2023 WACF Annual Report

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

OUR MISSION

The Watertown Area Community Foundation invests in the vitality of the Watertown area.

“Our National Standards Accreditation recognizes the commitment we have made to operational excellence at the Watertown Area Community Foundation. This seal conveys to our donors, community partners, staff, and board our commitment to sound policies, accountability, and better positions us to promote philanthropy, connect donors to causes they care about, and provide leadership on important community issues.”

-Cammie Mengwasser, WACF Executive Director

DEAR COMMUNITY:

WHAT A YEAR! A RECORD YEAR IN FACT!

The Foundation awarded over one million dollars in grants and scholarships throughout 2023 to our community’s nonprofit organizations and local students.

• Total assets exceeded $33 million with 161 charitable funds

• Women & Giving celebrated 20 years and over $423,000 in grants and scholarships awarded to area women and children to date

• 100 nonprofit organizations were supported in 2023

• $11.7 million has been invested into the community since 1979

Not to mention the immense amount of fun already had at the new Watertown Area Community Foundation Plaza. Since opening in May, this new downtown destination has provided endless entertainment and lifelong memories for the young and young-at-heart.

Change is inevitable, and 2023 was no exception, both throughout Watertown and at the Foundation. Yet, our simple and powerful adage of Looking Forward and Giving Back continues to ring resoundingly true.

As we constantly look to adapt and respond to the ever-changing needs of our community, know that together we are making life better today while shaping brighter tomorrows for the Watertown area.

Thank you for your investment in the future of Watertown and the Watertown Area Community Foundation. Thank you for joining us in Looking Forward and Giving Back.

With gratitude,

Dr. Jeff Danielsen

2023 WACF Board Chair

$33 MM 161

$11.7 MM GRANTED SINCE 1979 TOTAL ASSETS CHARITABLE FUNDS

2023 DONORS

Thank you for your generous gifts. This list of donors also includes those who have given memorials, honorariums, and inkind donations. Care has been taken to list all names completely and accurately. We regret any errors or omissions.

“This is a reflection of the work of so many and the generosity of an amazing community. The trust donors have in the WACF has enabled us to make a remarkable impact. The words that come to mind are humbled, positively overwhelmed, and grateful.”

-Julie Ranum WACF Board Member

Family Dental Center

Farm Credit Services of America

Farmers State Bank

Doug & Heather Fedt

Gary Feltman

Monica Feuerstein

Marlys Fie

Fie Family Trust

First Bank & Trust

First Interstate BancSystem Foundation, Inc.

First Premier Bank/Premier Bankcard Inc.

Brad & Karen Fishman

Barb Fjeldheim

Drs. Wade and Pastel Fligge

Vince & Patty Foley

Lynne Forbush

Bruce & Diana Ford Family

Gregg & Karen Forsberg

Don & Jean Fox

Ken & Wendy Fransen Family Fund - WACF

Todd & Joy Freimark

Robert & Kay Freund

Darlyce Fuchs

Todd Fulmer

Gary & Jeanne Gackstetter

Ariana Gadd

Gather

Drs. Ed & Cathy Gerrish

Dr. Greg & Alison Gerrish

Sarah Geyerman

Susan Geyerman

Alison Gilbertson

Ronald & Robbyn Givens

Glacial Lakes Energy

Glacial Lakes Rubber & Plastics, LLC

Janet Goldhorn

Timothy & Brenda Graumann

Green Roby Oviatt LLP

Griffin Family Endowment

Jerry Grotewold

Rebecca Hall

Nick & Joy Halling

Chuck Hamann

Eric Hansen

Dr. Bernie Hanson

Jason & Beth Hanson

Norlyn & Paula Hanson

Betty Hanten

Patty Harmel

Gary Harris

Haugan-Nelson Realty, Inc.

Cindy Hayes

Dennis & Ann Hayes

Lisa and Tom Hayes

Laura Heathcote

Molly Heaton

Merle Heidenreich

Kim Heid-Mantey

Brooks & Kristen Henderson

Cliff & Donna Herzog

Cory & Tiffany Herzog

Bruce & Colleen and Jennifer Hestad

Nancy Hildebrand

Seth Hildebrand

Keith & Debra Hinderaker

Paul Hinderaker

James & Carolyn Hoffman

Robert Holborn

Bret & Elicia Holien

Mayor Ried Holien & Tonya Holien

Tom & Kathy Holmes

Jennifer Holt

Rev. Jerome Holtzman

John & Cindy Hopper

Joan Horning

Stephen Horton

Marne Hult

Elizabeth Hustad

IMEG Corp.

Jon & Kathy Iverson

Nancy Iverson

Jennifer Iwerks

J&C, Inc.

Duane & Deb Jacobson Advised Fund - CCFESD

Duane & Deborah Jacobson

Kelly Jaderborg

June James

Merlin & Sharon Jeitz

Jenkins Living Center

Mike & Anna Jennings

Scott & Sharese Jensen

Alice Job

Brad & Carol Johnson

David & Janet Johnson

Dick & Gayle Johnson

Harry & Florence Johnson

Terry & Diane Johnson

Scott & Maria Jongbloed

Chad & Kara Julius

Juniper & Jade Photography

Robbie Jurgens

Thad & Monica Jurgens

Lesli Jutting

Terry & Joan Kaaz

Gregg & Lisa Kahnke

Michelle Kakacek

Kampeska Lodge & Store

Ken & Bonnie Karst

Paula Keup

Larry & Sandra Keyes

Vikki Kingslien

Kinsman Agency, Inc.

