CLARKSON, Neb. — What started as a $50,000 homegrown challenge from the Nebraska Community Foundation turned into an unprecedented success for the small town of Clarkson.

The Homegrown Challenge required the town to secure a $100,000 donation and raise an additional $300,000. Clarkson not only met the challenge but surpassed all expectations, raising a remarkable $1 million in under ten months.

"There were definitely hesitations when we were first setting our goal, like, can we do this?" said Clarkson Future Fund President Lee Schneider. "And it came in. It ballooned from not just a $300,000 challenge, it was, well, now a total that comes in to be a $1,000,000 challenge."

Just when the community thought they had reached the finish line, donors Ronald and Jeanette Vavrina offered another surprise.

"They challenged us and said, we'll give you $150,000 if you raise another $300,000," explained Clarkson Future Fund Treasurer Adam Cerv. "So, when we get that done, we'll have a million and a half in our unrestricted endowment fund."

With the funds secured, Clarkson has plans to invest in its future. Ideas include more housing, a grocery store, and upgrades and maintenance to the town's pool and playground.

Clarkson endowment board members say this achievement reflects the deep love, pride, and generosity within their hometown, made possible by the unwavering belief in the town's future demonstrated by numerous donors, volunteers, and supporters. The million-dollar endowment marks a significant milestone for Clarkson, setting the stage for future growth and development.