Educational Foundation

The Leadership Eau Claire™ program, also is funded through the Foundation. Donations to the Connie Glenz Memorial Scholarship Fund or the Ray Spies Memorial Scholarship Fund provide scholarships for participants who need tuition assistance.

LEC is responsible for some of the good things happening in the community. Each year, the Leadership Eau Claire™ class completes five community service projects benefiting local non-profit organizations. Most of our graduates go on to become involved in the community in many capacities, including volunteering for non-profit agencies, serving on local government boards and working for the overall betterment of our community.

The Foundation’s Youth Leadership Eau Claire program gives 36 area high school juniors a chance to enhance their knowledge and develop leadership skills that will empower and motivate them to become involved and committed to their community. The program costs more than $650 per student. Sponsors contribute $500 to help offset the cost for students to participate. The Foundation pays the remaining expenses as well as provides a scholarship for any student who cannot afford the $100 tuition.

The Eau Claire Chamber Educational Foundation Board created an endowment fund for the current Youth Leadership Eau Claire program and/or future leadership development programs. YLEC is made possible largely by the generous support of sponsors. Gifts to the fund will help ensure that this valuable program will continue well into the future. Donations may be made over a three-year period. All donors contributing $1,000 or more will be recognized in a YLEC Society of Founders plaque, which will be displayed in the Chamber office. To completely endow the program, $300,000 is needed.