Local Nonprofits

The La Crosse area is rich with many nonprofit, educational or government agencies with missions aimed at addressing a variety of needs. Click the categories below to learn more about our board approved, qualified local nonprofits doing work within the interest areas important to you, your family or your business. If you would like to learn more about the agency, click the agency name to visit its website or social media page.

This list is for informational purposes only, and is updated annually. It features all of the local nonprofits within La Crosse County that have been the recipient of a grant from any one of our funds in the last calendar year. The Foundation completes due diligence on every agency to confirm it is a worthy recipient of charitable funds.

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Arts & Humanities

Affinity for Dance Inc
A nonprofit dance performance company that creates collaborative, creative, cause-driven performance art. 

Abilities in Harmony
​Abilities in Harmony is an adaptive show choir camp for students who would not ordinarily be able to participate in show choir. We have had four successful camps with students who have special needs from the La Crosse area, and we are excited to continue to provide camps for these kids to experience the joy of show choir!

A Chance to Dance Foundation
608-779-4642
A Chance to Dance Foundation provides financial assistance for dance training through a variety of memorial and opportunity fund scholarships to children in the region.

Bangor Area Historical Society
Preserving local history is the central mission of the Bangor and Area Historical Society. As part of this mission, the Society seeks to educate the public about this history in its various forms.

Blue Stars, Performing Arts for Youth, Inc.
(608) 788-3219
Blue Stars Performing Arts for Youth is committed to developing life skills in young people through education and achievement in the performing arts. Students learn how applying teamwork, dedication, perseverance, goal setting, and discipline, contributes to their success now and in their future endeavors.

Children’s Museum
(608) 784-2652
Affordable opportunities for the young and the young at heart to learn, connect and grow through interactive play.

Christ Episcopal Church Preservation Fund
(608) 784-0697
Preserving the appearance and physical integrity of Christ Church with emphasis on the main sanctuary where some of the church’s finest historic and religious artwork is found.

Every Body Can Dance
EveryBody Can Dance… an open dance for people with Special Needs and the general public.

Great River Festival of Arts
(608) 784-3033
To enhance the community by bringing in art, music, theatre, and dance programs and workshops in collaboration with art groups for the La Crosse area.

Great River Shakespeare Festival
(507) 474-7900
Dedicated to dynamic, clearly spoken productions of Shakespeare’s plays which enrich people’s lives, extensive community education, and community outreach programs, and comprehensive theater training.

Heider Center Fine Arts Board
608-786-2550
The Marie W. Heider Center for the Arts is operated by the Heider Center Arts Board, Inc., a 501 c (3) not-for-profit organization.

La Crosse Chamber Chorale
608-780-6107
Our Staff, Singers, and Board of Directors are committed to bringing professional quality choral music, artistic excellence and creative programming to the region.

La Crosse Community Theatre
(608) 784-9292
To entertain, enlighten, and educate all people in the La Crosse area through the selection, presentation, production, and sponsorship of theatrical literature and activities.

La Crosse Concert Band
The La Crosse Concert Band has been a proud symbol of the Coulee Region since 1917, bringing free, quality, multigenerational music to La Crosse’s beautiful riverfront, and in so doing, providing educational opportunities for both the audience and for student and adult performers.

La Crosse County Historical Society 
(608) 782-1980
The La Crosse County Historical Society is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and making available to the public for its education the historical legacies of the Three Rivers Region.

La Crosse Symphony Orchestra 
(608) 783-2121
To provide excellent symphonic music for the pleasure of the public in the tri-state region, educate people of all ages in the symphonic repertoire and tradition, and encourage student and professional musicians to develop and share their musical talents and skills.

La Crosse Youth Symphony 
(608) 788-0159
To provide a unique opportunity for youth to develop and showcase their artistry in the symphonic tradition and to enhance their lives and the cultural environment of the communities we serve.

Midwest Music Fest
Promoting music and art in the region, creating opportunities for artists, stimulating economic development.

Pump House Regional Arts Center 
(608) 785-1434
To enhance the quality of life in the region by maintaining the Pump House as a cultural center and promote a wide range of visual and performing arts activities including performance, participation, and appreciation.

Ridge History Park
608-386-9013
To establish and operate a site dedicated to the preservation and education of the History of the Township of Washington and the surrounding areas of La Crosse County, Wisconsin.

