When a person feels deep joy and adoration about specific experiences in their life, it often leads to great outcomes. For the Chippewa County Genealogical Society and Chippewa County Humane Association, that outcome is a fully endowed investment fund that will fuel their mission forever.

"My endowment will help these organizations get more things done, more projects accomplished, and more people together." Pat Popple.

Pat's joy was embarking upon a quest to discover her family tree. Her adoration was for her kittens, and puppies, too, for whom she provided lifelong safety and affection. Through these experiences, and their many stories, Pat's fund will give back in a way that is meaningful to her, and to her community.

Pat was an elementary and middle school administrator and assistant superintendent for 31 years in the Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire School Districts. After retirement, Pat cared for her mother for seven years.

"It was during the time when I was caring for my mom that I began a concerted interest in genealogy," Pat explained. "My mother was one of 13 in her family. She always remembered everyone's special dates and knew how we are all connected through the generations. It inspired me to find out who paved the way for me to be here today."

So that others may be inspired by their ancestral journey, half of Pat's fund will support the genealogical society's mission.

The other half of her fund will serve the Chippewa County Humane Association [Chippewa Humane]. Pat's first cat, "Putsy," was given to her family by her grandmother. Pat has found joy in caring for many cats and dogs who needed a loving home and teaching them exactly what that meant.