Established in 1965, West CAP was one of the first community action agencies in the United States. West CAP works to promote the self-sufficiency of low-income families in the rural communities of west central Wisconsin, operating as an equal opportunity employer and service provider. West CAP continues to help families overcome poverty and achieve economic stability by following its mission: to take action against poverty by developing the social and economic assets of low-income families and their communities and by working to create a more just and sustainable society. They cover a 7-county area, including Barron, Chippewa, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix and offer weatherization programs, distribute commodities to families in need, JumpStart Transportation program, and adult literacy and skills enhancement.
West CAP is seeking challenge grant funds in an effort to diversify its funding base. Though they acquire most of their funding from government and foundation sources, they identify a need for gap-filling resources, especially for innovative activities and for administrative costs not covered by contracts or grants. The purpose of the fund would be to support their operations and programs to help low-income families achieve financial stability and sustainability. They note education, job training, and asset development as the primary means by which to achieve that end. They currently hold an endowment fund at the St. Croix Valley Community Foundation and have had positive experiences. Every three years they complete a community needs assessment that drives their strategic planning process.
Based on their current strategic plan, their goals for 2019-2021 are: 1) Individuals and families with low incomes are stable and achieve economic security; 2) Communities where people with low incomes live are healthy and offer economic opportunity; 3) People with low incomes are engaged and active in building opportunities in communities. Annual disbursements will likely be used to grow their endowment. Once the annual disbursements are significant in amount, they will utilize the funds to support the programs serving Dunn County residents. They plan to reach out to current and past board members, employees, current donors, and allocate discretionary funds as needed to raise the required match.
“For the past 55 years, West CAP has helped Dunn County residents in times of need. Now, as special economic challenges confront so many, the Community Foundation of Dunn County has generously offered us a $5,000 matching grant to meet these critical needs. Please take this opportunity to double your gift and help us all get through these tough times together.” -Peter Kilde, Executive Director of West CAP.
To contribute towards West CAP’s $5,000 match fundraising, please visit www.westcap.org and click “Donate Online” on the right hand side of the page (halfway down) and enter your desired amount for “Dunn County Endowment Fund”.
Donations can also be sent by mail to:
West CAP
Attn; Dunn County Endowment Fund
P.O. Box 308
Glenwood City, WI 5401
