George Rogers Tomorrow River Fund Donates $10,000 to Midwest Environmental Advocates

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

KaYing Vang, Community Storyteller

Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin

715-342-4454

kaying@cfcwi.org

George Rogers Tomorrow River Fund Donates $10,000 to Midwest Environmental Advocates

Stevens Point, WI – The George Rogers Memorial Tomorrow River Fund, held at the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, has made a gift of $10,000 to Midwest Environmental Advocates (MEA). The donation will support MEA’s work to protect clean water in Central Wisconsin. The donation was celebrated on October 23 with a gathering that honored the memory of George Rogers, a respected local journalist and environmental champion dedicated to protecting the Tomorrow River and other natural areas in Central Wisconsin.

Tom Miller, a representative of the George Rogers Tomorrow River Fund and dear friend to George, spoke at the event, sharing stories of Rogers’ dedication to the environment and the importance of stewardship. “George cared deeply about these waters and wanted them protected for future generations,” said Miller. “I have paddled across the globe and there is nothing like the beauty the Tomorrow Rives holds in Central Wisconsin.”

Rogers, known for his thoughtful journalism and conservation work, left a legacy that connects his passion for clean rivers with ongoing efforts to keep Wisconsin’s natural areas safe. He had advocated and supported the Community Foundation to begin grant making towards Environmental efforts over 20 years ago, a funding opportunity that continues to this day. Two close friends joined Miller to share their own memories of the Tomorrow River and their experiences with George, describing the river as a gathering place for the community and a reminder of the need for ongoing care.

Kara O’Connor, Development Director for Midwest Environmental Advocates, accepted the donation, expressing appreciation for Rogers’ legacy and the fund’s support. “MEA's current advocacy in the Tomorrow River Watershed came about thanks to local grassroots leaders who are working to ensure clean water for all,” said O’Connor. “MEA is honored to collaborate with clean water champions throughout Wisconsin, and we are grateful to the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin for supporting such community-driven environmental partnerships."

Representing the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin were Jenny Riggenbach, Marlee Samuels, Sarah Ross, and Azend’e Coley. The Community Foundation, which has supported local

environmental efforts across Portage and Waushara Counties, values the opportunity to help MEA build on Rogers’ lasting contributions to conservation and community well-being.

For more information on supporting our environment or other important causes, please visit www.cfcwi.org or contact the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin at (715) 342-4454.

About Us

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin is a non-profit organization that inspires charitable giving by connecting people and resources to enhance Central Wisconsin now and for future generations. For more information on how you can give back to your community, please visit www.cfcwi.org.

Midwest Environmental Advocates is a nonprofit law center that combines the power of law with the resolve of communities facing environmental injustice to secure and protect the rights of all people to healthy water, land, and air. Learn more at www.midwestadvocates.org.