Enriching our Communities Together
To improve the quality of life in Rusk County through permanent endowments and grant giving.
STRATEGIC VISION
When donors leave charitable contributions to RCCF in their wills, trusts, or estate plans, RCCF recognizes them as members of the Legacy Circle.
The Rusk County Community Foundation passionately supports local nonprofits, fueling meaningful change in our community. Our vision drives growth strategies to educate, inspire commitment, and rally heartfelt support throughout Rusk County, fostering a culture of generosity.
We’ve made significant strides, identifying potential legacy gifts totaling between 7 and 9 million dollars, promising a lasting impact for years to come. In September 2024, the RCCF Advisory Board set ambitious goals to deepen our community connections and amplify the transformative power of philanthropy.
When donors leave charitable contributions to RCCF in their wills, trusts, or estate plans, RCCF recognizes them as members of the Legacy Circle.
Gordon & Beverley Dukerschein Larry & Shirley Dukerschein
Ek
R. Geisler *
& Dinah Hahn
Creighton (Corky) Hoffman
Steward & Doris Lemke * Tina Lemke
Todd Lemke
Bob & Barb Lorkowski
Charles McCain
Alan Miller & Richard LaBelle
Jack & Jackie Pederson
Kevin Smith & Rebecca Allen
Joanne Spooner
Patrick Sweeney
Joel & Sara Taylor
Linde Vacho
*Denotes deceased
ADVISORY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Debra Klein, Chair
Bill Dyson, Vice Chair
Kevin Smith, Treasurer
Lori Gorsegner, Secretary **
Kyle Jeffress
Ronda Johnson
Jackie Pederson
Aileen Tauchen
Joni Weinert
Lisa Wicik
Terry Wedwick**
**New in 2024
*Ending 12/31/2024
K + Grants Since Inception
HEART OF GOLD RECIPIENT CHARITABLE FUNDS
Bob and Sheryl Kelley
Bob and Sheryl Kelley are pillars of their community, generously dedicating their time, talents, and hearts to improving the lives of others. Their service spans from hands-on efforts like painting homes for those in need at Hope Village and building beds for children through Sleep in Heavenly Peace, to leading large-scale projects like designing and constructing the Trails End obstacle course and Athanasius’ Playground, a memorial play space.
Both are active members of Bruce’s Kiwanis Club, focusing their efforts on serving local children and families. Bob has further enriched the community by coordinating exchange programs for international students, providing them with welcoming homes and meaningful experiences, and by mentoring young people as a volunteer coach for the Bruce High School ice fishing team.
Sheryl’s generosity shines in the way she responds to those in need. In 2022, she created Christmas gift baskets for foster families, ensuring children felt valued and celebrated during the holidays. Their dedication and the tangible difference they make in the lives of others have rightfully earned them the well-deserved Heart of Gold Award. Their combined efforts demonstrate an unwavering commitment to their community’s well-being.
GRANT SPOTLIGHT
Thanks to the generosity of donors, a transformative project is becoming reality in the heart of Rusk County; a fully ADA-accessible playground and professionally built concrete skatepark that will serve individuals of all ages and abilities.
With $9,500 in support from Foundation funds, including $5,000 from the Shane Jenness Fund, $2,000 from the GIVE 365 Fund, and $2,500 from the Unrestricted Funds Grant, the project gained critical early momentum. These contributions helped demonstrate strong local support, unlocking larger funding opportunities and giving city leaders the confidence to invest in what is now one of Ladysmith’s most ambitious recreational projects.
LETTER FROM THE CHAIR
The Rusk County Community Foundation (RCCF) continues to expand and help meet the needs of our area and provide amazing opportunities for many within our community. RCCF has seen consistent growth by adding new funds, donors, and future donors through legacy accounts. Those who are interested in providing support without starting a fund can do so through our GIVE365 Rusk program.
A dollar a day or $365 a year will make you a member of this program and help fund worthwhile initiatives to improve life in Rusk County.
Thank you for reviewing the 2024 Report to the Community. If you would like more information about RCCF, please check out our website at rccfwi.org.
With sincere appreciation
Acorn Fund: A Starter Approach A fund that will slowly grow over time. When the minimum balance has been reached, your fund will become one of the funds listed below.
Unrestricted Fund: A Trusted Approach
Use the RCCF grant comittee’s expertise to address the greatest needs in the community.
The total project cost is projected at $1.6 million. About half of the project was funded through an adjacent housing project grant and a financial commitment from the city, but the other half was and still is reliant on private donations. The park is currently open and being enjoyed while finishing touches are scheduled to be completed over the summer of 2025.
Anita and George Lawrence Covenant Fund
Bartig Family Scholarship Fund for Ladysmith High School
Bruce Alumni Scholarship Fund
Dan Glaze Scholarship Fund
Dennis B. Kovac Fund
Dennis R. Van Wey Legacy Fund
Dukerschein Scholarship for Flambeau School
Economic Development Fund for Rusk County
Fund for
Designated Fund: A Targeted Approach
Donor Advised Fund: A Personal Approach
Advisors to the fund recommend grants to specific organizations throughout the year. Field of Interest Fund: A Focused Approach Support a charitable area of interest that you are most passionate about.
This project is a shining example of how RCCF donors are creating lasting change; building not just parks, but stronger, more connected communities for generations to come.
Valley Arts Association Fund
Debra Klein
RCCF Advisory Board Chair