LA CROSSE (WKBT) — For Tom and Judy Sleik, life isn’t about how much you have \u2014 it’s about having what you need.<\/p>\n
The La Crosse couple has dedicated their lives to giving back to the community that shaped them, earning recognition as this year’s Forever Friends Award recipients from the La Crosse Area Community Foundation.<\/p>\n
The award honors individuals who have made lasting contributions to the community and have included the foundation in their estate plans.<\/p>\n
“Tom and Judy just are at the top of the list of people that truly care about the La Crosse community,” said Megan Pierce, donor services director for the La Crosse Area Community Foundation.<\/p>\n
The Sleiks have spent decades dedicating their time and money to ensuring people have access to basic needs. Their motivation stems from their professional experiences and deep connection to the community.<\/p>\n
“This community has treated us so well. Treated our children well, our parents before us,” said Tom Sleik.<\/p>\n
Their careers in family law and education exposed them to people facing significant challenges, which sparked their passion for helping others.<\/p>\n
“They saw some folks that had really rough times and they wanted\u00a0to make sure that those in our community that have at least, knew that others in the community cared about them as well,” said Pierce.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Through the La Crosse Area Community Foundation, the Sleiks support numerous local organizations including the Salvation Army, St. Clare Health Mission, Wafer Food Pantry,\u00a0La Crosse Public Library, and the La Crosse Public Education Foundation.<\/p>\n
The couple’s generosity and commitment to service made them the clear choice for this year’s Forever Friends Award.<\/p>\n
“We’re excited to honor them because they’ve just been so generous with their time, talent and treasure,” Pierce said.<\/p>\n
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