Amanda’s story is one of connection woven through places, people, and moments that all, in one way or another, lead back to the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin.
Her earliest memories of community involvement began at Washington Elementary, where she proudly assisted on the prairie planning and installation team. Even as a child, she felt something powerful: a sense of belonging and purpose that came from being part of something bigger than herself. That feeling followed her to the Boston School Forest, where each year she eagerly anticipated the opportunity to help and learn outdoors. Looking back now, she finds it remarkable to see those same opportunities continuing to grow for today’s students, now supported by an organizational endowment fund for the Boston School Forest through the Community Foundation.
Now serving as the Middle/High School Principal for Wild Rose Middle/High School District, Amanda sees those early experiences come full circle. Her current involvement with the Green Circle Trail, the school, and the broader community has deepened her appreciation for how consistently the Community Foundation has supported and strengthened these shared community assets over time.
Her journey with the Community Foundation became even more personal when she was invited to join its Board of Directors. She was recommended by Dave Williams, who served on the board for 17 years, and she recalls him telling her, “I think you would be a really great fit to step in to my spot here” as he moved on to Emeritus staff.
Since joining the board, Amanda has gained a broader perspective on the impact happening across both Portage County and Waushara County. Listening to stories of generosity, vision, and change has been deeply meaningful. As she shares, “It has just been a great honor in these past few months to serve”.
That sense of purpose aligns closely with her role as an educator and mentor. “My hope is to be able to help guide the passions of people that want to give back to their communities, but also model for the kids that I get to be around.” For Amanda, service is not only about stewardship, but also about showing young people what it looks like to care deeply for the place they call home.
One moment that crystallized this impact came during the Gala of Gratitude, as she listened to the program highlight donor stewardship and legacy giving, including the Sharon Flugaur Memorial Fund. Amanda grew up just two houses down from the Flugaurs and remembers them for their kindness and warm smiles. Hearing their legacy honored brought her journey full circle. “It’s neat that I had experiences connecting with those people and that they have quiet impacts within the community, too.”
Through reflection, leadership, and service, Amanda’s story illustrates how the Community Foundation’s impact is enduring, shaping lives across generations, and inspiring those who once benefited to now help lead the way forward.
