The WDSRA Scholarship Endowment
Inspired by the Kerry Fitzgerald Family
Why is this Scholarship Endowment So Important?
Simply put, it creates ACCESS and HOPE for ALL! This is a sustainable way to meet the needs of current and future participants & families.
Once in place, the earnings produced through the endowment will fulfill our typical annual scholarship need and more in perpetuity. The goal is to be fully funded by 2026, which coincides with WDSRA’s 50th anniversary.
Yes, it is an ambitious long-range, but worthy, goal. It is a sustainable way to meet the needs of current and future families and participants.
The ability to pay should never limit someone’s access to special recreation.
Some need assistance for a short time – others will continue to count on it for years. And of course, there are new families coming to us every year.
With a fund balance goal of $750,000, that figure and the earnings it produces, will fulfill our typical annual scholarship need and more in perpetuity.
Honorary Donation Grows into More
It all started when the Fitzgerald family sought a way to honor their son Kerry. Kerry passed away in December 2021. Tom and Liz Fitzgerald, Kerry’s parents, asked family and friends to donate in memoriam to WDSRA. They want Kerry’s memory to outlive them all. It was through those initial donations that the WDSRA Scholarship Endowment was established.
With the endowment established in 2023, the Fitzgerald family’s love for Kerry and their dedication to growing this endowment is abundantly clear.
Kerry’s Legacy
Meet Kerry
Kerry was in his early 40s when he passed away. Despite the challenges of cerebral palsy and a fragile medical situation, he thrived – thanks in large part to WDSRA. WDSRA programs became a significant source of hope and joy for both Kerry and his family.
Kerry found immense happiness and a strong sense of belonging at dances, programs, and social outings. Through these experiences, Kerry built meaningful friendships and created cherished memories.
Now, Tom & Liz (Kerry’s parents) are committed to ensuring that Kerry’s legacy ‘outlives us all!’ They want to make sure that donations, both today and in the years to come, continue to make a lasting difference.
Be a Part of this Exciting Endeavor!
Help us make sure every family has access to special recreation, no matter the situation they find themselves in.
Though $750,000 is a ways off, we are grateful for the following who have chosen to show their support with a donation:
- Individuals at the 2023 Bash
- Individual contributions
- The Wintrust group of banks represented by the local Wheaton Bank & Trust charter
- Preferred Electrical Construction Corp. of IL Inc.
- Central Community Unit School District 301
- 100 Women Who Care – Medinah
- Electriflex Company
- Geroge and Cindy Rusu Family Foundation
- Siegert Family Giving Fund
- Theriault Charitable Giving Fund
Corporate Sponsors Welcome!
If you would like more information about how your company can become a corporate sponsor for the WDSRA Scholarship Endowment contact Lea Jackman at 630.681.0962 or leaj@wdsra.com.
Hear Directly from Families who Rely on Scholarships
Bobby & Paris
Bobby and his brother Paris are both on a fixed-income due to disability.
Helen, Julian, Zach, & Conrad
Helen has three adult children on the autism spectrum and is on a limited income.
Tony & Cody plus Sharon, Nylah & Myles
When Tony lost his job programs for his son Cody were in jeopardy. Sharon is raising two energetic grandchildren who need to be in programs.
Contact Us
For more information on the WDSRA Foundation, contact WDSRA Superintendent of Communications & Development, Lea Jackman at 630-681-0962 ext580 or leaj@wdsra.com.