Kiwanis Club of Watertown

Steve & Nancy Kjellsen

Barbara Klein

Gail Knier

Marilyn Koepke

Harlan & Judy Konrad

Timothy Kortuem

Richard & LouAnn Kosier

Carol Kranz

Ralph & Helen Kranz FundSDCF

Martha Krause

Phyllis Krull

Gary & Leigh Kuecker

Greg & LeeAnne Kulesa

KXLG Radio

Kay LaFrenz

Lake Area Technical College

Lake Area Zoological Society

Kyle & Beth Lalim

Ralph P. Langenfeld Estate

Anne Larson

John & Mary Larson

Paul Larson

Verne Larson

Todd & Ann Lauseng

William & Donna Lauseng

Leah Le

Jon & Jody LeFaive

Wayne Leiner

Peter Lepse

Mark & Joyce Levsen

Gerry Likness

Peggy Lindahl

Nancy Linneman

Dale & Jodi Loehrer

Roger & Resa Loomis

Debbie Lukonen

Anne Maag

Jamie Mack

Renae Mack

Steve & Beverly Mack

Macksteel Warehouse, Inc.

Kenneth & Renae Madison

James & Kay Mahowald

William & Sharon Malcom Fund - WACF

William & Sharon Malcom

Beth Mantey

Chris & Patty Mathews

Max Media

Carol Mayer

Mercedes Maynard

Mary Ann McAtee Family

Greg McDonald

Donna McElhany

Shiloh & Emily McGruder

Brenda McKee Almos

Debbie Meadows

Neil Meister

David & Dr. Tina Melanson

Jason & Cammie Mengwasser

Leo Mengwasser

Dan & Rita Meseberg

Meyer Insurance

Midwest Veterinary Service

Jack Miles III

Jerry & Judy Miller

Jane Miner

Kay Moe

John & Donita Moes

Moffatt Products, Inc.

Jeff & Julie Mollenhoff

Mon Kota Gaming

Montgomery’s Furniture, Inc.

Beverly Moore

Will Morlock

Mother of God Monastery

Susan Mullaney

Mike & Jan Mullin

Susan Munger

Donna Neale Family

Joy Nelson

Mary Neuroth

Dennis & Paula Newman

Jan Newman

Laura Newman

Dorothy Nichols

Dr. Hollis & Marilyn Nipe

Northeast Area Appraisals

Northern Prairie Arts

Office Peeps, Inc.

Dave & Brenda O’Hara

Lisa Olerud

Donald & Susan Olson

James & Julie Olson

Matt & Wendy Olson

Paula Orthaus

Cris Ortmeier

Lynn Osthus

Pamela S. Otto

Tim & Mei Oviatt

Oviatt Titze Family Fund - WACF

Lila Page

Alan and Sue Pearson

Kyle Peters

Harley & Marilyn Petersen

Jeff and Marcie Peterson

Robb & Jodi Peterson

Robert & Nora Peterson

Charitable Gift Fund

Steve & Margaret Peterson

Phillip Matthews State Farm

Insurance

Jason & Shelly Pieper

Plains Commerce Bank

Carol Pollard

Waneen Polly

Duane & Deb Popham

Eugene & Marlys Popham

Laurie Poynor

Prairie Lakes Healthcare System

Pam Raeder

Denise Ragels

Guy Gibson & Marian Raml

Todd & Molly Randall

Jeff & Julie Ranum

Mary Rose Redlin

Redlin Art Center

Jim & Lori Redlinger

John & Monica Redlinger

Tom & Mavis Reichling

Reliabank Dakota

Janine Rew-Werling

Dr. Mark & Susan Rieb

Bill & Jackie Rieffenberger

Greg & Trisha Rieffenberger

Keith & Janet Rieffenberger

Stephen Rigsbee

Jerry & Sue Riley

Donus & Lovila Roberts

Carla Roby

Jim & Annette Roby

Mark & Ronda Roby FundWACF

Matt & Stefanie Roby

Ronda Roby

Roby Charitable Fund

David & Heather Rogers

Rich & Nancy Rogers

Kathy Roggenbuck

Mary Rueb Conner

Sanford Clinic

Sanford Health

Connie Schickedanz

Bob & Rita Schiefelbein

Terry & Brenda Schmidt

Twila Schmitt

Marcia Schneider

Donna Schoenbeck

Lee Schull

Dorothy Schurrer

SD Snowmobile Assn.

Marlene Seeklander

Bunny Semmler

Jim & DeeDee Seurer

Scott & Deb Shephard

A.J. Sherrill

Sharon Shimitz

Merlyn & Joan Siegfried

Ann Sigelman

Paul & Ann Sigelman FundSDCF

Peggy Silliman

Dustin & Missy Sinner

Stacy Sinner

Sioux Valley Cooperative

Skat Ranch, LLC

Virginia Skinner

Robert & Jill Slobotski

Slumberland Furniture

Patricia Sneden

Bob & Janet Solum

Karyl Somers

Dean & Rita Sorenson

Ed & Gail Spies

Francene Spies

Michelle Spies

Alan & Kerry Stager

Carole Stein-Holien

Rick Stone

Stone Oil Company, Inc.

Lori Storley

Beverly Stormo

Jeffrey & Gisele Stout

Dr. Michael & Judy Strom

Subs and More, Inc. dba

Dagwood’s

Rock Sumner

A.J. & Judith Sundberg

Deb Sundem

Lee & Judy Syring

John & Jean Tangren

Target Corporate

Terex South Dakota, Inc.

