Nebraska State Fair-goers can enjoy a sweet treat while making a difference at SCOOPS Ice Cream Parlor, where every cone, cup and coffee float comes with a side of philanthropy.
What makes SCOOPS special is the people behind the counter. Volunteers choose where the proceeds from their shifts go — either Heartland United Way or one of its 20 community partner agencies. In many cases, those partners also take their turn behind the counter, scooping ice cream to raise funds for their own causes.
Last year, SCOOPS volunteers served more than 12,200 cones, cups and coffee floats, contributed nearly 800 volunteer hours and raised more than $32,400 during the Nebraska State Fair.
This year, SCOOPS is welcoming a new mascot: HUWie the Penguin. Named by Heartland United Way Facebook follower Jeri Jaixen, HUWie will be out and about at the fair, helping show fair-goers how they can give back, take action and stay involved long after the rides pack up.
For the first time, fair-goers can also add a little patriotic flair to their impact. On Sept. 1, SCOOPS will offer a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with patriotic sprinkles for $2.50 as part of the Nebraska State Fair’s 250th celebration of America.
Every scoop helps support programs that improve the lives of individuals and families across Hall, Hamilton, Howard and Merrick counties — from creating opportunities for youth and strengthening financial security to building healthier, more resilient communities.
Volunteers are still needed for both the Nebraska State Fair and the Aksarben Stock Show. Visit Go2Volunteer.org to sign up for a shift. SCOOPS Ice Cream Parlor also opens during select shows at Fonner Park throughout the year.
SCOOPS Ice Cream Parlor is open through the fair from 10 AM-9 PM (closing early at 7 PM on September 1). It will be located outside the Cattle Barn, north of the Milking Parlor, at the Nebraska State Fair.
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