Sidney And Greater Area Fund Contributes $53,250 to philanthropic and charitable causes in Sidney and the surrounding Areas.

By Melissa Norgard

[Sidney, NE] – In a world where community connection and support are more vital than ever, the Sidney And Greater Area (SAGA) Fund stands at the forefront of enhancing the quality of life for all residents of Sidney and its vibrant surrounding communities. Established in 2022, as an affiliated fund through Nebraska Community Foundation, the SAGA Fund is a symbol of collective vision and determination.

This fund has shared commitment to a thriving future in Sidney and the surrounding areas. Focused on building an unrestricted endowment, every donation helps create a sustainable community savings account that will continue for generations.

Since the inception, the SAGA fund has proudly returned $53,250 to philanthropic and charitable causes in Sidney and the surrounding Areas.

The Fund Advisory Committee is composed of 11 dedicated volunteers who are committed to making Sidney and its neighboring areas an exceptional place to live, work and thrive. I is their hard work and commitment that drive the efforts to lead positive changes in Sidney and the surrounding area.

The Fund Advisory Committee understands that our community partners are key to the success of our mission. To support philanthropic and charitable initiatives that help improve the quality of life in Sidney and surrounding areas, the committee invites organizations to apply for funding through a straightforward application process.

Interested parties can submit their applications two times a year: on April 1st and October 1st. This biannual schedule allows organizations ample opportunity to prepare and submit proposals for funding that aligns with the SAGA Fund’s mission. Once submitted, applications will be carefully reviewed by the Fund Advisory Committee, composed of local volunteers who are passionate about enhancing our community. Their insights and knowledge of local needs play a critical role in ensuring that funding decisions are well-informed and impactful. The recommended awards are reviewed by the Nebraska Community Foundation. This collaboration with a trusted partner enhances the capacity to allocate resources effectively and to eligible entities.

SAGA Fund encourages all eligible organizations to take advantage of this opportunity to secure funding that can drive transformative change in our communities. Additional details about the application criteria and guidelines can be found on our website or obtained by contacting a Fund Advisory Committee member directly. Together, let’s continue to harness the power of collaboration and generosity to make Sidney and its surrounding areas a better place to live, work, and thrive!

The Fund Advisory Committee is thrilled to announce that over $200,000 has been raised towards a generous challenge grant from the Sidney Donor Advised Fund. This incredible opportunity allows the fund to amplify the impact: by raising $250,000 from 200 donors and securing seven planned gifts by the end of 2025, the Sidney Donor Advised Fund will contribute an additional $1 million to the unrestricted endowment, expanding the unrestricted endowment to $1.25 million!

Although there have been significant strides in improving our community since our launch, our journey is far from over. The Committee invites you to be a part of this vital endeavor. Your generosity can help catalyze sustainable initiatives that will shape a brighter future for everyone. Every donation counts, regardless of size, and enables SAGA to continue transforming lives in Sidney and surrounding areas.

SAGA invites you to join us in this important mission and to contribute to the legacy of thriving communities in Sidney and surrounding areas. All donations are tax-deductible and can be made by mailing your contribution to the SAGA Fund at PO Box 588, Sidney, NE 69162 or you can donate online through http://www.sagafund.org