Madison Reporter

Community Shares of Wisconsin and its network of nearly 70 member nonprofits will hold The Big Share, an online fundraising event, on Tuesday, March 4. This annual event focuses on social and environmental justice causes. With federal funding uncertain for many nonprofits, the organization emphasizes the importance of donations during this period.

This year's campaign theme is "Build Our Future Together," encouraging participation from all age groups in the philanthropic effort towards social and environmental justice. The event aims to raise $800,000 and engage over 5,000 donors.

Cheri Dubiel, Executive Director of Community Shares of Wisconsin, stated, “Now in its eleventh year, The Big Share is a great opportunity for the community to demonstrate its commitment to the causes we all care about including voting rights, healthy food systems, criminal justice reform, housing advocacy, environmental protection, LGBTQ+ rights, and much more.” She added an invitation for participation on March 4 as part of this collective endeavor.

Dubiel also highlighted involving children in philanthropy: “Educating your children on the importance of philanthropy in powering social movements will help them understand the value of giving back and grow our movements for generations to come.”

Donations can be made anytime leading up to March 4 by visiting thebigshare.org. Donors have options to search by nonprofit name or cause. Additionally, individuals can create their own fundraising campaigns at thebigshare.org/fundraisers with resources available at communityshares.com/big-share-fundraising-guide/.

The Big Share Live telethon will return this year with live streaming available at thebigshare.org. It will feature local entertainment and discussions about various justice issues.

The Madison Community Foundation serves as The Big Share’s principal partner for 2025. Media sponsorships include The Cap Times, Triple MMM 105.5, and News 3 Now.