Cover photo for the new Shawano Area Community Foundation Annual Report.

By Jon Meyers, Shawano Area Community Foundation chair

Jon Meyers, SACF Board Chair

A few weeks ago I shared the great news of how our Shawano community is benefiting from more than $50,000 in grants to impact lives through unprecedented events in 2020. We’ve just published our Annual Report to the Community, and are looking forward to 2021!

As you are aware, COVID-19 has altered the events of our lives, and the routines we follow under normal circumstances have been upended over the last several months. In the interest of safety for those most at risk, the board of the Shawano Area Community Foundation (SACF) made the tough decision to cancel this year’s Harvest Moon Soirée.

The annual soirée is a wonderful event and our main fundraiser, the proceeds from which support Shawano County nonprofit initiatives to preserve and improve the quality of life for folks throughout our area. Because the needs within our communities have only intensified in the aftermath of this virus, we sincerely hope and request your financial support.

Most of us know individuals and families who have suffered physical and emotional distress. Many have been impacted financially by the closure of businesses or job loss. Through your generous donations, the SACF has provided support to residents by supporting area nonprofits including Boys & Girls Club, Bridge the Gap for Autism, Family Services Parent Connection, Safe Haven, SAM 25 and many local food pantries.

In spite of a menacing virus, there are many bright lights that remind us we can and will stand up for our most vulnerable neighbors. I believe all of us have witnessed acts of kindness, charity, love and bravery like no other time in our lives. There is great need, but also hope and light at the end of this tunnel!

Grants from our donors’ funds support charitable organizations, whose programs create opportunities or support those in need, which improves the community for everyone. It’s a circle of giving.

Please enjoy a digital version of our 2020 Annual Report:

The Shawano Area Community Foundation was established in 1990 by community volunteers to preserve and improve the quality of life in Shawano and the surrounding area. We are an affiliate of the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region. Learn more about us here.