(KMZA)--The Nemaha County STEP Foundation is proud to announce a record-breaking total from its fifth annual STEP-Up Nemaha Match Day, held on Friday, August 22, 2025. With a tremendous outpouring of support from local donors, the event raised a net total of over $294,000, making it the most successful Match Day in the foundation- history.

STEP Treasurer Tim Rottinghaus shared, “It was another successful Match Day. Donations for the event were up $50,000 compared to last year. I feel this is a result of nine new funds over the past year and increasing awareness and support by the community. Thanks to everyone who donated or contributed in any way. Also, thanks to the Patterson Family Foundation for their support of rural communities and our local STEP-Up Supporters.”

Donors gave in person at the Seneca Free Library between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., with KMZA radio broadcasting live from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Online donations were also collected at www.stepupnemaha.com.

A total of 414 gifts were received during the event, with donations ranging from $10 to over $22,000.

In all, 37 different funds benefited from the day- giving. Eight funds achieved the maximum matching amount from the available $55,000 match pool.

The top three funds receiving the highest contributions were:
Nemaha County Catastrophic Medical Fund: $23,763
Centralia Project Fund: $19,383
Kathy L. Schmelzle Fund: $18,043

STEP Executive Director Tory Jost reflected on the community- overwhelming generosity, stating, “Thanks to our donors, our fifth Match Day set a new record. Every year, I am amazed by the generosity of our donors. Their continued support is not only inspiring—it- what makes Match Day such a powerful force for good in Nemaha County. Thank you again for making Nemaha County a great place to live, work, and give.”

A list of participating funds and donation totals is available at www.stepupnemaha.com.

The sixth annual STEP-Up Nemaha Match Day is scheduled for August 2026. Anyone interested in becoming STEP-Up Supporters or starting a fund with the STEP Foundation are encouraged to contact Tory Jost at info@nemahastep.org.