The Russ and Gloria Kazda Endowment fund was established by the Kazda's to support nonprofit organizations in Chippewa County, that provide programs for mental health challenges, with a particular focus on depression.

Russ Kazda served 30 months in the United States Air Force in Japan during the Korean War. After returning home, he and Gloria met while she was visiting her parents for the Holidays. At the time, Gloria was living in Indianapolis with her aunt and uncle, working at Western Electric.

Russ and Gloria were married and raised four children: Mark, Darsha, Stephanie, and Chad. While living in the St. Paul Minneapolis area, Russ built a successful career in the emerging computer industry and got in on the ground floor with the introduction of some of the first functioning commercial computers in 1956. Over the years, his work took him around the world in roles spanning product development, manufacturing operations, and strategic planning. Gloria dedicated most of her time to the very important role of being a stay-at-home mom.

Russ retired from Control Data in 1991 as a Vice President and continued consulting in the industry for another decade. Eventually, Russ and Gloria returned to Chippewa Falls and built their home.

Their commitment to mental health awareness is very personal. Their son, Chad, took his life at the age of 28 after struggling with severe depression. Reflecting on that loss, Gloria shared, "he didn't receive the kind of therapy that is more available today. Losing a child at any age is incredibly difficult and can deeply affect an entire family."

In the years since, Gloria has also experienced the loss of her son Mark in 2019 and her husband Russ in 2022. Through it all, her dedication to helping others has remained unwavering. "We encourage support for this fund to advance efforts that address this devastating disease," Gloria said. "We are very pleased that our fund has made a difference in Chippewa County."