Three Waushara County nonprofits are using Visionary Grants to expand their services and plan for the future. At a recent Community Lunch Hour, the Waushara County Food Pantry, Pine River Library, and Wild Rose Historical Society and Museum shared how multi-year funding is helping them grow, adapt, and better serve the community.
Each organization faces unique challenges, but they all share the goal of strengthening Waushara County’s communities.
Waushara County Food Pantry: Fighting Hunger with Community Support
The Waushara County Food Pantry provides food for over 1,100 people each month, and that number is growing. To keep up with demand, they’re improving efficiency and finding new ways to reach those in need.
With support from the Visionary Grant, the pantry has hired a new staff member to strengthen community outreach and long-term sustainability. They’re also making renovations to improve food distribution and expanding partnerships to provide more fresh, healthy options for local families.
“Our pantry runs because of volunteers,” said Director Nate Knight. “It’s a social and family atmosphere where people come together to help their neighbors.”
Pine River Library: A Small Space with Big Plans
Libraries are constantly changing to better serve their communities. Pine River Library in Leon-Saxeville is working to create a more welcoming, accessible space while reaching additional people.
With support from the Visionary Grant, the library plans to add a second entrance to improve visitors’ access. They’re also expanding seating and workspaces for all ages, making it easier for students, families, and community members to gather and learn. To spread the word, they’re strengthening outreach through social media, newspapers, and local partnerships, ensuring more people know about their library’s valuable resources.
Assistant Director Carly Terry hopes to grow library programs, club opportunities, and ways for the public to engage. “Libraries are transforming,” she said. “They’re not just a place to get books and movies, but a place to really connect.”
Wild Rose Historical Society: Preserving the Past, Engaging the Future
The Wild Rose Historical Society and Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing local history. Still, as a volunteer-run organization, they are looking for more community involvement to keep their vision alive and the past of Wild Rose vibrant.
With support from the Visionary Grant, the museum is renovating its exhibits to improve visitors’ experiences. It is also working to expand outreach, raise awareness, and connect with younger generations and local schools to ensure that Wild Rose’s rich history is passed down for years to come.
“People are amazed by how much history we have here,” said board member Kent Bernard. “There is an opportunity to spread the word and make sure future generations know our stories.”
The Power of Long-Term Investment in Nonprofits
The Visionary Grant program was created to give nonprofits the flexibility and support they need to test ideas, adapt, and plan for the future. These three organizations are using their funding to tackle sustainability challenges, ensuring their services will be available for years to come.
But sustaining and growing these efforts requires community involvement. Whether you volunteer, spread the word, or make a financial contribution, you can help strengthen these vital community resources.
Want to get involved? Here’s how:
- VOLUNTEER. Whether it’s helping distribute food, assisting with library programs, or supporting historical education, your time makes a difference.
- ENGAGE. Help keep these nonprofit conversations going by joining our Nonprofit Meet-Ups every month or by volunteering to host a Nonprofit Meet-Up in Portage or Waushara County. Reach out to kaying@cfcwi.org to learn more.
- SHARE. Share this blog post or YouTube video with your network. Follow these nonprofits on social media and share their work with your network.
- GIVE. Financial contributions to the Community Grants funds can help organizations like this into the future.
Through your support of nonprofits like the Waushara County Food Pantry, Pine River Library, and the Wild Rose Historical Society and wider investments like the Community Grants Program, you’re helping build a more resilient and connected community.