The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, located in Stevens Point, is celebrating its 40th anniversary of inspiring philanthropy and connecting people and resources to enhance Central Wisconsin now and for future generations.
“Honoring our past and celebrating the present inspires all the possibilities the future holds.”,” said Jenny Riggenbach, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin. “This anniversary is a celebration for our entire community. We are celebrating 40 years of philanthropy because of the partnerships we have created over the years with so many people, businesses, and nonprofits. Every donor and every act of philanthropy is an important part of our history, and we are eager to see what comes next. My favorite definition of philanthropy is “love of humanity” and we see that here in Central Wisconsin every day because of all the wonderful people that live in our community. This anniversary celebrates all of you.”
On April 15, 1982, the Stevens Point Area Foundation was established by a small group of local visionaries led by Mark Makholm, Gil Oelke, Jack Butler, and John Holdridge. At the time, there were not many community foundations in the state of Wisconsin. The vision these local leaders had 40 years ago helped create a trusted resource for donors to achieve their philanthropic goals and providing opportunities for people to give back to their community in more ways than they ever imagined.
Since its inception 40 years ago, the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin has grown to an asset size to over$32 million with nearly 300 funds. Each fund allows the Foundation to partner with donors to support students, causes and well-loved programs in our community.
To celebrate their 40th anniversary, the Foundation will be sharing 40 stories over the next 40 weeks to honor the past, celebrate the present, and welcome to the future. They are asking community members to share their memories of the Foundation as well. If you have a story you would like to share, please email Jessica Hoerter at jessica@cfcwi.org. To read the stories, please visit their website at www.cfcwi.org/40 or stay connected on their social media channels Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.