Community, craft beer, and collective giving took center stage last Wednesday at Lucette Brewing Company, where more than 100 local residents gathered for the first-ever Philanthropy Unplugged, an unforgettable night of live voting, local impact, and unexpected generosity.
Together, attendees raised and awarded $50,000 in grants to five incredible local nonprofits. And in a surprise twist, an anonymous donor stepped up mid-event to match the grant awards for the 3rd, 4th, and 5th place winners, bringing the total impact to $60,000!
Who Took Home the Grants?
After each finalist gave a short pitch about their mission and upcoming project, the crowd voted in real-time to decide how the funds would be distributed. Here’s how the awards shook out:
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Stepping Stones of Dunn County – $30,000
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Arbor Place – $10,000
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Menomonie Theater Guild – $5,000 (plus $5,000 match)
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The Community Tables – $2,500 (plus $2,500 match)
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Shirley Doane Senior Center – $2,500 (plus $2,500 match)
A New Kind of Giving Experience
“Philanthropy Unplugged is about more than dollars—it’s about connection, collaboration, and the power of people coming together to make a difference.”
— Georgina Tegart, Executive Director, Community Foundation of Dunn County
This event proved that philanthropy doesn’t have to be formal or complicated; it can be fast, fun, and deeply meaningful. Every dollar came from people in the room who believe in the power of local nonprofits and the strength of community-led solutions.
Stepping Stones – 1st Place
Arbor Place – 2nd Place
Menomonie Theater Guild – 3rd Place
The Community Tables – 4th Place
