The Community Foundation of Dunn County hosted its annual Jeans & Jewels Gala on Saturday, November 1st at the UW–Stout Memorial Student Center, welcoming 300 guests for an evening of philanthropy and celebration. The event was generously supported by Platinum Sponsor Waznik Heike Group.
This year’s Gala marked a special milestone as the Foundation celebrates its 30th Anniversary, and it proved to be the most successful event yet—raising over $115,000 to sustain the Foundation’s day-to-day operations and ensure its ongoing impact throughout Dunn County.
A Night of Celebration and Giving
Guests enjoyed dinner and drinks, specialty and bucket raffles, silent and live auctions, and the crowd-favorite Dessert Dash, which brought in more than $31,000—the sweetest and most successful Dessert Dash in Jeans & Jewels history!
A standout addition this year was the launch of the Be a GEM (Give Even More) program, a new initiative connecting generous donors with local nonprofits in need of meaningful, tangible items.
Introducing the Be a GEM Program
Through the GEM initiative, donors—individuals, groups, or businesses—partnered with the Foundation to assemble $500 packages of essential goods or equipment for local nonprofits. Gala attendees could “Be a GEM” by sponsoring a package in honor or memory of a loved one, with the Foundation ensuring delivery after the event.
Following the Gala, CFDC delivered each GEM package to its nonprofit recipient, providing over $3,000 in essential goods to organizations across Dunn County. The program also generated an additional $3,000 for the Foundation’s Common Good Fund, which supports grants and community initiatives countywide.
Community Generosity Shines
“The Jeans & Jewels Gala is our signature fundraising event, and it truly showcases the generosity and spirit of this community,” said Georgina Tegart, Executive Director. “It’s especially meaningful to see such record-breaking support during our 30th anniversary year—proof that philanthropy in Dunn County continues to grow stronger every year.”
The Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to all of its 2025 sponsors, including:
Silver Sponsors
• Burstad Insurance
• Cardinal FG–Menomonie
• WESTconsin Credit Union
• Jim & Lori Lewis
Diamond Sponsors
• UW–Stout
• Paul Horvath & Megan Bayrd
Head to our Jeans & Jewels webpage for a full list of our 2025 sponsors.
Continuing a Legacy of Local Impact
Proceeds from the Gala will continue to support the Foundation’s mission of connecting people who care with causes that matter, ensuring charitable dollars benefit Dunn County residents for generations to come.