Riverside International Friendship Gardens
(608) 791-4769
The Riverside International Friendship Gardens will be a place of beauty reflecting our appreciation for the diverse cultures that share the earth.

United Fund for the Arts and Humanities
(608) 785-7242
The United Fund for the Arts and Humanities (UFAH) was established to ensure a high level of cultural and artistic offerings from its member nonprofit organizations through a single annual fund drive to businesses, foundations, and professionals.

Vernon County Historical Society
(608) 637-7396
To preserve and promote Vernon County History by connecting people with their local history through their research library, museum exhibits, and public programs. They operate four historical sites in Vernon County.

West Salem Historical Society
(608) 786-1675; (608) 786-1399
Preserved three homes of which two are open to public in June, July, and August.  Tours with minimal charge.

Culture & Diversity

African American Cultural Alliance of Greater La Crosse
(608) 792-3597
To support a growing population of African American and interracial families who are living in La Crosse and the surrounding communities and to provide services that promote a quality lifestyle so these families can become productive citizens in this ever-changing community.

American Association of University Women – La Crosse Branch
AAUW advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.

Cia Siab
(608) 615-7117
Working to build a culturally vibrant Hmoob community by providing holistic and culturally-specific services with an emphasis on Hmoob language revitalization.

FSPA (Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration)
(608) 782-5610
We are ecclesial women whose mission is that of the church. We are sent as Jesus was sent to manifest God’s love in the world; to bring new life, meaning, and hope to a suffering and searching humanity; to heal with compassion and forgiveness; to proclaim the gospel in word and action.

HMOOB Cultural and Community Agency
(608) 781-5744
The Vision/Mission of HCCA is to strive to provide progressive community development, advocacy, and cultural revitalization through holistic services, education, programming, outreach, and community connections.

For Independent Hmong Farmers Corp.
For Independent Hmong Farmers Corp. is a nonprofit focused on advocacy for Hmong farmers and preventing local produce waste and hunger in the community through assistance programs for independent Hmong farmers who donate produce to food banks/pantries.

La Crosse Dubna Friendship Associations, Inc
The La Crosse-Dubna Friendship Association is a sister city organization dedicated to cultural exchange between Dubna Russia, and La Crosse, Wisconsin.

La Crosse Performing Arts Center Inc
608-784-9292
Weber Center for the Performing Arts is a collaborative venue supporting the missions of La Crosse Community Theatre and Viterbo University

Norskedalen
(608) 452-3424
To preserve and interpret the natural environment and cultural heritage of the region, to make people aware of and sensitive to these resources and to provide educational opportunities at all levels through its arboretum, nature and heritage centers, and staff-both volunteer and professional.

Oktoberfest USA Gemutlichkeit Foundation
(608) 784-3378
The Oktoberfest USA Gemütlichkeit Foundation Inc. mission is to encourage greater local pride and enhance the quality of life for the entire community. To promote and develop an environment that will benefit future generations, provide grants and scholarships for youth, and preserve and celebrate diverse heritages.

The Center: 7 Rivers LGBTQ Connection
Phone: (608) 784-0452
Volunteer service organization reaching out to the gay, lesbian, transgender, and bisexual community, their families, friends, and allies; provides information and education on issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity to the larger community; it seeks to improve connections among existing community resources and to foster a climate of understanding.

Women’s Fund of La Crosse
(608) 780-5710
The Women’s Fund exists to enrich the lives of women and girls so they can do the same for others.

World Services of La Crosse, Inc.
(608) 781-4194
World Services of La Crosse, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 2001 in La Crosse, Wisconsin, USA. It began its international work in 1992 as a cooperative partnership between two local health care organizations and La Crosse’s Sister City program with Dubna, Russia. We have expended our scope over time, expanding our vision to become a leader in providing real-life experiences and sustainable solutions in the countries it serves.

Education & Scholarship

7 Rivers Robotics Coalition
The Seven Rivers Robotics Coalition supports and promotes Science Technology Engineering & Math, STEM, education in general and the FIRST® Robotics program, specifically in the Seven Rivers Region, encouraging and exposing our students to the professions of tomorrow.

Aquinas Catholic Schools Foundation
(608) 784-0707
The mission of the Aquinas Catholic Schools , an independent 501(c)(3)tax-exempt organization, is to promote and ensure that high quality Catholic education is made affordable and accessible to all in the La Crosse Diocese through the Aquinas Catholic Schools.

