Media Contact:
KaYing Vang, Community Storyteller
Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin
715-342-4454
KaYing@cfcwi.org
$50,000 in Major Grants Awarded by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin to Local Impact Projects
Stevens Point, Wisconsin (Dec 5, 2024) – The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin (Community Foundation) is proud to announce the 2024 Major Projects Grants have been awarded. The Jensen Community Center will receive a $25,000 grant, and the Waushara County Animal Shelter will also receive $25,000.
These Major Projects offer a chance to make a difference in the lives of people who call Portage and Waushara Counties home. They bring different parts of our community together to work on a shared goal.
The Jensen Community Center will use its grant to increase capacity and improve safety with plans for an outdoor terrace, fire protection, and an expanded theater stage. Demand for their community space has steadily grown as local organizations rely on the location to host events, meetings, and learning opportunities. The expansion will create much-needed space for community-wide gatherings and private events such as weddings and memorials.
“The Jensen Community Center is truly the hub of the community, bringing together patrons of all ages and providing experiences that overlap the generational divide. The Community Foundation Major Projects grant will allow us to move forward with the last stage of the 3Stage Expansion Project and lends greater credibility to our enhancement project and its donors,” shares Sandra Lynne Schmutzler, Ed.D., the President of Jensen Community Center’s Board of Directors.
The grant for Waushara County Animal Shelter will fund an expansion project, providing more space for stray dogs and helping manage overflow from nearby counties. This project keeps tax dollars local, reduces transportation costs, and ensures quicker access to care through a local veterinary partner.
“In April, my family and I were notified by a volunteer and family friend of a young adult dog named Uno who needed a home. I had always had a dog growing up and in adulthood, but I had never adopted one from a shelter. I was hesitant to adopt with the fear of the unknown. The Waushara County Animal Shelter gave me a very honest assessment of Uno and spent a number of weeks acclimating him to different social situations. When they felt he was ready, they were so flexible and allowed us to foster before committing to adoption. Within just one day, we knew Uno had found his forever home. He’s become an irreplaceable part of our family, and we are so grateful to the Waushara County Animal Shelter for everything they did to make
this possible. We are truly blessed to have him,” shares Andrea, who adopted her furry friend from the Waushara County Animal Shelter.
Community Foundation Board Member and Grants Committee Chair Rachel Pekowsky shares, “I am very excited to see the Community Foundation having the opportunity to partner with the Jensen Center and Waushara County Animal Shelter during the major grant cycle because it allows these organizations to meet their goals and help the communities they serve. The major grant cycle really allows the community members and organizations a voice in where the funds are best used. As a grant committee member, it is so rewarding to be a part of the process and see those organizations continue to grow and make a positive impact in the community.”
The Major Project grant cycle supports the growth and development of a community project that makes a significant impact in Portage and/or Waushara Counties. Our Community Grants are open to programs and projects in Portage and Waushara counties that align with our values and five mission areas. For more information regarding the Community Foundation’s grants process, please contact Sarah Ross, Director of Community Grants, at 715-342-4454 or sarah@cfcwi.org.
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About the Jensen Community Center
The Jensen Community Center supports the community by providing opportunities for all individuals to connect, learn, and grow through diverse and engaging activities, programs, and events. Constructed in 1988, with funds donated as a memorial to Lettie W. Jensen, it is privately owned and operated by the Amherst Area Foundation. Since 1988, area residents have been well-served by the Jensen Community Center offerings and contribute to the quality of life in the area. Learn more at https://jensencenter.org.
About the Waushara County Animal Shelter
The Waushara County Animal Shelter is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to temporarily helping the displaced cats and dogs of Waushara County while finding them wonderful forever homes. They play a key role in the community through programs that support trap/neuter/release, veterinary care, fostering, and rehoming. Learn more at www.wausharacoanimalshelter.com.
About the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin
The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin inspires charitable giving by connecting people and resources to enhance Central Wisconsin now and for future generations. Visit us online at www.cfcwi.org.
