Submitted by Rebecca White Body, Eau Claire Community Foundation
SPRING VALLEY, WI – Understanding financial skills from a young age can profoundly impact a student’s future. To foster this crucial knowledge, the Eau Claire Community Foundation (ECCF) is excited to announce the establishment of the Eldon and Josephine Hill Financial Literacy Fund. This new fund is dedicated to providing essential grant funding for financial literacy classes in the School District of Spring Valley, ensuring that students graduate with the tools they need for informed and responsible financial decision-making.
Building on a Legacy of Excellence
The Eldon and Josephine Hill Financial Literacy Fund is inspired by the success of the Draper Hills Financial Literacy Fund, which was established by the late Dr. Eldon Hill. This endowed fund, honoring the Draper and Hills families, has provided enduring support for financial literacy education in the School District of Loyal. Dr. Hill’s vision was to equip, encourage, and empower students with vital financial skills, creating a lasting impact on their future.
Expanding Financial Literacy to Spring Valley
Dr. Hill’s commitment to financial education now extends to Spring Valley, a community with deep personal connections for Dr. Hill and his wife Josephine. After relocating to Spring Valley in 1949, the Hills established a medical practice and raised five of their seven children there. Their fond memories of this close-knit rural community inspired the creation of this new fund to support financial literacy education in Spring Valley.
The Eldon and Josephine Hill Financial Literacy Fund will focus on:
- Teaching students how to differentiate between wants and needs
- Providing a solid understanding of financial concepts such as budgeting and compound interest
- Equipping students with the skills to make informed financial decisions independently
On July 17, 2024, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the School District of Spring Valley and ECCF, outlining the collaborative efforts to make this program a valuable educational experience for local students.
Continuing a Legacy
Though Eldon and Josephine Hill are no longer with us, their commitment to financial literacy will continue to benefit future generations of students in Spring Valley. Their legacy will live on through this fund, empowering students with essential financial skills for a successful future.
About the Eau Claire Community Foundation
For over 25 years, ECCF has been dedicated to helping donors achieve their charitable goals. Originally serving Eau Claire County, ECCF has expanded its reach to collaborate with donors and foundations beyond its initial focus. To learn more about ECCF or to explore opportunities to support existing funds or establish new ones, please visit eccfwi.org, email info@eccfwi.org, or call (715) 552-3801.
