Farm Rescue’s Helping Hands Harvest Benefit set for Nov. 14 at the Avalon Events Center

Under the vast North Dakota sky, where the horizon stretches endlessly and the fields whisper stories of toil and hope, a young girl named Jocelyn Birklid stands before a crowd at the Avalon Events Center. Her voice, filled with a mix of humility and gratitude, recounts how Farm Rescue’s volunteers once stepped into her family’s farm during a time when life itself seemed uncertain. As she speaks, her words resonate deeply with the audience, embodying the quiet strength and resilience that define this community’s spirit.

What Happened

On Saturday, November 14, 2026, the heart of Fargo beat a little stronger as Farm Rescue hosted its annual Helping Hands Harvest Benefit at the Avalon Events Center. This event, a cornerstone of community generosity, brought together supporters, farmers, volunteers, and local businesses in a celebration of service and solidarity. From 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., the evening was filled with inspiring stories, lively auctions, and heartfelt recognitions, all aimed at supporting Farm Rescue’s mission to keep family farms thriving amid adversity.

The night’s highlight was a series of awards honoring those whose unwavering dedication has propelled the organization forward. The Founder’s Award commemorated the visionaries who laid the foundation in 2005, while the Legacy Award celebrated enduring generosity. The Pillar Award recognized steadfast support, and the Good Samaritan Award honored volunteers whose selfless service embodies the true spirit of community. These recognitions serve as a testament to the collective effort that sustains Farm Rescue’s vital work across 11 states.

Celebrating Local Heroes

Among the evening’s speakers was Farm Rescue Founder and Board President Bill Gross, whose reflections traced the organization’s journey from humble beginnings to a lifeline for over 1,300 families. “Our mission is rooted in the belief that no farmer should face crisis alone,” Gross stated, emphasizing the importance of community and faith in overcoming life's hurdles. Gross, a lifelong North Dakotan, has dedicated his career to supporting rural communities, drawing on his own experiences growing up on a farm near Carrington, ND. His leadership has been instrumental in expanding Farm Rescue’s reach to include families in North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

The organization’s growth reflects North Dakota’s deep-rooted agricultural heritage, which remains a vital part of the community’s identity. The state’s economy relies heavily on family farms and ranches, many of which are generational operations passed down through families who have weathered economic downturns, weather extremes, and market fluctuations. Farm Rescue’s work exemplifies the community’s collective effort to preserve this way of life, ensuring that the land continues to be a source of livelihood and pride for future generations.

New Executive Director Shari Rogge-Fidler, a North Dakota native with a background in nonprofit management, shared her vision for expansion. “Our goal is to grow not just in numbers but in the depth of service,” she said. “We want to reach more families, deepen our partnerships with local churches, civic organizations, and businesses, and foster a stronger sense of community support.” Rogge-Fidler’s leadership aims to amplify the organization’s impact, especially as rural communities face ongoing challenges such as rural depopulation, aging farm operators, and the increasing costs of equipment and land management.

The event’s spirited live auction, led by Max Steffes of Steffes Auctioneers, drew enthusiastic bids on items ranging from Montana Silversmiths jewelry to exclusive sports memorabilia. Unique experiences like a California getaway and Minnesota Frost hockey tickets offered attendees a chance to support Farm Rescue while enjoying memorable adventures. Interactive fundraising games such as the Wine and Whiskey Pull and Golden Ticket Raffle added a lively, engaging element to the evening, encouraging everyone to participate and contribute.

Community Impact and Future Growth

Farm Rescue’s work is more than just providing labor; it’s about preserving the backbone of American agriculture—families committed to the land, faith, and each other. During the 2025-26 fiscal year alone, the organization supported 99 farm and ranch families, covering over 45,000 acres with more than 10,500 hours of volunteer effort. These numbers reflect a community united by a shared purpose: to ensure that no family faces hardship in isolation, and that the legacy of hard work and faith endures.

Supporting families through natural disasters, injuries, or illnesses, Farm Rescue exemplifies the power of faith-driven service and community commitment. Their model relies heavily on donations, volunteer hours, and partnerships with local businesses like Riddle’s Jewelry and North Star Credit Union, which sponsor events like Helping Hands Harvest. These collaborations highlight the strength of community bonds, rooted in authentic faith and a shared desire to see families flourish.

Farm Rescue’s impact extends beyond immediate assistance; it fosters resilience and hope within rural communities. Many families who have received aid speak of renewed confidence and a sense of belonging, knowing their neighbors and community stand with them. This support network is especially vital in North Dakota, where rural areas face challenges such as limited access to healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The organization’s presence provides a vital safety net, reinforcing the community’s collective strength.

Looking ahead, Farm Rescue aims to expand its reach, tapping into new communities and fostering stronger ties with local churches and civic organizations. With plans to increase volunteer recruitment and enhance fundraising efforts, the organization envisions a future where every farm family in need finds a helping hand. As Shari Rogge-Fidler notes, “Our goal is to grow not just in numbers but in the depth of service, ensuring every family feels the love and support of their community.”

Farm Rescue also recognizes the importance of youth involvement to sustain its mission. Initiatives like youth ambassador programs and farm safety education are being developed to engage the next generation of farmers and community leaders, ensuring the organization’s legacy endures.

For those unable to attend the event, the online silent auction remains open, offering a chance to contribute from afar. Bidding details are available on the Farm Rescue website, allowing supporters nationwide to participate in this vital cause. Every dollar and every bid represents a commitment to preserving the American farmstead—homes built on faith, family, and steadfast community support.

As the night drew to a close, the message was clear: Farm Rescue’s mission is more than aid—it’s a testament to the enduring strength of community and faith in the American way of life. With each story shared, each bid placed, and each award presented, the organization reaffirmed its pledge to stand with farm families through every storm. In a world of changing landscapes and uncertain futures, the roots of faith and family remain the most resilient foundation.