KEARNEY, NE — One of Kearney’s biggest summer events is also one of its biggest fundraisers.

The United Way of the Kearney Area hosted its fourth annual Freedom Fest at the Viaero Center Thursday night. Executive Director Julie Van Hoek says the event is the main source of funds for several of its initiatives.

“The money that we earn goes to our 21 partners that we work this," Van Hoek said. "They depend on our money, especially this year, because this year is a little tougher for a lot of people with inflation.”

New attractions this year included live music from the Tim Zach band, fresh carnival games and a campaign sponsor. Charlie Carter of Allo says the company made a significant ongoing contribution.

“We’re just enjoying each other’s involvement in the community right now, but this event will last us the whole year (with) our contribution to help impact the community,” Carter said.

About 60 volunteers worked to make sure the event went as planned. Van Hoek says Freedom Fest’s impact will last far longer than the final explosion in the fireworks show.

“It’s really for Kearney," Van Hoek said. "What we do here goes back to Kearney.”