The Loop

In a world that often feels fast paced and divided, there is one day each year that brings people together in an extraordinary way, Giving Tuesday. What started in 2012 as a simple idea, a global day of generosity following the frenzy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, has grown into a worldwide movement that […]

Since Alli Matzek was in first grade, she knew her career path: she wanted to be a veterinarian. Growing up with her parents, Joe and MaryBeth, and older brother, Michael, the family home was filled with pets, including cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters. Alli also loved taking care of friends’ pets, volunteering at local […]

At the end of September 2025, seven regional funders* collaborated to launch a comprehensive survey of nonprofit organizations across Northeast Wisconsin. 210 nonprofit leaders cumulatively serving the entire Northeast region responded, offering a candid and compelling snapshot of a sector under pressure, but also one demonstrating remarkable innovation and resolve. Nonprofits are mission-driven organizations that […]

As 2025 winds down, now is the time to plan your charitable giving. Starting January 1, 2026, new Federal rules will take effect. Here are a few key changes: Deduction for non-itemizers: Standard deduction filers may claim a direct deduction for charitable giving – up to $1,000 for individuals and $2,000 for married couples filing […]

The David L. and Rita E. Nelson Family Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region (Nelson Family Fund) awarded grants totaling $2,058,650, providing nonprofits and local municipalities with a much-needed financial boost.  The Nelsons, who lived in De Pere, made provisions during their lifetimes for a planned gift to benefit the region. Rita was a teacher, and David was the Chief […]

On September 30, the Community Foundation hosted its annual Himebaugh Legacy Circle celebration at the Fox Cities Environmental Learning Campus at Bubolz Nature Preserve. The Himebaugh Legacy Circle recognizes those who have made future plans for their favorite charitable causes through a bequest or similar deferred gift to the Community Foundation. This event honored the […]

The Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region recently hosted their 25th annual Women’s Fund Luncheon and celebrated the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Women’s Fund. For three decades they have been supporting women and girls and have seen how this support strengthens our entire community. At this year’s luncheon attended by more […]

As career paths change and grow, it always takes on a bittersweet tone. On September 5 we will say farewell to Carolyn Desrosiers who first joined the Community Foundation in 2017 as our Community Engagement Manager before being promoted to the Director of Community Engagement in 2024. In her most recent role as Director of […]

ARTicipation Week and Arts on the Square returned to Waupaca from August 10-16 with a full schedule, and the rain did not slow it down. Sponsored by the Community Vision Fund, a fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, the week brought people of all ages together for hands-on art, live music, […]

Hello! My name is Crystal Harrison, and I am eager to join the team as the new Donor Services Manager. I work closely with the David L. and Rita E. Nelson Family Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region—our largest donor advised fund—as well as a diverse portfolio of other funds within the […]