Blog
How La Crosse Area Community Foundation reviews and decides on grants
If you’ve ever applied for a grant, you know the anticipation that comes after hitting “submit.” What happens next? At the La Crosse Area Community Foundation, we want you to know how the process works — not just because transparency matters, but because it helps you prepare stronger applications and helps our community understand how…
For the love of Chloe: Racing forward with heart
Honoring Chloe Kay Eckelberg’s short but joyful life When Jonathan and Amy Eckelberg talk about their daughter, Chloe, their voices are full of love — and purpose. “She had crazy, fluffy hair that stood straight up,” Amy said. “Everyone remembers that about her. That, and her giggle.” Chloe Kay Eckelberg was born in September 2019….
Misfits Hair Studio owner creates refuge for belonging in region
From haircuts to community meetups, Felix Murphy creates spaces where difference is celebrated and belonging is a given Felix Murphy isn’t trying to blend in — and that’s exactly what makes his contributions to the La Crosse area so valuable. As a neurodivergent hairstylist, owner of Misfits Hair Studio and a board member at The…
La Crosse Local: A source for connection
La Crosse Local is an online hub that connects people with the events, businesses, and stories shaping the Coulee Region. Part of a broader network of hyperlocal sites, it offers a steady stream of timely, relevant content to strengthen community ties and highlight what makes the places here distinct. At the center of this effort…
Quarter 3 nonprofit Capacity Building Grants announced
As summer winds down and the rhythm of fall begins to stir, there’s a sense of both reflection and momentum in the air. Gardens are in full bloom, pollinators are busy with their final stretch of the season, and our community is soaking up the last golden days of warmth. Much like the natural world…
Sue Knopf: A journey of giving
Life experiences inspired a life of giving People don’t typically start out with philanthropy as their primary goal in life. In most cases, it takes time to build careers, settle into a home, and participate in local activities before aiming to improve the community for everyone. Sue’s journey of philanthropy is similar, but Sue had…
Where you open a donor-advised fund matters
Why donor-advised funds at your community foundation offer something special Donor-advised funds (DAFs) have taken off in recent years — and for good reason. They’re flexible, tax-smart, and easy to use, making them a great option for individuals and families who want to make a meaningful impact. A neat way to think about a DAF…
What charitable giving tax law changes mean for local philanthropy
A new deduction for everyday donors and growing scrutiny of endowments are reshaping how we give — and how we build trust Starting in 2026, new charitable giving tax law changes will affect how Americans, including residents of the La Crosse area, support the causes they care about. Part of a federal legislative package known…
What do a mechanic, a language table, and a reporter have in common?
Four grant-funded projects, one shared goal At first glance, a mechanic, a language table, a reporter, a back-to-school bash, and a health educator might seem like they’re working in different lanes. But together, these local efforts reflect a shared theme: building community resilience by increasing access, connection, and voice. This season, we’re proud to highlight…
From cooperation to collaboration — what’s the real difference?
Cooperation is comfortable. Collaboration changes everything. We’ve all seen it: well-meaning nonprofits and public agencies working side by side, attending the same meetings, even referring people back and forth. That’s cooperation, and it has its place. But collaboration? That’s a deeper level of partnership where organizations co-design strategy, share resources, and hold each other accountable…