NEW! WDSRA Scholarship Endowment
Everyone needs to have access to programs regardless of their financial challenges.
The ability to pay should never limit someone’s access to special recreation.
ANNOUNCING… the WDSRA Scholarship Endowment with a fund balance goal of $750,000.
The WDSRA Scholarship Endowment
Once in place, that figure and the earnings it produces, will fulfill our typical annual scholarship need and more in perpetuity. The goal is to be fully funded by 2026, which coincides with WDSRA’s 50th anniversary.
Yes, it is an ambitious long-range, but worthy, goal. It is a sustainable way to meet the needs of current and future families and participants.
Why is this Scholarship Endowment So Important?
Some families only need scholarship assistance for a short time – others will continue to count on it for years. And of course, there are new families coming to us every year. We want to serve all families regardless of their financial challenges.
We want to help every family who needs it.
Honorary Donation Grows into More!
It all started when the Fitzgerald family sought a way to honor their son Kerry. Kerry passed away in December 2021. Tom and Liz Fitzgerald, Kerry’s parents, asked family and friends to donate in memoriam to WDSRA. They want Kerry’s memory to outlive them all. It was through those initial donations that the WDSRA Scholarship Endowment was established.
With the endowment established in 2023, the Fitzgerald family has committed to raising $25,000 in Kerry’s name. Since then, Kerry’s twin, Hannah, established a GoFundMe page to raise funds in honor of her brother on their shared birthday. Their grandson organized a fundraiser at his middle school. Tom and Liz have also reached out to various potential supporting groups.
Their love for Kerry and their dedication to growing this endowment is abundantly clear. They are determined to ensure that donations, both now and in the future, will make a lasting difference.
Be a Part of this Exciting Endeavor!
Help us make sure every family has access to special recreation, no matter the situation they find themselves in.
Though $750,000 is a ways off, we are grateful for the following who have chosen to show their support with a donation:
- Individuals at the 2023 Bash
- Individual contributions
- The Wintrust group of banks represented by the local Wheaton Bank & Trust charter
- Preferred Electrical Construction Corp. of IL Inc.
- Central Community Unit School District 301
- 100 Women Who Care – Medinah
- Electriflex Company
- Geroge and Cindy Rusu Family Foundation
- Siegert Family Giving Fund
- Theriault Charitable Giving Fund
Corporate Sponsors Welcome!
If you would like more information about how your company can become a corporate sponsor for the WDSRA Scholarship Endowment contact Lea Jackman at 630.681.0962 or leaj@wdsra.com.
Hear Directly from Families who Rely on Scholarships
Bobby & Paris
Bobby and his brother Paris are both on a fixed-income due to disability.
Helen, Julian, Zach, & Conrad
Helen has three adult children on the autism spectrum and is on a limited income.
Tony & Cody plus Sharon, Nylah & Myles
When Tony lost his job programs for his son Cody were in jeopardy. Sharon is raising two energetic grandchildren who need to be in programs.
Contact Us
For more information on the WDSRA Foundation, contact WDSRA Superintendent of Communications & Development, Lea Jackman at 630-681-0962 ext580 or leaj@wdsra.com.