Established in 1993, the Big Lakes Foundation solicits and facilitates donations and grants to support Big Lakes' mission. The Big Lakes Foundation, a separate but affiliated nonprofit corporation, was established in 1993 to solicit, encourage and facilitate the contribution of funds for fulfilling Big Lakes' mission. The foundation provides ongoing financial support for Big Lakes' operations and special projects such as client parties, staff appreciation events, leadership development, and affordable/accessible housing for the people we serve.
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BIG IMPROVEMENT
Everyone wants a place they love to come home to each day. A safe place full of love, laughter and family. The 114 individuals in Big Lakes Residential Services are no different. The bonds they have created through years of living life together are unbreakable. For 50+ years, we have assisted them as they seek to live independently with our support.
A few of our clients have been with Big Lakes the entirety of our existence and now face the challenges of health and mobility issues of aging. An important component of that support has and continues to be providing a warm and loving home environment.
Since its inception in 1993, the Big Lakes Foundation has made it their mission to provide affordable and accessible housing options for our clients. The Big Lakes Foundation buys, builds and maintains homes our clients can afford to live in.
Maintenance and home improvements are a challenge for anyone with a home. Big Lakes owns and maintains 16 homes; providing housing options for those enrolled in residential services. Some of our older homes are in dire need of updates, accessible bathrooms to serve our aging population.
In 2026, we have plans for numerous bath remodels, flooring and furniture replacements at multiple locations that add up to $225,000 in expenses that are not covered by government funding. We need the support of donors like you.
Donate today by clicking the button below.
LEadership Development and Sustainability
The Foundation Sponsors
Current Campaigns You can Support
The 10 in 10 Endowment Campaign is committed to growing the Big Lakes Foundation $10 million in 10 years to provide Big Lakes with ongoing operational support. The first gift towards the endowment campaign was received in 2017.Annual payments to Big Lakes operations began in 2019 and was critical to the sustainability of Big Lakes during the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020-2021.The endowment will continue to provide financial support in order to effectively address the ongoing workforce crisis and increase capacity to serve those currently in services and those waiting for Big Lakes’ services. The endowment also seeks to reduce Big Lakes’ dependency on government funding, promote financial stability and prevent backsliding of direct support employee wages/benefits.
The endowment will continue to support special projects including accessible and affordable housing and other needs as identified. By making a pledge to our 10in10 Campaign you are helping to ensure the future of Big Lakes.
The purpose of the Clay Center Services Campaign is to make improvements to facilities owned by Big Lakes including the employment/day service center and residential home in Clay Center. Big Lakes built both facilities, and both now need remodeling/updates for accessibility and wear and tear from years of daily use. The day service center was built in 1992, and a small addition and remodel was made in 2009. The residential home was built in 2002. Both facilities need routine maintenance and updates to meet the needs of our clients and to continue providing services in their local community. These improvements include:
Day Services:
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Kitchen Update
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Remodel for Retirement Program
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Lighting & Electrical Upgrade
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Accessible Dropoff/Pickup Area
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Roof Replacement/Exterior Paint
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Flooring
Residential Services:
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Kitchen Update
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Bathroom Remodel
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Laundry Accessibility
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Flooring
Ways to give
Credit Card. We make it easy to donate by credit card. Click the “Donate” button above and complete the information necessary to make a gift via your credit card.
Life Insurance. Consider changing the beneficiary to the Big Lakes.
Real Estate. Property provide countless opportunities for future Big Lakes consumers to give.
Wills. Gift through your will to Big Lakes.