Badger Boys State
(608) 785-1090
Badger Boys State is an intensive one-week summer camp for young men between their junior and senior years of high school to learn more about government and how to be a better leader.

Consumer Credit Counseling Service
(844) 307-7220
Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS), a division of Family Service Association of Sheboygan, Inc, is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) full-service credit counseling agency, providing confidential financial assessments, financial education, budget, housing, bankruptcy, and credit/debt counseling to consumers throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Coulee Reading Center
(608) 788-7323
The Coulee Reading Center is a non-profit organization with the mission of facilitating the acquisition of reading skills and improving the literacy of those who are experiencing difficulty.

Friends of the La Crosse Public Library
(608) 789-7100
The Friends’ organization was founded in 1967: its membership demonstrates belief in the importance of books and libraries for people of every age and ability level. Today the organization supports library services and the development of better reading materials and research tools.

IM Education
Join Sam and Rick for thought-provoking conversations about social, political and cultural issues impacting our communities and our country, as they seek ideas for restoring American civic virtue.

Independent Living Resources – La Crosse 
(608) 787-1111
Mission is to advocate for the improvement of life for all people with disabilities; to help people with disabilities achieve and maintain self-sufficient and productive lives in their communities; to serve as a site to provide training and information on assistive technologies and adaptive devices; and to assist consumers to increase ability to take control of one’s life and cope with disability.

Junior Achievement of Wisconsin
(715) 552-1904
Junior Achievement inspires and prepares young people to succeed in the global economy. JA recruits volunteers from the local business community to enter classrooms and teach students K-12 about personal financial responsibility in an ever-changing market. From the basic concepts of trading, sharing and the definition of community to the more complex ideas of credit, philanthropy and budgeting, JA programs expose children to a world beyond their neighborhoods and inspire opportunity in every young mind.

La Crosse County Association of Home & Community Education
To teach, learn, lead and serve, and connect people with the University of Wisconsin, and engage with them in transforming lives and communities.

La Crosse Promise
(608) 789-2049
La Crosse Promise is a non-profit organization working to economically transform La Crosse, Wis., and improve the quality of life for all citizens through a strong commitment to education.

La Crosse Public Education Foundation
(608) 787-0226
The La Crosse Public Education Foundation enhances the quality of public education by inspiring creativity and innovation in our children, educators and the community.  LPEF raises funds to fill the gap between public funding and the unmet needs of our public schools, enriching the educational experience for tomorrow’s leaders.

La Crosse Public Library (Winding Rivers System)
(608) 789-7151

Onalaska Foundation for Educational Excellence
(608) 781-9700
The Onalaska Foundation for Educational Excellence was established to strengthen community participation in our schools. The Foundation will provide financial support for innovative educational programs or creative projects that inspire both teachers and students to achieve educational excellence.

Parenting Place
(608) 784-8125
Mission is to make available parent education and family support information and services to all families; programs are aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect as well as providing a child care resource and referral system, child care certification services, training to child care providers, Community Response and Birth to Three Service Coordination.

Providence Academy
(608) 784-6167
Offers a challenging academic curriculum that is steeped in the classics and offered in fidelity to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church.

Seven Rivers Robotics Coalition Inc
The Seven Rivers Robotics Coalition supports and promotes Science Technology Engineering & Math, STEM, education in general and the FIRST® Robotics program, specifically in the Seven Rivers Region, encouraging and exposing our students to the professions of tomorrow.

UW-La Crosse Foundation
(877) 895-3863
The Foundation is the largest private funding resource for the University, and our donors’ gifts directly benefit UWL. This support allows UWL to impact greatness on campus when an opportunity arises and keep education affordable.

Western Technical College Foundation
(608) 785-9487
The Western Foundation works quietly in the background, making the highest aspirations of Western and its students possible through scholarships, grants, and distance education. Our mission is to deliver opportunities for a quality education—to open doors.

Wisconsin Challenge Academy
(608) 296-9000
An alternative education program designed to reclaim the lives of at-risk youth and produce graduates with the values, skills, education and self-discipline necessary to succeed as adults.

Workforce Connections, Inc.
(608) 789-5620
Workforce Connections, Inc. connects people, work, and training while advancing self-sufficiency.

