About the Foundation
Generous. Enthusiastic. Motivated.
Foundation Mission
The mission of the Crystal Lake Chamber Foundation is clear: to provide deserving students with the financial means to pursue their educational dreams. The foundation views education as an investment not only in individual potential but also in the collective potential of society. By offering scholarships, the foundation aims to unlock student opportunities, equipping them with the tools they need to foster a more prosperous, greater Crystal Lake community.
Foundation Values
- Community Growth: The foundation is committed to the betterment of the local community. Through scholarships, it strives to elevate the potential of local talent and contribute to a more thriving and vibrant Crystal Lake.
- Investing in Potential: Recognizing the transformative power of education, the foundation provides financial support to students, investing in their potential and cultivating the leaders of tomorrow.
- Sponsor Engagement: The foundation values sponsors as integral partners in its mission, fostering mutually beneficial relationships that make a real impact on the community.
- Transparency and Accountability: The foundation operates with integrity and transparency in all its endeavors, emphasizing the importance of trust from sponsors and the community.
History of the Chamber Foundation
The roots of the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce trace back to the 1940s when local business leaders initially chartered the organization. In 1950, the Chamber was reconstituted as a not-for-profit corporation. Since then, the Chamber has served its members and the community with a remarkable variety of events, programs, and activities, contributing to a thriving business community in a beautiful and vibrant city.
The Chamber's office has been located in the "old pump house" (and sometimes jail) in McCormick Park on West Virginia Street since 1966. Over the years, the Chamber expanded to accommodate a growing staff and membership, with significant additions in 1969 and 1987.
In 2005, recognizing the importance of a modern functional office, the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce Foundation was formed to fund the renovation of the building. With the generosity and commitment of Chamber members and the community, the renovation project became a reality, marking the beginning of a new era in the history of the Chamber.
The Crystal Lake Chamber Foundation invites individuals and companies to become a part of its meaningful journey and help shape the future leaders of Crystal Lake. By sponsoring a 2026 school year scholarship, participants can make a tangible difference and enhance their presence within the community. The foundation is committed to cultivating a more prosperous future for Crystal Lake.
For sponsorship details and inquiries, please contact:
- Mike Winnecke at mike@vidforweb.co
Foundation Scholarship Donors