Terrco, Inc.

Dennis & Donette Theel

Thomas Burns, P.C.

Dennis & Dawn Thyen

Titan Machinery, Inc.

Blair Titze & Nancy Oviatt Titze

Tooling Solutions Worldwide

Tim & Cheri Toomey

Louise Towle

Town & Country Riders

Town Players

Trav’s Outfitter, Inc.

Eugene & Julie Tulowetzke

Roger & Lissa Turbak

Shelly Turbak

Nancy Turbak Berry

Turbak Law Office, P.C.

Travas & Sherri Uthe

Dale Valberg

Lois Vanderfeen

Jennifer VanLaecken

Kevin & Colette VanWell

Harlan & Diane Veen

Sandy Veflin

Heather Venenga

Dr. Michael & Kim Vener

Glen & Darla Vilhauer

Jo Vitek

Joel & Jessica Vockrodt

Dan & Cyndy Voight

Christopher & Staci Voss

Robert & Carol Wagner

Walford Properties, LLC

Sylvester & Dianne Walkins

Robert & Deborah Walrath

John & Marlene Walsh

Yvonne Walsh

Carlene Wamsher

Ralph Wamsher

Ralph Wamsher Photography

Scott & Connie Ward

Dennis & Mary Lou Warrick

Clarence & Jean Waters

Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce

Watertown Box Corporation

Watertown Dental Care

Watertown Development Company

Watertown Mavericks, LLC

Watertown PEO-Chapter AV

Watertown Police Department

Watertown Regional Library

Bud & Linda Webb

Becky Weber

Karen Weber

Gary & Ann Weckwerth

Edward & Gail Wegner

Weiss Eyecare Clinic

Wheel Inn

Whetstone Valley Snowmobile Assn.

Donald & Debra Wiedman

Dr. Kim & Kathy Wilde

Fred & Carolyn Wilkens

Charlene Wilkins

Larry & Carolyn Will

Kristie Wilson

Kevin & Mindy Wirkus

Herb & Sandy Wiswall Family

Mary Wrage

Bill Wright

Deb Wantoch Yess

LaVern & Sylvia Zamow

Bill & Cathy Zubke

OH, CHRISTMAS TREE

Hosted at the Watertown Regional Library, the Foundation’s annual Christmas Tree Fundraiser raises awareness for area nonprofits and provides unrestricted gifts to them during the holiday season.

$23,843 AWARDED

2023 GRANTS

$588,236 AWARDED to organizations in the following categories:

ARTS & CULTURE

ENVIRONMENT

EDUCATION

HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

OFFICIALLY “OUT OF OFFICE”

Jan DeBerg, long-time WACF Executive Director and Julianne Endres who served the Foundation in both administrative and marketing roles officially retired on February 28, 2023. A community celebration honoring the dynamic duo was held at the Goss Opera House in March.

“My work at the Foundation and with Jan, certainly was never a job,” shared Endres. “It was a joy to share what the Foundation is all about and to meet so many inspirational, giving, and kind people along the way.”

On March 1, 2023, Cammie Mengwasser, former Foundation Development Director became Executive Director and Kristen Henderson, Foundation Board Member since 2018 stepped in as Communications Director.

“It has been so fulfilling to be a part of the Foundation’s good works and growth these past 22 years,” said DeBerg. “I’m thankful for the Foundation, this community, and our donors every day.”

100 ORGANIZATIONS IMPACTED

The following nonprofits received support from the Foundation and our generous fundholders in 2023:

4

Build

Habitat

Codington County Cares

Codington County Drug Court

Codington County Historical Society

Codington County Community Services Office

Collision

Community Transit of Watertown/Sisseton

Coteau Prairie Master

Deuel

Church of Our Redeemer

Lincoln Elementary PTO

Mellette House

Mother of God Monastery

My Happy Place

Northern Prairie Arts/NE Artist Network

Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation

Prairie Lakes Hospice

Recovery Is Happening

Resilient Communities

Rotary Foundation

Salvation Army

Sanford Health Foundation

Sinai Lutheran Church

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Sounds of the Season Community Christmas Concert

South Dakota News Watch

St Mary’s Catholic ChurchYouth Group

St Paul Cemetery

St Peter Cemetery

States Newroom - SD Searchlight

Toastmasters District 78 Club #7487445

Town Players

UMC3

University of South Dakota Foundation

Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce

Waterown Convention and Visitors Bureau

Watertown Anglers Association

Watertown Area PACH

Watertown Area Snow Queen

Watertown Area Special Olympics

Watertown Area United Way

Watertown Artwalk

Watertown Cares

Watertown Christian School

Watertown Concert Association

Watertown Development Company

Watertown Fire Rescue & Ambulance

Watertown Hockey Association

Watertown Middle School

Watertown Optimist Club

Watertown Pickleball Association

Watertown Police Department

Watertown Regional Library

Watertown Sandwich Ministry

Watertown Winterfest

Waverly/South Shore School District

Wiz Kidz Academy - Henry School District

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS!

In 2004, Women & Giving was created to educate and inspire women to become leaders in philanthropy.

Thanks to the passionate generosity of Women & Giving donors, the program continues to succeed in its mission to help area women and children overcome barriers, increase their opportunities, and achieve their goals.

“We are building a community of women who are going to excel and go out and make this world a better place.”

– Sandy Albertsen, Women & Giving Advisory Committee Member

20 YEARS OF WOMEN & GIVING

2004

The first Women & Giving campaign raised $1,000.

