Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council (WDEOC) formally launched its “One Better Way” capital campaign on November 13, 2025, with $3.3M pledged prior to the launch. The event drew 250 community members, donors, and local leaders to The Florian Gardens in Eau Claire.
The $6.4M capital campaign is funding the creation of the WDEOC Housing & Family Services and Day Resource Center, a comprehensive hub designed to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
The funds are being used to purchase, renovate, and repurpose a building formerly at 610 Gibson Street, now renamed 1 Better Way, to co-locate Western Dairyland’s Housing & Family Services programs and a new Day Resource Center.
A highlight of the event was the announcement of a $1 million pooled challenge gift from C & M home builders and two other anonymous donors to accelerate fundraising and encourage community participation. Every gift made now and through the end of the year, whether a one-time contribution or a pledged gift over multiple years, will have double the impact.
“This project is about creating a place of dignity and hope,” said Sue Bornick, Campaign Co-Chair. “The incredible support we saw at the event shows how deeply Eau Claire continues to care about building pathways toward stability for every resident.”
Campaign Co-Chair Becky Seelen added, “The launch event marks a turning point. Our community came together with major donors from public, private, and nonprofit partners to say we’re ready to make lasting change for those experiencing homelessness. Now, we ask everyone who cares about this issue to consider a gift of any size to reach the goal.”
During the event program, WDEOC explained the collaboration with Hope Gospel Mission, which will manage the Day Resource Center. The center will operate seven days a week, offering access to individualized case management services and support. Other services include showers, laundry, warmth, and protection from the elements. Services of already existing supportive agencies will be consolidated and provide medical and mental health services, employment and housing assistance, and educational resources, all under one roof. Supporting agencies will provide medical and mental health services, employment and housing assistance, and educational resources, all under one roof.
“Our shared goal is to strengthen the community by helping individuals in their times of need,” said Anna Cardarella, CEO of WDEOC, and Sandi Polzin, Executive Director of Hope Gospel Mission. “This project brings together compassion, collaboration, and action to create meaningful solutions for housing instability in Eau Claire.”
If you are looking for fundraising consulting services in Wisconsin, Minnesota, or Iowa, please don’t hesitate to contact Ellen at [email protected].