Environment

Coulee Partners for Sustainability
Coulee Partners for Sustainability (CPS) is a group of La Crosse area residents who are interested in promoting lifestyles that are environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially just.

Friends of the Blufflands
Promotes sound conservation practices in the Coulee Region blufflands and to be a voice for a wide variety of blufflands users.

Friends of the La Crosse River Marsh
Preserves and enhances the La Crosse River Marsh and serve the Myrick-Hixon Eco Park through community action, advocacy, and education.

Friends of the Refuge-Mississippi River Pools 7 & 8
Friends of the Refuge – Mississippi River Pools 7 & 8 is dedicated to building awareness, enjoyment and support of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge – La Crosse District through outdoor experiences and education, public engagement, community involvement, and habitat enhancement.

Friends of the Upper Mississippi Fishery Services
(608) 788-4657
The Friends of the Upper Mississippi Fishery Services is a nonprofit citizens organization dedicated to conserving fishery resources of the Upper Mississippi River and other Trust Lands, also to provide support for activities conducted by the Fish and Wildlife Service’s La Crosse Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, Genoa National Fish
Hatchery and the La Crosse Fish Health Center.

 

Friends of the Upper Mississippi
(608) 783-8417
To work to protect, enhance and restore our Upper Mississippi River resources by serving as volunteers and partners with conservation organizations to provide education about these resources for our citizens, to advocate for government policies that will support these resources and to increase awareness of threats to the health of the Upper Mississippi River.

Mississippi Valley Conservancy
(608) 784-3606
Working with you to conserve the diverse landscapes and natural areas of the Coulee Region of western Wisconsin for future generations.

Norskedalen
(608) 452-3424
Preserves and interprets the natural environment and cultural heritage of the region, to make people aware of and sensitive to these resources and to provide educational opportunities at all levels through its arboretum, nature and heritage centers, and staff-both volunteer and professional.

Outdoor Recreation Alliance
Develops and maintains first-class, human-powered, shared-use trails.

WisCorps
(608) 782-2494
Develops leadership, self-confidence, and a strong work ethic in youth and young adults through the active stewardship of Wisconsin’s communities and natural resources.

Faith

Causeway Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers Inc
(608) 775-9999
Causeway Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers connects people with needs to people who care for ongoing supportive connections. Causeway provides volunteer and community services to the elderly and adults with disabilities allowing them to maintain independence and dignity.

Franciscan Spirituality Center
608-791-5295
The Franciscan Spirituality Center is a sacred place that welcomes everyone. We are rooted in the Gospels and sponsored by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. The mission of the Franciscan Spirituality Center is dedicated to supporting anyone in their search for God, meaning and wholeness.

Shrine of Our Lady Guadalupe
608-615-7545
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wisconsin, faithful to the message of the Blessed Virgin Mary through her appearances on the American continent in 1531, serves the spiritual needs of those who suffer poverty in body and soul. It is a place of ceaseless prayer for the corporal and spiritual welfare of God’s children, especially those in most need.

Health & Human Services

Adult & Teen Challenge of Western Wisconsin 
(608) 605-1748
Provides a place of refuge for those who are stuck in the bonds of addiction. Assists people in gaining freedom from chemical addictions, as well as other life-controlling problems. We take a holistic approach and address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of each individual.

AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin – La Crosse Office
(608) 785-9866
The AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin is at the forefront of HIV prevention, care and treatment and is dedicated to providing quality medical, dental, mental health and social services for all people with HIV.

A Place of Grace Catholic Worker House
(608) 782-6224
Provides a neighborhood hospitality center.

Agape Pregnancy Resource Center
(608) 784-4966
Offers loving support, accurate information, and valuable assistance to provide hope for whatever the future may hold as you consider your options. The services offered to women are FREE and completely confidential.

Aging and Disability Resource Center of Western Wisconsin
(608) 785-5700
Provides a free resource center, accessible to the general public, that serves as the first place to call or come for information and assistance relating to aging, disability, mental health, or substance abuse; assists consumers and families to examine all community options before major life changes are made; provides short-term intervention, advocacy, and prevention services; assists persons to arrange community services; determines eligibility for public assistance programs.

Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Wisconsin
(800) 272.3900
To eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

American Cancer Society – Midwest Division – La Crosse Unit
(608) 783-5000
The American Cancer Society’s local resources, programs, and events help those going through cancer in Wisconsin.