2006

The first Women & Giving Scholarship was awarded for $500.

2008

The 5th annual Women & Giving campaign raised $8,150.

2009

The Women & Giving Endowment Fund was established. The fund earnings are contributed to the granting budget each year.

2020

Supporters donated a record $48,000 during the first-ever virtual fundraiser.

2018

Nearly $27,000 was raised at the 15th Anniversary Celebration.

2013

Women & Giving celebrated its 10th Anniversary. In its first decade, Women & Giving awarded over $75,000 in grants and scholarships.

2022

Program supporters visited several grant recipients to learn first-hand the impact of their gifts.

2023

Women & Giving celebrated 20 years and over $423,000 in grants and scholarships awarded to area women and children. The Endowment Fund reached nearly $225,000 this year.

A RECORD YEAR FOR WOMEN & GIVING

With the need greater than ever, Women & Giving supporters set a new record for generosity in 2023, raising over $118,000, with $68,000 of that designated for immediate granting needs and scholarships.

$48,871 AWARDED to the following organizations:

• Boys and Girls Club of Watertown

• Brothers & Sisters Behind Bars

• Community Transit of Watertown/ Sisseton

• Coteau Master Gardeners

• East-Central CASA

• Friends of the Goss Opera House

• Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership

• Lake Area Zoological SocietyGirls Rule

• Sleep in Heavenly Peace

• The Salvation Army

• Toastmaster’s District 78 Club

• Town Players

• Watertown Area PACH

• Watertown Area Snow Queen

• Watertown Middle School

• Watertown Optimist Club

• Watertown Regional Library

The program also awarded $15,000 in scholarships in 2023 to non-traditional, female students attending Lake Area Technical College and Mount Marty University.

Over $108,000 in scholarships have been awarded since Women & Giving began 20 years ago.

GIRLS RULE: A WOMEN & GIVING LEGACY

An additional $50,000 was designated in 2023 to the Women & Giving Endowment Fund at the Foundation, bringing the principal balance close to $225,000.

Women & Giving has fully funded the Girls Rule Program at the Bramble Park Zoo since it began 15 years ago. Each year, Girls Rule helps 30 at-risk girls learn about healthy relationships, gain leadership skills, and build self-confidence.

Scan the QR code to learn first-hand the impact of Girls Rule from program leaders Jaime Stricker and Wendy Olson.

ENDOWING THE FUTURE

To honor the 20-year anniversary of Women & Giving, Laurie Benson, former Foundation Board Member and Women & Giving Advisory Committee Member designated a $20,000 gift to the Women & Giving Endowment Fund.

“The Women & Giving program has had a phenomenal impact in its first 20 years. More importantly, this program will continue giving back to future generations of area women and children as the emphasis was placed on building the endowment fund. What a legacy for the women of Watertown!”

-Laurie Benson, former WACF Board Member

FOUNDATION PLAZA

The H20-20 community visioning process identified a need for a central public space with a focus on downtown beautification. To meet this need, the WACF Board unanimously voted to support the downtown investment. The Watertown Kiwanis Club sponsored a splash pad, adaptive play equipment was made possible by the Watertown Optimist Club, and a fully-equipped, ready to rock-and-roll band shell was provided by Watertown’s Rotary Club.

INITIAL GRANT

As part of the Foundation’s 40th Anniversary celebration in late 2019, then former WACF Board Chairman Charlie Ewalt presented then Mayor of Watertown Sarah Caron with a $500,000 grant to support the construction of a downtown park.

GROUNDBREAKING

A groundbreaking ceremony was held on May 2, 2022 at the future site of Foundation Plaza on East Kemp Avenue. Although it was a chilly day, excitement filled the air.

There is something for EVERYONE at Foundation Plaza!

Thank you to all those who invested their time, talent, and dollars to make this a reality for our community.

A WORK IN PROGRESS

Much of the Plaza’s construction was completed in 2022 with a few finishing touches, like turf, added in early 2023.

The official ribbon cutting ceremony for Watertown Area Community Foundation Plaza was held on May 25, 2023.

RIBBON CUTTING

FOUNDATION FUND HOLDERS

By creating a charitable fund at the Community Foundation, these generous individuals, families, and local organizations enlist our expertise to make the most of their philanthropy.

We safeguard and grow their charitable funds, identify innovative grantmaking opportunities, and amplify their impact by pooling support to tackle big challenges. Together, we create an impact that makes life better today and shapes a brighter future for Watertown.

UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

To respond to the needs of the community

Randy and Laurie Benson Fund

Dennis & Cindy Burrell Fund

Dale & Diane Christensen Fund

Liam & Amanda Culhane Fund

LeAllen & Julianne Endres Family Fund

Dave & Marlys Fie Family Fund

Glacial Lakes Rubber & Plastics Fund

Walter C. Parliament Fund

Nancy R. Petersen Memorial Fund

Mark D. & Barbara B. Pingrey Fund

Ethel A. Rau Fund

Clark & Mary Ann Redlinger Fund

Sophia Riddle Fund

John & Elizabeth Rislov Fund

Dr. John & Lorraine Rittmann Fund

Lee & Jan Schull Fund

Velma Vincent Fund

Oliver & Junice Wolden Fund

DONOR DESIGNATED FUNDS

To support the donors’ chosen charities

Ruth Alberts Animal Care Fund

Anonymous Donor Fund I

Anonymous Donor Fund II

Anonymous Donor Fund III

Anonymous Donor Fund V

Dorothy & Ruby Antritter Fund

Jack & Maisie Barrick Fund

Codington County 4-H Fund

B. Lorraine Case “Once Upon a Time” Fund

Chief Jo’s HHH Fund

Hagen Family Fund in Memory of Barbara Hagen and Kevin Hagen

Herb & Betty Hanten Family Fund

Violet Hayes Memorial Fund

Irving & Eula Hinderaker Fund

Lauretta Hoff Donor Fund

Merlin & Sharon Jeitz Fund

LCH, Inc. dba Quality Inn & Suites Fund

Louise I. Lauer Fund

William & Sharon Malcom Fund

Vera Way Marghab Fund

Raymond B. McRoden & Marie McRoden Memorial Fund

Joy C. Nelson Fund

Nellie Marie Newcomb Fund

Harley & Marilyn Petersen Fund

Lew & Patricia Raderschadt Fund

Donus & Lovila Roberts ABC Book Club Fund

Watertown Youth Soccer Association Fund

DONOR ADVISED FUNDS

Donors recommend annual grant recipients

Greg Blow Fund

Jeff & Sherri Brindle Fund

Milt & Chris Carter Fund

County Fair Foods of Watertown Fund

Allen & Connie Fannin Family Fund

Ken & Wendy Fransen Family Fund

Giving Back 365 Fund

Cliff & Donna Herzog Family Fund

Bret & Elicia Holien Family Fund

Father Jerome Holtzman Community Fund

John & Cynthia Hopper Charitable Fund

Robert Jenson & Arlene Brandt-Jenson Fund

John McGruder Legacy Fund

Christopher (Chris) Rieb Fund

Mark & Ronda Roby Fund

Cathryn J. Saylor Family Fund

Schmidt-Poe Family Fund

Doug & Lynn Sharp Charitable Fund

Sons of Veterans Fund

The Joy Fund

Oviatt Titze Family Fund

Anthony J. Vitek Fund

Robert & Deborah Walrath Fund

Darwin K. & Fern B. Williams Fund

Women & Giving Fund

Judy Lynn Wright Memorial Fund

$277,487 AWARDED FROM DONOR ADVISED FUNDS IN 2023

FIELD OF INTEREST FUNDS

Focused on areas important to the donors

Florence Bruhn Fund

David & Jan DeBerg Fund

Bernice Kuester Fund

Dr. Edwin W. Harper Fund

Ervin & Sybil Schafer Fund

ShopO Watertown Women’s Empowerment Fund

Dale & Jan Valberg Fund

Ralph & Joanne Wamsher Fund

Kenneth B. & Myrtle F. (Mickey) Way Fund

A LEGACY OF GIVING CONTINUES

The Williams made giving back to organizations serving local disadvantaged children a priority throughout their lives. Now, with both Darwin and Fern passed, their legacy of giving continues through their donor advised fund at the Foundation. The couple designated Christina Planteen of Watertown to advise grants from their fund upon their passing.

“Both would wholeheartedly support the work of People Against Child Hunger (PACH). Fern knew that feeling when she was young, sometimes not knowing when her next meal may come. She would want to do whatever she could to prevent that kind of suffering for another child, especially in Watertown, a community she loved so much.”

-Christina Planteen

PACH provides children in Codington County who may not have enough food to eat at home, easy-to-prepare weekend meals and snacks. In 2022, the nonprofit organization served an average of 520 children every week. Meal items and snacks are sorted, packed, distributed, and discreetly placed in disadvantaged children’s backpacks at local schools every week. The entire process is led by community volunteers.

Unfortunately, in 2023, PACH experienced a nearly 40% increase in food costs. Having learned of the rising costs the organization faced and with a new school year about to begin, Christina directed a $20,000 grant to PACH from the Darwin and Fern Williams Fund.

“What a phenomenal legacy Mr. and Mrs. Williams have created,” said Cammie Mengwasser, Foundation Executive Director. “No one could have predicted in 2014 when the Williams established their fund the food insecurities our community’s young people would be facing a decade later. With demand continuing to rise, more and more support will be necessary to maintain the critical service PACH provides.”

LEGACY FUND SOCIETY

Established as future funds

Chris Berger Fund

Dan Christensen Fund

Scott & Jodi Driscoll Fund

Dean & Ardyce Gackstetter Fund

Brad & Carol Johnson Fund

Dave & Jan Johnson Fund

Ronald & Cathy Jutting Fund

Victoria Kingslien Fund

Larkin Family Fund

Joy & Dan Miller Fund

Brian & Gayle Robertson Fund

James K. & Sandra K. Stoudt Family Fund

Nancy Turbak Berry Fund

Russ & Charlene Wilkins Family Fund

Bill & Cathy Zubke Fund

YOUR CHARITABLE FUND:

• Fuels support for your charitable priorities

• Amplifies your impact by enlisting the Foundation’s philanthropic expertise and ability to pool resources

• Brings peace of mind, knowing you have a trusted fiduciary making sure your charitable dollars are used as intended

• Makes your philanthropy easier - the Foundation handles administrative duties and you focus on the joy of giving

• Carries on your legacy of community impact through the power of endowment

SCHOLARSHIPS

SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS

Edward M. & Ruth Belatti Music

Harriett Cartney & Donald & Betty Blankenship Memorial

D.A.S.H.

Dahl Family

DeBerg Family Scholarship Fund in Memory of Dorothy DeBerg

Kimberly Ann Erling Spanish

Kayla Jean Felstet Even Memorial

Folkerts Family

Jerry Grotewold Agriculture

Gunter Family

Denny Holien – Persona, Inc.

