Carol Gienapp was the first executive director of the Community Foundation and her husband, Dr. Gary Gienapp, a longtime veterinarian in Chippewa Falls. From the beginning, creating the Gienapp Family Endowment Fund was a family affair that continues today with the involvement of their children and grandchildren.

"The Gienapp Family Endowment Fund was created to give back to the community that did so much to prepare us to embrace the world," said the couple's daughter, Theresa Gienapp.

Growing up, she and siblings Brian and Todd learned organically what it means to be involved in and dedicated to one's community. Their parents often included them in their volunteer work for civic organizations and events.

"As a veterinarian, I've been involved in this community for 50 years now," said Gary. "I've tried to enhance the lives of my clients by helping their pets stay healthy. Carol was always looking for ways to give back to the community and was especially supportive of small, local businesses. But we realized that there are many more needs to be met and that Carol and I could do this through a fund with the Foundation."

Carol passed in 2018, but the family continues to meet annually to discuss the charitable grants to be awarded from the endowment, which began as a Seedling Fund in 2007.

According to Gary, the entire family gathers to consider how to distribute grants, Theresa, Brian and Lisa Gienapp, Todd Gienapp and Heather McClelland.

"I think it's important to include the next génération," said Gary. The gift of giving is one of the most important things we can give them. They get the idea about philanthropy in the community they will live in as adults."

Reflecting on the work of the fund to date, Gary said, "It's wonderful that the fund has grown and can make a significant difference in people's lives. I'm proud of this community and I'm proud of the Foundation-the work it has done in the past and the work it will continue to do for future generations."