Something lasting is coming to Manitowish Waters.

The Manitowish Waters Community Endowment · Taking care of the place we love. For generations.

This place has given us so much. Now we can give back, for good.

Since 1972, neighbors have come together through our foundation, formerly the Manitowish Waters Alliance Foundation, to support local kids and families, trails and recreation, and the groups that make this community what it is. In the fall of 2026, our board set a long-term goal: to make that support permanent. We are preparing to launch the Manitowish Waters Community Endowment in 2027.

How a community endowment works

1. Gifts are invested. Every gift goes into a permanent fund that is carefully invested.

2. Earnings go to work here. Each year, a portion of what the fund earns supports local needs in Manitowish Waters, decided by local people.

3. The fund keeps giving. The original gifts stay invested, so the fund can give again next year, and every year after.

What it will support, right here

• Local kids and families in need, all year and at the holidays

• Youth and education programs

• Outdoor recreation and trails

• The local groups already doing good work here

A track record of generosity

Mani*Wish, our holiday giving program, grew from $9,016 in its first season to $80,624 in 2025. When this community is asked, it answers.

Whether we are here all year or every summer, we share the same lakes, woods and neighbors: 62% of homes here are seasonal, our population grows about eight times in summer, and one in three local students qualifies for meal help.

Proof next door

Boulder Junction started its community endowment in 2010. It has since granted more than $1.7 million to its town. If another Northwoods town can do this, so can we.

What happens next

Now: setting up committees, policies and safeguards.

2027: the endowment launches.

Every year after: grants that stay in Manitowish Waters.