Jamie A. Isaacson

R.P. “Pete” Kliegle Aviation Memorial

Wayne Arnold Keup & Donus Roberts Speech & Debate

KXLG – Dean Johnson Business

KXLG – David J. Law Journalism

Jon LaFramboise YETIS

Lake City Hospitality, Inc. dba Quality Inn & Suites

Leadership Watertown

Edith “Ede” Magedanz Registered Nurse

Lyle Marquis Family

Nellie Newcomb in Memory of Treva Ginther

Ruth Chase Olson

Thomas E. Peterson

Crystal Quail

Gene & Mary Lois Reichling Memorial

Frank & Mathilda Rueb

Sheila Jean Rueb Memorial

Ervin H. & Sybil E. Schafer

Robert Schurrer 4-H

Sister Hyacinth Memorial

Patty Trigg & Mary Rueb Conner

Jesse D. and Jessie E. Vincent Memorial

$118,115 IN SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED IN 2023

KEVIN & MINDY WIRKUS FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

The Kevin and Mindy Wirkus Family Scholarship was established for students studying to be Drug/Alcohol Counselors, Law Enforcement Officers, or Youth Pastors.

“We wanted to make a difference for those who have the passion to make a difference in the lives of people struggling with addiction. We believe God puts people in our path when we need them most. Time and time again we have found this to be true during our family’s struggles. Our hope is this scholarship can ease the way for students who are so willing to walk on the journey with families impacted by addiction.” -Mindy Wirkus

WACF Women & Giving

Watertown Community Hall of Fame

Kevin & Mindy Wirkus Family

Watertown Area Snow Queen

AGENCY FUNDS

Arrow Education Foundation Fund

Beacon Center Fund

Boys & Girls Club of Watertown Fund

Castlewood Historical Society/Gaylord Hoftiezer Fund

Codington County Historical Society Fund

Codington County Search & Rescue Fund

Divine Providence of South Dakota Fund

Foundation Plaza Fund

Friends of South Dakota Public Broadcasting Fund

Friends of the Goss Opera House, Inc. Fund

Glacial Lakes Humane Society Fund

Joy Ranch of South Dakota Fund

Kiwanis Club of Watertown Fund

Lake Area Zoological Society Fund

Mellette Memorial Association Fund

Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation Fund

Sea of Goodwill Fund

Town Players Endowment Fund

Watertown Area Disaster Relief Fund

Watertown Area Special Olympics Fund

Watertown Area United Way Fund

Watertown Artwalk Fund

Watertown Community Projects Fund

Watertown Hockey Association Fund

Watertown Police Department Fund

Watertown Regional Library Fund

Watertown Relief Fund

Watertown Senior Citizens Fund

Watertown Trail Fund

The Wirkus Family - Kevin, Kayla, Mindy, Chase (wife of Cole), Cole, and Tanner.

The Area School Partnership Program at the Watertown Area Community Foundation supports schools through grants for projects which are beyond the scope of the regular school budget.

$2,100

$2,500

$2,500

Castlewood School District

Florence School District

Hamlin School District

$2,250 Waverly/South Shore School District

$9,350 AWARDED IN AREA SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP GRANTS IN 2023

The tradition of Artwalk continued in 2023, highlighting 16 sculptures around Watertown.

Artwalk begins in front of the Community Foundation and continues throughout downtown. Three sculptures are located outside downtown at Meyer Insurance, Lake Area Technical College, and the Redlin Art Center.

Artwalk sponsors are: Jesse & Mindy Craig; Dempsey’s Brewery, Pub & Restaurant; First Interstate Bank; First Premier Bank; Gather; Glacial Lakes Rubber & Plastics; Haugan Nelson Realty; Lake Area Technical College; Meyer Insurance; Phillip Matthews State Farm; Prairie Lakes Healthcare System; Redlin Art Center; Reliabank; Turbak Law Office; Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce; Watertown Area Community Foundation, and the Watertown Development Company.

Special thanks to #1 Welding, Drew Bakken, Michael Brual, Cashway Lumber, City of Watertown, Louis Clark, Braydon Craig, Josh Craig, LeAllen Endres, Jeremy Espland, First Interstate BancSystem Foundation, Gray Construction, Devon McMullen, Gordon Magness, Jason Mengwasser, Midwest Veterinary Service, MNW Construction & Grosz Excavation, Todd Randall, Troy Randall, Twila Schmitt, Sign Pro, and Watertown Area Community Foundation Giving Back 365 Donors.

Friends of Artwalk members include: American Bank & Trust, Dacotah Bank, Jan DeBerg, Dugan Sales & Service, Fischer Rounds & Associates, Ken & Wendy Fransen, Rev. Jerry Holtzman, Kinsman Agency, KXLG Radio, Joy Nelson, Office Peeps, Plains Commerce Bank, Don & Kelly Roby, Walmart Community Grant, Watertown Area Community Foundation.

DEVELOPING FUTURE LEADERS

The Youth Council started in 2001 with the idea that young people care about others, their community, and they would like to have a voice in the issues, challenges, and opportunities they face both now and in the future.

The Council is made up of three seniors and three juniors. Members learn about our community’s nonprofit organizations, learn from local leaders, and become involved in philanthropy. More than 60 students have served on the Foundation’s Youth Council.

2023 YOUTH COUNCIL

SENIORS:

Hannah Herzog

Carter Schmidt

Lucy Walker

JUNIORS:

Josie Althoff

Isabella Horning

Halle Olson

HELPING OUR YOUTH GIVE BACK

More than $150,000 has been awarded by the Youth Council to youth-serving organizations in Watertown since its inception.

