The Great Outdoors Foundation raised $50,000 during its recent Wild Prairie Showdown, the organization’s annual dinner where three local philanthropists, or champions, compete for the title of Most Valuable Philanthropist by raising the most money for their cause. This year’s event, held Oct. 13 at the River Center in downtown Des Moines, drew 200 guests who wore their best flannel for the “formal flannel” event, said Jen Cross, vice president of donor relations for the foundation. This year’s Most Valuable Philanthropist was Emily Kessinger, who raised $10,000 for the Conservation Fund. Other champions included Ryan Crane, who raised more than $3,800 for Polk County Conservation, and Lisa Behrends, who raised nearly $2,600 for the Great Outdoors Foundation. The remainder of the money raised came from general donations, table sponsorships and tickets to the event. Cross said Kessinger, Crane and Behrends continued to raise money throughout the event with a running total of donations displayed on a big screen, providing a sense of drama before the winner was announced at the end of the evening. Each champion had walk-up music and the evening included a fashion show of flannel attire, she said. Next year’s event is scheduled for Oct. 12. A location has not been announced. Cross said people should watch the Great Outdoors Foundation social media pages and newsletters for more information.