The information below has been supplied by dairy marketers and other industry organizations. It has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hoard’s Dairyman.

The $1 million milestone is within reach, and Dairy Cares of Wisconsin invites businesses and individuals to join fundraising efforts for the charitable group’s chosen cause, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin.

Over the last seven years, Dairy Cares sponsors and donors have collectively raised more than $847,000, and group organizers say they are on pace to reach our $1 million goal of giving in 2018.

“The dairy community’s support for Children’s Hospital has been nothing short of amazing, and we’ve seen the generous spirit of our farmers and businesses through their contributions to Dairy Cares, thus far,” says Jim Ostrom, Dairy Cares co-founder and dairyman. “We are hopeful that our cumulative gift will meet and exceed $1 million this year.”

The cause, driven by the dairy community and its supporting industries, represents a heartfelt commitment to positively impact Wisconsin children and their families who seek the medical excellence provided at the renowned pediatric care center during the toughest of times.

The Dairy Cares committee selected Children’s Hospital as their recipient because of its broad reach. Based in Milwaukee, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin provides statewide care through 40 different locations. These various sites provide a range of specialized services, from dealing with childhood terminal illness to psychological disorders. Experts in premature birth, the neonatal intensive care unit is ranked top in the nation.

“Nearly everyone we have met has either been directly impacted, or knows someone who has been touched by Children’s Hospital, and how they care for young children who are ill,” said Laurie Fischer, committee co-chair.

As Dairy Cares approaches its eighth year, the non-profit organization invites businesses and individuals to join this cause. Sponsoring partners receive event recognition for their tax-deductible gift during the annual garden party, which is set for July 28 in De Pere, Wis.

“So many of us have been personally impacted by Children’s Hospital,” Ostrom says. “We invite our friends from the dairy community and beyond to pledge their support and demonstrate just how much we care about the children and families of Wisconsin.”

How to give to Dairy Cares

Making your gift to Dairy Cares is easy. To give online, visit chw.org/dairycares. For more information on becoming a Dairy Cares sponsor, visit www.dairycaresofwisconsin.org, or contact one of these sponsorship co-chairs: Jim Ostrom (jostrom@milksource.net; 920-378-6127), Laurie Fischer (laurie@lauriefischergroup.com; 920-366-1880) or Gordon Speirs (gordon@shilohdairy.com; 920-371-4402). Sponsorships can also be mailed directly to Dairy Cares of Wisconsin, Inc., 1835 E. Edgewood Drive, Suite 10571, Appleton, Wis., 54913.