United Way of South Central Nebraska - Plane Pull, (Courtesy)
HASTINGS — United Way of South Central Nebraska will host the area’s first-ever Plane Pull fundraising event on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, at Hastings Municipal Airport, combining strength competition with community impact in an unprecedented fundraising challenge.
Teams of four will compete to pull a massive 5-ton aircraft across the airport tarmac for the fastest time while raising funds for vital local programs including TeamMates mentoring, Meals on Wheels, and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
“This is the first event of its kind in the area,” said Molly Johnsen, Development Director for United Way of South Central Nebraska. “We’re bringing together the excitement of athletic competition with meaningful community support, all in the unique setting of our local airport.”
Event Details:
• Date: Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025
• Time: Check-in begins 8:30 a.m., competition starts 9 a.m.
• Location: Hastings Municipal Airport Terminal, 3300 W. 12th St.
• Registration: p2p.onecause.com/planepull
Teams compete in four categories: men’s division (Hercules Hunks), women’s division (Wonder Women Warriors), co-ed division (Maverick Mixers), and spectator division (Fun Flight Crew) for those preferring to cheer from the sidelines.
Each four-person team raises a minimum of $200 through peer-to-peer fundraising, with individual participants committing to raise $50 each. Prizes will be awarded for fastest times, best team themes, and top fundraising achievements.
Family-Friendly Festival Atmosphere
Beyond the main competition, the event features extensive family activities including Bison Bubbles bubble parties, Miniature Golf, food trucks (for a fee), and fire trucks and police vehicles. All family activities are free to the community.
“We’re creating a true community celebration,” Johnsen explained. “Whether you’re pulling the plane or cheering from the crowd, there’s something exciting for everyone.”
Supporting Local Programs
Funds raised support United Way’s 45+ local programs serving Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, and Webster counties. These programs address critical community needs including education, health, financial stability, and basic needs support.
The event represents United Way’s innovative approach to community fundraising while highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines South Central Nebraska.
Registration and Sponsorship
Teams and individual participants can register at p2p.onecause.com/planepull. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are available from $500 to $5,000, with benefits including logo placement, vendor booth space, and promotional opportunities.
For more information about participating, sponsoring, or volunteering, contact Molly Johnsen at 402-461-8421 or molly@unitedwayscne.org.
United Way of South Central Nebraska mobilizes the caring power of communities to advance the common good, focusing on education, health, and financial stability. Learn more at unitedwayscne.org.
