Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) is pleased to announce that a record-breaking total of $111,855.21 was raised to support Team Minot at the 2024 Prairie Warrior Auction on March 21.  

The funds come from a combination of live and silent auctions, VIP table sales, games, and cash donations. The event was open to the public and cost $25 per person, while active-duty military and spouses could attend at no cost.  

“The 37th Annual Prairie Warrior Auction was a huge success this year, setting records in both attendance and dollars raised for Team Minot,” said Cassidy Hjelmstad, Minot Area Chamber EDC 2024 Board Chair. “A big thank you goes out to all who made this year’s event a success, it is amazing what can be accomplished when we come together. In 2023 MACEDC added a new military liaison position, and this investment is paying dividends. Thank you to the full Chamber EDC team for their work to refresh the event and step up in a big way to support military in our community and thank you to Verendrye for their continued support of this event.” 

Proceeds from the auction will be used to help squadrons at Minot Air Force Base fund events, meals, and other morale-boosting activities aimed at improving day-to-day life for Team Minot. In addition, a significant amount of the funds raised will send airmen Home for the Holidays. 

“Minot Area Chamber EDC is proud to administer a program in partnership with Minot Air Force Base to purchase airline tickets to send first-term airmen home for the holidays,” shared Brekka Kramer, President | CEO Minot Area Chamber EDC. “With the table sponsors and generous donations from Hess Corporation and Verendrye Electric Cooperative, we were able to raise over $50,000 at this year’s event to send airmen home! Thank you to all who purchased a table and donated directly to support those who otherwise would not be able to go home for the holidays.” 

Verendrye Electric Cooperative was the presenting sponsor of the auction for the second year in a row. 

“Verendrye is extremely proud of the service the airmen at Minot Air Force Base provide in protecting the nation and we want to do everything we can to support our friends and neighbors,” said Tom Rafferty, Chair of the Minot Area Chamber EDC Military Affairs Committee. “A sincere thank you to all who contributed to this year’s event, including the airmen who crafted unique military-inspired items and who volunteers their time.” 

Military support is one of five pillars the Minot Area Chamber EDC is focused on, and this pillar is led by Keli-Rosselli-Sullivan. Throughout the year there are many opportunities to get involved and support military personnel; please reach out to Keli at keli@minotchamberedc.com or by phone at 701.852.6000 for more information.