2024 Rising Star Award

Madison’s journey began on her family’s farm in Harmony, Maine, where she learned about hard work, responsibility and raising animals ethically. Madison began volunteering at the Harmony Free Fair as soon as she was able, assisting with everything from carrying piglets for the pig scramble to selling 50/50 tickets to working in the Patriarch’s food booth. Word has it that Madison has helped sell 50/50 tickets since she was old enough to hold a roll of tickets and climb into the bleachers.

Madison has made a positive impact on the fair community through her efforts to recruit and engage young people as volunteers. When she reached high school, she actively reached out to her schoolmates and they eagerly volunteered. Her ability to reach out and bring in new energy and talent is ensuring the fair’s sustainability. 

When WABI-TV Channel 5 visited the fair, Madison gave a thoughtful and enthusiastic interview, providing positive publicity for the fair and demonstrating its welcoming, family-oriented spirit . A project near and dear to her heart is the Children’s Area which came to life following the COVID-19 pandemic. Madison took the lead in reinventing the fair experience for children. . She filled this section of the fairgrounds with engaging agriculture-focused activities, such as cow-milking demonstrations, butter making, muddy pig art, homemade piggy banks and other interactive activities which are educational and fun for all ages. Madison hand painted farm animals and farm scenes on tote bags, and each child received a unique bag to take home. To fund these activities, Madison secured a $1,000. grant from WalMart, and also obtained sponsors for some of the events, such as the ice cream eating contest.

Madison’s dedication to the fair continued through her college years, when Madison became involved in Harmony Cares, a food pantry serving Harmony, and Harmony Cares Closet, which provides free clothing and household items for those in need. Madison serves as a member of the Patriarch’s Club Board of Trustees and brings a fresh perspective to the board.  More recently Madison participated in  MAAF annual conferences, and  the 2024 IAFE convention in Phoenix, AZ. Congratulations to our newest Rising Star, from Harmony Free Fair - Madison Chadbourne.