By LIZZY CISNEROS
Tiger Media Network
Last Monday, The Venue at Thirsy’s was buzzing with excitement as the Hays community gathered for a fundraiser supporting the Hays Buffalo Special Olympics team. The team recently earned an invitation to compete at the USA Games in Minnesota, and this local event helped raise funds to make that trip possible.
The night was built around a raffle, giving community members the chance to win prizes while contributing to a great cause. Rather than a live auction, guests could purchase raffle tickets throughout the weekend and drop them into boxes for the prizes they hoped to win. The winners were announced Monday evening, adding some suspense and fun to the end of the fundraiser.
Local residents filled the venue, enjoying food, lively conversation, and a shared sense of pride in supporting Hays athletes. Many attendees commented on how meaningful it felt to come together for such a purpose — not only to help the team financially, but to show encouragement for the athletes who will be representing their hometown on a national stage.
Organizers from Thirty’s The Venue expressed their gratitude for the turnout and the generosity shown by everyone who participated. Local businesses and community members donated raffle prizes, food, and their time to help the event run smoothly. Their combined efforts made the evening a success and underscored the supportive, close-knit nature of the Hays community.
While the total amount raised is still being finalized, organizers shared that the fundraiser exceeded expectations. Every ticket purchased and every donation made will help the team cover important expenses such as travel, lodging, and uniforms for the USA Games.
Events like this one highlight what makes Hays special — a community that steps up for its members and celebrates their achievements. The Buffalo Special Olympics team’s upcoming trip to Minnesota represents not just their hard work, but the strength of the community standing behind them.
As the team prepares for the USA Games, they carry with them the pride and support of everyone who helped make Monday night’s event possible. The fundraiser at Thirty’s The Venue wasn’t just about prizes and donations — it was about unity, generosity, and the shared belief that success is even sweeter when the whole community is part of it.
“We love giving back to our community and it also helps tie in even more community as everyone loves helping and supporting one another,” Thirsty’s owner Brent Schulte said. “It’s nice to see smiling faces in the restaurant while going towards a good cause.”
In the raffle, Julie Yarmer won a Napoleon Grill, Waylon Pray took home a brand-new TV, and Hailie Whitmore won an autographed Hays Buffalo jersey, a crowd favorite.