The 2023 Cattlemen’s Ball of Nebraska, held June 2 and 3, raised just over $1.9 million this year for cancer research.
This year’s result means the event, which began in 1998, has generated more than $19 million for UNMC’s Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center.
The Weborg family of Cuming County was this year’s party host, welcoming record numbers of caring and generous folks to their Weborg Feedlot Co. south of Pender, Nebraska, for two days of hospitality and fundraising.
“The Weborg family, the community of Pender and the surrounding area should be very proud of the work they put into the 2023 Cattlemen’s Ball that made the event an outstanding success,” said Kenneth Cowan, MD, PhD, director of the cancer center. “There is nothing like this truly unique event, and nothing like the dedicated, driven, humble and generous people in our state who support cancer research through the Cattlemen’s Ball.”
UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, who attended this year’s event, said he was in awe of the efforts of the Cattlemen’s Ball organizers and participants.
“This is a truly first-class event with a long history that has had such a positive effect on the state of cancer research in Nebraska,” Dr. Gold said. “It was a privilege to have the opportunity to attend the event with Dr. Cowan to meet these great supporters who are doing so much for the cancer center and the people’s whose lives it touches through research and care.”
More than 5,000 people attended the event to raise money for a cause that touches everyone either directly or indirectly. According to the American Cancer Society, roughly one out of three Americans will get a cancer diagnosis at some point in their life.
The $1.9 million raised represents 90% of the profits of the event, with 10% donated back to the host community for health and wellness programs.
The 26th Cattlemen’s Ball will be held June 7-8, 2024, in Minatare, Nebraska, in Scotts Bluff County and hosted by the Schiff family of Schiff Farms.