About
When you see a need, fill it.
In 2005, Peter Greenwood was a 20-year-old bone cancer survivor with an above-the-knee amputation. He had always been active and would thrive with one of the new generation of prosthetic legs. But Pete’s insurance didn’t cover it.
A group of people from the Spring Green community saw a need. They knew that if they could just find a way to raise $40,000-$50,000, they could buy Pete the leg that could change his life. They went to work. Several months later, what began as a project had grown into a movement. Peter had a new leg and a new life. The group of community members had far exceeded the original goal, raising enough money to ensure the continuation of the organization.
Inspired by Peter Greenwood, led by an incredible group of volunteers and powered by the indomitable Spring Green community, 4PeteSake was born. Now in its sixth year, 4PeteSake has raised nearly $200,000 and changed the lives of nine more beneficiaries. The group’s mission is to raise money to assist recipients in a way that can substantially change their circumstances and impact their quality of life. The money raised literally can change the lives of the recipients, one at a time, while it inspires the River Valley community as a whole. It is in this spirit that each August, 4PeteSake holds its major fundraiser, A Day in the Park. This is a community-wide celebration with a run/walk, live music, food and beverages, kid’s activities, silent auction and raffle drawing.
How 4PeteSake Works
4PeteSake is run by a 9-member, volunteer group. The independent committee is part of the public outreach program of Christ Lutheran Church, which gives 4PeteSake access to a 501(c)3 organization, allowing contributions to be tax-deductible.
The committee chooses at least one recipient each year through an application process that begins in January. Recipients must live within the boundaries of the River Valley School District and find themselves in circumstances, through no fault of their own, for which assistance is needed. To date, all recipients have had medically related needs.
The primary goal is to relieve financial stress so recipients can focus on healing. 4PeteSake funds fill in where insurance leaves off - such as providing income replacement to keep the lights and heat on and take care of other basic household expenses. The committee may also become an advocate for recipients, helping them through the maze of services and fees, and making the dollars provided stretch even further.
Now in its sixth year, 4PeteSake has raised more than $225,000 and changed the lives of ten past beneficiaries. The groups mission is to raise money to assist recipients in a way that can substantially change their circumstances and impact their quality of life.
The Application Process
To apply for assistance from 4PeteSake, please fill out the attached application form. Applications for 2010 assistance must be received by March 15, 2010. Mail completed application form to: 4Petesake, P.O. Box 190, Spring Green, WI 53588.
Please fill in as much of the application as possible. Comprehensive information will expedite the evaluation process. Please type or print legibly. If you choose, you may complete the narrative portion of the application on a separate sheet and attach it to the application.
The Selection Process
All applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors of 4Petesake. The 4Petesake Board reserves the right to determine the number of recipients to be funded and the amount that each recipient will receive. Each year’s allocation will vary depending on 4Petesake’s financial position. Due to the limited financial resources of 4Petesake, all eligible applicants may not receive funding. Priority will be given to those eligible applicants demonstrating the greatest need as determined by the 4Petesake Board with the information available at the time the decision is made.
Applicants receiving funding will be notified by March 31, 2010. Applicants who do not receive funding will remain anonymous. Recipients must authorize 4Petesake, Inc. to use their name, photo and circumstances for promotional purposes. Recipients will be asked to participate in press coverage and other promotional activities as their health and circumstances allow.