The Wisconsin Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired is happy to announce that we have joined Community Shares of Wisconsin (CSW).

Community Shares of Wisconsin is just one more way you can help support the work of the Council, in addition to our White Cane Fund Appeal and Annual Appeal.

CSW is the oldest social action fund in the United States. Established in 1971, Community Shares has grown to include 65 organizations. Their vision is to “build social and economic equity and a healthy environment.”

CSW’s composition is reflected in these categories of members:

• protecting our environment
• ensuring affordable, accessible housing
• fostering civic engagement
• supporting women, children and families
• empowering people with disabilities
• working for a just, equitable society.

Community Shares of Wisconsin raises funds for its member groups through:

• workplace giving campaigns in the fall of each year
• web fundraising (www.communityshares.com)
• the CHIP donation program at the Willy Street Co-op in Madison.

Membership in CSW will connect the Council with many other grassroots nonprofits that share our values and commitment. There will be opportunities for us to collaborate with some of the participating members, and CSW membership will raise awareness of the Council and our work on behalf of people in Wisconsin who are blind or visually impaired.

When you designate a gift specifically to us, we receive 100% of your donation. CSW doesn’t keep any money for administrative purposes.

Please think of the Council when:

• your employer offers Community Shares as a workplace giving option
• you do online giving
• you shop at the Willy Street Co-op—remember to say “yes” to CHIP.

If you have questions about CSW or the Council’s involvement, please contact Kathi Koegle, Director of Community Relations at 608-237-8111 or kathi [at] wcblind.org.