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12 2025–2030 SCORP SUCCESS STORY Rebuilding Hope in North Central Nebraska In the wake of the devastating March 2019 flood that destroyed over half the homes in Lynch, Nebraska, hope could have easily washed away with the rising waters. Instead, it sparked a movement that redefined the town's future. Out of the uncertainty, a group of passionate community members from this village of 187 came together to form the Lynch Area Future Fund. With guidance from the Nebraska Community Foundation, they gained nonprofit status and began a mission to not only rebuild what was lost, but to reimagine what Lynch could become. Their outdoor recreation vision was ambitious: a new splash pad, a modern playground, a large picnic shelter, and even a putt-putt golf course. But it all started with a dream — and a community determined to make it real. In May 2023, the first major milestone was achieved. The splash pad, built out of the flood plain on the site of the old Lynch Baseball Park, opened with a joyful celebration and a free BBQ on the last day of school. More than just a place to cool off, the splash pad symbolizes resilience and inclusion, featuring ADA- compliant sidewalks and shaded areas using the former dugouts. This project was powered by more than just grant funds and generous donations — it was driven by the energy of a united town. From fundraising meals and scavenger hunts to Wacky Water Wednesdays that raise money for ongoing maintenance, every event brought people together to support a shared vision. This has continued through the annual Christmas in the Valley community event that raises money each year to help pay for the splash pad water bill. Grants from sources such as the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and the Irene C. Stenger Donor-Advised Fund, along with countless private donations, helped bring the vision to life. Volunteers donated labor and materials, local businesses contributed equipment and prizes, and alumni classes pitched in with landscaping and tree planting. The volunteer labor and equipment were used as a match for the LWCF grant, helping stretch the project's funding even further. The village didn't stop there, the summer of 2024 brought construction of a new 80-person picnic shelter with electricity and installation of a playground. The reopened kitchen in the community bar, local grocery sales for picnic items, and a renewed sense of community pride point to a growing economic and social revival. What started as a response to disaster has become a model of community-driven transformation. The people of Lynch didn't just rebuild — they reimagined, and in doing so, rekindled the spirit of their town for generations to come. For more information about the Lynch Ballfield Park development contact the Lynch Area Future Fund at LynchAreaFutureFund19@ gmail.com. Children play at the splash pad in Lynch. Photo by Kelli Heiser. INTRODUCTION DRAF T