South Brown County Community Foundation’s 2025 Match Days Break Records
The South Brown County Community Foundation (SBCCF) celebrated its most successful Match Days yet during the Brown County Fair, July 15–17, 2025. Community members and friends of the community gave a record-breaking $155,694.27 in donations, a 35% increase from the previous year.
This year’s event saw 209 donors rally behind 42 local nonprofits, underscoring the community’s strong commitment to giving back. Donations poured in through in-person giving, online contributions, and mailed gifts–making philanthropy accessible for everyone.
“Our community has once again shown incredible generosity,” said Steve Chartier, SBCCF's Board President. "Each year, we see more people giving, more organizations supported, and more lives touched by the ripple effects of Match Days.”
A highlight of this year’s event was the introduction of the “Growing Up Giving” model, which empowered local 4th, 5th, and 11th grade students of USD #430, and the students of Armor Academy, to become young philanthropists. Each participating class received $100 from SBCCF to direct to a fund of their choice. The students proudly presented “big checks” at the event, showcasing that philanthropy isn’t just for adults, but philanthropy is a value the next generation is eager to carry forward.
Leading up to Match Days, SBCCF hosted workshops and a community gathering that gave fundholders the tools and visibility they needed to connect with donors. These sessions helped nonprofits share their missions more effectively, resulting in stronger engagement and lasting connections.
The Patterson Family Foundation once again played a key role, contributing $50,000 in matching funds that boosted community giving. Patterson awarded SBCCF an additional $50,000 grant specifically to establish the foundation’s first-ever operating endowment, advancing long-term sustainability. Local businesses and individuals also stepped up as matching sponsors contributing $34,500, making 2025 the most financially abundant local match yet.
The impact of Match Days extends well beyond the three-day event. In 2024, SBCCF’s record-breaking match inspired the creation of 10 new funds, including two endowments. This year’s growth is expected to strengthen that momentum, creating opportunities for new initiatives and long-term support for causes across South Brown County.
SBCCF's Executive Director, Ivy Stone, said, “Match Days are about more than raising money—they’re about building a culture of generosity. Together, we’re shaping a stronger, more connected South Brown County."
In addition to Match Days, community energy carried into a special collaborative meeting hosted by SBCCF on July 22 at Horton High School. Many community members came together—local leaders, civic groups, nonprofits, and grassroots volunteers, so much so that extra chairs had to be brought in. The room was filled with optimism and determination, as neighbors united around a shared vision: shifting Horton’s story from one of decline to one of revival and resilience.
SBCCF board members, Sarah Gerving and Dr. Rebecca Kramer led attendees in a focused, positive discussion about partnerships, shared goals, and new grant opportunities. Attendees were also invited to participate in an online community survey, designed to capture the voices and ideas of residents to guide the next steps for community improvement.