- info@ectlrc.org
Eau Claire, WI - Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council (WDEOC) is beginning the pre-campaign process of a $5.725M capital campaign to purchase and renovate a building to co-locate Housing and Family Services programs and a Day Resource Center (DRC) for the unhoused. Located at 610 Gibson Street, the facility will meet a critical need by providing daytime shelter, resources, and services at one easily accessible location for people
experiencing homelessness. After looking at more than 50 properties over the past three years and receiving feedback from local businesses and community groups, the Gibson Street location was selected because it is within easy walking distance of needed services and organizations, outside the downtown retail
district, close to city bus lines, requires relatively minor upgrades, and is in a safe location. The new DRC will provide year-round daytime shelter from extreme weather and essential services for people affected by homelessness. Bathrooms, showers, storage areas, and congregate spaces will be available to anyone in need. These services will replace and expand upon those offered by the current Community Haven House at 416 Washington Street, which
does not have funding beyond 2025. WDEOC has established a fund with the Eau Claire Community Foundation to manage capital campaign gifts and pledges. At this early stage, commitments totaling $1.5 million have already been secured, including a $500,000 contribution from the City of Eau Claire, along with
donations from Mayo Clinic Health System, local businesses, and community members. Hope Gospel Mission (HGM), a local faith-based nonprofit with long-standing experience serving people struggling with homelessness and addiction, will provide staff and oversee the day-to-day operations of the Day Resource Center. HGM will make its day shelter services
inclusive and low-barrier for everyone needing services without discrimination. "At Hope Gospel Mission, we believe everyone deserves a chance to rebuild their life with dignity and support. The Day Resource Center will provide a vital space where individuals can access essential services, receive guidance, and take meaningful steps toward stability. We are honored to collaborate on this initiative, ensuring those in need find hope, help, and a path
forward," said Sandi Polzin, Executive Director at Hope Gospel Mission.The campaign to develop a new DRC will address key barriers to improving the conditions for those in the Eau Claire area experiencing or on the verge of homelessness while enhancing the business and recreation climate. Currently, there is no permanent space for the unhoused to gather, which burdens the public spaces of Eau Claire. Additionally, there is no space for the unhoused to find protection from the elements seven days a week, 12 months a year. Finally, there is no coordinated, collaborative, and case-managed access to the resources for this population to achieve wellness, employment, and housing security. This center is an opportunity
to address all three of these needs in one project. WDEOC operates more than 20 unique programs to promote economic independence, including childcare programs, business development, the Fresh Start Program for young adults, the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program, Head Start, weatherization and energy assistance, and programs to address homelessness. WDEOC is the largest nonprofit organization operating in western Wisconsin. Given its client base, the agency receives little to no payment for services, relying almost exclusively on contributions from grant organizations, including state and federal
support. WDEOC CEO Anna Cardarella shares, "WDEOC has developed dozens of diverse programs to promote economic independence and self-reliance. This project will improve WDEOC's ability to serve the region's people. For nearly 60 years, WDEOC has lived by the motto, 'help for today,
hope for tomorrow,' and this project is all about hope." WDEOC's Board of Directors has retained Crescendo Fundraising Professionals, LLC, to manage the campaign. The firm conducted a study that outlined fundraising strategies, identified leadership potential, cultivated prospective contributors and volunteers, and allowed
area residents to voice their opinions. According to the firm's owner, Ellen Hongerholt, the study showed positive results from the community in support of the project. Community members are now volunteering for six short- term committees, including the Case Statement Committee, Communications Committee,
Steering Committee, Leadership Committee, Building Committee, and Prospect Committee.
Anyone interested in serving on a pre-campaign committee may contact Dale Karls, WDEOC
Communications Coordinator at dale.karls@wdeoc.org or 715-836-7511.
