly back to the students of Minden Public Schools,” said Ramsey. “We have a classroom grant program that allows teachers to apply for grants, and then we follow up with them and get that money back to the kids.”

Susan Tunnell with the Minden Legacy Fund said the giving effort helps build long-term support for the community. “The funds that we receive will go into our unrestricted endowment that we are building,” Tunnell said. “We will eventually be granting funds through the payout from that.”

Kelley Ayres, who helped organize Give Big Minden through the hospital fund, said the event continues to grow in just its second year under new leadership.

“Last year, we raised just a little over $31,000,” said Ayres. “We’re nearing $60,000 today, and we’ve still got some time left, so we’re gaining traction with our project.”

Donations can be made here.

The list of participating organizations include: Bethany Home, Faith In Action, Harold Warp Pioneer Village, Jensen Memorial Library, Kearney County Heath Services Medical Fund, Kearney County Historical Society, Minden Legacy Fund, Minden Opera House, Minden Schools Foundation, Minden Senior Center, Paws Up Kearney County, The Closet Thrift Store and Food Pantry.