In the short span of 27 years, the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation has played an integral role in the revitalization of the Iowa State Fairgrounds. To achieve this, the Foundation has developed relationships with the state legislature, private industry and individual donors, raising funds dedicated to infrastructure projects. In addition to fundraising directly for specific projects, programs implemented over the years include memberships, giving programs, merchandising, planned giving and an endowment. Funds raised have provided for renovations to 19 buildings, helped construct 13 new buildings, stages and plazas and have updated underground utilities. The Iowa State Fair is a State Agency that does not receive any tax dollars. With the state owning the fairgrounds, they needed a vehicle for people to give money to help with the preservation and restoration of Fairgrounds. With this in mind, in 1992, a 501c3 nonprofit was organized that allowed people to receive tax deductions for their donations. John Putney was hired as the fulltime Executive Director to manage everything within the Foundation. February 1993 marked the official start of the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation. “Through both private and public campaigns and education, to date, we have raised over $165 million. You can definitely see how rejuvenated the Iowa State Fairgrounds is.” Robin Taylor stated as she detailed out the role that the Foundation has at the historic site in Des Moines, Iowa. They host multiple events both during the Fair and throughout the year to raise funds.
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