Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Winnebago Health Foundation
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: WHF
Mailing Address: 225 S. Bluff Street P.O. Box HH
City: Winnebago
State: Nebraska
Postal Code: 68071
Main Phone: (402) 242-6512
Main Fax: (402) 242-6512
Organization Website: https://www.wchs.health/foundation
Employer ID Number: 301423903
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: February 24, 2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Youth Playground
Project Description:

This project will establish a developmentally appropriate park designed for children ages 2-6 serving the Winnebago community. The park will provide a safe, accessible, and culturally supportive environment where young children can engage in active play during the most critical years of growth and development. Early childhood is a foundational period for cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development. A dedicated park space supports the development of gross motor skills, coordination, and strength through climbing, running and interactive equipment. It also promotes social emotional growth by encouraging cooperative play, problem solving, communication, and the development of self-confidence. Providing a safe outdoor space heals reduce sedentary behavior, supports overall physical health, and contributes to improved mental well-being. Within Tribal communities, spaces that foster safe gathering and positive childhood experiences are especially meaningful. This park will not only serve as a recreational area, but as a community asset that strengthens family engagement, cultural connection, and intergenerational interaction. By investing in early childhood focused infrastructure, the Winnebago Health Foundation reinforces its commitment to nurturing the next generation in a setting that reflects community values and priorities. The purpose of this project is to promote health, wellness, and equitable access to safe recreational opportunities for young children and families. This park will be open and accessible to the community, removing financial barriers and ensuring that all families can benefit. It addresses a demonstrated need for age-appropriate recreational infrastructure and contributes to long-term public health outcomes.

Total Project Budget: $207,263.00

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): We secured $150,000 commitments from the Omaha-based William and Ruth Scott Family Foundation, the Sherwood Foundation, and the Lozier Foundation. Ash Grove Charitable Foundations support will strengthen our creditability and demonstrate community investment, helping us engage in additional funding and individual donors and partners. We also anticipate that the foundations’ investment will continue to unlock additional support from local businesses and community partners who view foundation funding as a sign of long-term project viability.

Project Duration: 05/18/2026 – 09/18/2026
Geographical Area Served: The Tribe of Winnebago Nebraska
Age Group To Be Served: 2-6 year olds

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.):
Contact First Name: Jaci
Contact Last Name: Peterson
Contact Title: Administrative Assistant
Contact Phone: (402) 267-2547
Contact Email: jaci.peterson@wchs.health