NorthLakes has launched the 2025 “100 Who Care” giving circle season and invites community members to join this impactful philanthropic movement. Based on the successful national 100 Who Care Alliance model, this initiative transforms individual donations into significant community investments.
A Simple Concept with Powerful Results
The “100 Who Care” model operates on a straightforward principle: collective giving creates exponential impact. As a member, you contribute $100 three times per year, combining with fellow donors to generate over $10,000 in funding each cycle. While an individual $100 donation might seem limited in scope, together, members create a substantial philanthropic force that can fund meaningful projects throughout our region.
“What makes this initiative special is how it amplifies individual giving while connecting donors directly to the causes they support,” said Madelaine Rekemeyer, development director at NorthLakes. “Members not only contribute financially but also participate in selecting which organizations receive funding.”
Regional Chapters Serving the Northwoods
The initiative features two distinct chapters: Ashland & Bayfield Counties Chapter and Sawyer County Chapter. Members nominate one organization in each of three categories: arts and literacy, environment and recreation, and social service. The top three organizations in each category will present at a community gathering. The organization with the majority of votes will receive the $10,000.
“We’ve seen remarkable outcomes from previous cycles,” Rekemeyer added. “Local organizations have been able to launch new programs, expand services, and address critical community needs with these pooled funds. It’s a testament to what we can accomplish when we combine our resources.”
As a Federally Qualified Health Center, NorthLakes Community Clinic recognizes that true community well-being extends far beyond direct health care services. By fundraising for other non-profit organizations through initiatives like “100 Who Care,” NorthLakes demonstrates its commitment to addressing social determinants of health, factors like education, recreation, arts access, and social services that profoundly impact overall wellness. This collaborative approach acknowledges that no organization can solve complex community challenges alone.
While NorthLakes provides essential healthcare services, partnering with specialized non-profits creates a more robust support network addressing the diverse needs of northern Wisconsin residents. This philanthropic leadership also strengthens community bonds, fostering relationships between organizations. By leveraging its position as a trusted community institution to mobilize collective giving, NorthLakes exemplifies a holistic health model that treats individual patients and nurtures the health of the entire community.
For more information, please visit nlccwi.org/100-who-care and select your desired county. Community members interested in joining or learning more may contact Madelaine Rekemeyer at mrekemeyer@nlccwi.org to arrange a call or answer questions via email.
