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Willie's Cornerstone Foundation

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September 27, 2023 by Kacie Mueller

Our Story

In the midst of the obstacles confronting the Leist family as they adapt to their changed circumstances, they have been fortunate to receive unwavering support from friends, family, and colleagues. While Willie received robust support, many others face the harsh reality of limited assistance due to smaller social circles or financial constraints within their support networks.

The foundation’s origin story revolves around Willie Leist. Despite facing multiple life-threatening diagnoses, Willie’s journey has been characterized by accomplishments and enduring love. Door County rallied around Willie, her husband Robert, and their daughter Harlow, extending heartfelt support through crowdfunding, spirited events, and generous donations. This inspiring display of community compassion highlights the strength that emerges when people come together to uplift one another during challenging times. 

Willie’s Cornerstone Foundation embodies the Door County way of life, that was displayed as the community rallied around Willie, where community members take care of each other with unwavering commitment and mutual support. This foundation provides a safety net for individuals facing life-threatening illnesses, sparing them from the burden of fundraising and financial worries during their battle. By having funds readily available, patients and their families can focus on healing and recovery.

Willie’s Cornerstone Foundation aims to assist Door County residents suffering from life-threatening illnesses and are not undergoing active cancer treatment by providing financial support for mortgage, rent, utilities, or treatment-related travel expenses. The foundation’s target recipients are individuals aged 18 or older who do not have coverage under Medicare or Medicaid (although applicants may be covered by BadgerCare). The support provided is not meant for medical expenses, focusing instead on alleviating the financial burdens caused by severe illnesses.

Donations to Willie’s Cornerstone Foundation have a profound impact, offering hope and relief to families navigating the challenges of illness, regardless of direct personal connections. Your generosity becomes a lifeline, extending crucial financial support to those most in need.

Filed Under: Who We Are

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Willie's Cornerstone Foundation is a fund of the
Door County Community Foundation, Inc.
222 N 3rd Ave
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
(920) 746-1786

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