We Did It! $1 Million Raised

North Dakota, you’ve outdone yourself! Thanks to our incredible sponsors and donors, the Governor’s Heritage Foundation officially raised $1 million for Governor Kelly Armstrong’s Inaugural Ball.

This overwhelming support will make an unforgettable impact to our statewide charities the Great Plains Food Bank and the North Dakota FFA Foundation.

Join us in celebrating this historic moment on Saturday, January 18th at the Bismarck Event Center. Let’s come together to honor this achievement and continue making a difference for North Dakota.

The contribution that pushed the committee across the $1 million threshold came from Keith and Cathy Peltier, whose support underscores their deep commitment to North Dakota and its future.

"I am incredibly grateful for the overwhelming generosity of so many individuals who believe in North Dakota and our collective vision for the future," said Governor Kelly Armstrong. "Keith and Cathy Peltier’s contributions exemplify the spirit of giving that defines our state. Collectively, we are making a lasting impact by supporting the Great Plains Food Bank and the North Dakota FFA Foundation, two organizations that are changing lives every day.”

A portion of all donations from the Inaugural Ball will directly benefit the Great Plains Food Bank and the North Dakota FFA Foundation. Additionally, instead of charging admission for the ball, we are asking all guests to bring a box of non-perishable food items to benefit the Great Plains Food Bank. These contributions will help further their missions of feeding families and fostering agricultural education across North Dakota. 

“We are honored to support the inauguration of Governor Kelly Armstrong and to contribute to two remarkable causes that reflect the values and priorities of our state,” said Keith and Cathy Peltier. “This event not only celebrates the promise of North Dakota’s future but also ensures that organizations like the Great Plains Food Bank and the North Dakota FFA Foundation can continue their vital work. We are proud to stand alongside so many others who are committed to making a difference.”

While $1 million raised is an incredible milestone, the real impact will come from what we achieve together at the event. The Inaugural Ball will directly support two amazing organizations:

North Dakota FFA Foundation: Empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“The North Dakota FFA Foundation is thrilled by the unprecedented support we’ve received,” said Laiken DeMorrett, Executive Director of the North Dakota FFA Foundation. “These funds will directly benefit our nearly 7,700 student members, allowing us to provide even more hands-on learning opportunities and leadership development. This generosity showcases the importance of investing in agriculture as the backbone of North Dakota’s future.”

Great Plains Food Bank: Fighting hunger and serving families across North Dakota.

“This incredible generosity means that we can continue our work of feeding the 145,000 North Dakotans who rely on us for food assistance each year,” said Melissa Sobolik, CEO of the Great Plains Food Bank. “We are honored to partner with Governor Armstrong, and we encourage everyone to keep the momentum going by joining this vital cause.

Here’s how you can help:

• Bring non-perishable food items to the event to support families in need. A list of most-needed items can be found here.

• Make cash donations during the evening to maximize the impact of our collective generosity, or securely donate online to directly support these local charities.

  
  

Together, we can make this event about more than just celebration—we can make it about action.

Be part of the celebration, the giving, and the history we’re making together. It’s our goal to donate over $250,000 for these amazing charities and pack Great Plains Food Bank’s BIGGEST semi-truck full of non-perishable food items. We NEED your help - so secure your tickets today!

This is a black-tie event and free to attend, but RSVP is required. Tickets are limited so don’t wait!

Important Event Details

• Date: Saturday, January 18th | 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM CT

• Location: Bismarck Event Center (Directions)

How do I secure my tickets?

Tickets are free, but limited and going fast. RSVP today here so you don’t miss out on an amazing night.

What should I wear?

This is a premier black-tie event. A coat check will be available at check-in.

Want to get involved and support a great cause?

Contact our team today at [email protected]. Learn more about the Governor’s Inaugural Ball, including a list of sponsors, at governorsheritagend.org/inauguralball.