Foundation Update for Sept 2026
Each year in addition to the Mabel Anderson Scholarships the foundation awards grants in 3 categories: Community outreach, ELCA organizations and capital improvements.
This year because of growth in the foundation investment funds and generous donations, $14,230 was distributed to the following grant recipients.
Community Outreach
La Crosse Learn-To-Ski (Increase the accessibility to water sports and promote water safety)
7 Rivers LGBTQ Connection (Provides spaces for community, connection and education for LGBTQ+ people)
Holmen Area Community Center (Center operations and programing)
Coulee Region Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (Providing seniors with volunteer opportunities that have a real impact on their community)
ELCA Organizations
First Lutheran Caring Cards (Materials to make handmade cards to send to people who are unable to worship in-person)
First Lutheran Preschool (Special programming and transportation costs for field trips)
First Lutheran Camp Counselor Fund (Stiped for First Lutheran members that work as camp counselors at bible camp)
First Lutheran Owls (Cover some costs for OWL events)
First Lutheran F.L.Y. (High school and middle school youth to lead the monthly Parent’s Night Out)
First Lutheran Quilters (Quilting supplies)
First Lutheran Prayer Shawls (Yarn and knitting supplies)
First Lutheran Teen Clothes Closet (Provides clothing and personal items for teens in need)
Capital Improvements
Renovation of the Hope House to prepare it for occupancy by an unhoused family
Defray some of the costs for plumbing repair beneath the floor of the kitchen
Because the Foundation awards grants and scholarships from the proceeds from its investments, donating is a great way to leave a legacy. Donations/Memorials to the Foundation are always accepted in the office and can also be made at 1stlu.org/foundation. Please label your donation Foundation Fund so that we may continue to serve our community, ELCA ministries and the Mabel Anderson Scholarship program
