Caring for Kids in Every Possible Way

One simple idea inspires Shirley and Albert Schmidt’s giving to Children’s Wisconsin. “Kids trust us to take care of them,” Shirley said. And for nearly 30 years, the Schmidts have found a multitude of ways—big and small, immediate and far-reaching—to make good on that trust.

As lifelong Kaukauna residents, Shirley and Albert make local impact by sponsoring Children’s events in northeast Wisconsin and donating comfort items to the Child Advocacy Center serving the Fox Valley, where Children’s cares for victims of suspected abuse or neglect. Shirley personally chooses the Disney-themed dolls and stuffed animals that bring joy to kids facing unthinkable circumstances.

“We love that it’s something tangible,” Albert said. “In that moment, the toys make kids feel safer and happier.”

At the same time, the Schmidts recognize that only a sustained investment over many years will achieve big goals like curing diabetes, a disease that has touched their own family. With their support of Type 1 diabetes research, as well as their estate gift to Children’s, Shirley and Albert are committed to building a brighter future for kids after their own lifetime.

For Shirley, when it comes to helping kids, even little things are big—and she encourages everyone to give what they can. “Even if you just attend an event, or write letters to children in the hospital, it shows kids that somebody out there cares,” Shirley said. “Just imagine how much that means.”

Like Shirley and Albert, you can ensure Children’s Wisconsin can care for kids for generations to come with a gift in your estate plan. To learn more, contact Kelly Sachse at (414) 266-6121 or ksachse@childrenswi.org .