You are not alone when you or a family member suffers from medical hardships, and a new charitable fund in Door County ensures you never have to worry. The Door County Community Foundation announced the formation of Willie’s Cornerstone Foundation earlier this month, named after Door County resident Wilhelmina Leist.

Known as Willie to her friends and family, she faced multiple life-threatening diagnoses that placed a financial burden on her family. Through a collection of fundraisers throughout the county, Leist got the help she needed medically and financially. Dave Smith knows there are people in the community who are not as lucky to have that kind of support system in their backyard. Thanks to the generous support of donors like the Nichols Foundation, Door County residents suffering from life-threatening illnesses and lacking Medicare or Medicaid coverage can lean on Willie’s Cornerstone Foundation for support. During the initial phase, Willie’s Cornerstone Foundation will offer a maximum award of $5,000 over a six-month period to eligible recipients. Smith says he is excited to see the positive impact the fund will have in the future.

With the GO BO Foundation and Door CANcer, Inc. supporting those suffering from cancer diagnoses, Smith hopes the fund will address a gap of need in the community.

Logo courtesy of the Door County Community Foundation