Great Bend Post
May 25, 2025

Volunteers needed for Big Bend Bash in Great Bend

Posted May 25, 2025 12:00 PM
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Volunteers in Action (sponsored by Barton Community College), and the Great Bend Economic Development invite the community to become part of an exciting journey as a volunteer for the next phase of revitalizing downtown Great Bend by helping with the first-ever Big Bend Bash.

“The Big Bend Bash will be not only a gathering of friends, food, and festivities but also the exciting kickoff of a lively, community-driven initiative to transform downtown with a streetscape enhancement plan,” said GBED President Sara Arnberger.

“As a volunteer, you can help make this day packed with excitement, entertainment, and community spirit,” said Volunteers in Action Director Linn Hogg. Volunteer opportunities include:

·         Gate ambassadors

·         Vendor support

·         Parade support

·         Set up/tear down

A Volunteer packet will be sent out a week before to outline the specific duties required/locations for volunteers, Hogg said. Volunteers will then be welcomed to an in-person volunteer meeting the week of the event to run through tasks and answer any questions and all volunteers will receive a Big Bend Bash shirt to wear on event day.

Every dollar spent at the Big Bend Bash will directly fund Phase 1 of an ambitious streetscape redesign, aimed at creating a vibrant, walkable, and beautiful downtown. “It's been quite a while since Great Bend’s last major renovation back in 1996, and GBED is eager to update the space to reflect the identity and dreams held for the future,” Arnberger said.

“Downtown is the heart of Great Bend, showcasing its story to every visitor. We want our story to shine: a community that believes in progress, rich with pride and optimism for what's ahead,” she said. “Imagine enhanced sidewalks, upgraded lighting, lush green spaces, and thoughtful design elements that will transform how we live, work, and connect in our downtown.”

Arnberger’s goal is for the Big Bend Bash to become an annual celebration, empowering the community to build momentum each year, a vision shared by Volunteers in Action, Hogg said. “Volunteers will be vital to making a meaningful difference and being part of an exciting transformation.”

To register as a volunteer go to https://volunteersinaction.galaxydigital.com/need/?s=1&need_init_id=13520

Volunteers can also call Volunteers In Action at 620-792-1614 for help registering or for more information.

For information on GBED and its many ongoing projects, call 620-796-2407.