SIDNEY, Neb. — The Sidney and Greater Area Fund will host a public celebration Thursday to mark the completion of a $1 million challenge grant that adds $1 million to its permanent community endowment.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 15, at Boss City Brewing. A donor and grantee hour will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by a public open house from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

The SAGA Fund Board said the milestone was achieved through a challenge grant from the Sidney Donor Advised Fund, creating long-term investment resources for Sidney and surrounding communities.

Since October 2023, the SAGA Fund has awarded $96,935.68 in grants to 28 projects across Sidney, Potter, Lodgepole, Dalton, Gurley and nearby communities. Funded projects have supported education, public safety, youth programs, libraries, the arts and community events. Many of the grants required matching funds, increasing the overall impact of local donations.

“SAGA Fund is focused on thoughtful growth, strong stewardship and making sure our grants create meaningful, lasting impact in Sidney and surrounding area," the board said in a press release.

The donor and grantee hour will include appetizers and one complimentary drink ticket. During the public open house, a cash bar and food will be available for purchase.

The event is open to anyone interested in learning more about how a permanent community endowment works and how local contributions are reinvested into the region.

Sponsors for the event include 987 The Big Boy, Boss City Brewing and Plummer Insurance.