MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
One of Cancer Council of Reno County’s biggest traditions is also its biggest lifeline.
The Reno Roundup fundraiser returns Feb. 21 to the Reno County Fairgrounds, marking the event’s 30th anniversary and bringing with it a sold-out crowd, a throwback casino theme and a renewed focus on helping neighbors facing cancer.
“We’re really excited,” said Katie Brown the Director of Development for the Cancer Council of Reno County “This is our biggest fundraiser of the year, but it’s more than just raising money. It’s about creating a sense of community and connecting our neighbors, patients and families.”
Nearly 860 attendees are expected for the evening event, which has grown from humble beginnings into one of the largest annual fundraisers in Reno County.
From kitchen table to countywide impact
Cancer Council leaders say the Roundup actually predates the organization itself. The event began in the late 1990s benefiting the American Cancer Society’s local chapter before community leaders formed the Cancer Council to keep more of the money raised local.
“Cancer Council started around a kitchen table in 1998,” Brown said. “The goal was to make sure funds raised here stayed here.”
Today, every dollar raised supports local patients directly through financial and emotional assistance.
Ashley Thompson, patient care director, works one-on-one with more than 360 patients and families across the county.
“We try to fill the gaps that insurance doesn’t cover — those unexpected out-of-pocket costs,” Thompson said. “From medication co-pays and prosthetics to rent and utility bills, we pivot with each patient because every cancer journey is different.”
Support doesn’t stop when treatment ends. Patients remain eligible for help for up to five years after diagnosis, including during remission and follow-up care.
“We recognize that even when there’s no evidence of disease, it’s not over,” Thompson said. “It’s still life-changing.”
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with food and drinks, followed by a program and live auction. This year’s “casino night” theme brings gaming tables where guests can win chips and trade them for chances at jackpot prizes.
A silent auction and raffle items will also be available, with online bidding opening the Monday before the event so even those not attending can participate.
Tickets and tables are sold out, but organizers say a wait list is available and raffle entries can be purchased online.
The event’s presenting sponsor, Midway Motors, is returning for its 11th year.
“We’re so thankful for their dedication,” Brown said. “Their support helps make all of this possible.”
In addition to financial assistance, the Cancer Council offers emotional support through monthly groups, including a women’s Hope Group and Cancer Connections for patients, caregivers and family members.
The nonprofit has also begun expanding into early detection efforts. Last year, it hosted a prostate cancer screening that drew more than 40 participants, with several requiring follow-up care. This year’s awareness focus will be colorectal cancer.
Organizers say the mission remains simple: take care of local people when they need it most.
“Everything we raise stays right here,” Brown said. “It’s your friends, your family, your neighbors. We’re completely funded by this community, and we’re just so grateful.”
Those interested in donating auction items, purchasing raffle tickets or making a direct contribution can find more information on the Cancer Council of Reno County's website.