American Red Cross – Southwest Chapter 
(608) 788-1000
A humanitarian organization led by volunteers which provides disaster relief and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.

Aptiv Inc./Aptiv Foundation Inc.
(608) 784-9450
The Aptiv Foundation exists to support Aptiv, Inc., which helps individuals with disabilities live more independently and learn life skills. The Foundation is an integral part of what makes Aptiv successful. Not only by funding the services Aptiv, Inc. provides and the events that we host, but also by creating new possibilities in the community for individuals with disabilities.

Benedictine Living Community of La Crosse
(608) 788-9870
Benedictine Living Community of La Crosse offers a full continuum of care for seniors in need of health care services. Benedictine Manor offers compassionate skilled nursing, long-term care and short-term rehabilitation in a home-like atmosphere and is connected to Benedictine Villa, a beautiful assisted living complex.

Bethany Lutheran Homes, Inc.
(608)-406-3880
Bethany Lutheran Homes provides a quality continuum of compassionate care; Meeting the physical, social and spiritual needs of those we serve.

Bethany-St. Joseph Care Center
(608) 788-5700
Bethany St. Joseph Corporation provides a variety of services for seniors and those with disabilities including skilled nursing care facilities; physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy; dementia and memory care; adult day care; independent senior housing; and assisted living senior apartments.

Birthright of La Crosse
(608) 782-0373
Provides a pro-life support system for distressing pregnancies and to help women make educated decisions about their pregnancies; all tests and services are free of charge.

Bridges for Belonging
(608) 519-5200
A Christian community, rooted in the Beatitudes, supporting and protecting the dignity of persons with disabilities.

Capable Canines of Wisconsin
(608) 561-2269
Provides physical strength and support through trained dogs to assist those afflicted with autism, seizures and physical disabilities.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse, Inc.
(608) 782-0710
Catholic Charities alleviates poverty and strengthens families by providing: pregnancy counseling, emergency assistance, adoption, financial counseling, family & mental health counseling, immigration support, refugee resettlement, domestic abuse prevention, parenting education and community support for children with severe emotional disabilities.

Causeway Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers Inc
Causeway Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers connects people with needs to people who care for ongoing supportive connections. Causeway provides volunteer and community services to the elderly and adults with disabilities allowing them to maintain independence and dignity.

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals – Gundersen Health System
(608) 782-7300
Provides support to families living in the Tri-state Region with children who have a variety of healthcare needs.  Fund medical equipment & programs to benefit children, and broaden awareness about the specialty care available for children at Gundersen Health System. 100% of donated funds are directed to children no matter the illness or where they receive their healthcare.

Chileda Habilitation Institute
(608) 782-6480
Provides intensive care and habilitation to modify disabilities which inhibit a child’s home placement utilizing educational growth and development.

Couleecap
608-634-3104
Couleecap’s mission is to fight poverty and promote self-sufficiency for people in the Coulee Region. Couleecap identifies needs, mobilizes resources, and provides quality services in collaboration with partners in the community.

Coulee Council on Addictions
(608) 784-4177
Coulee Council on Addictions, Inc. provides confidential assistance, information, education and services to people of all ages dealing with substance abuse and other addictions.

Easter Seals Wisconsin
Our mission is to increase independence, maximize opportunities, minimize barriers, and enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. We are proud to create innovative programs to address the needs of increasingly diverse populations.

Emergency Food Basket
(608) 783-7722
Feeding people in need.

Essential Health Clinic
(608) 775-8390
Ensures all people have access to reproductive health care and education regardless of ability to pay and to help clients determine the timing and spacing of pregnancies (achieving and preventing); maintain and/or improve clients’ reproductive health; involve parents, schools, churches, and the community in promoting comprehensive, medically accurate sexuality education for individuals of all ages; all services are provided in harmony with the personal beliefs of our clients.

Family & Children’s Center – La Crosse 
(608) 785-0001
Family counseling and youth services agency providing a continuum of preventive and therapeutic services to children, adolescents, families, and individuals.

FSPA (Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration)
(608) 782-5610
We are ecclesial women whose mission is that of the church. We are sent as Jesus was sent to manifest God’s love in the world; to bring new life, meaning, and hope to a suffering and searching humanity; to heal with compassion and forgiveness; to proclaim the gospel in word and action.

