Battalion Giving Society for The Highground Rising Capital Campaign Receives Pledges

Thursday, July 22nd, 2021 -- 9:27 AM

Michele Benson, Al and Kay Lamovec, Gary and Kay Weirauch, and the William and Gertrude Casper Foundation have pledged to the Battalion Giving Society for The Highground Rising Capital Campaign, the private $4M capital campaign to build a Welcome Center at The Highground and support additional Park improvements.

Gary Weirauch, Volunteer Board Chair for The Highground, shares his thoughts about the significance of this initiative. “As the “Greatest Generation” fades into history, it is more important than ever that we preserve their memories and those of all who have served their country courageously in times of war and peace. Our debt of gratitude must focus on educating the public of their sacrifice and spending both our time and money in helping returning veterans reintegrate into society by providing a healing hand.” The $4M capital campaign launched in April. To date just over $1.1M has been raised in cash and pledges. The organization hopes to break ground on its 12,000 square foot Welcome Center by 2022. Key features of the expansion will include a 12,000 square-foot Welcome Center with space for Veteran-focused events and programs, as well as mental health services; compliance with the Americans with Disabilities act, ensuring access to the entire Park and all memorial sites for disabled Veterans and visitors; improved parking, allowing for safer access to the tributes and to the Welcome Center; increased financial stability and long-term sustainability with the pay-off of the $450,000 mortgage.

Uniquely, The Highground is one of the country’s largest privately-funded, continuously-staffed Veterans parks in the nation. The Highground and Camp Victory is located in pristine Central Wisconsin on two breathtaking campuses. The 155-acre Park, located just west of Neillsville along Highway 10, features a breathtaking view from the Plaza. Camp Victory, located roughly 18 miles north of the main site, sits on 295 lush, wooded acres. The organization has received limited government funding in its 35-plus year history, paying tribute to Veterans of the past, present and future with a mission to Honor, Educate and Heal. Annual visitors are on the rise with over 225,000 expected in the future. More information about this important effort is available on the campaign website at campaign.thehighground.us. For additional information, or to volunteer or make a gift, contact Chris Pettis, Executive Director, at [email protected].

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