December 30, 2021 at 11:13 a.m.
RCF celebrates milestone as 2021 comes to an end
RCF celebrates milestone as 2021 comes to an end
"It was a meaningful year for our community as generosity surpassed expectation and donors stepped up across the board to ensure our community thrives," RCF leaders said in a press release. "Thanks to generous donor support and leadership, RCF has reached over $545,000 to date in local community grants through established funds, with over $1 million in donations received since the Foundation began. Qualified charitable organizations were awarded grants in 2021 totaling nearly $69,000."
Six new community endowments were established by donors this year, providing grants for designated purposes forever, the release continued. Like-minded donors can contribute to established funds or can establish their own to meet their charitable goals to support an organization or community cause, or to honor a family name. Endowed funds last forever, are invested for growth over time, and generate annual grants for stated purposes of the donors.
"RCF is making an impact," the release states. "This year, our parks received notable attention as the train restoration at Pioneer Park was completed and planning began for improvements at Hodag Park. An anonymous donor put forth a $100,000 match towards the Hodag Park Improvements Fund, held at RCF, to spearhead needed funding for priority projects at the park. To date, 75% of the match has been achieved. The initial project planned is a mixed-use community amphitheater and gathering area overlooking beautiful Boom Lake. These changes will inspire generations and would not have been possible without enthusiasm and contribution."
In 2021, RCF took advantage of excellent opportunities to engage business and community leaders through hosting a Business after 5 event, a Professional Advisors' evening and the Unsung Difference Makers recognition.
"Since receiving 501c3 status five years ago, the world has changed in many ways, yet compassion for one another and support for the Rhinelander community has remained unwavering," the release concludes. "Ron and Elsie Gaber established a lasting endowment this year at RCF and commented, 'Many positive things can occur when a community is committed to each other.' We look forward to seeing what the future will bring as we strengthen our community through strategic philanthropy."
For more information about RCF, visit www.rhinelandercommunityfoundation.com.
Below is a list of RCF grants awarded in 2021. The grants listed are in combination with those awarded through the annual grant application cycle and those awarded through established funds.
• Rhinelander District Library $1,000 (Story Stroll at Hodag Park)
• ArtStart, $2,437 (Agency fund)
• O.C. Humane Society, $1,000 (Rhinelander Animal shelter support)
• Lights of the Northwoods, $1,525 (Holiday lights display)
• ArtStart (as fiscal agent) $4,300 (Northwoods Garden)
• Rhinelander Area Food Pantry $2,500 (Community Garden upgrades & GROW)
• Lights of the Northwoods $2,500 (holiday lighting display)
• Rhinelander District Library $2,500 (local plat, history, shelving)
• United Methodist Church $1,000 (Personal Essential Pantry/paper goods)
• Rhinelander Police Dept $1,000 (Recovery Coach Program)
• NAMI $2,000 (Northern lakes Center/drop-in care)
• Hodag Soccer $1,000 (Youth soccer equipment for turf)
• Girls Scouts of NW Great Lakes $2,000 (Rhinelander troop supplies, access)
• YMCA of the Northwoods $1,500 (seed money for 6th grade access plan)
• WXPR/White Pines broadcasting $2,000 (community podcast initiative)
• Rhinelander District Library $250 (building fund/unsung difference maker)
• Hodag Little league $1,000 (12U state tournament)
• Badger Boys State $400 (RHS student sponsor)
• Hodag School Foundation $25,000 (Hodag Dome and complex)
• Tri-County Council on Domestic Abuse $2,500 (victims of domestic abuse)
• Rhinelander Area Food Pantry $5,000 (half to backpack/half general)
• NATH $1,000 (general needs)
• United Way $2,500 (general needs)
• Rhinelander PIE $2,500 (Inspire program student needs)
• School District of Rhinelander $500 (NCES 5th grade outdoor classroom).
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