Dear Friends and Supporters of the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation,
2024 has been described as a pivotal year of change for the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. This statement was
made at the September 5 dedication of the 1861 Club. A beautiful new venue constructed on the Kansas State
Fairgrounds by the Foundation. However, as we reflect on this major accomplishment in 2024, we believe the
turning point for the Foundation happened when the Foundation board made the conscious decision to expand
the depth and breadth of their support of the Kansas State Fair and set forth to engage and develop the support
of people like you in this mission.
Your support of the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation has allowed for a significant increase in the work being done
as evidenced through multiple improvement and building projects on the Fairgrounds, the Foundation’s ability to
provide a charitable donation opportunity for donors to support the Grand Drive, as well as offer a funding avenue
for corporate foundations to provide annual support for the Kansas State Fair.
Since its creation in 2003, supporters like you have helped fuel the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation in its ability to
provide funding for many significant projects on the Fairgrounds. A few of the most notable of these projects are
the building of the Lair Steckline Interactive Water Fountain, the installation of the big fans in the Prairie Pavillion,
the construction of the Lair White House, providing new panels and pens for the Birthing Center, the addition of
the murals on the Information Center, the rebuild of the House of Capper with the addition of the Capper
Cooperative Park. The most recent jewel added to the Kansas State Fairgrounds, which was built by the Kansas
Fairgrounds Foundation, is the breath-taking 1861 Club.
Your contribution and support drove and inspired each of these improvement projects for the Kansas State
Fairgrounds. However, OUR work is not yet done!
We invite you to join us this year in making a difference. Your charitable donation today will directly support the
mission of the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation to improve the Kansas State Fairgrounds. It will help ensure the
Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation will have the resources to continue to make the improvements needed to provide
a beautiful Fairgrounds – inspiring, challenging and enriching the current and next generation of Kansans.
Thank you for coming together with your steadfast support and commitment to building and creating the future of
the Kansas State Fairgrounds.
In Great Appreciation,
Mary McCurry
Chairman, Board of Directors
James Fisher
Executive Director
The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is recognized as a nonprofit 501(c)3 charitable organization.
To inspire excellence and understanding of Kansas agriculture, industry and culture through the Kansas State Fair, activities, educational programs and opportunities.