By Kate Klimesh,
Nonprofits are hard at work every day for a multitude of different aspects of what makes a community a great place to live, work and play.
A non-profit organization means they care less about making a profit and care more about their organization’s mission and purpose: helping others.
Nationally, nonprofits symbolize the best of America. They provide an avenue for like-minded people to work together for a common cause and support their missions through donations and volunteerism. Non-profits feed, heal, shelter, educate, inspire, enlighten and nurture their communities.
With over 200 non-profit entities in Winneshiek County alone, that’s a lot of people pursuing their passions, reaching out and supporting others in their own way. They buffer the communities against possible threats – serving the common good – while increasing overall well-being. Whether their focus is on local history, basic life support and assistance, or education, culture, physical and social supports, it’s a solid bet that everyone can all think of non-profit organizations that touch all lives in a significant way.
All nonprofits engage in community advocacy by representing the needs of communities that go unmet by public or private institutions to the public at large to improve their well-being. Hundreds of thousands of dollars in volunteer labor is given each year, with the benefit to others multiplied many times. Bottom line: Nonprofits are vital to the communities they serve and make them a better place.
Donations provided to non-profits generally triple in final effect, if not more. This is possible with volunteers who bring their passions to play for the good of their fellow man. Enjoy a few features on local nonprofits in this issue and see ads describing what they do in more detail.
Of course, we can’t cover all 200 nonprofits in this one issue, but by talking with friends and neighbors, and asking what non-profits they support, we can all learn so much more about what non-profits are available in our communities.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, thanks to all local nonprofits and all the work they do! Learn how to get more involved and support them as is possible. It’s good for the whole community!
The November 23 Decorah Public Opinion Newspaper and November 28 Driftless Journal contain articles and testimonials featuring local nonprofits.
Testimonial
“I knew that Winneshiek County Celebration of Life (WCCOL) existed. I knew they helped people through their cancer journey. At some point I probably even donated to the organization. What I did not know was that one day I would be a recipient of their generosity. In 2018, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. With all the turmoil in my life during that time, I did not even remember WCCOL existed. It was a very pleasant surprise and a very uplifting moment when I opened the envelope with gas and food gift cards.
Fast forward to three years later. I was approached about joining WCCOL. I like to donate my time and energy to worthy causes and give back to the community. I enthusiastically said yes! I am now the treasurer of Winneshiek County Celebration of Life. Each day I am reminded of the impact the Fuel for the Fight and the Food for the Fight gift cards have. WCCOL receives very heartwarming thank yous from recipients. Each person’s journey is very different and very personal. What is the same is the impact these gift cards make in their life. It is not so much about the money, but the knowledge that someone cares. What a great organization to be a part of!”
– Peggy A. Lensing
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