Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin awards grants to Waushara County nonprofits

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin is pleased to announce Partner Cycle grants awarded to five Waushara County nonprofits for fiscal year 2026. Selected from a competitive pool of 13 applications requesting a combined $54,775, this year’s grantees reflect the resourcefulness, creativity, and community spirit that define Waushara County.
This cycle’s funded projects are as diverse as Waushara County itself—from a joyful celebration of local heritage marking the 150th birthday of Coloma, to wellness and prevention programs supporting residents of all ages, to youth performing arts experiences and a shared community kitchen that neighbors will gather around for years to come.
“Every proposal represents real people working hard to make their community better,” said Rachel Pekowsky, Chair of the Community Foundation’s Grants Committee. “When we can only fund a portion of what is submitted, it is a reminder of just how much good work is happening and how much more there is to support. We are truly grateful to all who applied and proud to invest in this year’s grantees.”
This year’s Waushara County Partner Cycle grantees are:
•Coloma Area Historical Society – Coloma Kicks Up Its Heels

•Waushara County Prevention Council – Bridging Gaps in Waushara County
•Waushara County Health Department – REACH Waushara’s 2026 Run for Hope 5K
•Village of Plainfield – Shared Spaces - Kitchen Improvement Project
•Wautoma Rotary – Kids From Wisconsin
“Waushara County has so much to offer, and we want to see our community grants program grow right alongside it,” said Sarah E. Ross, Director of Community Leadership at CFCWI. “We encourage local nonprofits to learn more about our Community Grants program and explore how Waushara residents and donors can help strengthen and expand the resources available right here in their own backyard.”
Nonprofits and community members interested in learning more about the Community Foundation’s Community Grants Program or how to grow philanthropic investment in Waushara County are invited to visit cfcwi.org or reach out to our team directly.