$14,950 AWARDED in 2023 to the following organizations:

• 4 the Kids SD

• Community Transit of Watertown/Sisseton

• Coteau Prairie Master Gardeners

• East-Central CASA

• Fallout Shelter Ministries

• Friends of the Goss Opera House

• Joy Ranch of South Dakota

• Sleep in Heavenly Peace

• Watertown Area PACH

“I have met some pretty incredible community members during my time on the Youth Council. I also learned more about opportunities available for kids of all ages in our town. There are so many!”

– Carter Schmidt Youth Council Member

GIVING BACK 365

134 GIVING BACK MEMBERS ∙ $49,502 REQUESTED

$34,281 AWARDED ∙ 15 NONPROFITS SUPPORTED

Scan the QR Code to hear more about each grant recipient!

GIVING BACK 365 COMMUNITY IMPACT

• 4 the Kids SD

$2,500 to provide healthy snacks for students

• Boys and Girls Club of Watertown

$2,500 for an additional warming oven

• Brothers & Sisters Behind Bars

$2,500 to support an educational assistance program

• Codington County Historical Society

$2,500 for storage of Carnegie Christmas Market booths

• Community Transit of Watertown/Sisseton

$2,128.34 for transportation needs of Brothers and Sisters Behind Bars participants

• East-Central CASA

$2,470 to purchase computers for volunteer advocates

• Friends of the Goss Opera House

$2,035 to host Beads on One String

• Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership

$2,500 for 60’s Plus Dining

• Joy Ranch of South Dakota

$2,000 for horse stall updates

• Lake Area Zoological Society

$2,147.50 for the Wildlife Warriors Program

• Sandwich Ministry Program

$2,500 to support food costs

• Watertown Area PACH

$2,500 to support food costs

• Watertown Area Snow Queen

$1,000 to host Girl Power

• Watertown Fire Rescue PAD Program , $2,500 for Public Access Defibrillators

• Watertown Hockey Association

$2,500 for Mites and Squirts jerseys and “Stick It to Cancer” Varsity jerseys

MEMBER VOTING PARTY!

New in 2023, Giving Back 365 members viewed grant request videos submitted by the nonprofits while enjoying treats and refreshments in the ice cream parlor of the Redlin Art Center.

MEMORIALS & HONORARIUMS

MEMORIALS

Elaine Aadland

Nannette Argabrite

Alan Austin Family

Paul Barth

Catherine “Cathy” Bouskill

Karen Brandriet

Tom Burns

Joe Caldwell

Donna Coplan

Barb Cornelius

Bev Cozad

David DeBerg

Shadow & Allegra Domonoske

Earl & Berniece Drake

Vy Engelstad

Kayla Jean Felstet Even

Judy Everson

L. Lewis & Delores E. Feuerstein

Lewis “Lew” Feuerstein

CariDee Foley

Jack James Fowler

Arlis Fox

Linda Fulmer

Ardyce Gackstetter

Connie Gehrke

Bea Goembel

Victoria Hallauer

Margaret Hanson

Terry Harmel

Bonnie Hayes

Bert Hemme

Irving Hinderaker

Robert “Bob” Holborn

Butch Hollmann

Rosemary Holzemer

Jamie Isaacson

LeAnn Jager

Ardell Johnson

Ronald “Ron” Johnson

Ray Kerstetter

Wayne Arnold Keup

Sharlee Kjellsen

Jon LaFramboise

Ed “Doc” Larson

Vivian Larson

David Longworth

Doug Lukonen

Jeanette Mack

Edith Magedanz

Cristina Mankey

William “Bill” McCarthy

Douglas “Doug” McKee

Ruby McKee

Ethel Kirby McDonald

John Mendenhall

Dennis Mennenga

Janis Montgomery

Donna L. Neale

Kathy Neemeyer

Joyce Olson

Ruth Olson

Cecelia Losano Ortega

Marion Oviatt

Nancy Petersen

Steven Lee Poynor

Estelle Prunty

Christopher Rieb

Lue Roby

Carolyn Ronke

Bob & Arvilla Schaefer

Doris Schamens

Jan Schull

Bob Schurrer

Bonnie Schwinger

Jim Silliman

Telmer “Terry” Stefferud

Evelyn Stoebner

Donna Sumner

Mike & Bonnie Theis

Janiece “Jan” Timm

Ronald “Ron” Torgerson

Grace R. Turbak

Ronald “Ron” Uthe

Jan Valberg

Marge Van Well

Mike Veeder

Erna Vilhauer

Tony Vitek

Gary Voelsch

Joanne Wamsher

Jo Wayrynen

Jan Winkelman

Judy Lynn Wright

Sarah Zirbel

HONORARIUMS

All Women

Dr. Stanley Allen

Chris Bartelt

Laurie Benson

Kali Block

Cristina Brandsrud

Kay Brandsrud

Cindy Burrell

Prudy Calvin

Amanda Compton

Amanda Culhane

Liam Culhane

Jan DeBerg

Julianne Endres

Lindsey Esche

Rev. John Fischer

Todd Fulmer

Susan Geyerman

WAYS TO GIVE

Rebecca Hall

Kristen Henderson

Elicia Holien

Rev. Jerome Holtzman

Allie Jaderborg

Reagan Jaderborg

Barbara Johnson

Carol Johnson

Dean Johnson

Chris Keup & Corey Borgman

Heidi Keup & Aaron Peters

Paula Keup

Rev. John Lantsberger

David J. Law

Beth Mantey

Whitney McDonald

Marisa Meidinger

Cammie Mengwasser

Dan Miller

Susie Mullaney

Joy Nelson

Lauren Olson

Wendy Olson

Lila Page

Shirley Petersen

Kelsey Raml

Janine Rew-Werling

JoAnn Roti-Munson

Helen Rowe

Ann Sigelman

Karla Stutzman

Travas & Sherri Uthe

Jen VanLaecken

Kristin VanLaecken

Darla Vilhauer

Ellie Vilhauer

Connie Ward

Jean Winkelman

Women & Giving 20th Anniversary

Nearly any asset can be donated for charitable purposes, often with tax savings benefits. Contact the Foundation to learn more about these and other opportunities to make a lasting impact.

