According to the Chamber, the formation of the Foundation marks a significant step forward in its commitment to serving the region. While the Chamber will continue its mission of supporting and advocating for local businesses, the Foundation will create new opportunities to secure charitable funding, build strategic partnerships and expand programs that benefit individuals, businesses and the broader community.
The Foundation’s mission is to support and advance the economic vitality, educational opportunities and quality of life in the Sauk Valley region through leadership development, workforce initiatives and community-focused programs.
“Its vision is a thriving Sauk Valley region where individuals, businesses and communities reach their full potential through access to opportunity, education and collaboration,” said Kim Ewoldsen, president of the Foundation’s board and a representative of Sauk Valley Community College.
Joining Ewoldsen on the Foundation’s board are Bailey Scheinderbauer of Sauk Valley Bank, Brian Hawkins of The Cornerstone Agency and Brian Hawkins of Brian Hawkins Insurance.
“The creation of the Sauk Valley Area Chamber Foundation allows us to broaden our impact and invest even more deeply in the future of our region,” said Dallas Knack, executive director of the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce. “By establishing a charitable foundation, we can pursue new funding opportunities that will help us grow workforce development programs, strengthen leadership initiatives, support educational opportunities and create lasting community impact.”
As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Foundation is also positioned to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions and pursue grant funding to support training, scholarships and community programming.
Additional information about the Sauk Valley Area Chamber Foundation, including future initiatives and opportunities to support its mission, will be announced in the coming months. For more information, contact the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce at 815-625-2400 or visit saukvalleyareachamber.com/foundation.
