Envision Greater Fond du Lac was proud to celebrate the Fond du Lac Area Foundation with a ribbon cutting ceremony recognizing both the organization’s 50th anniversary and the dedication of Carl Tonjes Street. The honorary street – a one block stretch of 14th Street between Ellis Street and South Park Avenue in Fond du Lac – is named in recognition of Carl Tonjes, founder of the Fond du Lac Area Foundation, whose vision and generosity helped shape the community as we know it today.
Not only did Carl invest his time and energy into growing the Foundation, but he and his wife Delnia operated the Fond du Lac Area Foundation out of their home at 169 14th Street from 1975 to 1989. For the entirety of his career, Carl worked full time as an unpaid volunteer. In celebration of the Foundation’s 50th anniversary, Carl Tonjes Street was dedicated on the very block where it all began—inside Carl’s home—marking a full-circle moment of community impact and gratitude.
Founded on the belief that philanthropy can shape brighter futures, the Fond du Lac Area Foundation promotes charitable giving, awards impactful grants, and provides leadership on important community issues, today and forever. The Foundation’s forward-thinking approach supports a wide range of needs including education, arts, food and housing security, infrastructure, environmental initiatives, animal welfare, and overall community wellness.
“Fond du Lac County thrives when we work together,” said Greg Giles, Executive Director, “The Foundation’s work is about collaboration, connecting people, resources, and ideas to meet the holistic needs of our community. Honoring Carl’s legacy at the very place where the Foundation began reminds us that generosity and vision can truly transform a community.”
Through intentional partnerships with local nonprofits, businesses, and civic organizations, the Fond du Lac Area Foundation continues to lead efforts that strengthen Fond du Lac County. By fostering collaboration and generosity, the Foundation ensures that together, we can do more and be more, creating a better community for generations to come.
For more information about Fond du Lac Area Foundation and its services, visit https://fdlareafoundation.com/.
