News

Impact Grants Update Across North Central Wisconsin, local nonprofits are finding creative and compassionate ways to meet evolving community needs, including expanding food access in rural communities, strengthening emergency response systems, preserving historic spaces, and supporting caregivers and immigrant families. This spring, the Community Foundation is proud to award $96,600 in Community Impact Grants to nine organizations working to create healthier, more connected, and more resilient communities throughout Marathon County. The projects supported this cycle highlight both immediate needs and long-term investments in community well-being. Grants will help modernize meal delivery and volunteer coordination services [...]

Impact Grants Update Strong communities are strengthened through thoughtful investments that address critical needs while creating opportunities for connection, safety, and growth. This quarter, Community Impact Grants totaling $167,896 are supporting initiatives that uplift vulnerable children, expand access to the arts and education, enhance public safety, and improve access to nutritious food and outdoor spaces. From advancing innovative child advocacy in the criminal justice system to revitalizing cultural and educational programs, these projects reflect a deep commitment to well-being across all ages and experiences. Investments in infrastructure, including safer community spaces and life-saving emergency equipment, [...]

Impact Grants Update Strong communities are built through collaboration, vision, and a shared belief in what’s possible. The Community Impact Grants highlight that momentum by investing $158,500 this quarter in local organizations that bring innovation, compassion, and opportunity to life. This quarter's recipients are creating accessible parks, expanding youth and family supports, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening our regional workforce. With the help of donor support, these projects will spark connections, enhance the quality of life, and enrich the places we call home. Your generosity made the following grants possible. [...]

Formula & Food Insecurities Fund The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin (CFONCW) has announced the creation of the Formula and Food Insecurities Fund, a rapid-response effort to ensure local families continue to have access to essential nutrition as federal food-assistance programs face disruption during the government shutdown. Grants from the new fund will be directed to nonprofit organizations in Marathon, Lincoln, Langlade, and Taylor Counties that provide formula and distribute food directly to individuals and families in need. This includes local food pantries and agencies that serve as lifelines for those most affected by [...]

Beyond Pencils and Crayons Grants Update 2025 At the heart of every thriving community is a passion for learning and creativity. The Beyond Pencils and Crayons Grants celebrate that spirit by empowering local educators to bring innovative, hands-on experiences to their classrooms. This year’s grants are helping students explore the world through art, music, reading, sustainability, and global awareness — from recycled art murals and imagination centers to multicultural learning and literacy initiatives. Together with the generous support of donors, these projects are transforming classrooms into dynamic, inspiring spaces where curiosity grows [...]

Year-End-Giving: Making an impact today and for the future As 2025 winds down, many of our donors are thinking about ways to make a meaningful impact before December 31. Year-end giving is not only a powerful way to support the causes you care about most—it can also offer significant tax advantages. At the Community Foundation, we are honored to partner with you to align your generosity with the needs of our community. Maximize Your Tax Benefits The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has changed the charitable landscape. Here are a few strategies to consider [...]

Impact Grants Update The latest grants awarded to local nonprofits! Each quarter, we have the privilege of awarding grants to organizations leading meaningful projects, and each grant is the ongoing, powerful impact of generosity in action. This new round of grants was made possible by the collective giving of hundreds of donors. To each of you, and on behalf of the organizations highlighted here, we say with heartfelt gratitude: thank you. Your support is transforming lives and helping our community thrive. Health and Human Services - $75,000 Bridging Brighter Smiles | [...]

August is Make-A-Will Month: Extend Your Giving Legacy Through Your Donor-Advised Fund NEWS | August 5, 2025 August is Make-A-Will Month: Extend Your Giving Legacy Through Your Donor-Advised Fund NEWS | August 5, 2025 This August, we are taking the opportunity during Make-A-Will Month to highlight something truly important—planning for the future. Creating or updating your will isn’t just about passing on possessions—it’s about leaving a legacy that reflects your values, provides peace of mind for loved ones, and supports the causes that have shaped your life. Why [...]

Community Arts Grants Update From dancing to polka music or meeting friends at a jazz festival to supporting kids of all abilities at their annual performance or attending an introduction to opera program, Community Arts grants breathe the vibrancy into our community that we all crave. Artistic expression enhances life in so many ways, which is why we are so thankful for the generosity of our donors and the B.A. and Esther Greenheck Foundation, which make these grants possible. Our community’s art scene is strong – together, we are keeping it that way! [...]