Community Foundation of Dickinson County
Photo Courtesy of CFDC
What began as a heartfelt idea from a local Fair Board member has grown into a meaningful community partnership designed to ensure more children can experience the joy of the carnival at the Central Kansas Free Fair.
Michelle Holt, a lifelong Abilene resident and member of the Central Kansas Free Fair Board, approached the Community Foundation of Dickinson County with a simple but powerful dream: to help children who may not otherwise have the opportunity enjoy the lights, laughter, and excitement of carnival rides.
“As a lifelong Abilene native, I have always felt a deep responsibility to this community,” Holt shared. “Watching my grandchildren experience the same hometown traditions I once enjoyed inspired me to give back in a greater way.”
Holt recalled seeing the excitement on her grandchildren’s faces during last year’s fair, while also recognizing that rising ride costs — now as much as $35 for a wristband — can create barriers for some families.
“Watching my grandchildren experience the fair reminded me how much joy it brings,” she said. “I want more children to share in that joy and help ensure the fair continues to thrive.”
Executive Director Elizabeth Weese immediately contacted Hank Royer of the Jeffcoat Foundation to share the vision and explore how it could become a reality. Following a meeting between Hank, Elizabeth, and Michelle, the Jeffcoat Foundation committed an initial $10,000 gift to establish the Golden Ticket Fund.
With the support of the Fair Board and the Community Foundation, the Golden Ticket Fund was officially created as part of the CKFF Carnival initiative.
How the Program Works
Golden Tickets will be distributed during the Kids in Crisis Back-to-School Backpack Fair on Saturday, July 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The Central Kansas Free Fair will host a booth at the event where qualifying families may choose to receive a carnival wristband for one night of rides.
Eligibility will align with participation in the free and reduced lunch program. Students who qualify may follow the provided instructions to redeem their Golden Ticket.
This approach ensures the program reaches families who may benefit most while maintaining privacy, dignity, and choice.
“This is what community partnership looks like,” said Weese. “Michelle brought forward a dream. The Fair Board stood behind it. The Jeffcoat Foundation stepped forward with generosity. And together, we created something that will bring joy and inclusion to children in our community.”
Starting in Abilene — With a Vision for Growth
The Golden Ticket Fund is currently structured as an expendable fund, meaning the initial $10,000 gift and additional donations will directly support ride passes for Abilene children during this year’s fair.
The long-term goal is to grow the fund through continued community support so that it may one day become endowed, expanding beyond Abilene to serve children across all of Dickinson County for generations to come.
Community members who would like to help broaden access to the CKFF Carnival experience are encouraged to contribute.
Donations may be made online at www.communityfoundation.us or by mailing a gift to the Community Foundation of Dickinson County at 201 NW 2nd Street, Suite B.
For more information about the Golden Ticket Fund or to explore how you can start your own fund to support a cause close to your heart, please contact the Community Foundation of Dickinson County at 785-263-1863.
Because at the CKFF Carnival, every child deserves a ride.
The Community Foundation of Dickinson County connects people who care with causes that matter by supporting local nonprofits, students, and community initiatives through grants, scholarships, and charitable funds. Together, the Foundation is helping build a stronger, more vibrant Dickinson County— For good. Forever.
