Liz Neuman

By Liz Neuman, Executive Director, Thompson Center on Lourdes (TCoL)

Thompson Center on Lourdes is marking its 5th anniversary with a fundraising challenge match that leverages a $25,000 grant from the Bright Idea Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region. Donations from past, current and new donors made by September 30, 2021, will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $25,000. 

The challenge match provides an opportunity for TCoL to strengthen our ability to continue our vital mission to Fox Valley adults who are 50 years of age or older to participate and connect through enriching activities.  The Thompson Center on Lourdes is a safe, friendly, and vibrant senior center located on 2331 East Lourdes in Appleton.   

This year marks the 5th Anniversary and TCoL’s commitment to ensuring that everyone can celebrate life through educational, wellness and social activities.  A commitment that we know is driving positive change as our numbers continue to grow, with over 3,000 participants engaging in more than 25 programs and activities weekly.  

TCoL’s doors opened in 2016 and the senior center continues to “Build Momentum.”  In 2020, even with the pandemic and temporary closures, TCoL experienced almost 9,000 visits. Halfway through 2021, TCoL has already exceeded 9,500 visits!    

Here is what participants are saying:  

“With the wonderful activities and services, TCoL is such a great place for all of us” – Mary.   

“You should feel a profound sense of satisfaction knowing that you’re making the lives of so many people far richer” – Ed. 

“We had such a fun time.  We were welcomed with so much love and laughter” – Jan 

Learn more about TCoL and the challenge match.

Our Bright Idea Fund preserves and enhances the quality of life in Calumet, Outagamie, Shawano and Waupaca counties and the Neenah-Menasha area of Winnebago County by awarding grants to charitable organizations working to make a difference in their communities. Want to help bright ideas burn even brighter? Learn how to get involved as a donor, or learn how to apply for a Bright Idea grant as a nonprofit organization.