An Update on the WOC

When we announced our transition to a non-profit organization in late October, we were flooded with notes of encouragement from the community. That excitement left us feeling energized about this project and hopeful for the future of the WOC. We knew that opening a non-profit during a pandemic would present some challenges--all across Minnesota, non-profits are having to lay employees off, close their doors, or pivot their resources to address critical needs that our communities are facing due to Covid-19.

In late 2020, we began fundraising in hopes that we could raise enough to begin the first stages of opening our doors in early 2021. Many generous community members showed support, helping us raise close to $1,500 in just six weeks. We are so grateful to those who donated, shared our posts or spread the word, and for those who reached out with encouragement. We cannot do this without you and each one of you are helping us get one step closer to the bigger picture.

While we are short on our fundraising goal, we're not deterred from our long term vision. We recently received our 501(c)3 status, meaning we can begin the process of applying for grants. Currently we are writing grant applications and preparing our programs for 2021. Eventually we will raise the funds needed to open our rental shop. Until then, we'll use the funds to purchase equipment for programs so that we can provide equitable access to recreation in Winona.

We will continue to update you all as things progress, but in the meantime we wanted to share other ways you can support our efforts.

1. Attend an event: Our events calendar is up on our website - check it out!

2. Spread the word: Tell your parent, tell your sibling, tell your neighbor, tell everyone!

3. Make a donation: To donate, head to our website and click on the "Donate" button. All donations are tax deductible.

Thank you all for your continued support and excitement about this project!