CASH GIFTS

Cash gifts are the most popular and simplest way to make a charitable contribution. Gifts can be made via cash, check, or credit card.

REAL ESTATE

Land and properties offer a variety of gifting opportunities.

LIFE INSURANCE

Donate a fully-funded policy during your lifetime and/or name the Foundation as a beneficiary.

APPRECIATED STOCK GIFT MAXIMIZES COMMUNITY IMPACT

In the spring of 2023, long-time friends of the Foundation, Dale and Diane Christensen, generously gifted 5,000 shares of GLCP stock resulting in a gift of nearly $9,000.

“Our cost, with stock splits, was just 11 cents per share,” Dale shared. “The stock appreciated to $1.81 per share. To make a gift of that magnitude with just a $550 investment, it’s really a dream come true for people who want to make a charitable impact and avoid capital gains tax.”

A retired financial advisor, Dale was a trustee representative for the Foundation from 1981 until his retirement in 2002. The Christensens established a fund at the Foundation in 2004, and Dale served on the WACF Board from 2006 to 2016.

Gifting appreciated stock allows Foundation donors to save on taxes in potentially two ways: by avoiding capital gains taxes and by allowing them to take an income tax deduction, in most cases.

“ When you donate appreciated stock, your dollar goes further than if you were to sell the stock and donate your earnings. The money you would have paid in taxes can instead go fully to the Foundation, maximizing your philanthropic impact.”

- Dale Christensen

IRA CHARITABLE ROLLOVER/ (QCD) QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION

Even though required minimum distributions from a traditional IRA do not start until age 72, you can begin making charitable distributions directly to charity up to $100,000 annually at 70 ½.

STOCKS & SECURITIES

Gifts of appreciated securities are a very effective asset to gift and often provide significant tax benefits. Donors are encouraged to consult with their tax advisor regarding their specific tax situation.

RETIREMENT PLAN ASSETS

Naming the Foundation as a beneficiary of a 401(k), 403(b), traditional IRA, SEP or any other type of qualified retirement plan can be a tax-efficient asset to facilitate a legacy gift.

FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBERS 1979-PRESENT

Clark Redlinger 1979-1987

Floyd Snyder 1979-1980

Lauretta Hoff 1979-1990

Robert Carey 1979-1986

Dr. Robert Cockle 1979-1985

James Miner 1980-1986

John Lowrie 1986-1988

Dr. Robert Willis 1986-1987

Ernest Edwards 1987-1995, 2003-2004

Irving Hinderaker 1987-1991

Paul Sigelman 1988-1992

Earle Kinsman 1989-1993

Donna Sumner 1990-1994

Nancy Turbak Berry 19922001

Paul Hinderaker 1993-2002

Burdette Solum 1994-1998

Debra Popham 1995-1999

Dr. Rick Melmer 1996-2003

Bob Faehn 1999-1999

John Hopper 1999-2004

John Redlinger 2000-2006

Cliff Herzog 2002-2006

Ann Sigelman 2003-2008

Dr. Robert Mayer 2004-2006

Kate Benson 2005-2014

Laurie Benson 2006-2018

Dale Christensen 2006-2016

Dr. Lesli Jutting 2007-2017

Jim Roby 2008-2011

Lee Schull 2011-2017

Angie Reppe 2015-2019

Charlie Ewalt 2016-Present

Dr. Jeff Danielsen 2017-Present

Liam Culhane 2018-Present

Kristen Henderson 2018-2022

Joel Vockrodt 2018-Present

Tom Beadnell 2019-Present

Julie Ranum 2020-Present

Alex Rieffenberger 2023-Present

2023 FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Our forward-thinking board of directors includes dedicated community leaders who guide grantmaking and help the Foundation grow to create a real impact for our region.

DR. JEFF DANIELSEN CHAIR | Watertown School District Appointee

LIAM CULHANE VICE-CHAIR At-Large Member

FOUNDATION STAFF

TOM BEADNELL Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce Appointee

CHARLIE EWALT Wells Fargo Bank Appointee

JULIE RANUM City of Watertown Appointee

JOEL VOCKRODT First Interstate Bank Appointee

ALEX RIEFFENBERGER At-Large Member

FINANCIALS

ASSETS

Current Assets

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Receivables

Accrued Interest

Total Current Assets

Fixed Assets

Property and Equipment

Less Accumulated Depreciation

Net Fixed Assets

Other Assets

Cash Surrender Value Investments Artwork

Total Other Assets

TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES & EQUITY

Current Liabilities Payroll Taxes

Agency Endowment Funds

Beneficiary Payments Payable

Total Current Liabilities

Net Assets Without Donor Restrictions With Donor Restrictions

Total Net Assets

TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY