09/02/2026
For many years, the West Side Nut Club have been great supporters for multiple agencies and groups. Last night, was no different. We are so thankful for donations towards water rescue equipment and the annual donation to the department in general. Thank you and good luck on this year’s Fall Festival!
West Side Nut Club Donates Over $760,000 to 111 Separate Organizations
Evansville, Ind. — The West Side Nut Club celebrated its annual Founder’s Day event Tuesday, September 1, at Discovery Lodge at Burdette Park, bringing together more than 500 members, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, schools, and guests to celebrate the organization’s continued commitment to the Evansville community.
The 2026 night of giving marked another record year for the West Side Nut Club, which is on pace to distribute nearly $1,000,000 back into the community this year. The evening featured donations to local schools, youth organizations, nonprofits, community programs and our first responders.
Among the largest contributions announced were two $50,000 donations. The Evansville Junior Football League received $50,000 to support two new scoreboards, while Ozanam Family Shelter received $50,000 to support its mission of providing temporary housing and support services for women and children.
In its 105-year history, the West Side Nut Club has now contributed over $11,000,000 back into the community. That total does not include the countless volunteer hours, work parties, and additional community projects completed by West Side Nut Club members throughout the year.
Founder’s Day also highlighted the significant economic impact of the West Side Nut Club Fall Festival. The annual week-long festival generates approximately $8.3 million in economic impact, including $3.8 million in sales through the nonprofit food booths lining West Franklin Street. In 2025, more than 280,000 visitors attended the festival, 28 food booths set sales records, and the Half Pot reached a record $2.6 million.
“Founder’s Day is one of the most meaningful nights on the West Side Nut Club calendar because it allows us to celebrate the people and organizations that make our community stronger,” said Rusty Rideout, 2026 Founder’s Day Chair. “We are proud of what our members accomplish throughout the year, but the greatest reward is seeing those efforts turned into meaningful support for schools, nonprofits, youth organizations, and community programs. It is an honor to chair Founder’s Day, and I’m excited to carry that momentum into another incredible Fall Festival.”
As the organization prepares for another year of the nation’s best Fall Festival, the West Side Nut Club remains committed to its century-long tradition of service, volunteerism, and giving back to the community. The 105th Annual West Side Nut Club Fall Festival will take place October 5–10, 2026, on historic West Franklin Street in Evansville.
A list of all the recipients and the donation amount can be found in the comments