Good Fight Community Center
(608) 518-3301
Provides at-risk and disadvantaged youth with hope, encouragement, and a safe environment to develop personal goals, discipline, and values free from juvenile delinquency, substance abuse, truancy, crime, gang activities and other difficult challenges.

Great Rivers United Way
(608) 796-1400
Unites people and resources to improve lives and strengthen our communities.

Gundersen Medical Foundation
(608) 775-6600
Gundersen Medical Foundation enhances and supports quality healthcare by emphasizing medical education, health and wellness education, as well as research and community health outreach.

Harry J Olson Senior Center
(608)781-2022
The Harry J Olson Senior Center is a multipurpose senior center located on La Crosse’s North Side.

Heart2Heart Pet Lifeline, Inc.
Recognizing the healing power of companion animals, the mission of Heart2Heart Pet Lifeline is to keep pets out of shelters and rescues and help owners keep them in loving homes. To that end, we provide financial assistance for veterinary care to income-eligible pet families in need who do not have other options for care. No owner should have to choose between medical care and euthanizing or surrendering a pet.

Hillview Urban Agriculture Center
Creates a healthy community through a local, sustainable and accessible food system.

HorseSense for Special Riders
(608) 791-4868
HorseSense for Special Riders is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with special needs through a partnership with the horse.

Hunger Task Force of La Crosse
(608) 793-1002
Aims to eliminate hunger by harvesting community resources and being the voice of the hungry.

Independent Living Resources – La Crosse
(608) 787-1111
Advocates for the improvement of life for all people with disabilities; to help people with disabilities achieve and maintain self-sufficient and productive lives in their communities; to serve as a site to provide training and information on assistive technologies and adaptive devices; and to assist consumers to increase ability to take control of one’s life and cope with disability.

Joe Was Just Joe Foundation
(608) 788-1621
Raises awareness and helps to prevent other families from experiencing the tremendous pain of losing someone to suicide.

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation – Western Wisconsin Chapter
(608) 833-2873
JDRF is the leader of the type 1 diabetes (T1D) community—unifying global efforts to cure, treat, and prevent T1D. Through a transformative vision, breakthrough innovations, and effective operations, JDRF is working to remove the impact of T1D from people’s lives until we achieve a world without T1D.

La Crosse Area Autism Foundation
(608) 618-0523
The La Crosse Area Autism Foundation is dedicated to strengthening the community by connecting families with local resources, education and support while raising awareness in and around the La Crosse area. LAF is a non-profit organization with a 501(c)(3) status.

La Crosse Area Suicide Prevention Initiative
(608) 775-3689
The La Crosse Area Suicide Prevention Initiative is committed to promoting awareness that suicide is a public health problem that is preventable.

La Crosse Area Veterans Mentor Program, Inc.
(608) 785-6420
Mentors and supports Veterans with behavioral health, substance use, physical and other challenges who are either involved in the criminal justice system or otherwise struggling with marriage, family, employment, housing and other issues.

La Crosse Dive Unit
A volunteer dive rescue unit with approximately 25 members including divers and non-divers for the La Crosse County Sheriff’s Department whose functions are, but not limited to, Swift Water/Flood Rescue, Ice Rescue, Underwater Rescue and recovery & Vessel security services.

La Crosse Jail Ministry
(608) 785-9772
Provides counseling, support, and information to jail inmates and their families.

La Crosses Lighthouse Inc.
The Lighthouse is a local, non-profit collaborative looking to help people achieve long-term recovery from opiate and methamphetamine addiction in La Crosse. They are in the early stages of opening a peer respite center, offering immediate housing and support for those looking to abstain from using.

La Crosse Medical Health Science Consortium
(608) 785-5150
The La Crosse Medical Health Science Consortium is a collaborative effort founded by two regional medical systems and three institutions of higher education: Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Healthcare and Gundersen Health System; and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Viterbo University, and Western Technical College. The School District of La Crosse and the La Crosse County Health Department are also partners.

Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Medical Center, Inc.
(608) 784-6449
Contributions benefit such diverse areas as medical research; advanced technology; patient & staff education; patient care, including cancer care, cardiac care, diabetes and hospice; and programs that extend medical care to those in financial need.

