Chippewa Falls native Joe Joas spent the better part of his career working for Chippewa County as the County Land Agent and later its Forests and Parks Director. In 2011, a 52-acre parcel was preserved and dedicated in Joe's name and will forever ensure the family's land will remain a forest.

The notion of preservation carried over to his personal aspirations. Not only was Joe interested in the conservation of nature, but also in the history of Chippewa Falls and Chippewa County. Joe was one of the founders of the Chippewa County Historical Society and served as President in 1978. He was a man who understood the importance of perpetuity; protect what is important now for the future.

After Joe's passing in December 2011, the Community Foundation received a substantial bequest. "The approximate $2 million he entrusted with the Foundation to establish two endowed funds was a tremendous, overwhelming gift to our community, said Bob Hogseth, 2011-12 Community Foundation Board Chair. 

"The size of Joe's gift is a glowing endorsement of the Community Foundation of Chippewa County, and hopefully it will inspire others to consider including the Foundation in their estate plan."

He knew his legacy would live on, through continual, permanent contributions to local organizations he supported while living."- Bob Hogseth