TWO RIVERS – An endowment fund established 25 years ago that now benefits “organizations in Manitowoc County with an emphasis on children” distributed $50,000 to six organizations in 2024.
The Helen Gajdys Reis and Lester Reis Endowment Fund provided the following:
Mary Reis, board member of the endowment, said in a news release: “It is gratifying to know that so many will be affected by these donations, which are the result of generous contributions from the people of the Manitowoc area and even further afield.
“The Board of Directors, namely Howie Zimmerman, Gloria Theis, Andy Steimle, Kathy Hanke and George and Mary Reis, are key to the fund’s success.”
Pastor Matt Sauer, executive director of the Manitowoc Warming Shelter at First Presbyterian Church, said, “This gift from the Reis Foundation will allow the shelter to operate throughout the season this year. We are so grateful that they want to invest in our neighbors and build a better community.”
People of the year: Our 2024 Manitowoc County People of the Year has endured tragedy, brought fame and more
Helen Gajdys Reis and Lester Reis Endowment Fund board member George Reis (left) presents the Manitowoc Warming Shelter with a $10,000 donation.
Sauer added that the shelter currently serves 12 people, but turns away eight people almost every night. As a result, the shelter aims to build a comprehensive facility that can accommodate at least 24 people. A site plan was prepared with an estimated cost of $1.2 million. Anyone wishing to contribute can do so online at manitowocwarmingshelter.org or send a contribution to Manitowoc Warming Shelter, c/o First Presybertian Church, 502 N. Eighth St., Manitowoc, WI 54220.
Kevin Cullen of the Wisconsin Maritime Museum said the $10,000 donation to the museum “will truly enhance our ability to provide memorable experiences for many of the young people who will visit.”
Christmas trees: Trade in your live Christmas tree in Manitowoc for a free tree seedling, also known as a whip
Callie Braun, resource development manager for the Boys & Girls Club, added, “We are very grateful for the [$10,000] donation and it means even more through the matching gift challenge. The funds will be used to support current year programming and 2025 summer programming.”
People can donate to the endowment fund by sending contributions to Reis Endowment, PO Box 388, Two Rivers, WI 54241. The fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and contributions are fully deductible. For more information, contact GVR Investment Management, Inc., at 920-553-4442.
Contact Brandon Reid at breid@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter: Manitowoc Endowment Fund Gives $50,000 to 6 Nonprofits in 25th Year
