When it comes to raising money for a cause close to your heart, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Breakthrough T1D Your Way is all about empowering people to tap into their passions, creativity, and community connections to raise funds for Breakthrough T1D. A shining example of this is Dale Radman’s incredible event, Combine for a Cure—a unique blend of farming, friends, and philanthropy. 

Let’s dive into Dale’s journey and how this event has grown into something truly special. 

The Inspiration Behind Combine for a Cure 

Dale’s reason for creating Combine for a Cure began with a moment that changed his life. 

“When my niece Katie was just 4 years old, her first day of preschool was interrupted by her first serious health episode. She had to be hospitalized that very same day. Not long after, I witnessed my brother giving her insulin shots—and both of them were in tears. That moment stuck with me. I realized that countless families experience the same heartache every day. I wanted to do something about it.” 

It’s these personal stories that often spark the most meaningful fundraisers—events fueled by emotion, connection, and a desire to make a difference. 

How One Man’s Love for Farming Became a Fundraising Adventure 

As a lifelong farmer, Dale wanted to incorporate his passion into his fundraising efforts. 

“I’ve been around farming my whole life. As a kid, I’d push toy tractors and combines across the carpet pretending I was doing what my dad did every day. Now that I’m grown, I’ve just upgraded the size of my toys,” Dale jokes. 

About twelve years ago, Dale bought a used combine at a local auction for $375, planted corn on his land, and harvested it all on his own. When he sold the crop, he donated the proceeds to Breakthrough T1D, then JDRF. This sparked the idea for Combine for a Cure—a casual gathering of friends where they combined corn, drank beer, and grilled food. Over time, the event grew into a lively celebration featuring food, live music, and even a silent auction. 

What Makes Combine for a Cure Unique 

Dale describes his event as a “back-road farming adventure.  

“We harvest corn, bid on donated auction items from local businesses and friends, and enjoy brats, hot dogs, beans, chips, and cookies. All while listening to live music and meeting new people. Everyone is there with the same goal—raising awareness and money for a great cause.” 

This sense of community is what makes the event so special. What started with around 40 attendees has grown to nearly 200 people today. “I dream of the day we run out of food and beer, and I have to scramble. That’s when I’ll know it was a great year!” Dale laughs. 

Challenges and Surprises Along the Way 

Running an event isn’t without its challenges. “The hardest part is the lead-up to the event. I always worry about whether I’ll get everything ready in time—organizing the auction, setting up the space, making sure we have enough food and beer. Some years it feels like we won’t make it, but somehow, it always comes together.” 

But Dale has also been pleasantly surprised by how much people are willing to help. “Friends, family, and even people I don’t know well always ask, ‘What can I do to help?’ Sometimes I have something for them to do, and sometimes it’s just enough knowing they care.” 

One particularly memorable moment? “A few years ago, my hairstylist showed up and decided we were shaving heads to raise money. In just 30 minutes, she raised $1,400! I went bald that day—and so did a friend of mine. The next year, she raised even more, and I ended up with a mohawk,” Dale recalls with a grin. 

The Impact: Raising Funds One Crop at a Time 

While Dale admits he hasn’t kept exact records, he estimates that Combine for a Cure has raised around $45,000 over the past eight years. The introduction of the silent auction took the event’s fundraising to new heights, helping them raise up to $12,000 annually. 

 “Hosting the event is part of my donation, too. I don’t take any of my expenses out of what we raise—it just doesn’t feel right. That’s my way of giving back,” Dale explains. 

Advice for Aspiring DIY Fundraisers 

When asked what advice he’d give to others interested in hosting their own event, Dale offers these tips: 

Ask for Help: “Friends, family, and even people at the organization you’re raising money for can provide great support and ideas.” 

Use Silent Auctions: “They’re a lot of work, but they can really pay off. The more items you collect, the more successful your auction will be.” 

Advertise Like Crazy: “Create fliers, make a Facebook event, and share it everywhere you can. The more people hear about it, the better your turnout will be.” 

Bringing Your Own Event to Life 

Dale’s Combine for a Cure is a perfect example of how you can create a meaningful and fun DIY fundraising event that reflects your passions. Whether you love farming, biking, baking, or music—there’s no wrong way to raise money for Breakthrough T1D. What matters is finding something you love and using it to make a difference. 

If you’re thinking about starting your own event, remember: it doesn’t have to be perfect, and you don’t have to do it alone. Just like Dale, you might be surprised by how many people are willing to lend a hand. 

Get Involved 

Ready to make an impact? Whether it’s combining corn or hosting a bake sale, Breakthrough T1D Your Way gives you the freedom to get creative with your fundraising. Find inspiration from Dale’s story and start planning your event today—because every dollar counts in the fight for a cure.