Mental Health Coalition of the Greater La Crosse Area
The Mental Health Coalition of the Greater La Crosse Area is a community coalition of advocates for mental health and providers of  mental health services working together to create a mentally health  community by educating about mental health and illness, achieving  insurance parity, and improving access to services.

Mobile Meals Of La Crosse, Inc.
(608) 784-4623
Provides hot nutritious meals to homebound people within the community.

Monroe County Shelter Care
(608) 269-6308
A Retirement and Assisted Living Facility.

NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness – LaCrosse
(800) 950-6264
Helps families cope with relatives living with a mental illness, to act as an advocate on behalf of people with mental illness, to educate the general public concerning mental illness, and to promote research.

New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers
(608) 791-2610
New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers provides safety and services to adults and families who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and/or harassment so that they can make decisions about their lives in a supportive, nonjudgmental and empowering atmosphere. an organization, New Horizons also promotes the concepts of non-violence and equality through education, advocacy and social action.

Onalaska Emergency Food Basket
(608) 783-7722
Emergency food to persons in need.

Parenting Place
(608) 784-8125
To make available parent education and family support information and services to all families; programs are aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect as well as providing a child care resource and referral system, child care certification services, training to child care providers, Community Response and Birth to Three Service Coordination.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of W. Wisconsin and SE Minnesota
(608) 781-8080
Creates, find, and supports programs in our communities that directly improve the health and well-being of children by addressing educational, social, and medical needs.

Sacred Grounds Coffee Sanctuary
(608) 406-3295
Provides a warm and welcoming place for unsheltered individuals at times when other services are not available.

St. Clare Health Mission
(608) 791-9546
Provides a free walk-in health clinic for the poor and uninsured.

Shelter Development, Inc.
608-385-8953
Provides hope and create opportunity for community growth and human development through collaboration, strategic purchases, and a commitment to social justice.

Sprout for Kids Foundation
Sprout for Kids Foundation is a LOCAL non-profit that raises money and goods to be donated directly to families, schools, and organizations in La Crosse and the surrounding area.  As of 2017, the foundation has been able to donate thousands of dollars directly to those in need on behalf of Pearl Street Brewery and On Three Printing & Design.

The Salvation Army – La Crosse
(608) 782-6126
Organized to meet the needs of persons in emergency situations; provides spiritual, physical, and emotional assistance.

WAFER
(608) 782-6003
Provides emergency food to persons in need, provides government commodities to households with income at or below 185% of federal poverty level.

Wishland Pony Express
Fulfills wishes of critically ill children enabling them to purchase equipment or other items to make their lives less difficult.

Workforce Connections, Inc.
(608) 789-5620
Workforce Connections, Inc. connects people, work, and training while advancing self-sufficiency.

Your Northside Neighborhood Clinic
608-519-5211
Serves the students of the Northside with health issues that may prevent them from doing their best as a student and member of the community!

YWCA
(608) 781-2783
YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

Recreation & Wellness

American Legion Baseball
Provides opportunities for new players to join, and for coaches who want to start a team in Wisconsin. Young athletes ages 13-18 years old are eligible to play. American Legion Post sponsorship is encouraged but not a requirement to play Legion ball.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the 7 Rivers Region
(608) 782-2227
Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.

Boy Scouts of America – Gateway Area Council 
(608) 784-4040
Provides educational, character development, leadership training, experiences in outdoor living, physical fitness, and citizenship activities.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse
(608) 782-3926
Provides guidance, leadership, and companionship in well-organized programs for boys and girls; “The Positive Place for Kids.

Brice Prairie Baseball Softball
To provide a quality; structured youth baseball and softball sport activities to the children of Brice Prairie and surrounding communities. The developmental program will teach sports fundamentals, good sportsmanship, character, discipline, competitiveness, and teamwork in a positive, caring and safe environment.  Participants will have an equal opportunity to learn and compete while knowledgeable volunteers will promote the philosophes and principles of community and fair play.

Camp Send A Kid
Camp Send a Kid (CSAK) is a non-profit organization that aims to get children between the ages of 7-13 yrs outdoors and enjoying the fresh air!!

Capable Canines of Wisconsin
(608) 781-4419
To provide physical strength and support through trained dogs to assist those afflicted with autism, seizures and physical disabilities.

Central Cross Country Skiing, Inc.
To provide an organization which enables athletes, coaches and officials to achieve excellence in cross country skiing through: EDUCATION, COOPERATION, COMMUNICATION, and COMPETITION.

