Future Philanthropists Visits Humane Society

Future Philanthropists introduces youths, typically, ages 6 to 13, to at least one nonprofit organization each year as well as the idea of giving, volunteering and philanthropy in general. If participants decide to donate to the organization, the Foundation matches each gift up to $100.

Last night's donations went to both general operations of the Humane Society and to help the organization build an awning for its outdoor kennels. For more information on Future Philanthropists, please call the Foundation office at 882-3731 or
email us.
MAKING NEW FRIENDS - Several people enjoyed a tour of the Glacial Lakes Humane Society last night during the first-ever Watertown Community Foundation's Future Philanthropists' event. In the foreground, Youth Council Chairperson Katey Ulrich meets a new friend with 6-year-old Cloey Phillips.

Grants & Scholarships Awarded

Women & Giving
The 2011 Women & Giving event raised nearly $20,000. Women designated a total of $5,740 for the Women & Giving Endowment. There was $2,579.27 remaining from last year's granting dollars, so the total available for granting this year was an impressive $16,522.96.

The Women & Giving Steering Committee awarded the following grants:
Interlakes Community Action - Smile Mobile ..........................$1,250
Kiwanis Coats for Kids ............................................................$500
LATI Educare .........................................................................$500
Lake Area Zoological Society Girls Rule .................................$3,000
Elementary Schools' Social Worker ...........................................$750
PACH (People Against Child Hunger).....................................$1,000
Volunteers of America - Dakotas ...........................................$1,000
Watertown Area Special Olympics .........................................$1,000
Watertown Police Dept. Explorers ..........................................$2,000
Watertown Regional Library......................................................$500
Watertown Resource Center ..................................................$1,000
"Needy Fund" Watertown High School .....................................$500
LATI Scholarships:
Krystal Weber ......................................................................$1,000
Michelle Sterry .....................................................................$1,000 LATI Scholarship
2011 Fall LATI Scholarships (set aside)..................................$2,000

The Women & Giving Endowment Fund now has just over $10,000 so it will begin distributing earnings for 2012 grantmaking. All of the above grants and scholarships will no doubt help Women & Giving fulfill its mission: To help women and children in the community overcome barriers, increase their opportunities and achieve their goals. Thank you Women & Giving!

Sprucing Up Landscaping Gets Makeover at the Mellette House

The south and east landscaping at the Mellette House is being revitalized thanks to a grant from the Foundation. Thank you donors.

Sioux Valley Nursery and the Mellette Memorial Association worked together to select plants that were attractive and appropriate for the historic house and which require little maintenance. Lake City Tree Service also trimmed trees.

Take the opportunity this summer to visit the Mellette House. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. through September.

Shelter Welcomes Helping Hands & Hearts

The first nonprofit organization to be featured in the Future Philanthropist Program is the Glacial Lakes Humane Society of Watertown.

Currently, the animal shelter is home to 25 dogs and 50 cats. The shelter is always looking for volunteers to help with walking dogs, feeding, bathing, etc. The Humane Society's current wish list includes a shade cover for the big kennels outside.

Future Philanthropists will see and hear first hand how the shelter works on a tour this summer. Participants will get the opportunity to help this nonprofit organization that serves so many animals in need.