The Larks Community FUNd 2026 Impact Report celebrates another transformative year of giving back across the Bismarck-Mandan area.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Larks Community FUNd continued expanding access to sports, educational opportunities and positive life experiences for youth and families throughout Larks Nation. From more than 10,000 students participating in the Reading Program to youth sports grants, scholarships and community experiences, 2026 was another year of meaningful growth and impact.

Reading Program: Rewarding Student Success

Powered by Farmers Union Insurance, the FUNd’s free spring reading program rallied 10,234 students across 50 North Dakota schools to reach their literacy goals, including 5,893 Bismarck students, 2,155 Mandan students, and 2,195 students from surrounding communities. Teachers set the milestones, and the FUNd partnered with local sponsors to reward students’ hard work. 

Student Rewards Included:

• Free kids’ buffet at Pizza Ranch
• Day pass to the Dakota Zoo
• Bismarck State College color-changing cup & athletic coin
• Two free tickets to a Larks game

Thanks to these incentives, 1,941 students earned free game tickets this summer, a 200-student jump from last year.

Triple Play Program: Supporting Local Athletes

Through its Triple Play Program, the Larks Community FUNd breaks down financial barriers for youth sports teams across the region. By providing critical funding for tournament fees, equipment, and travel costs, the program ensures young athletes have the resources they need to compete year-round. In 2026, the FUNd proudly supported a diverse roster of local teams, including the Wilton Archery Team, BIO Girls, Capital Volleyball Club, and the Bismarck American 10U and 11U AAA Baseball Teams.

Share the Glove: Outfitting Local Youth Teams

The annual Northwoods League Share the Glove initiative provides local youth baseball and softball organizations with essential equipment to help their programs thrive. For 2026, the Beulah Parks District was awarded this grant and received more than $2,000 worth of brand-new Rawlings gear.

2026 Scholarship Recipients: Investing in Tomorrow

The Larks Community FUNd is proud to invest in the future of college-bound students both on the field and in the classroom. This year, seven outstanding individuals were awarded $500 scholarships to support their collegiate, athletic and academic pursuits:

• Reese Andres (Bismarck State College Baseball)
• Kaden Coldwell (University of Mary Baseball Scholarship)
• Aidan Rakowski (High School Senior Next-Level Collegiate Athlete)
• Aspen Eslinger (Sports Management Career)
• Brynn Arnold (Bismarck State College Softball)
• Samantha Rivero (Larks Intern of the Year)
• Jackson Crider (Larks Player of the Year)

Community Ticket Program: Baseball for All

The FUNd strives to better the community by providing positive life experiences to youth and families in the area and across North Dakota. The Community Ticket program provides complimentary tickets to nonprofit organizations in North Dakota that may not otherwise have the resources or opportunities to attend a Larks game. This year, the FUNd partnered with the Bis-Man Mentor Squad, Edwinton Place, and the Dacotah Foundation to help give these fans an incredible experience at the ballpark.

Powered by Community Generosity

Each milestone reached is a testament to our passionate community and the tireless dedication of our volunteer board members. The Larks Community FUNd extends its deepest gratitude to the sponsors, dedicated fans, and local partners who champion our mission season after season. Through your enthusiastic support of our events, raffles, auctions, and unique fundraising campaigns, we collectively raised a remarkable $40,375 this year to empower youth across the Bismarck-Mandan area.

To discover how you can support our mission and help us continue giving back, visit larkscommunityfund.com.

Want to see the full picture of the Larks’ impact across Bismarck-Mandan? Explore the 2026 Bismarck Larks Impact Report for a look at tourism, workforce development, fundraising, youth sports and more.

See how the FUNd’s impact has continued to grow by looking back at the 2025 Larks Community FUNd Impact Report.