Coon Valley Area Baseball Associations Inc
The CVABA was created in 1996 with a goal of improving the baseball facility in Veteran’s Memorial Park in Coon Valley, Wisconsin.

Coulee Region Humane Society, Inc.
(608) 781-4014
Provides a variety of animal services.

Coulee Region Sled Hockey
Coulee Region Sled Hockey brings the sport of hockey to those with physical challenges. Sled Hockey is an official Paralympic Sport.

Friends of West Salem Baseball
To give every kid the opportunity to play and enjoy the game of baseball and to provide a safe environment and the proper equipment for our youths to play with. We also encourage participation from all of our youths, teaching them the proper fundamentals of the game.

Girl Scouts of Wisconsin – Badgerland Council
(608) 784-3693
To inspire girls, ages 5 through 17, with the highest ideals of character, conduct, patriotism, and service.

Good Fight Community Center, Inc.
(608) 518-3301
To provide at-risk and disadvantaged youth with hope, encouragement, and a safe environment to develop personal goals, discipline, and values free from juvenile delinquency, substance abuse, truancy, crime, gang activities and other difficult challenges.

GROW La Crosse
GROW La Crosse is a non-profit organization formed by enthusiastic parents and community members who connect children to health food and nature through school gardens and farm experiences.

HorseSense for Special Riders
(608) 791-4868
HorseSense for Special Riders is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with special needs through a partnership with the horse.

K.A.M.O. (Kids And Mentors Outdoors)
K.A.M.O. is a unique mentoring organization that provides FREE to children year round activities. Kids get the opportunity to team with mentors over a period of several years so that their appreciation for nature can be more fully developed. KAMOKIDS can learn life-long outdoor skills and become future stewards of our resources.

La Crosse Area Family YMCA
(608) 782-9622 (La Crosse)
(608) 783-9622 (Onalaska)
The La Crosse Area Family YMCA is a charitable, community service organization that includes men, women, and children of all ages, abilities, incomes, races and religions. We are dedicated to building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities by putting Christian principles into practice through programs that promote healthy lifestyles, strong values, leadership development, community interaction, and international understanding. All persons are welcome at our YMCA, regardless of their ability to pay. Our YMCA is founded and led by volunteers from our community; volunteers also serve as mentors, coaches, program leaders, instructors and more.YMCA programs are designed for people of all ages, abilities, faiths, ethnic groups and incomes. YMCAs offer a welcoming atmosphere where participants feel comfortable and receive the support they need to improve their physical, mental, and spiritual health. YMCA programs help develop self-esteem and self-confidence, build lasting relationships, and increased civic engagement. Services are offered at affordable fees for the community at-large, with financial assistance available for those who cannot afford the full fee.

La Crosse Youth Soccer Parents Association, Inc. (RUSH)
A global brand committed to providing an unparalleled soccer experience: Progressive. Ambitious. Comprehensive.

NASA – North American Squirrel Association
(608) 781-3100
The North American Squirrel Association was formed to assist people with physical challenges and/or elderly enjoy hunting, fishing, recreational activities, and youth education.

Outdoor Recreation Alliance
Through promoting silent sports and human-powered activities, ORA’s desire is to make La Crosse a premier outdoor location. We help contribute to the economic growth of the 7 Rivers Region by attracting and retaining active lifestyle employees and visitors seeking an active vacation, while fostering businesses and industries who support our activities.

River City Youth Hockey
River City Youth Hockey (RCYH) is a not for profit, parent-run organization affiliated with USA Hockey, Wisconsin Amateur Hockey Association (WAHA), and Wisconsin-Minnesota Hockey League (WMHL). RCYH is dedicated to providing a fun, safe and encouraging environment for La Crosse area boys and girls to participate in hockey.

Special Olympics – Wisconsin
(608) 789-7596
The Special Olympics Program provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type activities for all children and adults with cognitive disabilities.

Sugar Creek Bible Camp
608-734-3113
An outdoor ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Sugar Creek’s ministry focuses on, deepening our relationship with Jesus Christ through summer and year-round camping and retreats for people of all ages and backgrounds.

 

*If you represent an agency that you would like listed, you must inquire about grant opportunities first. Once your agency is the recipient of a grant award from the Foundation, it will be included on the next year’s list.