Mary Beth Nienhaus donates $50,000 to the Thompson Center on Lourdes matching gift campaign.

By Liz Neuman, Executive Director, Thompson Center on Lourdes

The Thompson Center on Lourdes (TCoL), proudly announces the Nienhaus $50,000 Matching Grant Campaign! TCoL board member Mary Beth Nienhaus has generously opened the door of opportunity for us to strengthen our ability to continue our vital mission serving those 50 years of age or older.

Certainly we’re all aware of the difficult times we are all experiencing due to COVID-19, but this will pass, and we will be stronger in our mission and our relationships than ever before.

Bob’s stained glass masterpiece

“Thompson Center on Lourdes is a most needed organization helping seniors realize a greater quality of life. This matching gift will ensure TCoL to continue to offer wholesome activities and serve our senior population in a very positive way.“ -Mary Beth Nienhaus

The Thompson Center on Lourdes is a safe, friendly and vibrant senior center that has been growing participation at their location on 2331 East Lourdes in Appleton at an annual rate of 30 percent since March 2016. We will continue the growth of our activities and programs as our communities transition back to a more normal lifestyle.

Here are a few examples why TCoL plays such a vital role in so many lives and our community:

• Beth, new to the Fox Valley, didn’t have any family or friends here. She heard about the TCoL and came to take a tour. Two years later, Beth comes twice a week and has told us, “this is her family.”
• Joe, who has family and friends in the area, comes to do what he loves: play billiards. His wife enjoys pickle ball and line dancing.
• Jean comes three times a week for chair yoga, sheepshead and woodcarving.

There is no better time than during the months of May and June as we celebrate Mother’s and Father’s Day to give a gift in honor or memory of our Mother, Father or another family member or a friend. All gifts will be recognized in our upcoming newsletter, Facebook, and the Thompson Center on Lourdes website.

Donations can be mailed to the Thompson Center on Lourdes at 2331 E. Lourdes Dr. Appleton, WI 54915. Additionally, Nicolet National Bank is partnering with us to receive donations at its 3111 E. Calumet Street in Appleton branch in the night deposit box. The focus of the campaign will continue until we reach our $50,000 goal.

We invite you to donate now to the COVID-19 Community Response Fund. You can also learn about who has given to the fund, the fund’s grant recipients, and check out our latest news and updates.