GREAT BEND, KAN.–Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. (WEC) announced today that the Barton County Fair has been awarded a $1,000 grant from the WEC Sharing Success Fund to help fund the purchase of a new refrigerator for the fair’s food stand, replacing an inoperative unit.
Held annually since 1899, the Barton County Fair is a long-standing tradition that celebrates the region’s agricultural roots and strong community spirit. The fair showcases an exciting array of events, including 4-H competitions, livestock shows, exhibits, live entertainment, and carnival rides, drawing visitors of all ages for a week of fun and connection.
Beyond the festivities, the fair plays a vital role in youth development by providing a platform for young people to showcase their skills, responsibility, and hard work through hands-on learning and friendly competition. It fosters leadership, confidence, and a strong sense of accomplishment—values that carry far beyond the show ring.
The new refrigerator will help ensure that perishable food items and essential supplies can be safely stored on-site, enhancing both convenience and food safety during the fair and other events. This replacement helps support the dedicated volunteers and vendors who help make the fair a success and ensures a positive experience for all who attend.
The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the WEC Sharing Success Fund from community-based organizations on December 1, 2012. Since then, the application process has been moved internally and is currently handled directly by WEC. This year, WEC and CoBank have once again each contributed $10,000 to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted. Since 2012, WEC’s Sharing Success Fund has made $195,000 available to community-based organizations and projects across their service territory.
Community based organizations interested in receiving funding from the WEC Sharing Success Fund can apply online. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, director of member services and corporate communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.
